Vancouver's skyrocketing housing costs are prompting one East Side theatre to give its viewers a break.

The Cultch has just announced a new initiative called Housing Crisis Prices. It will be setting aside specific performances to offer reduced ticket prices to those struggling with the unaffordability of this town.

“The arts challenge our perceptions, open our minds, and feed our souls,” Cultch executive director Heather Redfern said in the press statement yesterday. “It’s our mission to be a hub for the community, and ensure that The Cultch and the arts are for everyone.” 

Already offering free tickets to community organizations through its Cultch Connects Program, the Cultch’s Housing Crisis Prices has the support of Cultch donors and sponsors. Ticket sales only cover 30 percent of the multivenue company's operating costs, so every donation makes a difference, Redfern said.

The reduced ticket prices are open to everyone, and will be publicly available to purchase from the Cultch website and box office .