Hundreds of Hampshire schoolchildren take centre stage as Fareham Live celebrates community success

Hundreds of schoolchildren across Hampshire have been given the chance to experience life in the spotlight, with Fareham Live helping young performers showcase their talents on a professional theatre stage.

The venue, which forms part of Fareham's ongoing town centre regeneration, is being praised for creating opportunities for children, young musicians and community groups.

New figures released by Fareham Borough Council on Friday 16 October reveal how the theatre has already become an important part of the local community.

A partnership with FunKidz has involved 32 primary schools and 300 children, culminating in three performances watched by more than 1,200 people.

Meanwhile, Hampshire Music Service has helped another 132 young musicians from 31 primary schools experience the excitement of performing on a professional stage.

The theatre's Summer Youth Project has also provided opportunities for 71 performers aged between eight and 18, alongside seven young people involved in technical theatre.

The youngsters took part in an intensive two-week programme of rehearsals and performances, developing their confidence and gaining experience of working in a theatre environment.

Between April and September 2026, Fareham Live also provided a platform for local and regional organisations including Fareham Musical Society, Stagecoach, Upstage Theatre, Kim Ellen School of Dance and FunKidz.

The venue is now being recognised for its contribution to the town, not just as an entertainment destination, but as somewhere residents can develop skills, explore creative careers and take part in community activities.

Councillor Frair Burgess, Fareham Borough Council's Executive Member for Leisure and Community, said: “Fareham Live was always intended to be much more than somewhere to come and see a show. It is an important part of our plans to regenerate the town centre, bringing people into Fareham and giving residents more reasons to spend time here. What is particularly exciting is what is happening at grassroots level.

“Local children are performing on a professional stage, young people are developing new skills and local groups are being given opportunities right here in Fareham. It is becoming a real part of our community and that is exactly what we want to see.”

The theatre is also helping young people explore careers in the creative industries through work experience, technical training and opportunities to learn from professionals.

Its community programme has included support for Fareham Pride and hosting the Two Colours Ukrainian Choir during Refugee Week.

Sheena Hulme, Theatre Director at Fareham Live, said: “We want Fareham Live to feel like the community’s theatre. Whether someone is performing on a professional stage for the first time, discovering a new career or showcasing local talent, it is about creating opportunities for people to get involved. We’re proud of the professional productions we bring to Fareham, but equally proud of the work happening at grassroots level.”

Looking ahead, Fareham Live plans to expand its community activities through workshops, school projects, youth programmes and a community choir.

The venue is also expected to continue supporting events in the town centre, helping attract visitors and providing more opportunities for local performers.

For hundreds of Hampshire youngsters, the theatre is already proving to be somewhere they can take their first steps into the world of performing arts – and perhaps even discover a future career on stage.

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