Fareham Live celebrates landmark first anniversary
By Connor Steel
FAREHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL has celebrated the first anniversary of ‘Fareham Live‘ as it congratulated both staff and Trafalgar Theatres for their hard work over the last twelve months; which has seen approximately 160,000 tickets being sold to shows that have covered national touring performances, pantomimes, comedies, music and much more.
This eight-hundred seater venue launched in September 2024 with a first performance featuring Bradley Walsh, Brian Conley, Shane Ritchie and Joe Pasquale in the Prat Pack. This was followed up by a sold-out run of the Rocky Horror Show and its official opening with a Royal visit from Prince Edward, which was well received by both staff and visitors.
Since then there have been shows ranging from comedy names such as Jimmy Carr to children’s favourites like Iggle Piggle, whilst next month will see secrets from the Repair Shop appear for a special night alongside visits from Peppa Pig. This venue furthermore held the first ever pantomime in December last year of Cinderella getting big praise by all.
Fareham Live have further hosted big events such as the Mayor Making Ceremony and Mayor’s Ball 2025, whilst also hosting themed nights such as Tropicana alongside themed dinner dances. These have showcased the flexibility of its auditorium as it transforms from a theatre to a huge open party space which was appreciated by people in attendance.
The venue have seen successes on its creative learning programmes and August saw the launch of their first Summer Youth Project which brought together 45 local young performers to stage vibrant productions of “We Will Rock You” for five days. This has inspired plans to make this a summer tradition alongside its programme of street dance and drama.
It isn’t just about the performances as the venue offers regular showings in a smaller 120-seater space, whilst giving a chance for the community to hire spaces for events of all kinds. Their vibrant café / outside areas have become a local favourite too as it provides fresh cakes, hot food and barista-style coffee in their welcoming cost-effective environment.
Fareham Live have marked their anniversary by announcing that Sheena Hulme has joined the team as its new venue director and brings wealths of experience in management and cultural programming. This job will help guide the venue into its new chapter after a successful first twelve months, whilst also strengthening the role as a ‘local community hub’.
Readers may explore a full quote by Fareham Borough Councillor Connie Hockley by clicking on the link, whilst further information may be seen about past history of the entertainment venue and future shows by visiting this online website.
PICTURED BY CONNOR STEEL: View of this main auditorium at Fareham Live including all seats and operating area.
