If you've recently passed by the Society of London Theatres' 21-year-old half-price ticket booth in Leicester Square you will see that the booth is now branded with a large "tkts" logo. Recently the Broadway-based theatre Development Fund brought forth a lawsuit against SOLT accusing the London organization of using the "tkts" logo without permission. Both organizations run extremely popular half-price ticket booths; TDF in New York's Times Square and SOLT in London's Leicester Square. SOLT had previously been in talks with TDF over permission to use the "tkts" logo for its booth; however, none was granted.

With regards to the lawsuit, TDF executive director Victoria Bailey said: "We feel that this is an infringement on our trademark. . . tkts has existed since 1973 and is universally identified with the sale of discount tickets in Times Square."

Despite the threats of legal action, SOLT has made the decision to push forward with its plans to alter its half-price ticket booth and will now be known as "tkts." However, its new name is not the only new addition. The booth's opening hours have been extended: 10 AM to 7 PM Monday to Saturday, and noon to 3 PM weekends. Also, the booth will accept all major credit cards and debit cards. Tickets will be sold from 75 percent of their face value to full price, offering a wider price range than before.

Although some changes are already in effect, the official launch of the new "tkts" will be on Sept. 11 as a celebration of the booth's 21st birthday.

SOLT chief executive Rupert Rhymes said of the aforementioned changes: "Our members asked us to do this. It is part of making the ticket booth as useful, efficient and effective for the public as we can." by Theatrenow