National Theatre invites hundreds of NHS workers to see Nye

The National Theatre has invited 400 NHS workers to watch its production of Nye, which stars Michael Sheen as the organisation’s visionary founder Aneurin ‘Nye’ Bevan.

They will attend a performance of Tim Price’s play, which is directed by Rufus Norris, in the Olivier theatre on 23 April. In addition, 1,000 NHS workers from across the UK have been invited to watch the performance on screen via NT Live, in collaboration with Vue cinemas. The initiative marks the fact that Nye is the 100th title to be released through NT Live since its inception in 2009.

“I am honoured to extend a heartfelt invitation to NHS workers to share in this powerful story,” said Norris. “This moment epitomises the National Theatre’s commitment to extending the reach of theatre to audiences wherever they are, both at the South Bank and through National Theatre Live.”

Those invited to the performance and screenings include doctors, nurses, and student doctors.

Amanda Pritchard, chief executive of NHS England, commented: “Since Nye Bevan launched the NHS in 1948, it has never stood still – our history is one of innovation and adaption to meet the changing needs of the public, but the principles and the unwavering dedication always remain the same. And that is why it is such an honour that we will be joined by a range of NHS staff – past and present – to watch Nye at the National Theatre while giving hundreds of others the opportunity to see it across the country.”