Southampton Theatres: The Complete Guide

1. Mayflower Theatre

Capacity: 2,300

A short walk from Southampton’s train station, the Mayflower Theatre is a Grade II-listed theatre opened in 1928. Previously known as the Gaumont and Empire Theatre, it was forced to close in 1986 due to major redevelopments. It reopened a year later under its current name with a production of Peter Pan.

Today, the Mayflower is one of Southampton’s main theatres with a capacity of 2,300. It’s famous for hosting West End shows, stand-up comedies and music events.

2. The Stage Door

Capacity: 110 (150 standing)

In the Cultural Quarter, a stone’s throw from Southampton’s marina, The Stage Door is all about cabaret, burlesque and musicals. The theatre brings a fresh approach to evening entertainment while providing a cosy and welcoming environment for guests. Party packages are also on offer here, and you can choose between life drawing, dance lessons, bingo, karaoke, cocktail making and more.

3. The Berry Theatre

Capacity: 306

The Berry Theatre in Hedge End was opened in 2011 by director Samuel West and is among Southampton’s most popular venues today. It boasts an extensive theatre, film and comedy programme, with performances to suit all ages. Take your kids to the Sleeping Beauty panto or celebrate Elton John’s legacy at the Rocketman sing-along.

4. The Joiners

Capacity: 200

Another venue that deserves a mention among Southampton theatres is The Joiners. Sitting along the banks of the River Itchen, this venue opened in 1968 and is famous for having hosted a great variety of bands and artists, including Coldplay, Green Day and Arctic Monkeys. It was named ‘Britain’s best small music venue’ in an NME competition in 2013 and is one of the city’s most popular spots today.

5. The Brook

Capacity: 600

The Brook is an award-winning music venue on Southampton’s northern outskirts. Established in 1994, it’s housed in a beautiful Victorian building, creating an intimate atmosphere for spectators and artists. This is complemented by fantastic acoustics and sight lines, making every performance unique. The Brook has hosted musicians like the Passenger, Jess Glynn and Rixton and comedians like Andy Hamilton and Michael McIntyre.

6. Turner Sims

Capacity: 450

Next door to the university campus, Turner Sims regularly ranks among Southampton’s best theatres, and it’s no wonder why. This venue opened in 1974 with a programme of 20 concerts but rapidly grew to host more. It aims to celebrate music in all its forms, encouraging fans to get together to share this passion. It’s played host to emerging and world-renowned artists from various backgrounds, including jazz, classical and folk.

If you’re visiting Hampshire, watching a show at one of these Southampton theatres won’t disappoint. Are you considering buying your new home here? Explore our properties and unique homebuying offers to help you move.

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