Supported by the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund, ASSITEJ South Africa launched the global campaign in Vrygrond on 31 January.

"ASSITEJ SA is bringing corporates on board to sponsor children to attend theatre, and we ask companies and receiving houses to open their doors on 20 March to children, young people, and their families," says Yvette Hardie, director of ASSITEJ SA and president of ASSITEJ International. "The 'Take a child to the theatre today' campaign goes to the heart of what ASSITEJ is all about, working to ensure that all children and young people have access to the arts."

Each year, a world leader or artist in theatre for young people is asked to write the message for the ASSITEJ World Day. This year, it will be French-Canadian playwright Suzanne Lebeau. Gcina Mhlope, as well as the Ministers of Arts and Culture, Basic Education and Women, Children and Persons with Disabilities will also be invited to add their voices to the campaign.

Along with the campaign this year, ASSITEJ will be launching its ASSITEJ Youth Ambassador's programme, which encourages youth leadership and participation in the activities of the association. ASSITEJ encourages all South Africans to make a contribution of R10 by texting 'Theatre4Youth' to 38490.

For more information on the campaign, please contact Themba Mzondi, ASSITEJ SA marketing and fundraising manager 021 822 0070/1/2 or email [email protected].