Stitches Comedy Club will be back with another stellar line up in October! Opening the show is star of Live At The Apollo, Mash Report and even Question Time, Geoff Norcott! Next up is regular of Mock The Week, and star of The News Quiz, Live At The Apollo and House of Games, Angela Barnes! Headliner is comedy legend from stage and screen for the last 20 years, American comedian Reginald D Hunter, who has been on every single TV show there is, including Have I Got News For You, QI, Live At The Apollo and House of Games to name just a few! All held together by award winning comedian and compere James Alderson!

Fresh from a sell-out UK tour, the Edinburgh Fringe-favourite Murder, She Didn’t Write is back. This improvised whodunnit will see improv legends Degrees of Error perform an entirely improvised Agatha Christie-inspired murder mystery every afternoon, as the spectator becomes the author in this cleverly comedic show.

The perfect family show for the young and young at heart. Featuring magnificent music from stage and screen, this interactive and educational family show is the perfect introduction to the wonderful world of opera and classical music. Bought to life by the acclaimed WNO Orchestra, our presenter Tom Redmond will introduce you to the Orchestra and its many instruments, our talented performers, and of course, the music you’ll be hearing during the afternoon – some of which are our absolutely favourites to perform. The relaxed setting of the show will allow you to fully lose yourself in the music and the drama – we’ll have you clapping, singing, and dancing in the aisles. Delve into the backstage magic of opera during our free pre-show foyer activities, available from 1pm. Explore some of our costumes, make props and enjoy our lighting and sound stations. If that’s not enough, there’s even a treasure hunt.

Obsession or salvation? One kiss from the Spider Woman can change everything. From the legendary creators of Cabaret and Chicago, KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN returns in an electrifying new co-production from Curve, Bristol Old Vic and Mayflower Southampton. In a brutal prison, Molina – condemned for his sexuality, and Valentin – a political prisoner, are forced into an unlikely friendship in the cell they share. To escape their harsh reality, Molina conjures dazzling fantasies of glamorous movies, spinning tales of the seductive and dangerous Spider Woman. As their conditions worsen and the line between truth and fiction blurs, the two men find a deeper connection – one that could cost them everything. Adapted for the stage by Terrence McNally from Manuel Puig’s unforgettable novel, the original Broadway production of KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN won seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Original Score. Now, in its first major UK revival since 1992, this daring new production is directed by Paul Foster (A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC, Watermill Theatre and KISS ME, KATE, Sheffield Crucible) and stars the phenomenal Anna-Jane Casey (CABARET, BILLY ELLIOT) as Aurora, the legendary actress who plays the Spider Woman.

Ranked number 14 in Q Magazine’s top 50 bands of all time and inducted into the UK Music Hall of Fame, Bon Jovi is a household name the world over. With front man and namesake Jon Bon Jovi at the helm since they formed back in 1983, the New Jersey band have sold over 120 million albums worldwide, performing more than 2,600 concerts in over 50 countries for 34 million fans and counting. In tribute to this incredible musical talent, The Bon Jovi Experience was born and since 1994 have become the only band to have performed live on stage with Jon Bon Jovi himself. Lead singer Tony Pearce’s striking resemblance to the original front man creates an unrivalled tribute not to be missed. “The best Bon Jovi tribute band I’ve ever watched” Jon Bon Jovi Endorsed by Jon Bon Jovi himself, the official tribute band to Bon Jovi perform all over the world to sell-out crowds. As the world’s leading tribute, The Bon Jovi Experience are often copied but never equalled, performing all the hits you know and love including, “Livin’ On a Prayer”, “Always”, “It’s My Life”, “You Give Love a Bad Name”. This is a tribute band.

Strap on your safety goggles… Due to popular demand and following its 2025 Olivier Award for BEST FAMILY SHOW, Science’s greatest and most volatile live show is back with a vengeance. More mischievous than ever before Brainiac Live! the UK’s original and favourite family science show explodes on stage and will take you on a breathless ride through the wild world of the weird and wonderful. Watch from the safety of your seat as the Brainiacs delve fearlessly into the mysteries of science and do all those things on stage that you’re too scared to do at home! With a great range of explosive experiments join the Brainiacs in this all-action live show that’s set to blow your minds!

A brand-new family musical for everyone aged 5+. Meet Toto. She might look like an ordinary cat, but she’s no ordinary feline. Almost completely blind, Toto has incredible ninja skills, a big heart, and a nose for adventure. By day, she naps like any other pet… but by night, she’s out on daring missions with her cheeky brother, Silver. In their very first adventure, a deadly King Cobra has escaped onto the streets of London, and it’s up to Toto to use every ounce of her courage and cunning to save the day. Based on Dermot O’Leary’s best-selling children’s book, illustrated by Nick East , this purr-fectly thrilling tale is filled with original music, laugh-out-loud fun, and extraordinary puppetry, promising fun for the whole family.

Cinderella is back — but not as you know her. Cinderella: A VERY Happy Ending! is The Stage Door’s brand-new adults-only panto extravaganza: bold, bonkers, and bursting with outrageous comedy from start to finish. Dive into a shamelessly naughty retelling of the classic tale, where Cinderella swaps glass slippers for killer heels and isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty on the way to the ball. With a wickedly sharp Dame, a glitter-drenched Fairy Godmother, and a Prince who may or may not have the stamina to keep up – this is a panto packed with sass, sparkle and sauciness. Expect unforgettable characters, sing-along moments, side-splitting gags, adult humour, and a spectacular “happy ending” that lives up to its name. Perfect for festive outings, Christmas parties, and groups looking for something a little… naughtier.

Bringing Ms Rachel's character to life in a fun, interactive live on stage performance with lots of audience participation for the little ones! With over 5 billion views and over 8 million subscribers on Youtube, Ms Rachel is the biggest viral sensation to hit our children's screens since 'Baby Shark!' 'Fun for Little Ones Live' encapsulates the bubbly personality, sweet singing voice and educational content; bringing to life a fun show for children. The production also includes interactive screen content throughout featuring unique and on brand animation and scenery, plus puppetry, characters & voices on screen with Monty & friends. This UK Premier tribute is the only one of it's kind, with little people across the country going crazy for her.

You’ve seen her in the Masterchef kitchen… You’ve seen her on the Drag Race runway… Now it’s time to see her in her element: outrageous, untamed and completely off the reins. Following the explosive success of her smash hit 2024 tour Ginger Johnson Blows Off!, the nation’s silliest sausage is back on the road with her brand-new live spectacular: Show Pony! Promising high camp, low morals, and double helpings of her trademark ridiculousness, Show Pony is a barnstorming night of whip-smart comedy and top-tier talent that proves why Ginger is one of Britain’s most beloved queens.

Max Fulham is bringing his brand new show to Southampton, fresh from his second run at the Edinburgh Fringe. After starring in Mayflower Theatre’s pantomime, Max is back for one night only, but this one is not for the kids! Combining stand-up with his skilled ventriloquism and puppetry, Max blends the best variety traditions with contemporary comedy. Described as ‘exceptionally talented’ by Rowan Atkinson, and with millions of views online, join Max for his brand new show. Expect sketches, standup-up and silliness from ‘the most skilful ventriloquist of his time’ (North West End).

‘No matter your size, we all have a mouse and a lion inside.’ A heart-warming tale about confidence, self-esteem, and a shy little mouse who sets out on a journey to find his roar. In a dry dusty place where the sand sparkled gold, stood a mighty flat rock, all craggy and old. And under that rock in a tinyful house, lived the littlest, quietest, meekest brown mouse. Fed up of being ignored and forgotten by the other animals, Mouse wishes he could roar like Lion. But, as he discovers, even the biggest, bossiest people are scared sometimes … and even the smallest creatures can have the heart of a lion! Based on the best-selling story by Rachel Bright & Jim Field, this joyous new stage adaptation featuring puppetry, music and song is directed by Sarah Punshon (The Jungle Book), with music and lyrics by Eamonn O’Dwyer (Brief Encounter).

Get ready to embark on a journey to Neverland in a magical new production of Peter Pan – A BIG Musical Adventure! Featuring over 50 talented young performers, this lively musical brings J.M. Barrie’s classic story to life. Follow Peter, Wendy, and Tink as they face the mischievous Captain Hook, uncover the power of friendship, and enjoy thrilling adventures around every corner. Packed with sparkling songs old and new, an enchanting set, and captivating choreography, this festive show is perfect for audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering the story for the first time, Peter Pan promises laughter, excitement, and a touch of Christmas magic at every turn. Celebrate the season with a heartwarming adventure the whole family will treasure!

Straight off the back of Taskmaster, A League Of Their Own, and Last One Laughing, Maisie Adam is back with her brand new show Whatsherface. Join the "tall, chaotic one with the weird hair" as she returns with her trademark wit, firecracker gags, and probably a few angry outbursts along the way. A genuine description given by her best friend's Mum at a wedding this year.

Did you ever go to Silversands On a sunny summer’s day? Then perhaps you saw the mermaid Who sang in the deep blue bay One day, the singing mermaid is tempted away from all of her sea creature friends and her peaceful home at Silversands to join a travelling circus. The audiences love to hear her sing, but the poor mermaid was tricked! Instead of the swimming pool she was promised, she is kept in a small tank by the wicked circus master Sam Sly, and she soon longs to return to the freedom of the sea. Will she ever escape? And who will help her along the way? Through beautiful puppetry and performance, and with music by Barb Jungr (We’re Going On A Bear Hunt, The Pixie and the Pudding, The Smartest Giant in Town, There May be a Castle), Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks’ enormously popular story, The Singing Mermaid, is brought to life. The Singing Mermaid by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks is adapted for the stage by Barb Jungr and Samantha Lane with music and songs by Barb Jungr.

Award-winning SOS Presents returns in July with a spellbinding Amateur production of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s legendary Oklahoma! – the show that redefined musical theatre. Blending music, dialogue and dance into a seamless storytelling experience, Oklahoma! set the standard for every musical that has followed, while remaining just as popular as when it first opened on Broadway in 1943. Set against the wide-open skies of the American frontier, this joyful show celebrates the pioneering spirit of a hardworking community carving out a life on the land. At its heart lies the rivalry between confident cowboy Curly and brooding farmhand Jud as they compete for the attentions of the headstrong Laurey. Featuring timeless classics such as The Surrey with the Fringe on Top and People Will Say We’re in Love, Oklahoma! bursts with humour, passion, adventure and the hopeful promise in each brand-new morning. Don’t miss this beloved American musical at Mayflower Studios this summer! Music by Richard Rodgers, book and Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, based on the play “Green Grow the Lilacs” by Lynn Riggs, original choreography by Agnes de Mille. This Amateur production of Oklahoma! is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of The Rodgers & Hammerstein Organization. www.concordtheatricals.co.uk.

The brilliant melodies of The Pianist himself, Władysław Szpilman, underscore and uplift this new musical adaptation of the acclaimed memoir, boldly adapted for the stage and directed by Thom Southerland (Titanic the Musical), with music arranged by Simon Lee (Andrew Lloyd Webber’s long-time music director). Performed by an ensemble of 11 actor-musicians portraying over 50 characters and playing a symphonic array of instruments, Szpilman’s music is brought to the stage for the first time outside of Poland, transporting audiences from the vibrant streets of pre-war Warsaw to the harrowing trials during the war, sweeping us up in a riveting theatrical journey of courage, family and the enduring strength of music.

This summer, more than 50 amazing young performers take to the stage at Mayflower Studios in Les Misérables: School Edition. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, this classic musical follows the journey of Jean Valjean, a man seeking redemption while being relentlessly pursued by Inspector Javert. As the plot unfolds, audiences connect with characters facing real struggles and big dreams, from Fantine’s journey to the passion of the student revolutionaries in a society on the edge of change. Featuring iconic songs such as I Dreamed a Dream, On My Own, and Do You Hear the People Sing?. Filled with energy, enthusiasm, and creativity, our youthful cast brings fresh life to this iconic musical in a celebration of the next generation of theatre talent.

“Paul Merton and Suki Webster’s Improv Show” is a night of fast, and fabulously funny improvised games, scenes, stories, songs and laugh out loud surrealism. All deftly conjured up on the spot and based on suggestions by you: The Audience! These two masters of Comedy Improvisation are joined by two fabulous guests each week to create cascades of laughter and joyful silliness.

Investigating The UK’s Most Notorious Serial Killers Prepare for an unforgettable evening of true crime as the harrowing reality behind solving murders and battling the criminal underworld is unveiled. This is crime-fighting as you’ve never seen it before.

Come and join Nick Cope for a brand new, delightful family concert, featuring all your favourite Nick Cope hits and more. Nick has been writing and recording his beautiful and totally unique songs for children and their families for over 10 years, he performs with his guitar and stunning animations to sell-out crowds all over the country. His fanatical following of little and not so little fans has grown immeasurably over the last couple of years due to the phenomenal success of the CBeebies show ‘Nick Cope’s Popcast’. Nick has a magical way of reaching into people’s hearts, igniting children’s imagination in an organic, unpatronizing, educational and fun way. With his charming songs and humour Nick engages, entertains, and enthrals all generations. Nick’s live performances are legendary. If you haven’t heard his songs or seen his shows before, come along and find out what you’ve been missing.

A fast, forensic show of big ideas and gag-dense overthinking from one of the nation’s sharpest stand-ups. Rhys has made a discovery that could fix everything. It’s been staring him in the face the whole time, in a mirror held behind his head. If he can ignore his own problems for long enough, he might just be able to solve yours. Star of TLC’s Mock The Week and BBC Radio 4’s Rhysearch, also seen furrowing his brow on QI, Live At The Apollo and his viral U&Dave lecture, ‘I Stalk Strangers Online’.

Fearlessly hilarious delivery combined with honesty and sincerity. Kane Brown is 19 years in the game, has performed around the world, has opened for Guz Khan on his UK Tour, can be seen on Man Like Mobeen (Netflix), Deepfake (Channel 4), She’s the One (Amazon) and heard on his hit Podcast, Rated 18.

Sound Pop Academy proudly presents Illusion, its Summer Theatre Show for 2026 at Mayflower Studios! Prepare for an unforgettable afternoon where the worlds of pop music and magic collide. Sound Pop Academy will dazzle with the biggest pop songs of the year from artists including Chappell Roan, Taylor Swift, Benson Boone and more. This year, they’ll be joined on stage by a special guest for the first time ever. Expect brilliant harmonies, dazzling choreography, infectious energy, and magical moments brought to you by special guest Inner Magic Circle magician, Louise Andrée. Don’t miss the chance to see Sound Pop Academy light up the stage alongside the brilliant Louise Andrée, and experience a truly magical afternoon! At this performance, our Little members (aged 6-8) will be performing . Please ensure you are booking for the correct performance and that your child has signed up to perform.

Sound Pop Academy proudly presents Illusion, its Summer Theatre Show for 2026 at Mayflower Studios! Prepare for an unforgettable evening where the worlds of pop music and magic collide. Sound Pop Academy will dazzle with the biggest pop songs of the year from artists including Chappell Roan, Olivia Rodrigo, Benson Boone and more. This year, they’ll be joined on stage by a special guest for the first time ever. Expect brilliant harmonies, dazzling choreography, infectious energy, and magical moments brought to you by special guest Inner Magic Circle magician, Louise Andrée. Don’t miss the chance to see Sound Pop Academy light up the stage alongside the brilliant Louise Andrée, and experience a truly magical evening! At this performance, our Advanced members (aged 9-17) will be performing . Please ensure you are booking for the correct performance and that your child has signed up to perform.

Recently married, emotionally feral.  The Gallus Glaswegian Goon returns with a riotous show about refusing to grow up.  As seen on SNL, Live at the Apollo, QI and The Royal Variety Performance. 

Daniel was determined to handle his Big Breakup with the grace of Julia Roberts. He didn’t. Join him as he navigates dating in your 30s, Le Creuset addiction and 12-step skincare routines, all while trying very hard to emanate love and light. Described by Rolling Stone as ‘utterly hilarious and effortlessly charismatic’, award-winning stand-up Daniel is best known for his viral comedy videos, which are enjoyed by millions of women and gays online. His critically-acclaimed debut show Villain toured internationally, including a sell-out run at New York’s SoHo Playhouse and London’s legendary Clapham Grand. He co-hosts the podcast Welcome To Hell with fellow comic Dane Buckley, which debuted in Apple and Spotify’s Top 10 comedy charts, and he is the author of the hit book Bedtime Stories for Privileged Children.

Do you like the idea of singing your favourite songs and meeting a friendly group of people? Then this is the group for you! We sing a range of songs from various genres together whilst making friends along the way. Come and join our welcoming group today!

Learn what it takes to create characters, settings and storylines as we explore creative writing from prose to poetry to script. Develop as a writer and brush up your description, pace, plot and voice in fun weekly sessions designed to stretch your talent. You can also take advantage of opportunities to perform your work in one of the South’s premier theatre venues. These sessions are free but we are looking for commitment. All workshops are suitable for beginners and advanced writers. Participants are welcome to try a session before committing to the group – please select taster when selecting your place. Theatre trips There will be opportunities to watch performances at Mayflower Studios or Mayflower Theatre as part of this programme. Opportunities are likely to be once per term, depending on show availability, and tickets may be free or available at a small fee.

Do you like writing? Would you like to work with a professional writer? ArtfulScribe and Mayflower Participation are inviting young people to get involved with a regular creative writing group that will help develop skills, encouraging young writers to share work and receive feedback in a respectful way that empowers voices. Meet new like-minded people and have lots of fun along the way. Participants will explore creative writing through practical exercises and workshops on topics like characterisation, dialogue, setting and plot. Writers will work across genres including non-fiction, fiction, poetry and script-writing. Weekly sessions will take place on Saturday mornings during term times. These sessions are free but we are looking for commitment. All workshops are suitable for beginners and advanced writers. Participants are welcome to try a session before committing to the group please select taster when selecting your place. There will be opportunities to watch performances at Mayflower Studios or Mayflower Theatre as part of this programme. Opportunities are likely to be once per term, depending on show availability, and tickets may be free or available at a small fee.

Do you like writing? Would you like to work with a professional writer? ArtfulScribe and Mayflower Participation are inviting young people to get involved with a regular creative writing group that will help develop skills, encouraging young writers to share work and receive feedback in a respectful way that empowers voices. Meet new like-minded people and have lots of fun along the way. Participants will explore creative writing through practical exercise’s and workshops on topics like characterisation, dialogue, setting and plot. Writers will work across genres including non-fiction, fiction, poetry and script-writing. Weekly sessions will take place on Saturday mornings during term times. These sessions are free but we are looking for commitment. All workshops are suitable for beginners and advanced writers. Participants are welcome to try a session before committing to the group please select taster when selecting your place. There will be opportunities to watch performances at Mayflower Studios or Mayflower Theatre as part of this programme. Opportunities are likely to be once per term, depending on show availability, and tickets may be free or available at a small fee.

Celebrating movement at the earliest stage, our Creative Movers classes take children on a joyful and imaginative journey through contemporary dance. This class uses storytelling, music and games to spark imaginations and develop a love of movement. Every class is different, using themes and curricular subjects to explore the world through dance and keep children engaged. Whether swimming with whales, flying to the moon, or travelling the desert, each class explores movement in a new and exciting way. We begin each class with an energetic warm-up, followed by physical and spatial skill development, with a deep dive into their imaginations to close. Across the grades, children are supported to develop physical skills, improve communication, harness musicality, foster creativity and grow in confidence. Join us for a FREE taster session! If you enjoy your session you will then be able to sign up for the remainder of the term. Rambert Grades Trained Teachers promote the joy of movement, placing imagination and play at the centre of each class whilst first and foremost maintaining safe practice, which promotes happy and healthy movement.

Kathakali is a breathtaking blend of theatre, emotion, dance, drama, stunning costumes, beautiful makeup, and powerful storytelling that originated in Kerala, South India, around 500 years ago. Kathakali tells stories that reflect human nature, family values, equality, the right of women to be safe and respected, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. The Kala Chethena Kathakali Company make a welcome return to bring the incredible art of Kathakali back to Mayflower Studios this November. Based in Southampton and Kerala, South India, the company was founded by Kathakali actor Kalamandalam Vijayakumar and Kathakali make-up specialist Kalamandalam Barbara Vijayakumar in 1987. These two Kathakali artists met whilst studying at the world-famous Kerala Kalamandalam – Kalamandalam Vijayakumar a student of acting and Kalamandalam Barbara a student of chutti make-up. Barbara graduated as the first female chutti make-up artist in the world! The Kala Chethena Kathakali Company have toured many times in the UK and have welcomed over 250,000 people of all ages, abilities and cultural backgrounds into the magical world of Kathakali.

Join us at Mayflower Studios for our Family Fun Day featuring WNO: Play Opera Live! We are partnering with Welsh National Opera to offer a variety of activities suitable for all ages, including behind the scenes workshops, face painting and crafts. We will also have our very own ‘Book Swap’, so bring along a book you have finished and pick up another! We hope to see you there for a day of creativity and fun for all the family. Our Family Fun Day is free to attend however, we also offer the option to ‘Pay What You Decide’. This means you can either choose a free ticket, a £3 ticket or a £5 ticket – it’s up to you. This initiative supports us to be able to continue to deliver this activity and also ensures that it is accessible for everyone.

Drama, dance and singing groups for young people with learning disabilities run by professionals at Blue Apple Theatre and Mayflower. Blue Apple Youth Theatre group is for young people aged 15-21 years old with learning disabilities, for example, Down’s Syndrome, Williams Syndrome and Autism. There is a helpful explanation of what is meant by learning disability here. Through fun and supportive sessions, participants will develop their creativity, social skills, and confidence. They will also have the opportunity to perform in front of an audience, showcasing what they have learned in a positive and encouraging environment. Led by experienced professionals, these sessions combine acting, singing, and dancing, helping young people to build friendships while exploring the joy of performance. So, come and join us for fun-filled sessions that include acting, singing and dancing.

Ready to move, groove and feel good? Join our FREE weekly Caribbean Dance sessions for adults – a vibrant, feel-good space where everyone is welcome. Inspired by the uplifting rhythms and styles of the Caribbean, these classes are all about having fun, building confidence, and boosting your health and wellbeing. Whether you’ve danced before or if you’ve never stepped onto a dance floor, you’ll fit right in. No experience needed. Come as you are, bring a friend (or make new ones!), and enjoy an hour and a half of energy, music and movement. Free. Friendly. For everyone 18+.

Whitney. Beyoncé. Gaga. Britney. Tina. Cher. The Spice Girls. Céline… and so many more. Welcome to Queenz – Battle of the Divas! They’ve headlined in Las Vegas, supported global icons Chappell Roan and Christina Aguilera, and sold over 250,000 tickets worldwide. Now, the Queenz go head-to-head, taking on hits from over 20 legendary divas in the ultimate fight for pop supremacy. Expect powerhouse vocals, killer choreography, and jaw-dropping costumes in a party packed with non-stop anthems. Who wins? You decide!

Falling for Jesus is a mortal sin, but damn it feels good! In 1990s Peru, a brutal military coup ushers in a decade of dictatorship under the rule of Alberto Fujimori. In the home of General José and his devoted wife María, altar boy Jesús prepares diligently for his first communion. But as the biggest day of his adolescent life approaches, the hot man on the cross makes him feel something…unholy. Catholic guilt collides with unrepentant queerness in this sinful, heart-pounding mix of live music, dark humour, and Latin heat. If Bo Burnham, Bad Bunny, and Bertolt Brecht had a baby, this would be it. JEEZUS! is the smash hit debut from award-winning migrant-led company Alpaqa. Bulging with new songs and Big D★★★ Energy, the show returns after taking the Edinburgh Fringe by storm – this time hotter, sweatier, and even more unhinged. This is the second coming – let’s burn in hell! Winner of the 2025 Untapped Award and The Stage Fringe Five.

ArtfulScribe presents Raise Your Voice: A Writing Day for Women, including workshops, writing practice, networking, and a relaxed open-mic with headliner Laurie Bolger. Focused on finding, amplifying and honouring women’s voices, this event is open to all those who identify as a woman, or who are non-binary and are comfortable in a space centred on women’s experiences. Hosted by writer-facilitator Joanna Barnard (ArtfulScribe), the day’s sessions include a generative writing workshop with poet and presenter Laurie Bolger, confidence building techniques with speaker coach Liz Garland, time to write, networking, and an opportunity to share your writing and listen to others with an open-mic session to close the day. Babies in arms are welcome. ArtfulScribe will also be launching What Women Write, a publication gathering women’s voices from across Southampton as part of celebrations of Jane Austen’s 250th birthday, supported by Southampton Forward. The open mic session is also available to those who are unable to commit to the full day, as well as offering a great chance for audience members to celebrate women in a creative and supportive space, and will include readings from What Women Write. Agenda 10.00am – 11.15am: Welcome and Workshop 1: Liz Garland’s ‘Communicating with Confidence’ 11.30pm – 1.00pm: Workshop 2: Laurie Bolger’s ‘You Do You’ 1.00pm – 1.30pm: Lunch 1.30pm – 2.00pm: Have Your Say: Reflections on what people would like from a women’s writing offer in the city 2.00pm – 3.00pm: Guided communal writing time 3.15pm – 4.45pm: Relaxed open mic with Laurie Bolger If you wish to attend the open mic portion only, please arrive by 3pm to register your interest if you would like to read

Playful, witty and irresistibly charming, The Anonymous Lover is a sparkling romantic comedy about the risks and rewards of falling in love. Léontine, a wealthy widow, swears she’ll never love again after an unhappy marriage. When mysterious letters and thoughtful gifts begin arriving from a secret admirer, her resolve starts to waver. The sender is her friend Valcour, who hides his identity, fearing rejection because of his lower social standing. As Léontine searches for the truth, Valcour must decide whether to reveal himself or remain anonymous. Rarely performed, The Anonymous Lover is the only surviving opera by French composer Joseph Bologne and is brought to life in a vibrant new staging, with the orchestra on stage in an energetic baroque-inspired world. Faithful to Bologne’s elegant score, it also introduces a fresh, contemporary voice that speaks directly to the audience – inviting you to look again, think differently, and decide for yourself what shapes the way we experience great art. This production will be sung in French with English surtitles.

Get ready to embark on an adventure of magic and music with Jason and his fearless band of Argonauts in this thrilling retelling of a Greek classic. Raised among nature and music in a magical forest, Jason longs to be a hero. When he discovers that his Uncle Pelias has stolen his place as King, he rushes to reclaim the throne. But King Pelias has one condition: Jason must bring him the Golden Fleece. Joined by his team of Argonauts, they sail to Colchis, the home of the mystical fleece, but are met with dangerous dragons and sneaky sirens. Together they must be brave and clever and learn the true power of music. When faced with a huge challenge, will Jason make the right choice? This action-packed production is a wonderful introduction to the world of opera for children, bringing to life the sounds of the orchestra and the power of the human voice. Filled with adventure, enchantment, and music, it’s an unforgettable experience for young audiences. This production is performed in English with English surtitles.

Seventy minutes. Seven seasons. One Spike. Fresh from a smash-hit run at Edinburgh Fringe, this fast-paced new production brings you the entire 144 episodes of the hit 90s TV show, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, as told through the eyes of the one person who knows it inside out… Spike. Funny, satirical and bursting with 90s pop-culture references, it’s the perfect parody for Buffy aficionados and those who never enrolled at Sunnydale High alike. Created by comedian Brendan Murphy whose last show, Friend: The One with Gunther, recently won the award for Best Play in the World Wide Comedy Awards. Lighting Design by Jack Weir Sound Design by James Nicholson

At the heart of Mayflower’s creative approach is our commitment to supporting the work of local artists and those with a strong connection to Southampton and the surrounding area. Mayflower’s Artist Network members benefit from discounts on selected workshops and shows, plus regular updates about professional opportunities and events. Join us on Thursday 4 June, 6pm – 7.30pm, for our next Artist Network social event. There will be an opportunity for everyone to network, make new connections and find out about upcoming artist development projects at Mayflower. We also want to hear from you about what you would like to see in the Artist Development programme going forward. Attendees are invited to stay on to watch Kiss of the Spider Woman with an exclusive ticket offer available for those attending.

On sale dates General Public Tue 19 May at 10am The chaotic cult cabaret! Enter Strange Phenomena, howl with the Hounds of Love and dance on the moors with Wuthering Heights. Kate’s not there, but you are. Performer Sarah-Louise Young (Fascinating Aïda, Showstopper! The Improvised Musical and Cabaret Whore) invites you to release your inner Bush in this joyful, unique and mind-blowing show. Over a career spanning five decades, Kate Bush has always attracted loyal and devoted followers. An Evening Without Kate Bush explores their stories through her music, celebrating one of the most influential voices in British pop culture. Featuring classic hits like Running Up That Hill, Cloudbusting and The Man With The Child In His Eyes, the show also throws in some unexpected B-sides and bootlegs alongside unique takes on songs like This Woman’s Work and Babooshka. Made with Julie Madly Deeply co-creator Russell Lucas, this ‘brilliant dissection of the diva’s genius’ (Attitude Magazine) has won awards, critical acclaim and its own legion of fans and cult following. ★★★★★ Attitude Magazine ★★★★★ ‘Young reinvents the tribute act fusing triple-threat comedy with the warmth of an old-school vaudevillian’ The Stage ★★★★★ ‘Sarah-Louise Young wows with a tribute to a true one-off’ Attitude ★★★★ ‘A weird, wild, wonderful spectacle… An Evening Without Kate Bush is sheer delight’ The Sun ★★★★ ‘Sarah-Louise Young has crafted a sweet and, by the end, communal exploration of what it means to be a maverick, and to be the person who likes mavericks. Much more of this woman’s work, please.’ The Times ★★★★ ‘A cult in the making’ Metro