Three major building projects for the Theatre in 2026
Our £12.7 million investment will transform Mayflower Theatre – for everyone who visits, performs, and works here
1
Customer toilets
More toilets, more comfort, easier access for everyone
2
Rehearsal space
A double-height studio where performances are perfected
3
Grid works
Improved backstage systems for bigger shows and better working area
Latest news
You have spoken!
3 November 2025
Our loyal audiences love Mayflower Theatre – but not our toilets! We’re adding more, roomier, and better WC facilities to make every visit more enjoyable.
Spade in the ground
17 June 2025
Construction is now officially underway!
The ground-breaking ceremony saw the Leader of Southampton City Council, Councillor Lorna Fielker, join Mayflower Chief Executive Michael Ockwell and representatives from our contractors GF Holding to celebrate the start of the build.
A connected, creative space
Our new three-storey building – joined on to the back of the theatre – will link our offices, backstage, and front of house, bringing everything – and everyone – closer together.
Our double-height studio will give our 150+ youth theatre production participants a fantastic place to create and rehearse, while new fully accessible dressing rooms at stage level mean we can welcome every performer.
We’re proud of our reputation as a leading arts organisation. With dedicated rehearsal space for touring companies, we’ll continue to be the first stop for the very best West End productions.
Designed for all
Two fully accessible dressing rooms at stage level.
Building connections
A new combined reception and stage door.
Helping us reduce our carbon footprint
A more efficient, high-performing building.
Space to thrive
Creative space to develop and inspire young people.
Look up!
High above the stage, the grid holds the lighting and scenery that bring every show to life.
We’re replacing it to create a safer, more flexible space for our backstage teams.
It will also keep us at the forefront of our industry and ensure we can welcome bigger, more spectacular productions for years to come.
Work is planned from 25 May to 15 August 2026.
Frequently asked questions
The predicted completion date is late Summer 2026.
The theatre will continue to be operational for the majority of the building works. Our programme of shows accomodates a period of time needed to install new technical equipment in the auditorium.
There is no interruption to shows at Mayflower Studios.
We expect a 95% reduction in heating demands associated with ballet rehearsals.
New solar and air source heat pumps will enable the future removal of gas combustion from the theatre.
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