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Be entertained in Bournemouth

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Theatre & Performing Arts in Bournemouth

With theatres and venues of different size and specialisms dotted around the resort, there’s always somewhere in Bournemouth where you can enjoy a star studded or spellbinding performance.

Bournemouth proudly celebrates its charming Victorian heritage alongside a bustling, cosmopolitan lifestyle and this is reflected in its performance venues. They range from Bournemouth’s oldest – the Shelley Theatre, built by Sir Percy Bysshe Shelley and opened in 1870 – to Pavilion Dance South West – the National Dance Development Organisation for the region.

Work to continue improving these venues is supported by volunteers, community partnerships and funding projects. They lead the charge in promoting art and culture in the destination and you’ll find that they have packed programmes presenting cutting edge performances, live screenings and exhibitions throughout the year.

Bournemouth’s entertainment offer is underpinned by a large, international venue and historic theatre that continue to sell out some of the country’s most popular artists and shows.

Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) is an impressive and spacious concert venue with generous parking and plenty of places to eat and drink. It’s situated close to the beach and town centre.

Each year, the BIC welcomes some of the biggest names in rock, pop and comedy, as well as hosting dance competitions, conferences and exhibitions.

The Pavilion Theatre is a stunning Art Deco venue that evokes the elegance and splendour of the 1920s. With over 1000 seats in raked stalls and more in the circle, the Pavilion Theatre is a regular home to West End stage shows, opera, ballet, pantomime and comedy.

Naturally, in a town that’s overflowing with energy and talent, it’s common to find additional performances in smaller venues and even in our many, spacious churches or the larger restaurants and bars.

You’ll find busy programmes at performance venues in our neighbouring towns. It’s a short car, bus or train ride to explore Lighthouse – Poole's Centre for the Arts, the Regent Centre in Christchurch or the Tivoli theatre in Wimborne.

So, whether you want a riotous laugh, thought provoking experimental journey or rip-roaring musical spectacle, you’ll find something to inspire you in Bournemouth.

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Rubyz Cabaret

47 Gervis Road , Bournemouth

Rubyz is Bournemouth’s fabulous little secret. Drag queen comedy at its very best!

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
231 reviews
Bournemouth International Centre

Bournemouth

Whether you want to see a show, be educated at a conference, attend an exhibition or enjoy some art, the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) is a premier conference, events and entertainment venue, centrally situated in the town with panoramic…
Pavilion Dance South West

Bournemouth

Pavilion Dance South West presents a year-round programme of innovative and inspiring dance performances, live ballet screenings and arts exhibitions in an intimate, state-of-the-art, 200-seat theatre and gallery space.
Poole Hill Brewery - Southbourne Ales

Bournemouth

This Victorian themed brewery and taproom was voted Dorset's best brewer in 2018. The taproom and visitors centre are open daily with brewery tours, live music and multi award winning ales.
Shelley Theatre

Bournemouth

The Shelley Theatre in Boscombe is a magical place to watch classic theatre productions, film screenings and a host of other events.
Great Dorset Steam Fair *NEW DATES 2021

Blandford

GDSF 2020 POSTPONED UNTIL 2021. If you are looking for an excellent fun and action packed day out for all the family, you’ll love the Great Dorset Steam Fair!
Poole Stadium Greyhound Racing

Poole

Let's Go Racing... A great night out for all the family, enjoy your evening & cheer your winners past the post.

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
265 reviews
Tower Park

Poole

At Tower Park, Poole, a galaxy of entertainment unfolds. With the Splashdown water park and Empire Cinema, Tenpin bowling, kids soft play, bingo and a range of restaurants, there's enough to keep you busy whatever the weather.

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
179 reviews
Camp Bestival *New Dates*

East Lulworth

Camp Bestival 2020 will no longer be taking place, but Camp Bestival will be back at Lulworth Castle on 29th July - 1st August 2021
Welcome to the wonderful world of Camp Bestival a multi-award winning festival that combines an all-encompassing…
Laser Quest

Bournemouth

Whether you're 6 or 66 you’ll love the adrenaline pumping exhilarating of stalking your opponents and unleashing a volley of Laser Fire in the Battle-Zone of the next Century!

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282 reviews
Pavilion Theatre

Bournemouth

Message from The Pavilion Theatre:
We note the recent advice from the UK Government in relation to social distancing and are currently liaising with promoters and event organisers.
Further updates will be posted in due course and ticket…
Pier Amusements

Bournemouth

A wide range of entertainment machines and all of the most up-to-date videos and prizes.
Bh2 Leisure Complex

Bournemouth

Restaurants, Cinema and entertainment for everyone to enjoy in the heart of Bournemouth's buzzing Town Centre.
The Regent Centre

Christchurch

A well established Art Deco arts centre, dating back to 1931.

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
141 reviews
Upton House Concerts *POSTPONED UNTIL 2021*

Poole

- POSTPONED UNTIL 2021 -
Three days of great music set in the beautiful grounds of Upton Country Park.
SandFest **Event Postponed until 2021**

Poole

SandFest at Sandbanks - Event postponed in 2020. New dates for 2021 announced.
Poole Harbour Festival *POSTPONED UNTIL 2021*

Poole

Since 2016 Poole Harbour Festival has grown into the biggest and best family friendly live music festival in Poole & Bournemouth.
The Brass Haus

Bournemouth

Inspired by Germany's great Bier Keller's and underground music scene, we have the Best Live Music in Bournemouth!

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Be entertained in Bournemouth

Theatre & Performing Arts in Bournemouth

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