It has travelled more than 1.5 million miles, the equivalent of flying to the moon and back three times, outdistancing even NASA’s Artemis II mission.

But this is no spacecraft. It’s That’ll Be the Day, the UK’s longest‑running rock and pop variety show, which returns to Bournemouth Pavilion on Sunday 10 May 2026 for a spectacular 40th anniversary production.

Following the anniversary performance on Sunday 10 May 2026, That’ll Be the Day returns to Bournemouth Pavilion with a brand‑new production on Friday 4 and Saturday 5 September, before heading to the BIC on Sunday 20 December for That’ll Be Christmas.

The driving force behind the touring phenomenon is founder, director, producer and cast member Trevor Payne, who draws an apt comparison with recent space exploration.

“The crew on NASA’s Artemis II travelled 252,000 miles, the furthest any human has been from Earth,” said Trevor. “Over 40 years, we’ve clocked up around 1.5 million miles. That’s to the moon and back three times, and we’re now on our fourth visit. It’s taken us a bit longer than the astronauts!”

Such is the enduring popularity of That’ll Be the Day that it performs well over 200 shows a year nationwide, with some fans having seen the production hundreds of times. Nowhere, however, holds a more special place in the show’s history than Bournemouth Pavilion.

That’ll Be The Day holds Bournemouth Pavilion's longest-running production record for 24 consecutive summer seasons, returning every year since 1997 for spring and summer runs, alongside popular Christmas shows at Bournemouth International Centre (BIC).

Trevor, who recently turned 80, had originally announced the anniversary tour would be his farewell. However, encouragement from family, particularly from his daughter Lauren, persuaded him to rethink.

“I didn’t want to go beyond my sell‑by date,” he said. “But Lauren told me, ‘You can’t give up the show, it’s your baby.’ She moved closer, meaning I can see the grandchildren more, and even take them to school. That’s changed everything.”

Despite the relentless schedule, Trevor’s enthusiasm remains undimmed.

“I think the back of me is shaped like a car seat,” he joked. “Some nights it’s a two‑hour drive home, others it’s 200 miles and getting in at 4am. But when you get on stage, everything is OK in the world.”

Bournemouth Pavilion has played a crucial role in the show’s evolution, helping it transition from working men’s clubs and holiday resorts into a major theatre attraction.

“Bournemouth Pavilion was the jewel in the crown,” said Trevor. “Being resident here gave us breathing space. We rehearsed during the day, tried new material and made the show bigger and better. Bournemouth became our creative home.”

That creative bond remains strong. Trevor even owns a beach hut locally and continues to sing the town’s praises.

“Bournemouth Pavilion is the bedrock of entertainment in Bournemouth,” he said. “It’s a beautiful building with so much history, and it’s a real asset to the town.”

With his trademark energy and commitment still firmly intact, Trevor shows no sign of slowing down.

“I’ve only missed two shows in 40 years,” he said. “As long as I can do it, and audiences still want me, I’ll be there.”

In partnership with BCP Council, Bournemouth Pavilion is managed by BH Live, a registered charity and social enterprise.

On behalf of BH Live, Nicola Coney, Entertainments and Events Manager, shared;

“We’re delighted to welcome the return of Trevor and That’ll Be The Day at Bournemouth Pavilion year after year. It’s been a privilege to watch the show grow and evolve here over so many seasons. Welcoming them back for this landmark anniversary feels incredibly special, and we know Bournemouth audiences will give them the celebration they deserve.

For more information about Bournemouth Pavilion, including tickets and what’s on, visit bournemouthpavilion.co.uk.