HOW do you fancy seeing the National Theatre performing in York for only a fiver?

Passionate about making theatre accessible to everyone, the Grand Opera House, York, City of York Council and the National Theatre are teaming up to offer anyone aged 26 and under the chance to see Henrik Ibsen's Hedda Gabler between February 20 and 24.

First staged in a sold-out run at the National Theatre in London, Belgian director Ivo van Hove's cutting-edge production presents "the ultimate Scandi-noir" in a version boldly retold for the 21st century by Closer playwright Patrick Marber.

The National Theatre will be visiting the Grand Opera House for a third time, having performed The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night-Time in January 2015 and Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre last May. Now comes a modern version of Ibsen’s intense, at times chillingly funny late-19th century Norwegian psychological drama, featuring Lizzy Watts in the title role.

York Press:

Lizzy Watts as the "just married, already bored" Hedda Gabler in the National Theatre's Hedda Gabler. Picture: BrinkhoffM+Âgenburg

In Hedda Gabler, Hedda and endlessly dull husband Tesman have just returned from their honeymoon and the relationship is already in trouble. Trapped but determined, Hedda tries to manipulate those around her, only to see her own world unravel.

Welcoming the ticket initiative, Councillor Stuart Rawlings, the council's executive member for education, children and young people, says: "Inspiring young people by making the highest quality theatre accessible to them backs the council’s continued support for the delivery of excellent cultural and educational opportunities and outcomes for all young people in York."

National Theatre director Rufus Norris shares that enthusiasm. “It’s incredibly important to me that we are truly national and I’m delighted that we’re touring the UK and Ireland with Ivo van Hove’s production of Hedda Gabler," he says.

York Press:

At breaking point: Lizzy Watts' Hedda Gabler in the National Theatre's Hedda Gabler, on tour at the Grand Opera House, York. Picture: BrinkhoffM+Âgenburg

"It’s also vital that our work is accessible as possible and with that in mind, I’m pleased we are offering under 26s a £5 rate to see Hedda Gabler. I hope this enables as many of you as possible to see this modern take on Ibsen’s timeless masterpiece."

Célestine Dubruel, the Grand Opera House's marketing and communications officer, says: "We are delighted to be a part of this initiative to encourage young people to see quality theatre and we hope that they will take advantage of this opportunity."

Whether young audience members are new to theatre or enjoy seeing the latest shows in York, £5 tickets for Hedda Gabler can be booked at atgtickets.com/york, on 0844 871 3024 or in person at the Cumberland Street box office.