The National Theatre is transferring its popular programme of live cinema broadcasts to people’s homes.

Its NT Live series has long seen sell-out shows made available nationwide though live broadcasts and recorded performances of plays on the big screen.

Now a series of shows will streamed on YouTube, free to the public, to keep the nation entertained during lockdown.

Showings announced so far are:

  • April 2: One Man, Two Guvnors
  • April 9: Jane Eyre
  • April 16: Treasure Island
  • April 23: Twelfth Night

Lisa Burger, executive director, said: “We have delved into the National Theatre Live archive and curated a programme that’s varied from comedy to new dramas to classics so there is something for everyone to enjoy from their own homes.

“We will be streaming each production at the same time each week in order to recreate, where possible, the communal viewing experience and we hope this will be an opportunity for people to share their enjoyment together online.”

Schools can also now gain access to a wider range of recordings to support lessons at home through free access to the National Theatre Collection.

The service includes several performances especially adapted for younger audiences.