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Kev Orkian and Sydnie Christmas to headline Countdown to Christmas event in Southampton
Officially kickstarting the Christmas festivities in the city, will be Kev Orkian and Sydnie Christmas. Award-winning actor and comedian, Kev Orkian, will be leading the fun before he heads back to Mayflower Theatre, alongside Ashley Banjo and Diversity – who will be climbing a beanstalk of gigantic proportions to cloudland in the spectacular family pantomime,
Preview: Miles Kane: One Man Band, Papillon, Southampton
Photo: Ewan Ogden Miles Kane has announced a fresh run of UK headline dates in November and December 2024, including a stop at Papillon in Southampton on Wednesday 4 December 2024. The tour comes off the back of his celebrated solo 2024 One Man Band run across Europe and a string of UK summer festival performances.
Interview: The Overtones’ Mike, Mark, and Jay ahead of their Christmas tour
The Overtones, are bringing the Good Times Christmas Tour to Mayflower Theatre on Monday 11 November 2024. We spoke with three members of the Platinum-selling singing group to discuss their forthcoming Christmas tour, memories of singing for the Queen, and plans for an innovative new album. It’s exciting that you’re back with another festive show
Southampton gig guide: November
By Vicky Greer. Photo: Delilah Bon by Helen Tate. Once again, there are a downright ridiculous number of gigs in Southampton this month. Seriously, cold weather is a small price to pay for the treasure trove of gigs that descend on the UK every autumn. And the wonderful independent venues of Southampton are really spoiling
Preview: English National Ballet: Nutcracker, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
The world premiere of English National Ballet’s Nutcracker will take place at Mayflower Theatre this winter from the Thursday 28 to Saturday 30 November 2024. The new production of the classic festive ballet, choreographed by English National Ballet’s Artistic Director Aaron S. Watkin and Olivier Award-winning choreographer Arielle Smith, will be performed in Southampton ahead
Preview: Beatles Complete, Theatre Royal Winchester
Fans of the legendary Beatles are invited to a celebration of their music when tribute act, Beatles Complete, come to Theatre Royal Winchester on Friday 15 November. Beatles Complete – who come direct from the world-famous birthplace of The Beatles, the Cavern Club, Liverpool – celebrate the most influential band of all time who brought
Preview: Carlos Pons Guerra’s Mariposa, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
Mariposa, a queer tragedy inspired by Puccini’s Madame Butterfly, visits MAST Mayflower Studios on Friday 22 and Saturday 23 November 2024. Under the flickering neon lights of a distant Caribbean port, a local rent boy and a foreign sailor fall ominously in love – and a young man is asked to sacrifice his gender in
Preview: Echoes by Mi Flamenco, Theatre Royal Winchester
Audiences interested in learning about other people’s cultures may enjoy Echoes by Mi Flamenco at Theatre Royal Winchester on Thursday 14 November. Echoes features emotive flamenco dancing and soul-stirring music and song performed by skilled performers – with engaging film part of an immersive multimedia experience. It combines personal reflections of Spain – the wild
Preview: Chicago, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
The multi-awarding winning musical, Chicago, comes to Mayflower Theatre from Tuesday 19 to Saturday 23 November 2024. Set amidst the razzle-dazzle decadence of the 1920s, Chicago is the story of Roxie Hart, a housewife and nightclub dancer who murders her on-the-side lover after he threatens to walk out on her. Desperate to avoid conviction, she
Preview: Arms and the Man, Theatre Royal Winchester
Theatre fans can enjoy the story of a young bride-to-be who falls in love with a soldier clutching chocolate creams when Arms and the Man visits Theatre Royal Winchester from Tuesday 12 November. Arms and the Man (or The Chocolate Cream Soldier) tells of a beautiful, young Bulgarian woman, Raina, who has heroic ideals, engaged as
Interview: Matt Cardle and Lara Denning on their roles in & Juliet at Mayflower Theatre
The Olivier and What’s On Stage award-winning and Tony Award-nominated musical, & JULIET, takes to the stage at Mayflower Theatre from Tuesday 5 to Saturday 9 November 2024. We spoke to Matt Cardle (Shakespeare) and Lara Denning (Anne Hathaway) on their roles in the show. For people who think they know Romeo & Juliet, how
Preview: An Audience with Dame Lily Trott-Twankey, Theatre Royal Winchester
Panto audiences and theatre fans can enjoy an evening exploring the life and times of panto dames, with An Audience with Dame Lily Trott-Twankey at Theatre Royal Winchester on Sunday 10 November. In the lead-up to this year’s pantomime, Mother Goose, audiences are invited to learn more about pantomime dames – with Dame Lily having
Preview: Welsh National Opera, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
Photo credit: Kirsten McTernan Welsh National Opera’s (WNO) Autumn Season comes to Mayflower Theatre from Wednesday 13 to Saturday 16 November 2024, and includes Suor Angelica & Gianni Schicchi, Rigoletto, and Opera Favourites. Suor Angelica & Gianni Schicchi Following its WNO premiere in June 2024, Puccini’s triptych of one-act operas Il trittico returned to Cardiff
The Point announces cast for the magical Cinderella’s Wellies
This holiday season, Cinderella’s Wellies takes the stage at The Point, Eastleigh, running from Saturday 21 to Tuesday 31 December. This delightful family show promises to be a festive treat for audiences of all ages. What makes this production truly special is its fully local approach, showcasing the incredible talent of the local community. The
The Overtones launch their Good Times Christmas Tour
After the success of 2023’s sell-out tour, the UK’s number one vocal harmony group, The Overtones, are bringing back the Good Times Christmas Tour for 2024, including a stop at Mayflower Theatre on Monday 11 November 2024. The multi-platinum selling group will spread the Christmas spirit across the UK as the tour promises to be
Preview: Do Not Play This Piano, Theatre Royal Winchester
Family audiences and music lovers are invited to the story of a musical whizz-kid when Do Not Play This Piano comes to Theatre Royal Winchester on Wednesday 30 October. Do Not Play This Piano tells of a young boy called William whose school report is not good – but his piano tricks are so impressive
Preview / Interview: Wonder Boy, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
Award-winning play, Wonder Boy is heading to MAST Mayflower Studios in from Tuesday 5 to Saturday 9 November 2024. Wonder Boy is a heart-warming and inspiring story about the power of communication told through the experiences of 12-year-old Sonny who lives with a stammer and has to find his way in a world ruled by
Preview: Bowjangles in Dracula in Space, The Point, Eastleigh
Get ready for an out-of-this-world experience as Bowjangles in Dracula in Space lands at The Point in Eastleigh on Friday 18 October 2024. Performing as a string quartet, the show follows outrageous adventures, charismatic characters and original musical comedy, bringing music, theatre and comedy together in a way you’ve never seen before. Dracula in Space is
Preview: R.O.G.E.R Radio Attempts Frankenstein, Theatre Royal Winchester
Theatre fans are invited to immerse themselves in a comedic, chaotic radio play set-up, with performers playing multiple characters, when R.O.G.E.R Radio Attempts Frankenstein comes to Theatre Royal Winchester on Tuesday 29 October. The show tells of a charming radio company attempting to perform a radio-play of the spine-tingling horror classic, Frankenstein, amidst the loss
Preview: & Juliet, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
The Olivier and What’s On Stage award-winning and Tony Award-nominated musical, & JULIET, takes to the stage at Mayflower Theatre from Tuesday 5 to Saturday 9 November 2024. There is life after Romeo! Be whisked away on a fabulous journey as Juliet ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at
Preview: Murder for Two, Theatre Royal Winchester
Fans of comedy theatre will enjoy the anarchic musical murder mystery – with a twist, Murder for Two, which comes to Theatre Royal Winchester from Thursday 31 October. Murder for Two opens on a birthday party and the discovery of the body of an acclaimed novelist whose celebration it was. All the guests are under
New theatre piece to be created at The Point with the local community
Local members of the community can get involved in a new piece of theatre, which will be co-created in collaboration with Bunkhum Ensemble, The Point, Eastleigh and The Dome, Brighton. Bunkum Ensemble – a new theatre company based at The Point in Eastleigh – are looking to meet creative people from the area, who want
Preview: The Smartest Giant in Town, Theatre Royal Winchester
Family audiences can enjoy the heart-warming tale of The Smartest Giant in Town when the stage adaptation of the Julia Donaldson story comes to Theatre Royal Winchester from Saturday 26 October. The Smartest Giant in Town by the beloved children’s book author, Julia Donaldson, with illustration by Axel Scheffler, tells of George who wishes he
Preview: Kathakali, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
The renowned Kala Chethena Kathakali Company, from Kerala, South India, is bringing the ancient art of Kathakali to MAST Mayflower Studios on Monday 4 November 2024. Kathakali is the classical dance drama of Kerala, South India, and combines storytelling, dance, drama, ritual, vibrant costumes, and an intricate makeup, featured in the Guinness Book of Records
Comedian Larry Dean brings show Dodger to Berry Theatre in the new year
Three-time Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee, Larry Dean is set to embark on a national tour this autumn with his brand-new stand up show Dodger, bringing him to Southampton’s Berry Theatre on February 25th. Dodger sees Larry contemplate his heroes and his identity. His hero was Elvis, but this year his thoughts have been all shook up. Stemming from
Preview: John Nichol’s The Unknown Warrior, Theatre Royal Winchester
Fans of military history will be captivated by the story of the First World War soldiers lost forever, in John Nichol’s The Unknown Warrior, which comes to Theatre Royal Winchester on Friday 25 October. The former Gulf War prisoner-of-war, John Nichol, tells the story of the Unknown Warrior who was placed in a grave at
Interview: Floella Benjamin ahead of Coming to England’s UK tour
The UK tour of Coming to England, a brand new stage adaptation based on Floella Benjamin’s award-winning book, comes to MAST Mayflower Studios from Tuesday 22 to Saturday 26 October 2024. We spoke with Floella ahead of the Southampton show. Could you tell us about Coming to England, and where the inspiration for the story
Interview: Kym Marsh on playing Cruella de Vil in 101 Dalmatians the Musical
A new musical version of the classic family tale, 101 Dalmatians, will take to the stage at Mayflower Theatre in Southampton from Tuesday 22 to Saturday 26 October 2024. We spoke with Kym Marsh, who plays Cruella de Vil, ahead of her Southampton show. From making her name as part of chart-toppers Hearsay, to her
Preview: Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers: In Time 30th Anniversary Tour, Theatre Royal Winchester
Audiences familiar with the performing art of taiko drumming will welcome the return of the Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers with their 30th Anniversary Tour show at Theatre Royal Winchester on Wednesday 23 October. The Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers – who are celebrating their first major UK tour in five years – will take the audience on a
Preview: The Makings of a Murderer 2, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
Following sell-out shows nationwide, the UK’s top true crime theatre tour, The Makings of a Murderer 2, heads to MAST Mayflower Studios in Southampton with a brand-new line-up! The show features Senior Investigating officer Colin Sutton, who caught serial killer Levi Bellfield and Night Stalker, Delroy Grant. Prepare for a chilling, thrilling night at the
Preview: Grease the Musical, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
The world’s best-loved musical, Grease, is back at Mayflower Theatre from Tuesday 29 October to Saturday 2 November 2024. After a whirlwind summer romance, leather-clad greaser Danny and girl-next-door Sandy are unexpectedly reunited when she transfers to Rydell High for senior year. But can they survive the trials and tribulations of teenage life and find
Preview: Kiri Pritchard-McLean: Peacock, Theatre Royal Winchester
Comedian Kiri Pritchard-McLean returns with her new show, Peacock, at Theatre Royal Winchester on Saturday 19 October. The multi-award-winning comedian, satirist and writer’s show explores becoming a foster parent; and lifts a lid on social workers, first aid training, and what not to do when a vicar searches for you on YouTube. Kiri is known
Preview: The Gruffalo, Theatre Royal Winchester
Fans of The Gruffalo can celebrate 25 years of the popular children’s book with a live stage adaptation at Theatre Royal Winchester from Saturday 19 to Monday 21 October 2024. The Gruffalo tells the story of Mouse who goes searching for hazelnuts in the deep dark woods and meets the cunning Fox, the eccentric old
Simple Minds to headline Southampton Summer Sessions
Simple Minds will headline TK Maxx Summer Sessions when they return to Southampton on Sunday 29 June 2025. The announcement comes following the success of 2024’s inaugural Southampton Summer Sessions—which featured world-class headliners such as Placebo, Tom Jones, Loyle Carner and Nile Rodgers & CHIC. Simple Minds are one of the UK’s most successful bands, with
Preview: Ivo Graham: Grand Designs, Theatre Royal Winchester
Image: Matt Stronge Comedy audiences are in for a treat when the stand-up Ivo Graham comes to Theatre Royal Winchester on Friday 18 October with his new show, Grand Designs. Grand Designs features updates on a relentlessly chaotic life, including navigating the challenges of modern parenthood, running late for trains, planes and marathons, laying out
Interview: Sir Michael Morpurgo speaks about War Horse ahead of Mayflower Theatre date
The National Theatre’s global smash-hit production of War Horse – the unforgettable theatrical event based on Michael Morpurgo’s beloved novel – visits Mayflower Theatre from Tuesday 8 to Saturday 19 October 2024. We spoke with author, Sir Michael Morpurgo, ahead of the Southampton show. What did you think when you saw the First Night of
Preview: Romeo a Juliet, Theatre Royal Winchester
Ballet audiences are invited to take their seats for an award-winning adaptation when Romeo a Juliet comes to Theatre Royal Winchester on Thursday 17 October. An extraordinary retelling of the Shakespeare classic about two feuding families and pair of star-crossed lovers, Romeo a Juliet features dramatic choreography, exquisite costumes and video projections that create a
Call for ‘Community Legend’ nominations
An innovative light festival will brighten Southampton next February. Southampton Forward is calling for nominations for local people from communities across the city to be featured, shining a light on the people who make Southampton. City Reflections will celebrate local people and highlight the diverse stories, culture and heritage of Southampton’s communities. Hundreds of images
Preview: Paradise Lost (lies unopened beside me), Theatre Royal Winchester
Theatre audiences are invited to a performance inspired by Milton’s poem, with Paradise Lost (lies unopened beside me) at Theatre Royal Winchester on Wednesday 16 October. Paradise Lost (lies unopened beside me) is a retelling of the story of the beginning of everything, inspired by the epic poem by the English poet, John Milton –
Preview: 101 Dalmatians, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
A new musical version of the classic family tale, 101 Dalmatians, will take to the stage at Mayflower Theatre in Southampton from Tuesday 22 to Saturday 26 October 2024. When fashionista Cruella de Vil plots to swipe all the Dalmatian puppies in town to create her fabulous new fur coat, there’s trouble ahead for Pongo
Preview: Pleading Stupidity, Theatre Royal Winchester
Comedy theatre fans get the chance to enjoy an Edinburgh Fringe success when Pleading Stupidity comes to Theatre Royal Winchester on Tuesday 15 October. It tells the story of Chad and Brad who robbed a bank while they were bored on their gap year – but who were wearing their name tags from work, took
Preview: The Chronicles of Atom & Luna, Theatre Royal Winchester
Family audiences will be left enchanted by the story of two strong and curious twins in The Chronicles of Atom & Luna, which comes to Theatre Royal Winchester from Sunday 13 October. The Chronicles of Atom & Luna tells the story of extra special twins, Atom and Luna. Atom can talk to the birds, Luna
Interview: Joseph Taylor on his upcoming role as Romeo in Northern Ballet’s Romeo & Juliet
Image: Joseph Taylor by Kyle Baines Northern Ballet will bring their award-winning Romeo & Juliet to Mayflower Theatre from Thursday 3 to Saturday 5 October 2024, inviting audiences to rediscover the iconic love story like it’s the very first time. We caught up with Northern Ballet Premier Dancer Joseph Taylor, who plays Romeo in Romeo &
Preview: Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out, Theatre Royal Winchester
Family audiences are in for a great day when Peppa Pig comes to Theatre Royal Winchester with Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out from Saturday 5 – Sunday 6 October. In this brand-new live show, Peppa and her friends and family visit the zoo and go to the beach for a special party, feeding penguins, building
‘Reclaiming the Narratives’ – Black History Month South official launch on Monday
Image: Lou Taylor at a previous BMHS launch. Black History Month South (BHMS) has announced the official launch of its 2024 celebrations with an event themed “Reclaiming Narratives,” set to take place on Monday, 23rd September 2024. The event will run from 11am to 2pm at St Mary’s Fire Station, 122 Brinton’s Rd, Southampton. This
Preview: Northern Ballet’s Romeo and Juliet, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
Northern Ballet will bring their award-winning Romeo & Juliet to Mayflower Theatre from Thursday 3 to Saturday 5 October 2024, inviting audiences to rediscover the iconic love story like it’s the very first time. With glorious dancing and Prokofiev’s timeless music, this beloved adaptation by Christopher Gable CBE and Massimo Moricone, which was broadcast by
Preview: Maisie Adams: Appraisal, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
After her previous completely sold out, highly acclaimed debut tour- and fresh from hosting Live At The Apollo and appearances on A League Of Their Own and Have I Got News For You – Maisie Adam is heading to MAST Mayflower Studios on Saturday 19 October, with her brand new show, Appraisal. It’s been a
Preview: The Pirates of Penzance, Theatre Royal Winchester
Theatre fans will be pleased to learn that Sasha Regan’s all-male cast returns to the city with her award-winning rendition of The Pirates of Penzance, which will be performed at Theatre Royal Winchester from Tuesday 8 October. The Pirates of Penzance by Gilbert and Sullivan is a classic operetta about a young man who is
Preview: Shout Season, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
MAST Mayflower Studios’ Shout Season is back with a whole new line up of exciting events this Autumn. Their upcoming Shout season takes place across October and November, with a wide variety of events and shows for all ages. The season kicks off on 5 October with the sensational family show Stories in the Dust,
Preview: Playmakers’ Sanctuary Local Talent Night, Theatre Royal Winchester
Theatre Royal Winchester invites the local community to join them for a celebratory evening of music, song, dance and spoken word, performed by people seeking sanctuary, on Thursday 3 October. The Sanctuary Local Talent Night will feature performances, which celebrate and share different cultures from around the world, from people now living in the region.
Ally McBeal TV star, Vonda Shepard, announces UK and Irish Greatest Hits Tour for October 2024
Vonda Shepard will return to the UK and Ireland for a series of new live dates following the success of her recent barnstorming sold-out tours of these shores, including a date at The Concorde in Eastleigh on Thursday 24 October. Vonda Shepard first shot to fame in the late-Nineties via her long running appearances, performances
Preview: The Lion and the Unicorn, Theatre Royal Winchester
Audiences are invited to enjoy another radio-play-live-on-stage when the wartime-set The Lion and the Unicorn comes to Theatre Royal Winchester on Wednesday 2 October. The Lion and the Unicorn opens on the evening of 13 October 1939 – six weeks after war has been declared on Hitler’s Germany –with Winston Churchill and Neville Chamberlain –
Winchester Comedy Festival’s Autumn Gala is here
Image: Tom Deacon Winchester Comedy Festival bring another host of well-known comedians to Theatre Royal Winchester on Friday 27 September for an evening of laughter. This autumn the gala line-up includes faces from TV including Shazia Mirza, Sean McLoughlin, Andrew White and Tom Deacon as MC. The award-winning Shazia Mirza is a British stand up
Preview: Biscuit Barrel: The 69 Sketch Show, Theatre Royal Winchester
Comedy fans and supporters of the local arts scene are invited to celebrate the work of the University of Winchester alumni who star in Biscuit Barrel: The 69 Sketch Show, which will be at Theatre Royal Winchester on Wednesday 25 September. This one-off performance of The 69 Sketch Show will be a special extended version
Preview: YolanDa Brown at Theatre Royal Winchester
Jazz artist and popular broadcaster, YolanDa Brown, makes her way to Theatre Royal Winchester on Sunday 22 September to entertain young and old. The musician whose music is a fusion of reggae, jazz and soul will perform in two shows as part of Winchester Jazz Festival: YolanDa’s Band Jam and An Evening with YolanDa Brown.
Preview: An Evening with Jacqui Dankworth: In Concert, Theatre Royal Winchester
The award-winning jazz vocalist, Jacqui Dankworth MBE, performs songs new and old at Theatre Royal Winchester on Saturday 21 September at 7.30pm. Jacqui Dankworth, who is known as one of the UK’s most highly regarded vocalists, appears as part of Winchester Jazz Festival with an intimate concert featuring songs from her highly praised studio albums;
Sporting legends coming to MAST Mayflower Studios in Southampton
Image: Sir Geoff Hurst MAST Mayflower Studios are pleased to announce an extraordinary line-up of sporting icons coming to host audiences in Studio 1. From the electrifying energy of the boxing ring to the thrilling drama of the football pitch and the intense skill of cricket, these sporting icons have captured the hearts of many.
Preview: Su Pollard: Still Fully Charged, Theatre Royal Winchester
Actress Su Pollard celebrates 50 years in show business with her new show, Still Fully Charged, at Theatre Royal Winchester on Friday 20 September. The legendary actress, known for her appearances on TV’s Opportunity Knocks, Hi-de-Hi!, and her time spent performing in the West End, Su takes to the stage with her new one-woman show that
The Point and Berry Theatre bring some of the best national and international talents
The Point and The Berry Theatre are bringing a high number of diverse events and entertainment this Autumn, with some of the best talent nationally and internationally. The sister venues offer a programme of comedy, family shows, theatre, music, dance, and film, securely rooting itself as the place to go for a quality and varied
Winchester Jazz Festival is back!
Image: Jonny Wickham Winchester Jazz Festival returns for its eighth year, from September 19 to 22, promising a long weekend of world-class performances and unmissable musical experiences. Founded in 2016 with the aim of bringing world-class jazz to the heart of Hampshire, Winchester Jazz Festival prides itself on offering a platform for both established and
Preview: The King of Reggae – The Man – The Music, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
Let’s Get Together and Feel Alright as Rush Theatre Company, the company that brought you the critically acclaimed RUSH – A Joyous Jamaican Journey, bring you their brand-new production, The King of Reggae – The Man – The Music at MAST Mayflower Studios on Wednesday 2 October 2024. Get ready to enjoy songs like One Love, No Woman
Theatre Royal Winchester autumn and winter season approaches
Peppa Pig photo by Barry Rivett Theatre Royal Winchester has another packed programme this autumn and winter – featuring incredible drama, popular National Theatre Live screenings, music, comedy, family shows, dance and community performances, plus, Christmas treats and the annual traditional family pantomime that mustn’t be missed. Drama audiences will be thrilled to hear that
Nick Heyward announces Basingstoke stop on UK tour for autumn 2024
Following the surprise news of Haircut One Hundred releasing a new single this week, The Unloving Plum, as an initial taster of their forthcoming – as-yet-untitled – first album in almost four decades, the band’s much-loved frontman, Nick Heyward, is pleased to announce a run of eleven UK live shows for autumn 2024, kicking off
Preview: Macbeth, Theatre Royal Winchester
Audiences are in for a treat as Macbeth by National Production Company is back at Theatre Royal Winchester – from Tuesday 17 to Wednesday 18 September. Macbeth is set in the murky Dark Ages and tells of a man who is told by his three sisters that he is fated to become King of Scotland
Stand up comedy this autumn at Mayflower Theatre & MAST Mayflower Studios
Image: Fern Brady The team at Mayflower Theatre and MAST Mayflower Studios announce a hilarious line-up of comedic stars, who will takeover our stages this Autumn. Featuring a dynamic mix for a variety of audiences, all shows promise side-splitting laughter and sharp wit. Shows include: Frank Skinner: 30 Years of Dirt – 1 October 2024
Preview: Black is the Color of My Voice, Theatre Royal Winchester
Audiences will be thrilled to learn that Black is the Color of My Voice returns to Theatre Royal Winchester on Monday 16 September – for one night only. Black is the Color of My Voice tells the story of a successful singer and civil rights activist as she seeks redemption after the untimely death of
Southampton International Boat Show recreates Abbey Road album cover on the water
The Southampton International Boat Show has recreated The Beatles’ ‘Abbey Road’ artwork on the water to celebrate the 55th anniversary of both the show and the album. Replacing the zebra crossing of Abbey Road in London with a giant stand-up paddleboard on the Solent in Southampton, a Beatles tribute band balanced on the board over the
Preview: War Horse, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
The National Theatre’s global smash-hit production of War Horse – the unforgettable theatrical event based on Michael Morpurgo’s beloved novel – visits Mayflower Theatre from Tuesday 8 to Saturday 19 October 2024. War Horse tells the remarkable story of a young boy called Albert and his horse Joey, set against the backdrop of the First
Preview: Steampunk Orchestra, Theatre Royal Winchester
Fans of singers and musicians who put their own unique spin on popular songs will enjoy an evening with Steampunk Orchestra on Friday 13 September. Audiences are taken on a journey through five decades of iconic music, against a backdrop of vintage Edison bulbs, when the orchestra – decked out in steampunk finery – cover
September Gig Guide – Southampton
Words By Vicky Greer. The age-old question: How many gigs can you go to in a week? Try as I might, I’ve never managed more than two (recently, it was the same band, when I saw The Damned twice in six days). I’ve tried many times, but something always gets in the way; the artist
Preview: Coming to England, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
Nicoll Entertainment and MAST Mayflower Studios announce the UK tour of Coming to England, a brand new stage adaptation based on Floella Benjamin’s award-winning book, which comes to MAST Mayflower Studios from Tuesday 22 to Saturday 26 October 2024. Adapted by David Wood (‘the national children’s dramatist’ – The Times) with music, storytelling and song,
Preview: The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Theatre Royal Winchester
Child audiences will be left mesmerised by a host of lovable puppets on stage when The Very Hungry Caterpillar comes to Theatre Royal Winchester from Saturday 14 September. The Very Hungry Caterpillar shares author and illustrator Eric Carle’s beloved story of a hungry caterpillar who munches through a range of healthy fruits before gobbling up
Interview: AJ and Curtis Pritchard on their upcoming tour of Come What May
The sultry, mysterious atmosphere of Paris is coming to theatres across the UK – including Portsmouth Guildhall on Wednesday 9 October – with Come What May. Starring AJ and Curtis Pritchard (Strictly Come Dancing, Dancing With The Stars, Love Island) and a cast of West End performers, this incredible show features all your favourite hits
Preview: National Theatre: Prima Facie, Theatre Royal Winchester
Actor Jodie Comer shines in a screening of National Theatre Live’s Prima Facie at Theatre Royal Winchester on Thursday 12 September. Prima Facie tells the story of Tessa – a young, brilliant barrister who has worked her way up from working class origins to the top of her game, defending, cross examining and winning –
Preview: Camille O’Sullivan: Loveletter, Theatre Royal Winchester
Singer Camille O’Sullivan performs intensely dramatic interpretations of favourite songs in Loveletter at Theatre Royal Winchester on Wednesday 11 September. The show sees the multi-award-winning singer – known for her unique take on songs – performing tracks and stories about love, loss, joy, light and darkness, choosing music from her favourite writers Nick Cave, Leonard
Preview: Who Do You Think You Are? I Am!, Theatre Royal Winchester
Comedian Vittorio Angelone – who once found fame online but is now selling out venues – takes to the stage at Theatre Royal Winchester on Tuesday 10 September to present his new show, Who Do You Think You Are? I Am!. The show, which appears in Winchester after the tour sold out and was extended,
Preview: Sounds of the 60s. Theatre Royal Winchester
Fans of the music of the ‘60s are in for a treat when the award-winning band, The Zoots, bring back the Sounds of the 60s at Theatre Royal Winchester on Sunday 8 September. The show celebrates the very best musical numbers of some of the biggest artists of the decade including The Beatles, The Beach
Oasis announce world tour for 2025
The new photo of the reunited Liam and Noel Gallagher shared today Oasis stars Liam and Noel Gallagher have confirmed they are reuniting for a new world tour, starting with 14 huge UK and Ireland shows in 2025. In a statement on their website, Oasis ended years of feverish speculation with the confirmation of a
Madagascar the Musical get zootastic at Marwell
Ahead of a week of performances of Madagascar the Musical at Mayflower Theatre, a couple of the cast escaped to Marwell Zoo, to get stuck in and see what is really involved in living and breathing the zoo environment. Connor Keetley (Skipper/Maurice) and James Hilton-Foster (ensemble) got stuck in with the zookeepers, feeding the giraffes,
Preview: The Elton John Show: The Ultimate Tribute, Theatre Royal Winchester
Elton John fans are invited to celebrate the music of an icon when The Elton John Show: The Ultimate Tribute comes to Theatre Royal Winchester on Saturday 7 September. This best-selling show celebrates the flamboyant mega-star at his energetic best, bringing ‘Young Elton’ back to the stage in his most colourful costumes to boot! As
New Youth Theatre sessions on sale now
Children and young people interested in drama and theatre are invited to join Playmakers Youth Theatre – with sessions starting next month (September), and places on sale now. The sessions are designed to enable participants to develop their skills in, knowledge of, and passion for traditional and contemporary theatre making – with participants exploring acting
Preview: An Evening Without Kate Bush, Theatre Royal Winchester
Photo credit: Steve Ullathorne Fans of the legendary singer Kate Bush can enjoy a celebratory evening with a difference with An Evening Without Kate Bush at Theatre Royal Winchester on Friday 6 September. This award-winning show plays homage to Kate Bush, her music, and her fans (those who have been around for decades or more
Preview: The DaVinci Michelangelo Experience, Theatre Royal Winchester
Culture buffs will be taken on an unforgettable journey through the Italian Renaissance when The DaVinci Michelangelo Experience comes to Theatre Royal Winchester on Wednesday 4 September. This is a chance for art lovers to rediscover the most exceptional artistic period in history and learn about the artists Michelangelo Buonarroti and Leonardo DaVinci and their
Preview: Come What May, Portsmouth Guildhall
The sultry, mysterious atmosphere of Paris is coming to theatres across the UK – including Portsmouth Guildhall on Wednesday 9 October – with Come What May. Starring AJ and Curtis Pritchard (Strictly Come Dancing, Dancing With The Stars, Love Island) and a cast of West End performers, this incredible show features all your favourite hits
Preview: Black is the Color of My Voice, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
Inspired by the life of Nina Simone and featuring many of her most iconic songs, Black is the Color of My Voice comes to MAST Mayflower Studios on Friday 27 and Saturday 28 September 2024. Apphia Campbell’s acclaimed play follows a successful jazz singer and civil rights activist as she seeks redemption after the untimely
Preview: Andre Rieu’s 2024 Maastricht Concert: Power of Love, Theatre Royal Winchester
Audiences are in for a spectacular cinema screening with a difference when Andre Rieu’s 2024 Maastricht Concert: Power of Love comes to Theatre Royal Winchester on Sunday 1 September. The world-famous violinist and conductor presents a brand new cinema concert from his picturesque hometown of Maastricht, Netherlands, featuring a unique repertoire combining classical music, pop,
Interview: Gavin Adams on his upcoming role as Aladdin at Mayflower Theatre
Disney’s hit Broadway and West End musical, Aladdin, lands in Southampton as part of its first ever UK and Ireland tour from Thursday 5 to Sunday 29 September 2024. Adapted from Disney’s 1992 animated film and centuries-old folktales, including One Thousand and One Nights, this smash-hit musical is brought to theatrical life in a unique
Andrew Combs announces new album and Winchester tour date
Andrew Combs announces a brand new album, Dream Pictures, which is released on the same day he plays at The Railway in Winchester on 23 August 2024. Dream Pictures is written for the quiet hours that bring each day to a close. At night, after putting his children to bed, Andrew would go into his
Preview: I Wish My Life Were Like a Musical, Theatre Royal Winchester
Musical theatre fans are in for a treat when the comedic musical revue, I Wish My Life Were Like A Musical, comes to Theatre Royal Winchester on Saturday 31 August. This sell-out show reveals everything audiences could want to know about musical theatre and the people who love it. It covers the journey from wide-eyed
Disney’s Aladdin star to bring magic to Southampton Pride with special performance of Proud of Your Boy
Disney’s Aladdin is celebrating the upcoming run of its highly acclaimed show at Mayflower Theatre with a special performance of its iconic number, Proud of Your Boy, by Aaron Elijah Patel at the Southampton Pride Stage, Guildhall Square on Saturday 24 August. Julianne Watling-McCarthy, Director of Southampton Pride CIC explains: “Mayflower Theatre have been strong and
Wickham Festival move pays off
Photo credit: Striking Faces The Wickham Festival’s switch to a new site has proved to be a huge success. Organisers took the long-standing popular event to a new field a few hundreds yards away in a bid to avoid the mud which proved such a problem last year. And the move paid off. Festival chief
Southampton venue chosen for first MVT Cohorts tour
Ahead of the release of his EP, Dead Forever, the enigmatic, genre-bending alt rock/metal artist, Kid Brunswick, will embark on the inaugural MVT Cohorts tour, coming to The Joiners in Southampton on Sunday 18 August. The MVT Cohorts tour, organised by the charity Music Venue Trust (MVT), is a new initiative aiming to combat the
Will Young announces album launch, including a show in Southampton tonight
Multi award-winning British pop star and actor Will Young is back with his ninth studio album, Light It Up, also confirming he will play a series of exclusive album launch shows this week including Southampton tonight (10 August), Leeds (11 August) and Liverpool (12 August). New 10-track collection, Light It Up, is the acclaimed singer-songwriter’s
Spend your summer with Mayflower
Mayflower Theatre and MAST Mayflower Studios are pleased to announce an array of summer activities that all of the local community can get involved in. Westquay: Disney’s Aladdin Giant Lamp – Now until Sunday 18 August 2024 Before Disney’s Aladdin flies onto Mayflower Theatre’s stage this September, there is an opportunity to grab a photo with
Interview: Desmonda Cathabel on her role as Jasmine in Aladdin
Disney’s hit Broadway and West End musical, Aladdin, lands in Southampton as part of its first ever UK and Ireland tour from Thursday 5 to Sunday 29 September 2024. Adapted from Disney’s 1992 animated film and centuries-old folktales, including One Thousand and One Nights, this smash-hit musical is brought to theatrical life in a unique
Southampton comes together to condemn hatred and racist violence
By Sally Churchward. Amid growing racist violence across the country, Southampton communities are standing together against hate. On Wednesday evening, a demonstration organised by Hampshire Antifascists will be held in the city centre, leaving from the Peace Fountain at 7pm. This will be a counter-demonstration to planned demonstrations at immigration solicitors offices and advice agencies
Preview: One Night in Dublin, Theatre Royal Winchester
Music fans will enjoy the ultimate tribute to feel-good Irish music when One Night in Dublin comes to Theatre Royal Winchester on Friday 30 August. One Night in Dublin sees Middi and his award-winning tribute band, the Wild Murphys, transporting audiences to ‘Murphy’s Pub’ for two hours of music, song and humour – with the
Interview: Karim Zeroual on his role as King Julien in Madagascar
Madagascar the Musical comes to Mayflower Theatre from Wednesday 21 to Saturday 24 August. Popular TV Presenter, theatre performer and Strictly Finalist Karim Zeroual – best known for anchoring CBBC and reaching the final of Strictly Come Dancing in 2019 – leads the cast of the brand-new UK tour of smash-hit family favourite Madagascar the
Cast of SIX visit Tudor House in Southampton
To mark their royal return to Mayflower Theatre in 2025, and yet another sell out run this year, Mayflower Theatre and SIX visited Tudor House in Southampton to visit the Bronze Cannon which is in situ in the house garden. The cast of SIX visited the bronze cannon which was made for Henry VIII in
Preview: Dinosaur World Live, Theatre Royal Winchester
Fans of a pre-historic world will be thrilled to learn that the award-winning interactive show, Dinosaur World Live is coming to Theatre Royal Winchester from Saturday 10 August. Direct from London’s West End – and nominated for Best Family Show at this year’s Olivier Awards – Dinosaur World Live invites audiences, young and old, to
Preview: The Tiger Who Came to Tea, Theatre Royal Winchester
Children will enjoy a charming musical adaptation of the beloved classic, The Tiger Who Came to Tea, when it comes to Theatre Royal Winchester from Monday 5 August. The Tiger Who Came to Tea is a delightful family show, which tells the story of Sophie and her mummy as they sit down for tea and
Preview: Aladdin the Musical, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
Disney’s hit Broadway and West End musical, Aladdin, lands in Southampton as part of its first ever UK and Ireland tour from Thursday 5 to Sunday 29 September 2024. Adapted from Disney’s 1992 animated film and centuries-old folktales, including One Thousand and One Nights, this smash-hit musical is brought to theatrical life in a unique
Preview: West End Magic, Theatre Royal Winchester
Fans of magic are invited to experience London’s longest-running theatre magic show, West End Magic, when it comes to Theatre Royal Winchester on Sunday 4 August. West End Magic is a family-friendly show featuring magic, illusion, comedy and variety acts from British Champion of Magic, Oliver Tabor – who has performed around the world; appeared
Preview: Bluey’s Big Play, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
For the first time ever, hit theatre tour Bluey’s Big Play will visit the UK following sell-out shows across Australia and the US, arriving at Mayflower Theatre from Tuesday 27 to Friday 30 August 2024. Audiences of all ages will get to see Bluey, her younger sister Bingo and Mum & Dad Bandit and Chilli,
Preview: Cillian O’Connor: My Magic World, Theatre Royal Winchester
Fans of Britain’s Got Talent finalist, magician Cillian O’Connor, will be delighted to hear that he takes to the stage at Theatre Royal Winchester on Tuesday 30 July. This year Cillian is touring his first ever live stage show, My Magic World – a show that promises to amaze audiences of all ages, and featuring
Mayflower Theatre summer ticket offer for Madagascar from £15
As Mayflower Theatre get ready to welcome Smash- hit family Favourite Madagascar the Musical to the stage from 21- 24 August, they announce a roarsome summer holiday offer of tickets for just £15 – if you book by the 21 July (T&C’s apply). Alex the lion is the king of the urban jungle, the main
Preview: Mr Toad, Theatre Royal Winchester
Photo credit: Tom Wren Families searching for a show they can all enjoy should look no further than Mr Toad – performed at Theatre Royal Winchester on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 July. It tells the story of Mr Toad of Toad Hall, which is under threat from the sly Miss Weasel, and whose insatiable
Preview: The Giant Killers, Theatre Royal Winchester
Football fans – in particular those who root for the underdog – and others may be interested in The Giant Killers, which comes to Theatre Royal Winchester on Wednesday 24 July. It tells the inspiring true story of a ragtag bunch of Lancashire mill workers in the town of Darwen who defied the odds to
Preview: Horrible Histories Rotten Royals, Theatre Royal Winchester
Children and their families, eager for some more ‘history with the nasty bits left in’, can delight in the return of the Horrible Histories gang, this time with their show, Rotten Royals, coming to Theatre Royal Winchester on Sunday 21 July. Britain’s favourite history show is back with revolting rulers and mad monarchs from the
Preview: SO Fringe, Southampton
By Anita Foxall. Between the 11 and the 13 of July, Southampton will be home to a new event – the Southampton Fringe Festival. It will include a variety of performances and events: musicals, plays, poetry readings, etc. Daniel Harris and Becky Birkett-Mills, the organisers, have been nurturing this idea for a while, and last
Preview: Total Pop Party: The Ultimate Concert Experience, Theatre Royal Winchester
Young fans of pop music will be thrilled to get a ticket to the ultimate pop concert experience, Total Pop Party, when it returns Theatre Royal Winchester on Saturday 20 July. Total Pop Party: The Ultimate Concert Experience is packed with classic tunes from the likes of pop royalty including Taylor Swift, Pink, Ed Sheeran
Preview: The History of Rock, Theatre Royal Winchester
Rock fans are invited to celebrate a rock line-up like no other when The History of Rock takes to the stage at Theatre Royal Winchester on Friday 19 July. Audiences will be taken on a journey throughout the history of rock, showcasing classic hits from the likes of Deep Purple, Guns N’ Roses and Queen
Local businesses and community events – July
Maskers Theatre – Romeo and Juliet, Townhill Park House The Maskers Theatre return to Townhill Park House with ‘Romeo and Juliet’ Shakespeare’s story of love and loss. On the Sundial Lawn against the backdrop of the house Thursday 18 – Saturday 27 July 7.30pm each evening and 2.30pm on Saturday (grounds open early for picnics).
Children’s shows this summer at Mayflower Theatre & MAST Mayflower Studios
The team at Mayflower Theatre and MAST Mayflower Studios announce details of the exciting and broad mix of children’s entertainment shows that will be performing across both venues during the 2024 school summer holidays. With a variety of enjoyment for all young ages, audiences can enjoy the delight of live performances across both venues this
Preview: National Theatre Live screening – Present Laughter, Theatre Royal Winchester
Actor Andrew Scott returns in another National Theatre Live screening – Present Laughter, at Theatre Royal Winchester on Tuesday 23 July. Present Laughter tells of star actor, Garry Essendine, as he prepares to embark on an overseas tour – when his colourful life is in danger of spiralling out of control. Engulfed by an escalating
Preview: Girls Night Out, Theatre Royal Winchester
Adult audiences looking for an entertaining, funny and frank evening of song and chat are welcome at Girls Night Out at Theatre Royal Winchester on Thursday 18 July. Girls Night Out is an award-winning cabaret of outrageous vocals, rip-roaring humour and unapologetic misbehaviour and cheeky chat – with no subject off limits! Girls Night Out
Preview: DS:UK – In Tribute to Dire Straits, Theatre Royal Winchester
Fans of the rock band Dire Straits are invited to an evening celebrating their award-winning music when DS:UK perform at Theatre Royal Winchester on Thursday 11 July. The band bring to the stage their highly anticipated The Alchemical Tour, which pays tribute to Dire Straits’ infamous live album – Alchemy: Dire Straits Live – their
Preview: Zog and the Flying Doctors, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
Zog and the Flying Doctors, based on the bestselling sequel by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, will fly into Southampton this summer, playing at MAST Mayflower Studios from Tuesday 23 to Thursday 25 July 2024. Zog, super keen student turned air-ambulance, still lands with a bang-crash-thump. Together with his Flying Doctor crew, Princess Pearl and
Preview: The Dolly Show, Theatre Royal Winchester
A West End star and Dolly Parton impersonator takes to the stage in The Dolly Show at Theatre Royal Winchester on Wednesday 10 July. Kelly O’Brien appears as country music singer Dolly Parton – and the only Parton impersonator to be endorsed by the Parton family itself – capturing the voice, vigor and voluptuousness of
Preview: Pretty Woman, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
The smash hit, Pretty Woman: The Musical, will arrive at Southampton’s Mayflower Theatre from Monday 22 to Saturday 27 July 2024. Pretty Woman: The Musical is Hollywood’s ultimate rom-com, live on stage, guaranteed to lift your spirits and light up your heart. Once upon a time in the late ’80s, Vivian met Edward and her life
Preview: Frank Turner (with support from The Meffs), 1865, Southampton
Photo credit: Shannon Shumaker Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls have announced details of a more traditional headline UK tour for July 2024 in celebration of his tenth album Undefeated, including a stop at the 1865 in Southampton on Thursday 18 July. “I’m bringing the tour, the new album, the Sleeping Souls, and my excellent
Preview: The Bon Jovi Experience, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
Celebrating 30 years on the road this year, The Bon Jovi Experience is MAST Mayflower Studios on Friday 19 July with a brand-new production. Get ready to rock your way through an unforgettable journey with the only show to be endorsed by Jon Bon Jovi himself! Immerse yourself in a phenomenal celebration of Bon Jovi’s
Wickham Festival is on the move
The Wickham Festival is moving home – but only a few hundred yards. The popular long-running event is switching to a different site for this year’s event from August 1-4 headlined by rock goddess Suzi Quatro, Curtis Stigers and the Levellers. Winchester City Council have just approved the transfer to a new field which organisers
Local and young talent perform at Hat Fair 2024
Photo of Arthur L Wood Hat Fair, the UK’s longest running festival of Outdoor Arts, which runs from Friday 5 – Sunday 7 July, is ready to celebrate local and young talent with an extensive line-up of performances from youth theatre groups, drama students, local choirs, musicians, singers, dancers, and more. Playmakers Youth Theatre groups
Preview: WNO Crossing Borders Concert Tour, Turner Sims, Southampton
Tomáš Hanus & WNO Orchestra – Prague Spring Festival Opening Concert – Photo Credit Pražské Jaro 2 The Welsh National Opera (WNO) Orchestra will embark on a musical journey through some of Central Europe’s finest masterpieces, for their summer concert tour, Crossing Borders, presented by WNO Music Director Tomáš Hanus. The tour will visit Turner
Southampton International Boat Show sets sail for its 55th year!
Back for its 55th edition, Southampton International Boat Show, Britain’s largest marine festival, is returning to Mayflower Park, Southampton. The show will be open from Friday 13 to Sunday 22 September, and promises to have something for everyone to enjoy. The biggest marine showcase in the UK provides the very best the industry has to
Preview: Unfortunate: The Untold Story of Ursula the Sea Witch, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
The critically acclaimed musical parody, Unfortunate: The Untold Story of Ursula the Sea Witch, will swim into Mayflower Theatre from 6 – 7 July 2024. Join everyone’s favourite Disney Diva, Ursula, as she gives her take on what really happened all those years ago under the sea. With an original hot pop soundtrack and trademark
Hat Fair welcomes back familiar faces
Photo credit: Adrienne Photography Hat Fair, the UK’s longest running festival of Outdoor Arts, is back for another summer – this year from Friday 5 – Sunday 7 July – and to celebrate the festival’s 50th birthday, the programme features a host of familiar faces, ready to bring more outrageous street theatre, circus, comedy and
Tribute shows this July at Mayflower Theatre & MAST Mayflower Studios
The team at Mayflower Theatre and MAST Mayflower Studios have announced details of the exciting and eclectic mix of musical tribute shows, which will be performing across both venues this July. With musical genres spanning the decades, audiences can enjoy the thrill of live performances across both venues this summer. Shows include: The Magic of
Winchester Comedy Festival’s Summer Gala is back
Comedy audiences are invited to an evening of stand-up with Winchester Comedy Festival’s Summer Gala at Theatre Royal Winchester on Friday 28 June. This is a brilliant evening of top comedy from a host of award-winning comedians who have appeared on and written for national TV and radio, including Zoe Lyons who trained as an
Hat Fair celebrates 50th birthday!
Photos: Adrienne Photography Hat Fair, the UK’s longest running festival of Outdoor Arts, is back for another summer – this year from Friday 5 – Sunday 7 July. There will be bold street theatre, circus, music, dance and more taking over Winchester city centre for all ages to enjoy – and this year is extra
Audition to be part of the Mother Goose panto support cast
Play to the Crowd – the arts and education charity that runs Theatre Royal Winchester, Hat Fair and Playmakers – is looking for support cast members for this year’s traditional family pantomime, Mother Goose, which will run from Saturday 30 November 2024 to Sunday 5 January 2025. The charity, which produces the theatre’s annual pantomime,
Upcoming dance at Mayflower Theatre & MAST Mayflower Studios
The team at Mayflower Theatre and MAST Mayflower Studios has announced an array of dance that will be performed across both venues during 2024 and 2025. From Ballet to Ballroom and Latin. Shows include: Nadiya & Kai: Behind The Magic 30 June 2024 at Mayflower Theatre During Nadiya and Kai’s debut tour, the Strictly Come
Opinion: Resisting the Rwanda Act
By Manthan Pathak. It’s a Monday morning like any other for most of us, but not for everyone. Outside Portswood police station dozens of men and women seeking refuge queue to ‘report’, a regular commitment they must make if they have claimed asylum. For many, they know that every reporting visit carries the risk of
Local businesses enjoy Backstage Breakfast
Play to the Crowd, the arts and education charity that runs Theatre Royal Winchester, Hat Fair and Playmakers, welcomed businesses from across Winchester to a Backstage Breakfast to mark the launch of this year’s Hat Fair – the UK’s longest running festival of Outdoor Arts, which this summer will run from Friday 5 – Sunday
Reader’s letter: can you help make TriFest happen?
By Paul Jenks – TriFest coordinator. TriFest is a free festival (run by volunteers) held on Riverside Park, next to Bitterne Park Triangle (TriFest) in Southampton. This year’s festival is on Saturday 27th July and it will be our 5th year. We’ve got a bit of everything. We have local bands playing, craft stalls, local
Preview: The Magic of Terry Pratchett, Theatre Royal Winchester
Devoted readers of Sir Terry Pratchett’s fantastical novels are invited to a celebratory evening exploring his life and work when The Magic of Terry Pratchett comes to Theatre Royal Winchester on Saturday 15 June. Terry Pratchett was the author of over fifty bestselling books including The Colour of Magic – the first in his Discworld
Southampton musician launches new solo track, Lost Sun
By Anita Foxall. Southampton musician/drummer Charlie Brown has recently launched his own solo project with the track Lost Sun, which was released on the 3 May. Charlie is a music producer, songwriter and a familiar face in the Southampton live music scene. He is the drummer in the band Interesting Wallpaper, and collaborates/plays with other
Preview: Clive Anderson’s My Seven Wonders, Theatre Royal Winchester
Popular TV and radio presenter, Clive Anderson, presents an evening exploring a guest’s personal wonders of the world when Clive Anderson’s My Seven Wonders comes to Theatre Royal Winchester on Friday 14 June. For the first time, Anderson presents on stage the live version of his hit podcast, My Seven Wonders with Clive Anderson, whereby
Preview: An Officer and a Gentleman: The Musical, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
Prepare to be swept off your feet as An Officer and Gentleman the Musical comes to the stage of Mayflower Theatre from Tuesday 25 to Saturday 29 June 2024. An Officer and a Gentleman the Musical invites you into a world where dreams and destinies intertwine. Don’t miss your chance to experience this captivating romance
Victorious Festival reveals full kids arena line up for 2024
Set on the stunning Southsea seafront, multi-award-winning Victorious Festival, which takes place from 23 – 25 August 2024, announces a jam-packed bill of entertainment for all the family at this year’s bank holiday extravaganza. Brush off your best moves as TV presenter, Katy Ashworth, takes to the stage on Friday for the ultimate disco party,
A summer of family theatre at Theatre Royal Winchester
Photo credit: Rotten Royals by Mark Douet Families looking for entertaining days and nights out during the British summertime – when the sunshine cannot be relied upon – can find something for everyone to enjoy at Theatre Royal Winchester this season – from music to comedy, magic and brilliant storytelling. This summer’s programme of family
Preview: Fleetwood Unchained, Theatre Royal Winchester
Fans of Fleetwood Mac can enjoy the ultimate tribute to the iconic rock band when Fleetwood Unchained come to Theatre Royal Winchester on Saturday 8 June. Fleetwood Unchained bring to life the British-American band’s timeless hits from the early blues-infused classics to the pop-rock anthems that made the band international superstars and remain firm favourites
Volunteer for Hat Fair 2024
The organisers of Hat Fair – the UK’s longest running festival of Outdoor Arts – are looking for volunteers for this year’s event, which takes place from Friday 5 – Sunday 7 July. The festival, which takes over the city streets and green spaces of Winchester, is visited each summer by tens of thousands of
Preview: Attention All Shipping: A Celebration of the Shipping Forecast with Charlie Connelly, Theatre Royal Winchester
Followers of the shipping forecast can tune into Attention All Shipping: A Celebration of the Shipping Forecast with Charlie Connelly at Theatre Royal Winchester on Friday 7 June. This year the shipping forecast celebrates 100 years, and bestselling author Charlie Connelly presents an informative, funny, pacy and moving show about the quirky broadcast – asking
Just one month to go until Let’s Rock kick-off their summer 2024 season
The UK’s most iconic retro festival series, Let’s Rock, will be coming to seven locations across the UK this summer, including new events in Northampton and Swansea, while Let’s Rock Scotland have partnered with Party at The Palace for a two-day event in August. The season kicks off on June 15 with Let’s Rock Northampton
Preview: The Massive Tragedy of Madame Bovary, Theatre Royal Winchester
Theatre fans will be swept away by The Massive Tragedy of Madame Bovary, which visits Theatre Royal Winchester from Tuesday 4 June. The play tells of a bored Emma Bovary – bored with her boring doctor husband, boring provincial village and boring role as a dutiful wife in nineteenth-century France. But Emma read novels and
Preview: Cluedo 2: The Next Chapter, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
Following the huge success of the critically acclaimed original play, and based on the classic Hasbro board game, Cluedo is back at Mayflower Theatre with a brand-new comedy mystery, from Wednesday 19 to Sunday 23 June 2024. The hilarious whodunnit returns with a new story, a new house, new suspects and lots of new bodies.
Preview: National Theatre Live: Nye, Theatre Royal Winchester
Photo credit: Johan Persson The story of the man behind the NHS is told in new play, Nye – the next National Theatre Live screening to take place at Theatre Royal Winchester on Monday 3 June. Nye tells the story of Aneurin ‘Nye’ Bevan who faced with death is taken on a surreal, mind-bending journey
Preview: The Lion Inside, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
MAST Mayflower Studios are co-producing the production of The Lion Inside, and look forward to it entertaining young audiences in Southampton from Wednesday 29 May to Saturday 1 June 2024. Fed up of being ignored and forgotten by the other animals, Mouse wishes he could roar like Lion. But, as he discovers, even the biggest,
Preview: High Jinx: Magic, Illusion & Circus, Theatre Royal Winchester
Mesmerising magic and crazy circus stunts are promised from High Jinx: Magic, Illusion & Circus at Theatre Royal Winchester on Sunday 26 May at 1.30pm and 4.30pm. High Jinx is a jam-packed show featuring incredible magic tricks, mind-boggling illusions, inspiring feats of juggling and daring circus stunts, which will leave audiences puzzled and amazed. It
Award-winning festival, Victorious, announces full comedy line up
Set on the stunning Southsea seafront from 23 – 25 August 2024, multi-award-winning Victorious Festival – the UK’s biggest metropolitan festival – has announced its full comedy line-up for this summer’s Bank Holiday extravaganza. Building on the success of last year’s expanded comedy offering, Victorious will welcome some of the biggest and best names in
Preview: Steeleye Span, Theatre Royal Winchester
Folk music fans are in for a treat when Steeleye Span return to the city and Theatre Royal Winchester on Saturday 18 May. The British folk-rock band will be celebrating 50 years together and a new album, The Green Man Collection, which features tracks from recent releases and new versions of three classics including a
In conversation with Wicked stars Sarah O’Connor (Glinda) and Laura Pick (Elphaba)
Wicked, the spectacular, multi-record-breaking and critically acclaimed production, is set to fly back to the Mayflower Theatre stage from Thursday 23 May to Sunday 16 June 2024. Wicked tells the incredible untold story of an unlikely but profound friendship between two young women – the popular Glinda and a misunderstood Elphaba – who first meet
Preview: Morgan & West’s Massive Magic Show, Theatre Royal Winchester
Theatre Royal Winchester is set to host a magic show for kids and childish grown-ups when world-renowned magicians Morgan and West return with their Massive Magic Show for Kids on Sunday 5 May. A brand-new magic show, Morgan & West’s Massive Magic Show is packed with mysterious magic tricks as well as the duo’s trademark
Preview: Wicked, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
Wicked, the spectacular, multi-record-breaking and critically acclaimed production, is set to fly back to the Mayflower Theatre stage from Thursday 23 May to Sunday 16 June 2024. Wicked tells the incredible untold story of an unlikely but profound friendship between two young women – the popular Glinda and a misunderstood Elphaba – who first meet
Preview: Austen’s Women: Lady Susan, Theatre Royal Winchester
Fans of Jane Austen will enjoy the darkly comic Austen’s Women: Lady Susan, which comes to Theatre Royal Winchester on Thursday 2 May. Lady Susan is a brand-new one-woman show about society and the women trapped within it – featuring the devil-may-care black widow character of Lady Susan, who is hunting down fortune, rebellious daughter Frederica,
Preview: Jack’s Ashes, Theatre Royal Winchester
Cricket fans can be in for a humorous but insightful evening when one man show, Jack’s Ashes, comes to Theatre Royal Winchester on Wednesday 1 May. Jack’s Ashes tells the story of former professional cricketer, Jack, as he steps up to give his team talk to motivate the players, but as the wickets fall the
Preview: Life of Pi, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
Lolita Chakrabarti’s dazzling Olivier Award winning stage adaption of Yann Martel’s best-selling novel, Life of Pi, will journey to Southampton’s Mayflower Theatre from Tuesday 14 to Saturday 18 May 2024. Based on one of the best-loved works of fiction – winner of the Man Booker Prize, selling over fifteen million copies worldwide – Life of Pi is
Preview: California Connections, Theatre Royal Winchester
Photo Credit: Jimmy Parratt Three pioneering female choreographers are honoured in contemporary ballet show, California Connections, which visits Theatre Royal Winchester on Tuesday 23 April. California Connections is a powerful mixed bill that highlights the ground-breaking work of three icons of contemporary dance – Isadora Duncan, Martha Graham and Bella Lewitzky; – celebrating the performing
Preview: A Beautiful Noise Show: The definitive tribute to Neil Diamond, Theatre Royal Winchester
Fans of singer songwriter Neil Diamond can enjoy a celebratory tribute that forms part of a charity fundraiser when A Beautiful Noise Show visits Theatre Royal Winchester on Friday 19 April. A Beautiful Noise Show: The definitive tribute to Neil Diamond celebrates more than five decades of the pop and rock icon’s exceptional musical career
Preview: Mapdance 2024, Theatre Royal Winchester
Contemporary dance enthusiasts will get the chance to experience exciting new works by established and emerging international choreographers when Mapdance visits Theatre Royal Winchester on Thursday 18 April. The company’s show will feature three newly commissioned works showcasing gritty dance-theatre and athletic and fast-paced choreography. With 14 dancers taking to the stage, Swiss born dance
Mayflower Theatre’s higher education bursary scheme awards thousands to local rising stars
Mayflower Theatre announces that this year they have awarded a total of £36,500 to nine deserving rising stars, to help them fulfil their ambitions, as part of the Higher Education Bursary Scheme. The Higher Education Bursary Scheme is open to individuals between the ages of 18 – 25 who reside in Hampshire. Support is prioritised to
Preview: Rosie Holt: That’s Politainment, Theatre Royal Winchester
Comedian Rosie Holt explores the link between politics and entertainment in her brand-new show, That’s Politainment, at Theatre Royal Winchester on Saturday 13 April. The acclaimed comedian, actor and satirist’s show claims the worse the political career, the more lucrative the subsequent entertainment opportunities – for example, Matt Hancock – and asks if Holt’s own
Paris Smith to extend sponsorship of Mayflower Theatre
Mayflower Theatre announces the renewal of Paris Smith’s long-standing 30 plus year partnership. A number of years ago, Paris Smith also extended its support to MAST Mayflower Studios, which fosters artist development and promotes youth engagement. The new arrangement follows the fusion of these two wonderful and different venues under Mayflower’s banner, underscoring Paris Smith’s
Preview: The Singing Mermaid, Theatre Royal Winchester
Children and their grown ups can enjoy this puppetry packed story –The Singing Mermaid, which comes to Theatre Royal Winchester from Saturday 13 April. Based on the children’s story by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Lydia Monks, the show tells the story of a singing mermaid who is tempted to join a travelling circus with
David Rodigan, Goldie Lookin Chain & Fabio & Grooverider on Jerk Jam line up
Jerk Jam Festival returns in this year in June. The festival is set to take place Saturday 8th June, 2024 at Pinkmead Farm, Botley, Southampton from 11am to midnight. This year David Rodigan, Goldie Lookin Chain, Fabio & Grooverider, Altern8, and more join the line up. Jerk Jam Festival has been presenting a selection of
Preview: The School for Scandal, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
The deliciously naughty and outrageously silly timeless comedy, The School for Scandal, visits MAST Mayflower Studios from 8 to11 May 2024, as part of a major UK tour this spring. The School for Scandal is one of the greatest comedies ever written, featuring an unforgettable cast of larger-than-life characters, each armed with a lacerating wit.
Acclaimed social historian comes to Winchester to discuss proto-feminist Barbara Leigh Smith Bodichon
Image:Jane Robinson. Photo by Bruce James. Acclaimed author and public speaker, Jane Robinson, is coming to The ARC, Winchester on Thursday 23rd May to discuss Barbara Leigh Smith Bodichon – the fascinating subject of her latest book ‘Trailblazer: The First Feminist To Change Our World,’ for the latest Wire Wool event. Jane Robinson has a
Graham Norton comes to Portsmouth and Poole for autumn tour
Graham Norton, the nation’s favourite talk show host and author, is celebrating the release of his latest novel Frankie, published by Coronet, with a brand-new tour this autumn. An Evening with Graham Norton sees Graham discuss Frankie and share hilarious tales from his star-studded sofa, and turns the tables on himself to answer the audiences
Preview: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
The most fantastic magical musical of all time, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, opens at Mayflower Theatre Southampton on 30 April 2024, where it will play until 12 May 2024 ahead of its UK tour. In Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, we meet absent-minded inventor Caractacus Potts who restores a broken-down old racing car with the help
David Walliams chats about the new production show of his book Awful Auntie
Image by Charlie Clift. The bestselling children’s author David Walliams and the award-winning Birmingham Stage Company have teamed up for a brand-new production of the family adventure Awful Auntie, touring the UK 14th March – 7th December, coming to Poole this weekend and Southampton in November. This is their latest collaboration in a series of
Loyle Carner to headline Southampton Summer Sessions this June
Loyle Carner will headline the first ever TK Maxx presents Southampton Summer Sessions on Saturday 29 June. He is the latest to join an unmissable collection of world-class talent, including Nile Rodgers & CHIC, Tom Jones, Madness, Placebo, Paloma Faith, and Kaiser Chiefs set to headline Guildhall Square for Southampton Summer Sessions from 15 to 30 June. One of the leading voices in British rap, Loyle
Victorious Festival 2023 donates over £150,000 to charitable and good causes this year
Victorious Festival is organised by a team of locals who are passionate about Portsmouth and enjoy spreading positivity through their Victorious in the Community arm and charitable contributions. This year saw Victorious in the Community donate over £150,000 to good causes, bringing the total since 2014 to £711,426.53. But it’s not just about the numbers,
Preview: All Floyd, Theatre Royal Winchester
Pink Floyd fans can celebrate the anniversary of one of the rock band’s ground-breaking albums when the tribute act, All Floyd, visits Theatre Royal Winchester on Friday 5 April. This year marks three decades since the release of Pink Floyd’s The Division Bell album, which sold more than an estimated 10 million copies worldwide –
Preview: Kendal Mountain Tour 2024: A Night of Adventure Films, Theatre Royal Winchester
Adventurers and film enthusiasts alike can enjoy an evening of award-winning films, capturing the very best of the planet, when Kendal Mountain Tour 2024: A Night of Adventure Films comes to Theatre Royal Winchester on Thursday 4 April. Audiences are invited to enjoy an evening of films that take in the world’s most breath-taking landscapes
Preview: There’s a Monster in Your Show, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
Tom Fletcher’s interactive adventures for big imaginations are leaping from page to stage, as the beloved Who’s in Your Book? series, makes its debut as a brand-new musical show – There’s a Monster in Your Show will play at MAST Mayflower Studios from Thursday 25 to Sunday 28 April 2024. A group of performers are
Lucy Porter brings her No Regrets show to Totton next spring
Lucy Porter is set to embark on a national tour from this September, with her brand-new show – all about regrets – bringing her to The Attic in Totton next spring. Frank Sinatra had too few regrets to mention, but Lucy’s got hundreds, and she’s prepared to go into graphic detail about all of them.
Preview: Come From Away, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
Come From Away, the multi award-winning Best Musical across the globe, will tour to Mayflower Theatre from Tuesday 16 to Saturday 20 April 2024. Come From Away shares the incredible real-life story of the 7,000 air passengers from all over the world who were grounded in Canada during the wake of 9/11, and the small Newfoundland community
David Walliams’ Awful Auntie UK tour comes to Poole and Southampton
The bestselling children’s author David Walliams and the award-winning Birmingham Stage Company have teamed up for a brand-new production of the family adventure Awful Auntie. This is their latest collaboration in a series of shows which includes the Oliver Award-nominated Gangsta Granny and Billionaire Boy. It comes to Poole’s Lighthouse this month, from March 21
Preview: Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book, Theatre Royal Winchester
Little ones can enjoy another Julia Donaldson classic coming to Theatre Royal Winchester – Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book, which is with the venue from Tuesday 2 to Wednesday 3 April 2024. Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book tells the story of Charlie who loves reading – especially books about pirates. But his sister hates it and finds
Morgan Rees brings Turning Thirsty show to Totton this summer
Image credit: Rachel Sherlock. Award-nominated online sensation Morgan Rees is set to embark on his first UK stand-up comedy tour with his brand-new show ‘Turning Thirsty’ from 1st May to 27th June 2024, including dates at iconic venues such as the Bristol’s Old Vic, Glasgow’s The Stand and London’s Hackney Empire and coming to The
Green-fingered urged to sow and grow for Southampton spring charity fundraiser
Southampton gardeners are being asked to sow extra seeds, take cuttings and grow plants on for a charity plant sale in the city this spring. Communicare is hosting the event in May at CommuniBakes and is asking for plant donations to sell to raise money to help vulnerable and isolated people in Southampton. Fundraising and
Richard Hawley comes to Portsmouth on UK tour
Image credit: Dean Chalkley. Following the acclaim for the award-winning musical based on his songs, ‘Standing At The Sky’s Edge’, which opened earlier this month for a six-month run in London’s West End, today Richard Hawley recently released new single: “Two For His Heels”. It is the opening track on Hawley’s forthcoming album, ‘In This City They
Cardinals return with new single and Southampton Joiners date
Image by: Emilyn Cardona. Ireland’s Cardinals have returned with “Unreal”, their much-anticipated follow-up to last year’s debut single proper, “Roseland”, a song saw them heralded across press for the maturity and fully-formed nature of their sound. The 7″ vinyl, released on tastemaker label So Young, went on to hurriedly sell out within only two hours
Omid Djalili comes to Eastleigh this autumn with Namaste show
Omid Djalili, is set to take his brand-new show Namaste on the road this autumn, bringing him to The Point, Eastleigh, for two nights. Namaste is typically a word associated with peace and tranquillity, but the word – which comes from Sanskrit – literally means “bowing to you”. And as he watches a world on
Preview: Johannes Radebe: House of JoJo, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
TV dance sensation and international champion Johannes Radebe is thrilled to be presenting a brand-new production, Johannes Radebe: House of JoJo, at Mayflower Theatre on Sunday 7 April, following the phenomenal success of his first two sell-out UK and Ireland tours. Join Johannes Radebe and a host of eclectic characters in this brand-new theatrical celebration
Volunteers needed for Hat Fair 2024
The organisers of Hat Fair – the UK’s longest running festival of Outdoor Arts – are looking for volunteers for this year’s event, which takes place from Friday 5 – Sunday 7 July. The festival, which takes over the city streets and green spaces of Winchester, is visited each summer by tens of thousands of
Preview: REWRITES: Nel’s Place, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
REWRITES – the showcase for new musicals started by The Lowry, Salford in 2017 presents Nel’s Place at MAST Mayflower Studios on Thursday 14 and Friday 15 March. Trapped in a hoard of memories and music, Nel yearns to make space for granddaughter Molly’s 16th birthday celebrations. Can Nel find a way through grief to
Preview: Science Museum: The Live Stage Show, Theatre Royal Winchester
Young science enthusiasts and their families are invited to a brand-new production at Theatre Royal Winchester on Sunday 17 March. Science Museum: The Live Stage Show is an unmissable family show aimed at inspiring audiences in new and exciting ways, fuelling their imaginations, capturing their fascination and igniting their curiosity. The show is by London’s
Victorious Festival Seaside Stage Is Back for 2024
Victorious Festival is thrilled to announce one of the most iconic stages, the Seaside Stage, is back for 2024, presented by Beats and Swing. Back with a huge line-up for the weekend, including Australian artist Dub FX – known for revolutionising the concept of a one man band with live looping and samples – is guaranteed
Preview: Bonnie & Clyde the Musical, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
Fan-favourite and winner of Best New Musical (What’s On Stage Awards 2023), Bonnie & Clyde The Musical comes to Mayflower Theatre from 2 – 6 April 2024. Bonnie & Clyde The Musical is the story of two small-town kids from the middle of nowhere who became the biggest folk heroes in all America. They craved
Judas Priest announce new single ahead of UK & Irish tour
New single, The Serpent and the King – from the album, Invincible Shield, released on 8 March – sees Judas Priest at their heavy metal best, with what is without doubt the most fist pumping track on their much-anticipated forthcoming new album. The new single launched as Apple Music’s New Music Daily, along with an
Diversity, Ashley Banjo and Kev Orkian cast in Mayflower’s pantomime
Mayflower Theatre has announced further star casting for this year’s giant pantomime spectacular, Jack and the Beanstalk. Joining the previously announced Britain’s Got Talent winners and street dance sensations, Ashley Banjo and Diversity, will be award-winning actor and stand-up comedian, Kev Orkian – who will be returning to Mayflower Theatre after a sensational season appearing
Preview: Zog and the Flying Doctors, Theatre Royal Winchester
Young fans of children’s book writer Julia Donaldson’s beloved stories will love Zog and the Flying Doctors, which visits Theatre Royal Winchester from Friday 8 to Sunday 10 March. Zog and the Flying Doctors tells the story of Zog, a super keen student turned air-ambulance who, with his Flying Doctor crew of Princess Pearl and
Royel Otis to support headliners Kaiser Chiefs at Southampton Summer Sessions concert
Image by Georges Antoni. Royel Otis will support headliners Kaiser Chiefs, for this year’s inaugural Southampton Summer Sessions series on Sunday 30 June. They join previously announced Tom Jones, Madness, Nile Rodgers & CHIC and Sophie Ellis-Bextor on the growing lineup of unmissable acts who will take over Southampton’s Guildhall Square for Summer Sessions from 15 to 30 June. The vibrant Australian duo Royel Otis, comprising Otis Pavlovic
Perform at Hat Fair!
Playmakers are offering local talent the chance to perform at this year’s Hat Fair festival – and there are two ways for them to get involved. Playmakers are calling upon local singers, musicians, comics, choir members, dance troupes and others with a short performance to apply now to be part of Hat Fair – the
Preview: Graziano Di Prima – Believe: My Life on Stage, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
Following his sixth consecutive year on the hit BBC show, Strictly Come Dancing favourite Graziano Di Prima and his wife Giada Lini will take to the stage in a brand-new dance show, Believe: My Life on Stage, which visits MAST Mayflower Studios on Friday 15 March 2024. Joining this dynamic duo will be a company
Trans Pride returns to Southampton in June
By Mabel Wellman. Trans Pride Southampton is returning to Southampton this year on the 29th June. Last year Trans Prids was a small and intimate event at Watts Park. The event started with a march through City Centre, then a picnic in Watts Park. Trans Pride Southampton this year will be at Edmund Kell Unitarian
Preview: LORE, Theatre Royal Winchester
Contemporary dance enthusiasts will delight in new production, LORE, which visits Theatre Royal Winchester on Tuesday 5 March. LORE takes audiences on a folklore inspired journey into a pagan world of gods, demons and humans. The show explores a connection with nature and the energy that flows from the ground through our bodies and back
Jesus Christ Superstar comes to Mayflower Theatre in March
by Michael Coveney. After their initial success with an early, twenty-minute version of Joseph and His Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat in 1968, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice were taken up by producer David Land, given a weekly wage of £20 a week each, an office, and encouraged to write anything at all with just one
Cowes Fringe Festival makes a grand comeback
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Cowes, the Fringe Festival will take place from the 24 – 26 of May 2024, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy a diverse range of music and performances. The much-anticipated return of the Cowes Fringe Festival is set to dazzle audiences with an array of performances from an eclectic
Interview – Welsh National Opera and director Olivia Fuchs are joining forces
By Diane Parkes Welsh National Opera and director Olivia Fuchs are joining forces with contemporary circus company NoFit State for a bold new production of Benjamin Britten’s Death in Venice this spring. The production, which comes to Mayflower Theatre on March 20, will use a range of circus skills to re-tell the classic tale of
Preview: Showstopper! The Improvised Musical & The Showstoppers Kids Show, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
The incredible Showstopper! The Improvised Musical and Showstoppers’ Kids Show are coming back to MAST Mayflower Studios on Saturday 16 March 2024. Spontaneous musical comedy at its finest, this is the first ever long-form improv show to have a full West End run and to be nominated and win an Olivier Award! Completely improvised and genuinely
Preview: Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
Little Angel Theatre’s major new adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book will run from Friday 8 – Sunday10 March at MAST Mayflower Studios. Alongside this puppet-filled musical, which at its core celebrates the joy of reading, Little Angel Theatre will deliver a ground-breaking literacy project aimed at creating a supportive
Frank Turner set to release 10th album, Undefeated
Hampshire Star, Frank Turner, is set to release his 10th album, Undefeated, on 3 May, which includes recently released single, Do One. Undefeated follows his first UK number one album, 2022’s FTHC, and is the result of his decision to step away from the major label world to re-embrace the liberation of working as an
Art on the House project at The Art House, Southampton
The final season of Southampton’s grassroots cultural stalwart The Art House is in full swing with every week packed with gigs as artists queue up for “one last show” in the much loved venue. The Art House will no longer have a permanent, bricks and mortar home but will still very much be a presence
Hat Fair looking for market traders for festival weekend
The organisers of Hat Fair, the UK’s longest running festival of Outdoor Arts, are looking for market traders for the festival weekend. The festival, which takes place throughout the streets and green spaces of Winchester over the first weekend of July, will have pitches available for traders on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 July. Market traders will have the opportunity to
PennFest announce a host of exciting additions to their summer 2024 line-up!
Buckinghamshire’s biggest and best music festival PennFest have announced a host of exciting additions to their summer 2024 line-up! Ella Henderson, Professor Green, Newton Faulkner, Dutty Moonshine Big Band, East 17 Christmas Special, DJ Hype, Grooverider, Oxide & Neutrino and Matt Jam Lamont will join headliners Paul Weller, Richard Ashcroft and Jess Glynne in the first
Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds announce first show of 2024
Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds announce that their first show of 2024 will take place at Poole Lighthouse on Sunday17 March. The intimate gig will mark Noel’s second appearance at the venue, after first performing there 20 years ago with Oasis (on 23 June 2004 – a warm up show ahead of the band headlining
Preview: Seven Drunken Nights – The Story of The Dubliners, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
Direct from the West End, and having sold out venues worldwide, Seven Drunken Nights – The Story of The Dubliners will perform at Mayflower Theatre on 8 March 2024. In partnership with Tourism Ireland and in association with legendary Irish pub O’Donoghue’s – the place where it all started for The Dubliners back in 1962
Preview: The Signalman, Theatre Royal Winchester
Fans of a classic Victorian ghost story are in for a treat with The Signalman at Theatre Royal Winchester from Thursday 14 to Saturday 16 March. The Signalman tells of a terrified signalman who unburdens himself on to a young student who chances upon his railway cutting, telling him a chilling tale of a spectre
The first UK tour of Dear Evan Hansen collaborates with TikTok to find new talent
The casting team of Dear Evan Hansen, in collaboration with TikTok, are searching for the next generation of talent to star in the first ever UK tour of the Olivier, Tony and Grammy award-winning Best Musical. Today is going to be a good day. And here’s why Meet Evan: an anxious high school kid who
Victorious Festival: Sugababes, The Kooks, James Bay, Professor Green, Tom Walker and more join line up
Sugababes, Razorlight, The Kooks, James Bay, Groove Armada, Professor Green, Tom Walker and more added as second wave artist additions for this year’s Victorious Festival in Southsea. The multi-award-winning Victorious Festival (23/24/25 August 2024) – the UK’s biggest metropolitan festival – has today announced a fresh round of acts to this year’s already monumental line-up,
Road to Victorious returns
It’s back! Last year saw the launch of Road To Victorious, an exciting competition open to bands based within the PO postcode area. Crystal Tides were the worthy winners, shortlisted from hundreds of talented applicants within the PO postcode, and went on to win your votes! Their prize saw them participate in a huge festival
Preview: Friend (The One with Gunther), Theatre Royal Winchester
Friends fanatics will be delighted to hear that the award-winning parody, Friend (The One with Gunther), is coming to Theatre Royal Winchester on Friday 9 February. The show, which celebrates the much-loved 90s TV series – all ten seasons, 236 episodes – retells the stories of everyone’s favourite characters, Ross, Rachel, Phoebe, Chandler, Monica and
Suzi Quatro to headline the Wickham Festival
Rock Goddess Suzi Quatro is set to headline a star-studded line-up at this year’s Wickham Festival. The American legend will join the Levellers, Seth Lakeman, Tony Christie and many more at the popular event which runs from August 1-4. The Detroit-born singer will top the bill on the Friday night when she will be belting
N’Faly Kouyaté announces UK tour dates for February
N’Faly Kouyaté will be bringing his Ré-Génération Tour to the UK for a series of special live shows this month, beginning at Southampton’s Turner Sims on 8 February. Best known as the frontman of Afro Celt Sound System, the Belgium-based artist will be hitting the road for nine intimate shows with his new solo project.
Judas Priest announce UK arena tour for March 2024
Judas Priest have announced plans to delight fans with a new world tour in 2024, including a visit to Bournemouth International Centre on 17 March. Over the past 50 years Judas Priest have sold more than 50 million albums worldwide and headlined the world’s biggest stages. Their evolving music and live performances also saw the
Sao Paulo Dance Company brings the Brazilian sunshine to Southampton
By Diane Parkes. Theatre audiences can look forward to some Brazilian sunshine this spring when São Paulo Dance Company tours the UK and Ireland for the first time. The company comes to Mayflower Theatre, Southampton on 13 and 14 February with a triple bill of contemporary works by some of the world’s leading Spanish and
Theatre for all ages and tastes at Theatre Royal Winchester
Theatre Royal Winchester is looking forward to the return of drama – from award-winning theatre companies to shows that will inspire the little ones. In February, New Old Friends return with Houdini’s Great Escape (22 – 24 February) about the world’s greatest entertainer who is framed for murder. From the company that brought Crimes on
Preview: FASAT Pantomime: Hail Caesar, Freemantle Community Centre, Southampton
The Freemantle and Shirley Amateur Theatrical Society’s pantomime this year is set way back in the past, in the times of the Roman’s invasion in fact, in 55 BC (Before Covid!) The scene is set in the ‘Prologue’ by Lurkio Ludicrous, a poor downtrodden Roman slave. He will help you along with the story, and
Preview: National Theatres Live Screenings, Theatre Royal Winchester
Theatre Royal Winchester audiences have delighted in the National Theatre Live screenings of theatre productions captured live in London. Last year local theatre-goers enjoyed the likes of The Crucible, Life of Pi and GOOD and this year the theatre is hosting more screenings featuring well-known actors and by critically acclaimed and award-winning playwrights. So popular
Community groups wanted for this year’s Hat Fair Carnival
Playmakers want to hear from local community groups interested in taking part in this summer’s Hat Fair Carnival. The theme of the procession will be Look Back, Look Forwards, Look Up and will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Hat Fair – the UK’s longest running festival of Outdoor Arts, which takes place in Winchester city
Queer & Quantum: science & arts day celebrating Trans Day of Visibility at Southampton’s Stage Door
A ‘Queer & Quantum’ Science & Arts Day comes to The Stage Door, Southampton on Sunday 31st March 2024 for Trans Day of Visibility, celebrating STEM subjects, the arts and trans/non-binary visibility in both. The event will feature talks from LGBTQIA+ scientists across quantum physics, astrophysics and more, supported by charity Pride In Stem, who
Family shows coming up at Theatre Royal Winchester
Theatre Royal Winchester has a brand-new programme packed full of family shows guaranteed to entertain young and old, creating plenty of opportunities for the generations to come together to enjoy lots of quality time. The fun starts with an evening of circus, magic and comedy in the Hat Fair Cabaret (21 January) – all the
Preview: Viggo Venn, Theatre Royal Winchester
Comedy fans who missed out on tickets to see Viggo Venn perform at Theatre Royal Winchester next month will be pleased to hear that an additional show date has been added, and he will take to the Winchester stage this month on Wednesday 24 January. The Norwegian clown – who moved to the UK with
Community and charity shows at Theatre Royal Winchester
Theatre Royal Winchester is not only looking forward to a new season of professional shows, but also shows performed by local community members and for special causes. The new year begins with An Evening with Alan Titchmarsh (Wed 17 Jan) when the gardener, writer, novelist and broadcaster will talk about his life as part of
Mayflower Theatre launches An Inspiring Place and Mayflower Tours
The team at Mayflower Theatre have announce that their 2024 Mayflower Tours Open Day will take place on Saturday 3 February. The Open Day will launch An Inspiring Place – the new and improved public venue tour programme, which will see tours tailored to different groups of attendees, including private family interactive tours, student focused
Reverend Richard Coles comes to Portsmouth next month
Famed for his star turn as a pop-star in the 80s with the Communards, as well as his long stint presenting Saturday Live on BBC Radio Four and (until he very recently retired) his full time job as a Church of England priest; The Reverend Richard Coles embarked on his first UK Tour in autumn,
Community radio station Unity 101 marked 18 years with celebration and awards ceremony
By Charlotte Ndupuechi. A glamorous and vibrant celebration to mark the 18th anniversary of Unity 101 Radio took place at the Novotel Southampton on Friday the 5th of January. This is an annual awards ceremony to recognise the achievements of the station’s volunteers and partners. If you haven’t already heard of Unity 101, where have
Preview: Pete Firman; TrikTok, Theatre Royal Winchester
Fans of magic are in for a treat when the UK’s leading comedy magician, Pete Firman, brings his show, TrikTok, to Theatre Royal Winchester on Saturday 20 January. TrikTok, is an evening of jaw-dropping magic and hilarious comedy, which sees the critically-acclaimed magician take his magic from the small screen and transport it on to
Record breaking 80,000 attend Mayflower shows over festive period
The City’s Mayflower venues, Mayflower Theatre and MAST Mayflower Studio, are celebrating a record-breaking run of festive shows. Over 80,000 people saw Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, A Christmas Carol and Counting Down to Christmas across both venues. Mayflower Theatre had over 74,000 people attending Snow White, making it the highest attended pantomime for the
Cornerstone of Southampton’s grassroots cultural scene, The Art House, no longer to have permanent base
Cornerstone of Southampton’s grassroots cultural scene, The Art House CIC, will be leaving its Above Bar home in March this year. The arts venue, cafe, meeting place and much more, which has been at its present location for 15 years, will no longer have a permanent physical home. They made the announcement at 5pm on
Preview: A Century of Swing, Theatre Royal Winchester
Fans of jazz and swing are invited to an evening with ‘the UK’s hardest swinging band’, Down for the Count All-Stars, as they celebrate A Century of Swing at Theatre Royal Winchester on Sunday 14 January. A Century of Swing is a whistle-stop tour of the best swing music – from its origins in 1920s
I Should Be So Lucky – interview with Debbie Isitt
No stranger to crafting hits for the stage and screen, BAFTA and Emmy award-winning writer and director, Debbie Isitt, is bringing the iconic songbook of Stock Aitken Waterman to life in the new musical, I Should Be So Lucky, which comes to Mayflower Theatre from Tuesday 23 to Saturday 27 January. Best known for her
Preview: Forbidden Nights, Theatre Royal Winchester
Adult audiences are in for a second bite of the cherry when the sexy circus show, Forbidden Nights, returns to Theatre Royal Winchester on Thursday 18 January. Forbidden Nights is a sensational live stage show featuring world-renowned circus performers and acrobats, fire acts and aerial artists, performing unforgettable routines with plenty of tease and ripped
The Wizard of Oz – interview with The Vivienne
The Wizard of Oz, the musical based on the iconic story by L. Frank Baum, will be arriving at Mayflower Theatre from Tuesday 16 to Sunday 21 January 2024. Here, we talk to The Vivienne, who plays the Wicked Witch of the West. What can audiences expect when they come see this version of The
Preview: Susie Dent, Theatre Royal Winchester
Fans of the TV gameshow, Countdown, are in for a treat when the Queen of Dictionary Corner, Susie Dent, pays a visit to Theatre Royal Winchester on Saturday 13 January. Susie Dent will take audiences on a journey into the curious, unexpected and surreal origins of the words we use every day – sharing the
Preview: I Should Be So Lucky, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
Musical I Should Be So Lucky arrives at Mayflower Theatre from Tuesday 23 to Saturday 27 January 2024. The Wedding is off, but the Honeymoon is on! Head from the aisle to the isles in the official Stock Aitken Waterman musical featuring the soundtrack of a generation with music from pop royalty including Kylie Minogue
Preview: The Wizard of Oz, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
The Wizard of Oz, the musical based on the iconic story by L. Frank Baum, will be arriving at Mayflower Theatre from Tuesday 16 to Sunday 21 January 2024. Michael Harrison, the producer of the smash-hit Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat which thrilled audiences on its UK Tour in 2022, now presents Curve’s brand-new production
Southampton Gig Guide – January 2024
By Vicky Greer. Image: Shed Seven by Barnaby Fairley. January is always a slower time for live music, but there’s still plenty to do in Southampton this month. Whether you’re looking for an intimate in-store or a high-energy rock gig, there’s something for everyone to celebrate the start of 2024 in the city. Monday 8th
Preview: An Evening with Jeff Stelling, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
The legendary football host Jeff Stelling will be at MAST Mayflower Studios in 2024! Jeff Stelling will be performing an evening of entertaining anecdotes and football fun on Wednesday 10 January at Southampton’s cultural hub,(edited: now sold out}. With over 30+ years with Sky Sports, Jeff has been described as ‘synonymous with football,’ and
Preview: Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
Following a record-breaking three-year West End residency, sold out UK & Ireland Tour and Amazon studios award-winning film, the smash-hit and critically acclaimed musical, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, visits Mayflower Theatre from Tuesday 9 to Sunday 14 January 2024. Jamie New is sixteen and lives on a council estate in Sheffield. Jamie doesn’t quite fit
Southampton listings 19 – 25 December
By Neil Glasspool He’s making his list. He’s checking his twice. And he’s somewhat taken aback at the remarkably eclectic mix of events that are on offer in this week’s Southampton listings. This week’s big news is A Christmas Carol at MAST. Billed as ‘a youthful musical to raise your spirits’, it’s on all week
Courting’s UK/EU headline tour brings them to Southampton’s Joiners next year
Liverpool four-piece Courting have shared a new single titled “Emily G”. The track follows the band’s recent return with details of their highly anticipated new album “New Last Name”, which was recorded in collaboration with indie heroes Gary and Ryan Jarman of The Cribs. The album is due for release on 26th January. They band
The Zutons come to Southampton’s Engine Rooms in April
Photo credit Jonathan Turton. The Zutons are embarking on a full UK tour next year, in support of forthcoming album The Big Decider, which arrives on 26th April 2024. Having sold out their run of intimate live shows set to take place from January to March of next year, they have added a string of
Squeeze to come to Southampton on 50th anniversary tour next autumn
Image by Danny Clifford. To celebrate their momentous 50th anniversary, British music legends Squeeze have announced a massive UK tour for 2024 including a show at Southampton’s Mayflower Theatre on the 27th October. With a half-century distinguished by some of the smartest and sweetest guitar-pop made during the rock & roll era, Squeeze will be performing an
New Year’s Eve party and more at The Art House
The Art House in Southampton City Centre is inviting everyone to join them for a laid back, fun, family friendly New Year’s Eve. On Sunday 31 December (of course) from 8.30pm there will be an evening of food, music and more.An organiser said: “Come and clap your hands, stamp your feet and make a joyful
Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds announce intimate headline show at Portsmouth Guildhall
Image by Matt Crockett. Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds today announce their first UK live performance for 2024 with an intimate headline show at Portsmouth’s Guildhall on Wednesday 20th March. Tickets will be on sale from Friday 15th December at 9:00am GMT here. The Portsmouth show will take place ahead of four huge outdoor performances in summer 2024, including Wigan’s Robin
Paul Weller coming to Poole Lighthouse in spring
Paul Weller has announced a full UK tour for 2024 with 14 dates lined up through April, including Poole Lighthouse on the 4th April. This year has seen Paul’s tour schedule taken up with extensive travels around Europe peppered with a handful of UK Forest Live shows and a special guest slot to Blur at
Preview: What’s on at MAST Mayflower Studios this festive season – 2023/2024
MAST Mayflower Studios is hosting an enchanting variety of shows this festive season. From a enchanting adventure for little ones and their grown-ups, to the mystery of a shark in the snow, MAST Mayflower Studios has you covered for a trip to the theatre. Shows are as follows: Counting Down to Christmas Date: 8 –
Hampshire FA Secures Joint Partnership with Mayflower Theatre & MAST Mayflower Studios
Hampshire FA has signed a joint agreement with Mayflower Theatre and MAST Mayflower Studios as its official Culture & Arts Partners. Mayflower Theatre is the largest theatre on the South Coast boasting a 2,271-seating capacity in their auditorium, hosting an impressive range of richly diverse shows from large scale touring productions, including musicals – many
Fatboy Slim, Snow Patrol, Jamie T and Biffy Clyro announced as headliners for Victorious
Fatboy Slim, Snow Patrol, Jamie T and Biffy Clyro have this morning been announced as headliners for Victorious Festival 2024, on Southsea Common. Courteeners, Pixies, Becky Hill, Wet Leg, Idles, Louis Tomlinson and Jess Glynne will also join the bumper line-up for next summer. There will also be comedy from Russell Howard and Frankie Boyle.
Interview: Everybody’s Talking About Jamie’s Ivano Turco
By Hugh Montgomery. Everybody’s Talking About Jamie comes to Southampton’s Mayflower Theatre in January. Ivano Turco who stars in the title role talks about the affinity he feels for the role. In his short career so far, super-talented musical theatre star Ivano Turco has already demonstrated formidable range: having made his professional debut playing Prince
Chance to win signed bestselling novel as Soton bakery revives Regency meal of ‘nuncheon’
Southampton residents are being asked to help revive the Regency meal of ‘nuncheon’ by entering a recipe competition run by a community bakery in the city. Shirley-based CommuniBakes wants ideas for cake or bread it doesn’t already make that would be suitable as a mid-morning or afternoon snack. The best two will win two novels
Theatre Royal Winchester announces New Year programme
Theatre Royal Winchester has announced its New Year programme packed with music, National Theatre film screenings, well-known names, dance, stand-up, local talent and community performances, Fringe favourites, family shows, drama and comedy. The season begins with music and The George Harrison Project on 6 January 2024 – the UK’s leading tribute to the beloved Beatles
Interview: Mayflower panto star Christopher Biggins
Christopher Biggins stars as the Man in the Mirror in The Mayflower Theatre, Southampton’s pantomime Snow White and the Seven Dwarves. He talks about his fondness for the city, Christmas traditions and more What does doing pantomime mean to you? It means a joyous time when parents, carers, grandparents, aunties, uncles, children, nieces, nephews,
Soton charity helping vulnerable young people through the cold this Christmas
Southampton-based young people’s charity, No Limits, is concerned about the rising number of young people facing issues with housing and homelessness, the cost of living, and their mental health, in the run up to Christmas. Demand for help is increasing. In the last year, the number of young people asking for support with money has increased by
Cinderella production pictures released
Theatre Royal Winchester has released a selection of production photos from this year’s traditional family pantomime, Cinderella. Cinderella is the rags to riches story of a servant girl magically transformed into a beautiful princess to go to the ball to meet the handsome prince. The theatre celebrated the pantomime’s opening performance last night (Thursday 30
The Human League to headline Let’s Rock Southampton
Let’s Rock has announced that synth-pop legends The Human League will headline Let’s Rock Southampton 2024 on Saturday July 6th. Also performing at the much-loved event on Southampton Common next summer will be Level 42, Peter Hook & The Light, From The Jam, eXTC, Jason Donovan, Kim Appleby, Altered Images, China Crisis, Dr & The
Southampton’s Charlie Smith coming to The Art House for two December dates
Southampton musician Charlie Smith has put out a new EP and is rounding 2023 off with two events at The Art House in the city centre. ‘Southampton Sessions’ is a 6-track live EP. “This year has been extremely busy for me, performing countless local gigs and embarking on a northern England tour in October (Leicester,
Tom Jones and Madness to headline in Southampton city centre next year
Tom Jones and Madness are the latest headliners to be announced for next year’s inaugural Southampton Summer Sessions series. They join previously announced Nile Rodgers & CHIC and Kaiser Chiefs on the growing lineup of unmissable acts who will take over Southampton’s Guildhall Square for Summer Sessions from 15 to 30 June. Tickets go on general sale on Friday 01 December at 9am via smmrsessions.com
Author, musician, journalist, presenter and pundit John Robb comes to Totton
Author, musician, journalist, presenter and pundit John Robb has shared details of a UK tour, celebrating his life in music bringing him to The Attic in Totton, near Southampton, in April. Discussing everything from his recently released book ‘The Art Of Darkness – The History of Goth’ to his experience being the first person to
1 in 7 won’t be buying presents for their children this Christmas
Research from national charity Family Action reveals the stark reality many families face this Christmas. Families across the UK are facing increasing financial hardship and new research from Family Action reveals that 1 in 7 parents/carers surveyed, said they won’t be able to afford to buy presents for their children this Christmas due to financial
Preview: A Christmas Carol, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
MAST Mayflower Studios’ third annual Christmas youth production, A Christmas Carol, will open at the city centre venue on Tuesday 19 December 2023. Featuring a cast of 50 young people performing a new festive musical based on the classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge – a classic from the past with the music of the present,
Southampton Gig Guide – December 2023
By Vicky Greer. Hello, and welcome to your new monthly guide to Southampton’s ever-vibrant live music scene! Every month, I’ll be scouting out the best gigs in the city, from the massive headliners to the unmissable emerging acts. I’ve been attending gigs across the city since I moved here five years ago, and Southampton’s live
Preview: Cinderella, Theatre Royal Winchester
Just one week to go until the opening night of this year’s traditional family pantomime, Cinderella, which arrives at Theatre Royal Winchester on Thursday 30 November and runs until Monday 1 January 2024. Cinderella tells the story of a servant girl whose Fairy Godmother transforms her into a beautiful princess to go to the ball
Preview: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
The fairest pantomime of them all, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, comes to the stage of Mayflower Theatre from Saturday 9 to Sunday 31 December. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs will be spectacularly brought to life with an abundance of comedy, sensational song and dance numbers, fabulous costumes, and stunning scenery. Throw in a
Bdrmm to bring their signature dreamy pop to the Joiners in spring
Hull-based shoegaze quartet bdrmm will play The Joiners, Southampton, on 15th March 2024. News of the UK and European tour comes hot on the heels of their new 7″ single ‘Mud’. It’s the latest single from their widely acclaimed second album “I Don’t Know”, which was released in late-June to critical acclaim with Rolling Stone
90s electro legends Orbital to play Southampton Guildhall next spring
Electro duo Orbital will play O2 Southampton Guildhall on April 25th 2024 as part of their Green Album 2024 celebration tour. Speaking about the tour, the duo said they are are excited about bringing the album to audiences old and new. Orbital’s Paul Hartnoll says: “The way we perform is always free and full of
Mayflower Theatre higher education bursary scheme
Mayflower Theatre’s Higher Education Bursary Scheme has been designed to support individuals in the local community who want to progress in a career within the arts, whether that is as a performer, a technician or an arts administrator. Mayflower Theatre recognises particularly in the current climate, how key it is to support young people with
Kaiser Chiefs to headline Southampton Summer Sessions
Kaiser Chiefs will perform a headline show in Southampton, as part of the Southampton Summer Sessions series, at Guildhall Square on Sunday 30 June 2024. They join previously announced Nile Rodgers & CHIC on the growing lineup of impressive acts set to play the Summer Sessions’ very first year in Southampton. British indie rockers Kaiser Chiefs are renowned for their
When Rivers Meet come to Southampton
Image by Jon Sturdy. Hot off the release of their critically acclaimed third studio album “Aces Are High”, award-winning rock duo When Rivers Meet, comprised of husband-and-wife Aaron and Grace Bond, have announce their “Aces Are High” Spring 2024 UK Tour. The tour takes in eight concerts and starts at The Brook, Southampton on April
Interview: Uri Agnon on his new show, Antisemitism: a (((musical)))
Antisemitism artwork by Lily Ash Sakula New show Antisemitism: a (((musical))) comes to Southampton on November 1st. Creator, Uri Agnon, a PhD student and outreach fellow at the Parkes Institute for the Study of Jewish non-Jewish Relations at the University of Southampton talks to Sally Churchward about its background and significance. Composer and playwright Uri
Nile Rodgers & CHIC to headline new Southampton live music event
Scotland’s long-running live music series Summer Sessions are set to come south, to Southampton’s Guildhall Square in summer 2024. Nile Rodgers & CHIC are the very first headliners to be revealed, playing Sunday, 23 June 2024, with special guests, Brit singer-songwriter Sophie Ellis Bextor and 80s-inspired contemporary pop band Deco. Founded back in 2013 by DF Concerts, Summer Sessions has become a much-loved and highly anticipated
Paloma Faith to come to Bournemouth in the new year
Paloma Faith has returned with the release of her new single ‘How You Leave A Man.’ The single precedes the 16th February release of Paloma’s sixth studio album ‘The Glorification of Sadness’ via RCA Records. She will head out on an extensive UK tour in April, bringing her to Bournemouth International centre in May. She excitedly heralds
Date set for Let’s Rock to return to Southampton
Image – Mark Almond at Let’s Rock 2023, Southampton Common, by Ian Cumming The iconic retro festival series Let’s Rock has announced the dates of four of their festivals for 2024. A celebration of all things pop and ‘80s, Let’s Rock will be returning to Leeds ( June 22), Exeter (June 29), Southampton (July 6)
Save the Platform Tavern
By Charlie Hislop Fundraisers are being organised across Southampton in the next two months by musicians, and others, to help the Platform Tavern get back up and running after a night-time fire in the bar. A number of local bands have already signed up… Chicago 9, the Platform Posse, and the Pete Harris Blues Band
The Wykeham Arms to support Play to the Crowd
Play to the Crowd, the arts and education charity that runs Theatre Royal Winchester, Hat Fair and Playmakers, are pleased to announce that the much-loved city centre pub, The Wykeham Arms, is supporting the charity’s work through sales of its homemade pie. For every sale of its famous Wyke Pie, the pub on Kingsgate Street
Winchester Poetry Festival 2023 attracted participants from across the globe
Image: Isabelle Baafi – Winchester Poetry Prize 2023 winner. The first full Winchester Poetry Festival weekend since the pandemic proved that poetry still excites and delights people of all ages. Almost 1000 tickets were sold, with many events reaching capacity. This year attendees travelled to Winchester from all over the UK, and from all over
Black Grape tour comes to Southampton in December
Image by Paul Husband. Black Grape return this year with a new album ‘Orange Head’, which will be released on DGAFF Recordings on 3rd November. The album arrives ahead of a small UK tour, with Shaun Ryder and Paul “Kermit” Leveridge and the band due to headline venues in Birmingham, Manchester, Cardiff, London, and Southampton this November/December, alongside a festival appearance
Dome Dining and Seasonal Feasts at The Greyhound on the Test, Hampshire
Cosy up for winter at The Greyhound on the Test, a 16th century characterful retreat with seven dog-friendly en-suite rooms and three accessible cottages. Looking ahead to the festive season, guests will find crackling fires, twinkling lights, and delicious food, whether they’re enjoying a relaxed festive gathering with family or a lively Christmas party with
Preview: Cinderella, Theatre Royal Winchester
Theatre Royal Winchester has announced its cast for its 2023/24 pantomime, Cinderella – which opens on Thursday 30 November 2023 and runs until Monday 1 January 2024. Cinderella is the rags to riches story of a servant girl whose Fairy Godmother transforms her into a beautiful princess to go to the ball to meet the
Interview: Ashley Banjo of Diversity talks about starring in this year’s Mayflower panto and more
Photos by Stuart Martin. This year’s Christmas pantomime at Southampton’s Mayflower Theatre is Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, starring Britain’s Got Talent winners and street dance sensations, Ashley Banjo and Diversity, alongside panto royalty, Christopher Biggins. Diversity shot to fame in 2009 when they won Britain’s Got Talent and since then under the leadership
MAST Mayflower Studios announce new Propel Associate Artists for 2023/24
Michael Ockwell, Chief Executive of MAST Mayflower Studios and the whole team are thrilled to announce details of the new Associate Artists for 23/24 as part of the Propel scheme – a programme designed to support companies and artists, local to Southampton and the surrounding areas, telling Southampton stories – in developing and creating new
Preview: The Good Enough Mums Club, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton
The Good Enough Mums Club – a new musical written, produced, directed and performed by mums based on real life, moving, funny tales of motherhood – is coming to MAST Mayflower Studios on Wednesday 22 and Thursday 23 November 2023. Not perfect? Join the club! From peeing on sticks to drooping tits, The Good Enough Mums
Comedian Connor Burns comes to Totton following Edinburgh success
Hot on the heels of his totally sold-out Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2023 season, which saw him add 2000 extra seats to what was only his second-ever Edinburgh Fringe, Scottish comedian Connor Burns is set to embark on a debut national tour with his critically acclaimed show Vertigo, bringing him to The Attic in Totton in
Theatre Royal Winchester plans refurbishments
Play to the Crowd, the charity that runs Theatre Royal Winchester, has announced that the theatre will undergo a number of refurbishments to further improve the building for its audiences and other visitors. Theatre Royal Winchester will undergo work to upgrade its Circle level toilet facilities upstairs and install bi-fold doors at the Tower Street
Duo O. come to Southampton in the new year
Photo by Jamie MacMillan. O. – the London-based duo of baritone saxophonist Joseph Henwood and drummer Tash Keary – have announced details of their debut EP, “SLICE” which will be released on 24th November. They’ll be backing this up with a tour, hitting the road in October and coming to Heartbreakers, Southampton, in February. The
FM 40th anniversary tour to bring the band to Southampton next year
Picture by Paul Stuart Hollingsworth. FM have announced their “Old Habits Die Hard” 40th Anniversary UK Tour 2024, bringing them to Southampton’s The 1865 in May. FM will perform songs from their past 13 albums including their 1984 debut album Indiscreet, plus Tough It Out, Metropolis, Synchronized and many more, plus songs from their forthcoming highly anticipated 14th studio
Tickets for Take That in Southampton on sale this week
Take That have announced they are hitting the road with a massive stadium tour next year, bringing them to Southampton’s St Mary’s Stadium on June 1st. The tour will follow the release of their ninth studio album This Life, on 24th November, and a new single Windows which is out now. This Life On Tour
James Arthur tour coming to Bournemouth following release of new album Bitter Sweet Love
Following his recent return with new tracks ‘Blindside’ & ‘A Year Ago’, James Arthur has announced his fifth, brand new studio album Bitter Sweet Love – out on January 26th. James also announced his return to the stage with a huge UK and European tour that hits the UK in March next year for a run of
Music at St Mary’s Church, Twyford
A historic church near Winchester has established itself as a centre for high quality music events. St Mary’s Church in Twyford started putting on shows in 2022 and among the artists who have already performed are Mary Gauthier, Plainsong, The Delines and blues maestro Aynsley Lister. The purpose of these shows is to raise funds
Southampton’s only specifically designed accessible allotment opens
Its been a long journey for the dedicated team of volunteers, but we after their recent Community Action Day,the only specifically designed Allotment s for residents with disabilities in Southampton is open. A spokesperson for the group said, “its been a real achievement by a team of volunteers who deserve huge thanks. The fact that
Playmakers Youth Theatre is back!
Playmakers Youth Theatre is back this month for a new term and a new year of drama and musical theatre sessions that offer young people the chance to create and perform their very own, original pieces of work and develop their confidence. It offers members the chance to take part in exciting practical sessions that
OMD to tour following release of new album, coming to Portsmouth next year
Image by Ed Miles. After the recent announcement of their forthcoming new studio album, synth pioneers Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark (OMD) have revealed details of their return to the stage, with the band taking to the road next year, bringing them to Portsmouth in March. Across February and March 2024, OMD will play 22 dates
Texas set to come to Bournemouth on UK arena tour next year
Image by Julian Broad Following a triumphant, stand out performance on the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury this year, which The Independent described as “one of Friday’s most memorable performances”, Texas will return to the stage for a run of UK Arena shows in September 2024, bringing the band to the BIC, Bournemouth, on September 10th Kicking off at
Beans on Toast UK tour comes to Portsmouth in the spring
On 1st December 2023, Beans on Toast will return with an all-new studio album, ‘The Toothpaste and the Tube’, and from November he embarks on an extensive UK tour, including dates in Oxford, Cardiff and on the Isle of Wight, bringing him to The Wedgewood Rooms, Portsmouth, in March. The latest Beans on Toast
Keane embark on world tour, bringing them to Bournemouth in May
Image by Alex Lake. Keane are set to release a special remastered version of ‘Hopes and Fears’ on May 10th 2024 exactly 20 years after its initial release. On the same day, the band play London’s 02 Arena as part of a world tour that kicks off April 1st in Mexico City before reaching Europe
Preview: Cinderella, Theatre Royal Winchester
Theatre Royal Winchester has announced the first members of its cast for this year’s traditional family pantomime, Cinderella – and it’s a double act reunion! Pantomime duo, Julian Eardley and Ed Thorpe, are back together after last appearing as a pairing in the theatre’s production of Aladdin in 2021 – when they played the characters
Brits full of the blues
Despite nearly nine in 10 (89%) Brits believing being by the coast has a positive impact on their mental health, over two million people are missing out on the positive benefits having never visited the seaside recreationally. The new research, conducted by the Southampton International Boat Show ahead of its 54th year, shows that 3% of
James Blunt to go on tour next year, bringing him to Bournemouth
Image by Michael Clement. James Blunt returns to the road next year in support of his new album Who We Used To Be – out October 27th on Atlantic Records. James and his band will play 12 dates across the UK next Spring kicking off March 30th at Leeds First Direct Arena and finishing April
Southampton-based young people’s support charity No Limits nominated for national awards
No Limits, a Southampton-based charity supporting young people across Hampshire, has been nominated three times for the 2023 Children and Young People Now Awards – the gold standard for work with children, young people and families. The awards cover 24 categories and are the highest recognition for organisations across the country that support young people on a day-to-day basis. The Preventing Homelessness Project, which supports young people
Miles Kane to play Southampton on UK headline tour next year
Miles Kane has announced fresh UK headline tour dates for January and February 2024, coming to Southampton’s Engine Rooms on February 6th. The announcement arrives ahead of his brand new album One Man Band – out August 4th on Modern Sky Records, and follows the release of its superb latest tracks The Wonder and Baggio.
Alabama 3 to come to Southampton in November
South London roots-futurists Alabama 3 have announced a show in Southampton for November. Heading to The 1865 on 30 November in support of their upcoming release ‘Cold War Classics Vol.2’, tickets for the show are on sale now. Born at an all-night squat party during the ‘90s, the group formed when charismatic frontman
Preview: Autumn Season at Theatre Royal Winchester
Photo Credit: Sian Trenberth Photography Theatre Royal Winchester is getting ready for an autumn winter programme of music, comedy, family entertainment, song, dance, drama, a sprinkling of magic, ghost stories, puppets, big names, talks, Christmas shows and, to round it up, panto! The season starts with music and A Celebration of Celine Dion – with
Far From Saints, feat Kelly Jones, UK tour brings them to Southampton this year
Image: Far From Saints full band colour L-R Dwight Baker, Patty Lynn, Kelly Jones, credit: Sophia French. After earning a No.5 chart position in the UK Official Albums Chart as well as widespread critical acclaim for their self-titled debut album, Far From Saints today (July 19th) announce details of their first full UK headline tour,
Preview: Autumn Season at The Point, Eastleigh and The Berry, Hedge End
Photo: Ed Byrne by Roslyn Gaunt An exciting autumn season of events and experiences awaits theatre-goers as The Point and The Berry Theatre announce their new schedule. Tickets for the majority of the programme, which runs from September until the end of the year, are now on sale. At The Point, Eastleigh Crowd-pleasers at The
Author Neil Gaiman joined Mayflower Theatre audience of The Ocean at the End of the Lane
Image: The Ocean at the End of the Lane company with cake. Credit Stuart Martin Photography. Neil Gaiman, the author behind the best-selling novel, The Ocean at the End of the Lane which was adapted for stage by Joel Horwood, directed by Katy Rudd visited the National Theatre’s smash-hit production at Mayflower Theatre, Southampton on
Mayflower Theatre announces new ensemble programme
Mayflower Theatre has launched Elevate Ensemble, a ground-breaking new initiative aimed at providing young underrepresented performers in Southampton and the surrounding areas with exceptional training opportunities. Elevate Ensemble is a free two-year-part-time comprehensive training program, which has been developed with a commitment to nurturing talent, fostering creativity and empowering artists aged 16 – 25 who
Show Announcement: Shrek the Musical, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
The smash-hit musical, Shrek the Musical, will arrive at Mayflower Theatre on Tuesday 20 February 2024, for one week only. Based on the Oscar winning DreamWorks film, the Broadway and West End hit show, Shrek the Musical, is a fun filled and hilarious musical comedy with a cast of vibrant characters and a ‘shrektackular’ score.
Ash to tour following release of first new album in more than 5 years
image by Steve Gullick. Ash have announced their first new album together in more than five years, alongside news of an upcoming UK / EU tour. Race The Night, the band’s eighth studio album, will be released on 15th September 2023 via one of their earliest label homes Fierce Panda. With 29 years, 18 hit
Skinny Lister come to Southampton as part of UK tour this winter
Folk-punk rabble Skinny Lister are back with a new track “Down On The Barrier” plus details of two extensive tours in North America and UK and Ireland throughout Autumn/Winter 2023, bringing them to Southampton’s Engine Rooms in December. Blending pogo-primed percussion, punk hooks, and a chorus that demands to be roared-out loud and proud, “Down
Play to the Crowd wins at Winchester Business Excellence Awards
Play to the Crowd, the arts and education charity that runs Theatre Royal Winchester, Hat Fair and Playmakers, has been awarded the inaugural Creative and Cultural Award at this year’s Winchester Business Excellence Awards. The awards, organised by the Winchester Improvement District (BID), The Hampshire Chronicle and Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, recognise the best and
The Stranglers come to Portsmouth Guildhall in 2024 for 50th anniversary tour
In 2024, The Stranglers, one of the most iconic and influential bands in British music history, are celebrating their 50th year anniversary with a following UK and Irish tour. The tour will bring them to Portsmouth Guildhall on March 24th. Since playing their last full-scale UK tour in 2022, the band has turned their minds
New writing group comes to October Books in Southampton
A new writing group, The Portswood Writers Circle, has recently launched at independent bookshop October Books. The group will next be meeting on Monday 22nd May. The aim of the group is to create a welcoming and encouraging environment in which local writers of all genres, styles, and experience can explore the creative process together.
Alabama 3 come to Southampton’s The 1865 this November
South London roots-futurists Alabama 3 have announced a show in Southampton this autumn, and are heading to The 1865 on 30 November in support of their upcoming release ‘Cold War Classics Vol.2’. Born at an all-night squat party during the ‘90s, the group formed when charismatic frontman and co-founder Rob Spragg started singing the lyrics
‘Meeting Place’ group launched as place for people in Southampton to connect
People in Southampton looking to connect with others in the community can attend a new multigenerational group which has recently launched. Meeting Place, set up by Saint Mary’s Church and supported by Communicare, will take place every Wednesday during term time at October Books in Portswood from 2.30pm. The new group to provide somewhere for
Steamship Shieldhall releases details of 2023 sailing programme
The volunteers at Steamship Shieldhall in Southampton have released details of the ship’s 2023 sailing programme. Commencing on Friday 16 June, with a final sailing on Sunday 17 September, there are a variety of 2hr, 3hr, 3 1/2hr, 4hr and all day sailings to choose from, including some returning favourite cruises and some all-new trips.
Preview: Pretty Woman, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton – July
The producers of the smash hit, Pretty Woman: The Musical, are delighted to announce that the show will arrive at Southampton’s Mayflower Theatre from Monday 22 to Saturday 27 July 2024, with on-sale dates to be announced soon. Pretty Woman: The Musical is Hollywood’s ultimate rom-com, live on stage, guaranteed to lift your spirits and
Applause! In Common launches new section to celebrate amateur dramatics and more
by Martin Brisland, amateur dramatics editor. In Common has been featuring professional theatre previews and reviews for some years now. As a community based online publication, we are expanding to working with local amateur companies in 2023 for a new Applause! section. This region has an excellent reputation for quality amateur productions. After all the
Preview: Wicked, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
Wicked, the spectacular, multi-record-breaking and critically acclaimed production, is set to fly back to the Mayflower Theatre stage from Thursday 23 May to Sunday 16 June 2024. Wicked tells the incredible untold story of an unlikely but profound friendship between two young women – the popular Glinda and a misunderstood Elphaba – who first meet