Discover some of the best theatres, concert halls and live performance venues in Dorset, from Bournemouth's historic Pavilion Theatre and the Bournemouth International Centre to Lighthouse in Poole and The Regent in Christchurch. Whether you're planning a night at the theatre, a live music concert, a comedy show or a family pantomime, Dorset offers an exciting choice of entertainment throughout the year. Explore our guide to established venues in Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole, Wimborne and further afield, with official websites and booking information to help plan your next evening out.
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There's nothing quite like a night at the theatre or the excitement of watching your favourite musicians perform live, and Dorset has plenty of wonderful venues where we can enjoy both.
From elegant Art Deco theatres and intimate independent cinemas to major concert halls and outdoor Shakespeare productions, the county offers an impressive range of cultural experiences.
Whether you're looking for West End touring productions, live music, comedy, ballet, opera, film screenings or family entertainment, there are performances to enjoy throughout the year.
We've brought together some of the best-known theatres and concert venues across Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole and the wider Dorset area to help you discover somewhere new for your next evening out.
Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre is one of the town's best-loved entertainment landmarks, bringing theatre, music and live performances to the seafront since 1929.
With its beautiful Art Deco architecture and impressive auditorium, the Grade II listed venue offers an elegant setting for everything from musicals and ballet to comedy, concerts, opera and family shows.
The Pavilion also hosts seasonal pantomimes and touring productions, making it a popular choice for audiences of different ages.
Its location beside Bournemouth's Lower Gardens and seafront means visitors can easily combine a performance with dinner, drinks or a walk through the town centre.
Accessibility: The stalls offer step-free seating, with designated wheelchair spaces available. The Circle is not accessible by lift. Visitors requiring accessible seating or assistance should contact the venue before booking.
Address: Westover Road, Bournemouth, BH1 2BU
Telephone: 0300 500 0595
View Bournemouth Pavilion's upcoming performances
The Bournemouth International Centre is one of Dorset's largest entertainment venues, welcoming major touring musicians, comedians, performers and international events throughout the year.
Located close to Bournemouth's seafront, the BIC offers several event spaces, including Windsor Hall and Tregonwell Hall, allowing it to accommodate everything from large concerts to conferences and special performances.
The venue attracts nationally and internationally recognised entertainers, making it one of the first places to check when planning a big night out in Bournemouth.
Visitors can also enjoy the surrounding town centre, with restaurants, bars and hotels within walking distance.
Accessibility: Accessible seating and facilities are available, although arrangements vary depending on the event and auditorium.
Address: Exeter Road, Bournemouth, BH2 5BH
Telephone: 0300 500 0595
Explore upcoming events at Bournemouth International Centre
For live bands, touring artists and energetic music nights, O2 Academy Bournemouth is one of the area's standout venues.
Located in Boscombe, the venue occupies a historic building with an atmospheric interior, creating a distinctive setting for concerts and live entertainment.
The Academy hosts a varied programme of rock, indie, alternative music, tribute performances and special events, attracting both established artists and emerging talent.
With standing areas and a lively concert atmosphere, it offers a different experience from Dorset's traditional seated theatres.
Accessibility: Arrangements depend on the event and performance space. Visitors should contact the venue directly about accessible tickets and entry arrangements.
Address: 570 Christchurch Road, Boscombe, Bournemouth, BH1 4BH
The Regent Centre has been part of Christchurch's cultural scene since 1931, providing an intimate setting for cinema, theatre, live music and community entertainment.
Located on Christchurch High Street, this historic venue combines the charm of a traditional theatre with a varied programme of contemporary performances.
Visitors can enjoy everything from live bands and tribute acts to comedy, drama, ballet screenings and film releases.
The Regent is particularly appealing for anyone who prefers a smaller venue where performers feel close to the audience.
Alongside national touring acts, it continues to support community productions and local creative talent.
Accessibility: Step-free arrangements and designated wheelchair seating are available in the stalls. The Circle is not step-free accessible. Contact the venue for current access arrangements.
Address: 51 High Street, Christchurch, BH23 1AS
Telephone: 01202 499199
Lighthouse is one of Dorset's leading cultural venues, offering an impressive variety of live performances, concerts, theatre and film.
Located close to Poole's Dolphin Shopping Centre and transport connections, Lighthouse is home to several performance spaces, including a large concert hall, theatre, cinema and smaller studios.
It is particularly well known for its association with the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, giving audiences opportunities to experience orchestral music alongside other concerts and performances.
The programme also includes contemporary dance, comedy, drama, family shows, pantomimes and independent cinema.
With multiple spaces under one roof, Lighthouse offers one of the broadest entertainment programmes in the county.
Accessibility: Designated wheelchair spaces and hearing assistance systems are available in selected auditoriums. Visitors should check the arrangements for their chosen performance.
Address: 21 Kingland Road, Poole, BH15 1UG
Telephone: 01202 280000
The Tivoli Theatre in Wimborne is a beautifully preserved entertainment venue, welcoming audiences since 1936.
Originally built as a cinema and theatre, the Tivoli continues to offer a varied programme of live performances and film screenings.
Visitors can enjoy tribute concerts, comedy, musical theatre, live bands, drama and seasonal productions in an intimate auditorium.
Its traditional surroundings provide a charming alternative to larger concert venues, making it a popular choice for relaxed evenings of entertainment.
The Tivoli is located in the centre of Wimborne, within walking distance of cafés, pubs and restaurants.
Accessibility: Wheelchair spaces are available in designated stalls positions and must be booked through the Box Office. Contact the venue directly for seating and access requirements.
Address: West Borough, Wimborne Minster, BH21 1LT
Telephone: 01202 885566
View upcoming events at The Tivoli Theatre
Brownsea Open Air Theatre offers one of Dorset's most distinctive summer theatre experiences, bringing Shakespeare's plays to life in an outdoor setting.
Founded in 1964, the volunteer-run company has a long history of producing Shakespearean performances and supporting charitable causes.
Although the theatre originally staged its productions on Brownsea Island, the company relocated to Canford School in 2025, providing an alternative setting for its annual performances.
The temporary outdoor auditorium features tiered seating arranged around the stage, creating an intimate atmosphere reminiscent of its former island venue.
Visitors can also enjoy a picnic in the designated grounds before the performance, making it a memorable way to spend a summer evening.
The company staged The Tempest at Canford School in August 2026.
Future productions: The 2027 programme and venue arrangements should be checked directly with the organisers when announced.
2026 venue: Canford School, Canford Magna, Wimborne, BH21 3BS
Weymouth Pavilion brings theatre, music, comedy and entertainment to one of Dorset's best-known seaside towns.
Situated at the southern end of Weymouth's Esplanade, the venue offers a welcoming combination of live entertainment and coastal surroundings.
The programme includes touring theatre, musicals, comedy shows, tribute acts, concerts, family performances and seasonal pantomimes.
The Pavilion also hosts film screenings and special events, providing entertainment for visitors and residents throughout the year.
Its location overlooking the harbour and seafront makes it easy to combine a performance with a day exploring Weymouth.
Address: The Esplanade, Weymouth, DT4 8ED
Telephone: 01305 783225
The Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis is one of Dorset's most atmospheric smaller venues, offering live entertainment close to the Jurassic Coast.
Located near the seafront, this historic theatre welcomes a varied programme of music, comedy, theatre and community performances.
Visitors can enjoy performances from touring musicians, comedians and theatre companies, alongside events celebrating local creative talent.
The theatre's intimate setting provides an opportunity to enjoy performances in a more personal atmosphere than a large concert hall.
Its location also makes it easy to combine an evening at the theatre with time exploring Lyme Regis and its independent restaurants.
Address: Church Street, Lyme Regis, DT7 3QB
Telephone: 01308 424901
The Rex Cinema in Wareham offers a charming alternative to modern multiplex cinemas, with its historic surroundings and strong community character.
Run as a not-for-profit independent cinema, The Rex is known for its carefully preserved interior and welcoming atmosphere.
Although primarily a cinema rather than a conventional concert hall, it also offers occasional special screenings and live performance experiences.
The programme includes contemporary films, classic cinema and selected broadcasts of theatre, opera and other performances.
It's a lovely option for anyone interested in film heritage or looking for a more traditional cinema experience.
Address: 14 West Street, Wareham, BH20 4JX
Telephone: 01929 552778
Dorset's cultural offering extends beyond its larger theatres and concert halls.
Artsreach brings professional performances to villages and smaller communities across Dorset, helping make theatre, music and cultural events accessible beyond the county's main towns.
Its changing programme includes touring theatre, live music, storytelling, dance and family entertainment, with performances taking place in village halls and other community venues.
This is a particularly good option for anyone looking to discover smaller productions or support rural arts.
Explore upcoming Artsreach performances
Bridport Electric Palace is another historic Dorset venue, offering concerts, comedy, theatre and special events in a distinctive Art Deco setting.
Located on South Street in Bridport, it provides an intimate atmosphere for audiences looking to enjoy live performance away from the county's larger towns.
Whether you're visiting a major concert venue or a smaller independent theatre, a little planning can help make the evening more enjoyable.
Most venues publish their events calendars several months in advance, although new performances and additional dates are regularly announced.
Check the official website for current performances, ticket prices, running times and age restrictions.
Pantomimes, major concerts, touring comedians and popular musicals can attract considerable demand.
Booking in advance is particularly useful for weekend performances and special events.
Dorset's historic theatres offer plenty of character, but some buildings have restrictions on access to balconies, circles and upper seating areas.
Visitors requiring wheelchair spaces, step-free access or hearing assistance should contact the venue before purchasing tickets.
Town-centre venues in Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch are often accessible by public transport, while rural and outdoor performances may require more planning.
It's worth checking nearby parking, evening bus and train services, and expected finishing times before travelling.
One of the pleasures of visiting Dorset's theatres is the opportunity to enjoy the surrounding towns.
Whether it's dinner in Bournemouth before a concert, drinks in Christchurch ahead of a show at The Regent or a seaside walk before visiting Weymouth Pavilion, there's plenty to explore alongside the entertainment.
Dorset offers a wonderful range of theatre, live music and entertainment throughout the year, from major concert halls and historic theatres to community cinemas and outdoor summer productions.
Whether you love West End musicals, orchestral music, independent theatre or lively tribute concerts, there's always another venue or performance to discover.
For the latest show dates and tickets, we recommend checking each venue's official website.
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