A THEATRE for children and young people in Darlington has been shortlisted for the Best Family Venue Award for its contribution to arts and culture for families during the last year.

Theatre Hullabaloo has been deemed amongst the best in the country for their excellent family provision.

Voted for by a panel of expert judges from the creative sector, the Fantastic for Families Awards recognise the outstanding events that took place during 2018 and the exemplary family-friendly organisations and venues that welcomed families.

Awards have been given by The Family Arts Campaign, the national initiative funded by Arts Council England to connect families with cultural opportunities.

Winners will be announced at a ceremony in Liverpool on February 11.

Laura Case, executive director at Theatre Hullabaloo, said: “We are delighted to be shortlisted for a national Fantastic for Families Award for Best Family Venue.

"The venue design, build and overall offer has children and families at its heart, so to be recognised as excellent for our provision is wonderful news.

"Theatre Hullabaloo strongly believes that creativity should be part of everyone's childhood and the opening of The Hullabaloo has enabled that to become a reality for the thousands of children and families that visit and use the venue. ”

The Hullabaloo offers performances for children, houses free creative play installations and offers a wide range of creative opportunities for families.

Since opening, the venue has welcomed over 18,000 children and their families through its doors.