A TOWN theatre is calling for help to share the gift of theatre with nearby children and families.

As part of Children's Mental Health Week, The Point Eastleigh has partnered with charity the Rainbow Trust to ask its audiences to "Play It Forward" and donate the price of a children's or a family ticket.

The Trust supports families who have a child aged 0-18 years with a life-threatening or terminal illness and donated tickets are set to offer respite for siblings and families via an invite to The Berry Theatre in Hedge End to see Zoo Co's Messy or to The Point Eastleigh to see Half Moon's Party.

The theatre which is operated by Eastleigh Borough Council says a donation of £7 will pay for a ticket for a child, £16 will pay for a ticket for a child and an accompanying adult while £32 will pay for a family of four.

The Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Councillor Tonia Craig, said: “Theatre can really enrich the lives of young people and the Play It Forward scheme will open up the magic of live entertainment to groups who might not otherwise have this opportunity.”

Charlotte Hall, Creative Director of The Point Eastleigh, added: “We believe in the power of theatre to brighten the lives of children, improve their wellbeing and, most importantly, to bring smiles to faces and laughs to bellies.

“This year more than ever, children need the opportunity to be carried away by stories and find the joy in sharing live experiences. If you can help, please donate by Sunday 13 February and we’ll do the rest!”