As we prepare to open the doors of Fareham Live, I’m filled with a deep sense of pride and anticipation. This project has been a joyous labour of love, not just for those of us at Trafalgar Theatres, but for the entire Fareham community.
It’s rare to be part of something that will touch so many lives, and this venue is poised to do just that - bringing world-class entertainment and a vibrant cultural hub to the heart of Fareham.
Fareham Live isn’t just another venue; it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and collaboration. For months now, we’ve worked tirelessly behind the scenes to create a space that will inspire audiences, artists, and community members alike.
Whether you’re attending a performance, participating in a workshop, or simply meeting friends for coffee, we’ve created a space that everyone can call their own. From local groups to touring productions, the stage is set for Fareham Live to become a true cultural beacon.
One of the key focuses of this project has been accessibility, and that’s why it has been a cornerstone of the design process. We want to ensure that Fareham Live is welcoming to everyone. Whether you’re coming to see a performance, hosting an event, or simply enjoying the new café, it’s been ensured that all areas of the venue are fully accessible to everyone. We believe that art and culture should be available to all, and that’s reflected in every element of the planning.
With the finishing touches now being applied, we can finally see the vision come to life. Theatre lovers will be thrilled to discover that Fareham Live has been transformed into a state-of-the-art modern arts and entertainment haven.
The venue is equipped with the latest cutting-edge stage and backstage areas, ensuring that we can host not only local productions but also larger touring shows, while our stunning main auditorium, which can accommodate 800 guests, is complemented by two versatile studio spaces, ideal for more intimate performances, workshops, and community events.
In design, it’s taken a sustainable approach throughout the whole process. For example, our new café and bar area is furnished with sustainable and recyclable materials from Vitra. It’s details like this that make Fareham Live more than just a modern facility - it’s a symbol of community pride, crafted by the hands of a fully local workforce.
This project is a collaboration in every sense of the word. Our team at Trafalgar Theatres, working closely with Fareham Borough Council, has created something truly special - a venue that not only celebrates the arts but also strengthens the local economy.
The construction phase employed local workers and suppliers, and now, with the opening of the venue, it will continue to provide a boost to local businesses and talent.
The first show on September 28, The Prat Pack, already generated huge excitement. This star-studded event, featuring comedy legends Bradley Walsh, Brian Conley, Shane Richie, and Joe Pasquale, kickstarted Fareham Live in true rib-tickling style. But that’s just the beginning.
READ MORE: Take a look inside £17 million new theatre Fareham Live
Fareham Live is not just about big-name productions, though. We’re committed to fostering local talent and providing a platform for community groups to share their work. Our flexible studio spaces will host everything from children’s theatre workshops to community meetings, making Fareham Live a true gathering place for the people of Fareham.
We envision a future where local schools, amateur theatre groups, and emerging artists will find a home here, supported by state-of-the-art facilities and a welcoming environment. And we’ve already made a start on this.
We’re about to enter a new era of entertainment and culture in Fareham, and I am incredibly excited to invite you all to be a part of it.
Whether you’re attending a show, meeting friends for a drink, or participating in a community project, Fareham Live is your space to enjoy.
Together, we’ll make this new chapter in Fareham’s cultural history truly memorable with promising a whole host of unforgettable experiences.
