Jason Donovan-led Rocky Horror Show to open Fareham Live

The Rocky Horror Show starring Jason Donovan will open the inaugural season of Fareham Live, a new venue operated by Trafalgar Theatres.

The 800-seat venue is currently under construction and will launch as a multi-purpose facility in September 2024. It forms part of Fareham council’s multi-million-pound plans to regenerate the town centre.

Donovan, whose stage credits include Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Priscilla Queen of the Desert and Grease, stars as Dr Frank N Furter in the cult classic musical, a role he also played in Sydney last year.

He said: “I cannot wait to be on stage and to open Fareham Live with the legendary Rocky Horror Show. From the very first performance in London, Richard O’Brien created a show from the wilds of his imagination with incredible music that has now stood the test of time, and an awesome energy that befits its accolades and endurance.”

Christopher Luscombe’s production runs from 1 to 5 October as part of a wider tour.

The opening season also includes visiting shows from Jimmy Carr, Jane McDonald, Anton du Beke, Adam Kay and Sir Ranulph Fiennes. Fareham Live’s pantomime, Cinderella, will star AJ and Curtis Pritchard.

Helen Enright, CEO of Trafalgar Theatres, said: “Launching a brand-new state-of-the-art venue is a rare and special moment presenting exciting opportunity and endless prospects. We’re excited to welcome those early audiences and want to make sure that the whole community has an opportunity to participate.”