Liverpool and Everton give children festive trip to the Empire Theatre

Everton and Liverpool have come together this Christmas to give hundreds of children a festive theatre treat at Liverpool’s Empire Theatre.

Five hundred young people will attend a special matinee performance of Matilda The Musical next week, thanks to a joint effort between Liverpool FC, Everton FC and the Liverpool Empire Theatre Trust. The visit will take place at the city’s flagship Lime Street venue, with many of the children coming from underprivileged areas across Merseyside.

The trip has been made possible through collaboration between Everton in the Community, the LFC Foundation, the Empire Theatre Trust and ATG Entertainment, which operates the theatre. Together, the organisations have covered the full cost of the visit.

The children will attend the Royal Shakespeare Company’s matinee performance on Thursday 18 December and will also receive goody bags to mark the occasion at Britain’s largest two-tier theatre, which celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2025.

Matilda The Musical, based on Roald Dahl’s much-loved story, follows the journey of a brilliant young girl who uses her intelligence and imagination to change her own destiny. The production has won more than 100 awards worldwide.

David Morgan, chair of the Empire Theatre Trust, said the partnership with the city’s two football clubs has helped make a magical Christmas experience possible for hundreds of children.

He added that the Trust works year-round to give young people opportunities to engage with theatre through creative learning programmes and the Empire Youth Theatre.

Sue Gregory, chief executive of Everton in the Community, said the charity was proud to support the initiative, giving young participants the chance to experience live theatre and create lasting memories.

She added that opportunities like this can help open new worlds for young people and inspire them to believe in what they can achieve.

Matt Parish, chief executive of the LFC Foundation, said the organisation was delighted to be involved in creating a special experience for children who may not otherwise be able to enjoy the festive period in the same way, adding that even small actions can make a big difference at Christmas.

If you want to see Matilda this festive season, get your tickets here.

Check out Your ultimate guide to Christmas in Liverpool 2025.

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