By Catherine Collins. In 1989 I was 15, so when I saw Now That’s What I Call a Musical – which opened at Mayflower Theatre last night – was set then (and in 2009 for the friends 20 year reunion) I knew I had to go. Much like we...
Entertainment Reviews
Review: Hairspray, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton, 7 January 2025
Photo credit – Ellie Kurttz By Catherine Collins. 23 years after Hairspray the Musical first premiered there was no stopping the beat as it took to Mayflower Theatre’s stage last night. From start to finish, this vibrant, high-energy show took the audience along on the journey of teenage misfit,...
Review: The Wind in the Willows – Toad’s BIG Musical Adventure, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
By Martin Brisland. The Wind in the Willows – Toad’s BIG Musical Adventure, is at MAST Mayflower Studios until 31 December. Superbly directed by Jacquelyn Ockwell, this festive musical comedy version is a triumph and an absolute must see! This was the ultimate feel-good family-friendly show full of energy,...
Review: Cinderella,Chichester Festival Theatre
By Graham Hiley. If the shoe fits wear it – or in this case, if the show fits watch it. And you should watch Cinderella at the Chichester Festival Theatre as it is a perfect fit for children and adults alike. This well-worn tale is given new polish by...
Review: Jack and the Beanstalk, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
By Sally Churchward. BANG!!!! The Mayflower Theatre’s panto is back with a bang – literally. Many audience members leapt out of their seats last night (17/12/24) when the show unexpectedly launched into a simulated peal of thunder, and we were off. There was no hanging around as we...
Review: There’s a Monster in Your Christmas Show, The Berry Theatre, Hedge End
By Melanie Adams. There’s a monster on stage in Hedge End and the mischievous little creature isn’t keen to give up the spotlight. Having escaped from the pages of the well-loved book series, he and his magical friends bring an hour of fun and chaos to the delight on...
Review: Hey! Christmas Tree, Minerva Theatre, Chichester
By Graham Hiley. If only my new grand-daughter was a couple of years older! She would absolutely love Hey! Christmas Tree at Chichester’s Minerva Theatre. Aimed at three to seven-year-olds this charming story is the perfect introduction to theatre for younger children. In fact, it is something of a...
Opinion: Winchester and Southampton – which is the king of Christmas markets this year?
By Mabel Wellman. It’s that time of year again! It’s getting darker earlier, and the cold weather is starting to set in for the next few months. And to help us all get through it, our cities and towns are adorned with bright and warming lights and decorations. Last...
Review: Mother Goose, Theatre Royal Winchester
By Chris Richards. Theatre Royal Winchester have done it again! They cannot fail, they have the best traditional family pantomimes I’ve ever seen. Mother Goose is no exception. Before I say anymore, just go and book your tickets now, to make sure you get a seat! I’ll wait. Now...
Review: Michael Kiwanuka, Vinolo outstore at The 1865, Southampton
Words: Nick Mabey. Photos: Liz Bogdan. The 1865 was absolutely heaving last night (2/12/24) as Michael Kiwanuka continued to celebrate his first album in five years in his adopted home of Southampton. He might have been on the road for most of the year, but last week’s release of...