TE NEWS: READ ALL ABOUT IT!
The latest news from across the Group
Pure Imagination Ignites at The Orchard Theatre
Acacia Sports Hall was buzzing with electric energy this past weekend as 200 young hopefuls descended for the highly anticipated Summer Youth Project (SYP) auditions.
Last month, local performers aged 9 to 19 showcased their talents in a bid to secure a place in this year’s spectacular production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
The atmosphere throughout the day was one of pure excitement. From the soaring notes of the vocal auditions to the high-energy choreography taking place in the rehearsal studios, the dedication of Dartford’s young creative community was on full display.
Performers spent the day singing iconic scores, learning complex dance routines, and reading lines for coveted principal roles, including the enigmatic Willy Wonka and the lucky Golden Ticket winners.
Terri McCann, SYP Producer and Creative Learning Manager said: “The level of talent we saw this weekend was truly world-class. Seeing the passion these local kids bring to the stage is what SYP is all about. Whether they were auditioning for the first time or are returning SYP veterans, the courage and creativity shown were inspiring.”
It’s okay to talk
Andy’s Man Club joined G Live last month to raise vital awareness for their amazing support surrounding men’s wellbeing.
Andy’s Man Club is a men’s suicide prevention charity, offering free to attend peer-to-peer support groups across the United Kingdom and online. The charity aims to end the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and help men through the power of conversation.
They operate a network of face-to-face groups nationwide, stretching from the South-West of England, into Wales and up to the North of Scotland, and online groups for people who are further afield.
A huge thank you to the G Live team who are looking forward to working with the them on future projects.
Shane Richie and Faye Tozer to headline this year’s Cliffs Pavilion pantomime
Southend Theatres have announced that television, recording, musical theatre and pantomime star Shane Richie and Steps singer and musical theatre star Faye Tozer will headline this year’s Cliffs Pavilion pantomime, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs from Saturday 12 December 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027.
A celebrated panto legend, Shane returns to Southend to headline the cast as Muddles at the Cliffs Pavilion, marking 14 years since his last pantomime appearance at the venue. Popstar and musical theatre star Faye Tozer, best-known as part of Steps, will join Shane as The Wicked Queen.
Most recently, Shane performed to sell out shows across the UK alongside his long-time pals Brian Conley, Joe Pasquale and Bradley Walsh as one quarter of the The Prat Pack, which returns to Southend in September.
Shane said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be returning to the Cliffs Pavilion in Southend, a venue that always gives me such a warm welcome. It’s been 14 years since I last performed in pantomime here, so it feels very special to be back for Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. I can’t wait to be part of the festive fun alongside the wonderful Faye, share plenty of laughs and a bit of mischief, and meet those brilliant Southend audiences – roll on panto season!”
Faye added: “I can’t wait to unleash my evil and be booed by audiences as the Wicked Queen in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Cliffs Pavilion. I’ve always loved pantomime – it’s such a joyful, magical tradition, and there’s nothing quite like the energy of a panto audience. Working with Shane makes it even more special.”
Supporting future talent in Fareham
Fareham Live is proud to be partnering with ABTT: Association of British Theatre Technicians and Chichester College to deliver the ABTT Bronze Award to technical apprentices.
This partnership will help develop the next generation of backstage professionals through hands-on industry training and nationally recognised qualifications.
Venue Director Sheena Hulme said the Fareham team were excited to be supporting future talent in technical theatre and live events.
