Bournemouth Pavilion is set to captivate younger audiences this spring, unveiling a vibrant line‑up of family shows designed to spark imaginations and bring everyone together for unforgettable days out.
The new programme sits proudly alongside the venue’s established 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 the award-winning Taylormania (Sunday 12 April 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.
Next up, little ones are in for a treat as Peppa Pig and her friends return to Bournemouth Pavilion for Peppa Pig’s Family Show! (Tuesday 21 April-Wednesday 22 April 2026) with a brand-new stage adventure. Packed with music and surprises, join Peppa Pig and her loved ones as they prepare for the arrival of baby Evie. Family tickets and concessions for under 16s* make this a perfect first theatre trip.
Following the sell-out success of Princess Live!, Darling Productions UK brings a brand-new show to Bournemouth Pavilion, Unicorn Live! (Saturday 30 May 2026). Audiences can join unicorn friends Harmony, Melody and Starlight as they belt out favourite pop and musical theatre hits in sparkling costumes guaranteed to dazzle.
Science fans won’t want to miss the return of London’s West End hit Ministry of Science Live (Saturday 13 June 2026). The UK’s favourite science team is back with an explosive deep dive into the wonders of modern science, featuring 20ft liquid nitrogen clouds, bursting hydrogen balloons, a self-built hovercraft, and more jaw‑dropping demonstrations.
Family-friendly musicals also await. From newcomers to die‑hard theatre buffs, there’s something for everyone with acclaimed productions such as Blood Brothers (Tuesday 14 April-Saturday 18 April 2026), Mean Girls (Monday 1 June-Saturday 6 June 2026), and Barnum (Tuesday 16 June-Saturday 20 June 2026).
Later in the year, there’s even more family favourites taking centre stage. London’s Natural History Museum will go on tour for the first time since 1881, bringing Dinosaurs Live! (Saturday 11 July 2026) to Bournemouth Pavilion’s stage. Then, Bluey’s Big Play (Thursday 6 August – Sunday 9 August 2026) arrives, featuring stunning puppetry that brings Bluey, Bingo, and all their friends to life before your eyes. Audio description headphones and a dedicated BSL (British Sign Language) performance are also available**.
Meanwhile, just minutes away at Bournemouth International Centre, families can enjoy events such as Bournemouth Brick Festival (Saturday 28 March 2026), a LEGO fan event dedicated to all things brick; Diversity: Soul (Sunday 5 April 2026), a new concept tour from the UK’s most successful dance group, and Gabby’s Dollhouse Live! (Thursday 16 April 2026), a brand-new stage show inspired by the magical world of the global pre-school sensation from DreamWorks Animation (family offer available***).
No Bournemouth Pavilion season would be complete without its annual pantomime, and this year’s production of 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. Returning for his 12th year, Bournemouth panto favourite Noel Brodie stars as Wishee Washee, bringing his trademark warmth and wit to a show packed with spectacular sets, sparkling costumes and plenty of “Oh no it isn’t!” fun for all ages.
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:
“We’re thrilled to bring such a vibrant mix of live entertainment to both Bournemouth Pavilion and Bournemouth International Centre, a programme packed with moments that families will remember long after the curtain comes down
“Whether you’re introducing little ones to theatre for the first time, or enjoying a family favourite together, we’re proud to offer so many opportunities for our communities to come together and enjoy unforgettable experiences.”
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.
-ENDS-
Notes to Editors:
Production image courtesy of Mark Senior.
*0-6 months are welcome. Children of this age must share a seat with a full-paying adult. There is no requirement to buy an additional ticket.
Discounts: 6-12 months (£12.25), Under 16s (£2 off), Family (4 tickets – £76 – band A only)
**A BSL (British Sign Language) performance of Bluey’s Big Play will take place on Friday 7 August 2026. Audio description headphones will also be available for all performances.
***25% off tickets* when purchasing between 4 – 8 tickets (excluding VIP M&G). Discount automatically applied when booking online.
For more information about BH Live please contact:
Daisy Saunders, PR & Communications Executive
E: press.office@bhlive.org.uk
About BH Live
Champions of community engagement, health and wellness across Dorset, Hampshire, and London
BH Live, a registered charity and social enterprise, is a leading operator of sports and leisure centres, theatres, and event venues. Our vision is to create sustainable and inspiring opportunities, deliver great experiences for our communities, and improve health and well-being.
With a strong commitment to accessibility and community engagement, BH Live continues to enhance the quality of people’s lives, health and wellbeing in the communities it serves.
BH Live was established in 2010. Local authority partners include BCP Council, Portsmouth City Council, Croydon Council, and Southampton City Council.
We are at the heart of the UK’s growing social economy. Together with our partners we are helping to change lives and make a positive impact in the community.
For more visit bhlive.org.uk.
Get social with us:
LinkedIn – BH Live
Facebook – @SocialEnterpriseBHLive
Instagram @bhliveuk
BH Live is a leisure and cultural trust, established in 2010 as a ‘non profit distributing organisation’ (NPDO) for public benefit to promote participation in leisure and cultural events. BH Live is a Company Limited by Guarantee and Registered Charity. Charity No: 1138311. Company No: 07092112. VAT Reg No: 108 2248 37. BH Live (Enterprises) Ltd, is a Private Company Limited by Shares and a wholly owned subsidiary of BH Live. Company No: 07175626. VAT Reg No: 108 2248 37. Registered Office: Bournemouth International Centre, Exeter Road, Bournemouth, BH2 5BH. Registered in England and Wales.
About Bournemouth Pavilion
Bournemouth Pavilion is operated by the registered charity BH Live in partnership with BCP Council.
This Grade II listed venue opened in March 1929. It has a 1,500-seat theatre and full-sized ballroom. The venue hosts a year-round diverse programme of events and entertainment such as musicals, opera, ballet, pantomime, comedy, and dances. Gala dinners, banquets, receptions, fairs, corporate presentations, product launches, conferences and exhibitions also feature.
Bournemouth Pavilion is home to Pavilion Dance South West and the Pavilion at AUB rehearsal and teaching space for the Arts University Bournemouth.
Bournemouth Pavilion’s South Terrace operates throughout the spring and summer season, serving a delicious range of hot and cold drinks, grab-and-go items, and hot food from pop-up stalls and container bars. The Terrace Bistro serves a seasonal menu, offering an indoor and alfresco dining experience.
- Buy tickets online at co.uk
- Buy tickets by phone 0300 500 0595
- In person from box office – see website for opening times.
For call charges, opening times and more visit bournemouthpavilion.co.uk.
Get social with us:
Facebook, Instagram – @BournemouthPavilion
About Bournemouth International Centre
Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) is operated by the registered charity BH Live in partnership with BCP Council.
Opened in 1984 the venue is set in the heart of Bournemouth, with panoramic views across the bay. It is the south coast’s premier conference, exhibition, entertainment, and hospitality venue, with licensed capacity for up to 10,000 visitors. Four main halls and a variety of smaller meeting and hospitality areas can be scaled to host events such as multi-hall conferences, exhibitions, meetings, music concerts, dance and comedy performances.
- Buy tickets online at bic.co.uk
- Buy tickets by phone 0300 500 0595
- In person from box offices at Bournemouth International Centre
For call charges, opening times and more visit bic.co.uk.
Get social with us:
Facebook, Instagram – @BournemouthInternationalCentre