Ken Livingstone has launched a major promotion to open up London theatre to wider audiences.

The Mayor's London Development Agency is giving £350,000 to the 'Get into London Theatre' campaign, which has been created in partnership with the Society of London Theatre.

The promotion aims to encourage more Londoners to catch a show, offering tickets for more than 70 productions - including plays, musicals, dance and opera - at reduced prices of £10, £15, £20.

Mr Livingstone said: 'People travel thousands of miles to enjoy our theatre productions. But not all Londoners are making the most of what is on their doorstep, in particular young people.'

Tickets for certain performances will be available for just £5 for those under 25 and over 60.

Sir Stephen Waley-Cohen, president of the Society of London Theatre, said: 'London has a vibrant theatre industry, but we share the Mayor's determination that it be enjoyed by Londoners of all ages and backgrounds.'

The campaign, which runs until 29 March, also extends to restaurants and hotels, with special offers arranged with many venues, including Hilton hotels, which is offering one and two night stays in four- and five-star hotels for £34 per person, per night.

The promotion was launched on 15 January at the Criterion Theatre in Piccadilly, with the support of West End stars including Sir Ian McKellen, Alan Davies and Michael Greco as well as American film stars Freddie Prinze Jr, Chris Klein and Heather Burns. Details: www.officiallondontheatre.co.uk