For the fourth year running, Queen’s Hall Arts is offering free tickets to all Emergency Services staff for its festive family show — a small gesture of thanks to those who give so much.
This year, the offer carries added meaning after Artistic Director & Chief Executive, Katy Taylor, received emergency treatment at Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI). Her personal experience has further deepened the team’s appreciation for NHS and frontline workers.
Katy Taylor gave her thanks to all the staff at the RVI at Newcastle: “First of all, thank you to everyone, with a special mention for Ward 40, Surgical Ward 45, A&E, the surgical team, and the staff in resus.
Nobody expects or wants to have appendicitis, but from the moment I called 111 through my admission, surgery, and six-day stay, I was treated with outstanding care, kindness, and expertise. I could not have asked for more professional or efficient medical treatment. The surgery turned out to be more complicated than expected, and I was in considerable pain, but throughout it all, the staff at the RVI ensured I was well informed, supported, and looked after. I genuinely believe I could not have received better care anywhere in the world.
The dedication of the staff, working under incredible pressure—long shifts, competing demands, and all in a heatwave—was inspiring. Despite these challenges, their patience, skill, and commitment never faltered, and none of those pressures were allowed to impact the care patients received.
What I experienced at the RVI was the very best of humanity: compassion, humour, hard work, and a true sense of community.
I cannot thank everyone in the NHS enough. I will never forget how tirelessly you all work for us, and I will always be grateful.”
Presented in collaboration with Triple Treat Theatre, this year’s Christmas show is a lively retelling of Red Riding Hood, brought to the stage by the same creative team behind last year’s hugely popular Jack and the Beanstalk. Audiences can expect original songs, laugh-out-loud moments, and a few unexpected twists on the classic fairy tale.
Red Riding Hood runs from Saturday 6 December 2025 – Saturday 3 January 2026 and is ideal for ages 6+. Emergency Services Staff can get two free tickets to the performance of Red Riding Hood on Saturday 6 December at 2.30pm by emailing the venue’s Box Office team on [email protected] (subject to availability).
