Guide to Theatre and Concert Venues in Dorset

For anyone looking to get immersed in a dramatic show, or discover their next favourite singer, these locations offer a range of performances every week that showcase talent both locally and nationally.

Having been Christchurch's cultural centre of music, theatre and cinema since 1931, The Regent Centre continues to exhibit creative and captivating performances each week. The stalls are step-free accessible via either the stair lifts in the foyer or the Fire Door, although access via the latter must be coordinated with the Front of House Team. Access bays are located in Row U. The circle is not step-free accessible. Overall, the theatre holds 505 people, with both Wick Lane Car Park and Regent Way parking located nearby.

Built in the 1920s, Bournemouth's stunning Art Deco Theatre continues to be home to countless concerts and theatrical performances every day. Wheelchair access is possible to the majority of public areas within the Pavilion - with the exception of the Snug Bar, Committee Room, Circle and Circle Bar. Accessible toilets are available, and there is a wheelchair bay in the Auditorium. Bournemouth Pavilion has a first come first served cashless car park located at the front of the building, with eight wide parking bays for disabled drivers.

The 483-seat Tivoli Theatre has been highlighting talented performers since 1936. Wheelchairs can be accommodated in seats B4/5 & B18/19, there are accessible toilets, and the Theatre is able to accommodate for free up to five registered ‘Essential Carers’ per performance. Parking can be easily found at Westfield Close Car Park or Allenview West Car Park.

ADDRESS: 19 West Borough, Wimborne, Dorset BH21 1LT

The Tivoli Theatre is open most days

Live music and entertainment most evenings

CONTACT: 01202 885566

The Tivoli Theatre | Facebook Page

Lighthouse, Poole’s Centre for the Arts, Poole
Location: Kingland Road, Poole

Description: Multi-arts venue, home to Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. Features symphonic concert hall and theatre, showcasing modern dance, music, theatre, comedy, films, and circus acts.

Offering: Diverse, daily performances and creative hub.

Contact: www.lighthousepoole.co.uk

Weymouth Pavilion Theatre, Weymouth
Location: The Esplanade, Weymouth

Description: Historic venue (opened, rebuilt), offering cinema and live theatre, including pantomimes like The Wizard of Oz (Easter). Features café, Piano Bar Restaurant, and daily box office.

Offering: Classic films, new releases, live performances.

Contact: www.weymouthpavilion.com

Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis
Location: Church Street, Lyme Regis

Description: Charming, intimate venue hosting local and touring performances, including theatre, music, and comedy, with community focus.

Offering: Grassroots theatre, small-scale productions.

Contact: www.marinetheatre.com

The Rex Cinema, Wareham
Location: West Street, Wareham

Description: Historic cinema with occasional live theatre, offering unique, intimate setting for local arts groups.

Offering: Primarily films, some live shows.Contact: www.therex.co.uk

Brownsea Open Air Theatre (BOAT)
Location: Canford School, Merley, Wimborne

Description: Shakespearean theatre company performing since, known for open-air productions. Relocates to Canford School with auditorium, free parking, and picnic areas. Volunteer-run, donates profits to charity.

Offering: Annual Shakespeare productions (late July–early August).

Contact: www.brownsea-theatre.co.uk

The theatre is a temporary auditorium with tiered seating in the grounds of Canford School. The layout of the auditorium is very like our previous theatre on Brownsea Island, with seating on three sides.

The theatre site will be open from 5:30pm and patrons are advised to arrive by 7pm. There is a large field where you can picnic before the show.