Mayflower Theatre, Southampton (must see)

The Mayflower Theatre in Southampton, formerly known as The Empire Theatre and later the Gaumont Theatre, is a Grade II listed building with a seating capacity of 2,300, making it the largest theatre in southern England. Located on Commercial Road in the city center, this historic venue opened on December 22, 1928, as part of the Moss Empire theatre group’s expansion. The theatre primarily hosts touring West End productions, but it is also a popular venue for opera, ballet, music concerts, and one-off comedy events.

Originally, the theatre struggled against the growing popularity of cinema, prompting it to convert into a cinema during the early 1930s. After a brief period as a cinema, the theatre was revitalized in 1987 with a major refurbishment, reopening under its current name with a production of Peter Pan. The introduction of large-scale pantomimes and hit musicals such as 42nd Street, Evita, and Cats helped secure its success, with The Phantom of the Opera breaking attendance records in 2000.

Today, the Mayflower Theatre continues to offer audiences memorable experiences with its mix of West End shows, classical performances, and comedy. It also features the Ovation restaurant, offering seasonal menus and first-class service, adding a culinary treat to the theatre experience. Easily accessible by road and rail, the Mayflower Theatre stands as a prominent cultural landmark on England’s south coast.