In the last four weeks, Bournemouth Pavilion has hosted three fantastic touring West End musicals, The Rocky Horror Show, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and CHICAGO, entertaining a staggering 22,000+ theatre goers.

Nearly 150 accomplished cast members, musicians and production teams brought a ‘fantasmagorical’ flurry of West End ‘razzle dazzle’ to Bournemouth Pavilion. Receiving rave reviews and standing ovations, the acclaimed musical productions delivered nearly 30 performances to delighted audiences in the venue’s iconic theatre. On opening night, guests were welcomed by an original Chitty replica outside Bournemouth Pavilion, on loan from the Beaulieu National Motor Museum. The musical production featured the wonderful Ore Oduba as inventor Caractacus Potts; Charlie Brooks starred as the evil Childcatcher, and Ellie Nunn captivated as Truly Scrumptious.

CHICAGO, the ‘sexiest musical ever’, welcomed five sold-out performances, with further tickets quickly snapped up. More than 20 groups took advantage of concessionary offers for groups, with many more visitors making the most of the productions’ exclusive student ticket deal.

CHICAGO welcomed Strictly Come Dancing and It Takes Two star Janette Manrara in her musical theatre debut as Roxie Hart. Pop legend Sinitta mesmerized as Mama Morton while Djalenga Scott beguiled as Velma Kelly.

The Rocky Horror Show - a cult classic and homage to B-movies, science fiction and horror films from the 1930s to the 1960s - starred local Bournemouth talent Arthur Janes. A former Swish Theatre School performer and St Peter’s School pupil, Arthur starred as ‘Phantom’ and also performed as part of the ensemble, covering various lead roles.

Bournemouth Pavilion has been run by registered charity BH Live, and social enterprise in partnership with BCP Council. This year BH Live marks its 15th anniversary. On behalf of BH Live, Steve Turner, Director of Venues added;

“We want to extend our thanks to everyone who made this run of exceptional shows such a remarkable success. We are so grateful to the audiences who came along, filling the theatre with so much energy, enthusiasm, and unwavering support. This makes live theatre performance a fantastic experience for everyone involved.

Thanks must also go to our dedicated theatre staff and behind-the-scenes team – their hard work, experience, professionalism, and commitment are the backbone of every performance. From front of house to backstage, we simply couldn’t do it without them. We also have to thank the phenomenal cast and crew of the touring productions – their talent, creativity, and collaboration have inspired and captivated us night after night. It’s been a privilege to host them, and we’re so proud to have brought such high-end shows to Bournemouth.”

Steve concludes, “Coming along to live theatre reminds us what it means to feel, to connect, and to be human — even for just a couple of hours. It can change how you see everything. We’re incredibly grateful for this amazing run and look forward to welcoming customers back for lots more inspiring theatre and events.” Highlights of upcoming events include BBLOC’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Wednesday 28 – Saturday 31 May 2025), Ellen Kent’s Madama Butterfly (Friday 9 May 2025); stand-up from Rhod Gilbert (Friday 27 June 2025); Derren Brown (Tuesday 19 – Saturday 23 August 2025); and Fawlty Towers (Tuesday 14 – Saturday 18 October 2025).

Bournemouth Pavilion’s annual pantomime takes centre stage at the venue from Saturday 6 December 2025 – Sunday 4 January 2026; this year’s production is Cinderella. Promising a spectacular show packed with great talent, costumes, comedy, dance and more - tickets are already being snapped up.. With relaxed and captioned shows and school performances* there’s something for everyone.