Family events take centre stage at Bournemouth Pavilion theatre

News 30 July 2026

News Story

Bournemouth Pavilion is inviting young people to make magical memories and enjoy the rest of the year with a fun-filled line-up of family theatre events designed to spark imaginations and bring everyone together for unforgettable days out.

The new cultural event programme sits alongside the venue’s vibrant calendar of comedy, music, musicals, and cultural performances, offering families even more reasons to enjoy the magic of their local theatre.

Kicking off the family fun is Bluey’s Big Play(Thursday 6 August – Sunday 9 August 2026), featuring stunning puppetry that brings Bluey, Bingo, and all their friends to life before your eyes. Group discounts and concessions for under 16s are available, plus audio description headphones and a dedicated BSL (British Sign Language) performance*.

Next up is the award-winning Taylormania(Sunday 16 August 2026), an all-singing, all-dancing celebration that pays tribute to one of the world’s biggest music icons. Fronted by Katy Ellis, a self-proclaimed ‘Swiftie’ with an incredible live band and dancers, this high‑energy tribute promises the most authentic Taylor Swift experience fans could hope to see.

For older children and theatre buffs, there’s the acclaimed touring West End musical productions of MAMMA MIA!(Tuesday 28 July-Sunday 2 August) and Waitress(Monday 24 August-Saturday 20 August); BBLOC’s (Bournemouth and Boscombe Light Opera Company) adaptation of 9 to 5 The Musical(Wednesday 14-Saturday 17 October 2026), plus Piff & Pop’s Magic Shoppe(Thursday 10 September 2026) for fans of magic and comedy**.

No Bournemouth Pavilion theatre season would be complete without its annual pantomime, and this year’s production Aladdin(Saturday 5 December 2026-Sunday 3 January 2027) promises the perfect festive finale.

Step into an enchanted world where a humble boy discovers a mystical lamp that unlocks unimaginable power, sending him on a whirlwind journey of danger, love and laugh-out-loud mischief. Starring powerhouse talent James Cartwright (Coronation Street) as the wicked Abanazar and Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist Kristel Herrera as Princess Jasmine, this is one festive adventure you won’t want to miss.

Bournemouth Pavilion is operated by registered charity and social enterprise BH Live, in partnership with BCP Council.

On behalf of BH Live, Nicola Coney, Entertainments and Events Manager, said:

“Bournemouth Pavilion has always been a place where magical memories are made, and we’re excited to give families even more reasons to visit throughout the year. Whether it’s a child’s first theatre trip to see Bluey, a family singalong at Taylormania, or a festive outing to our pantomime, these shared experiences are what make live entertainment so special. We’re proud to offer a programme that brings generations together and showcases the very best in family entertainment.”

For more information about Bournemouth Pavilion, including What’s On, visit bournemouthpavilion.co.uk.

For more information about Bournemouth International Centre, including What’s On, visit bic.co.uk.

Contact groupsales@bhlive.org.uk for more information on tickets, booking, and group rates.