Bluey's Big Play is a live stage show featuring the much-loved Heeler family from the Emmy award-winning Bluey cartoon series. Bluey's Big Play Bournemouth will take place at the Bournemouth Pavilion for four days in August 2026, offering a theatre experience designed for toddlers and their families. This page covers what the show is, what happens during the performance, how to get there and buy tickets, and ideas for combining it with other activities in Bournemouth.
What Bluey's Big Play Bournemouth is about
Bluey's Big Play adapts the popular Australian animated series Bluey for the stage, using puppetry rather than actors in costumes. Created by Joe Brumm, the show follows Bluey, her sister Bingo, and their dad Bandit through an ordinary family day. The story centres on Bluey and Bingo trying to get their dad off the sofa and away from his phone so they can all play together. The production features original music by Joff Bush, the series' composer, and brings the characters vividly to life with detailed puppets.
The show has received critical acclaim, including a nomination for an Olivier Award, which is unusual for a production aimed at very young children. It remains faithful to the warmth and humour of the TV series, making it appealing to both toddlers and the adults who watch Bluey with them. Bluey's Big Play Bournemouth promises to be a highlight of the local family entertainment calendar.
What happens during Bluey's Big Play Bournemouth
The performance runs for about 50 minutes without an interval, keeping pace with the attention spans of young children. It includes plenty of music, singing, and playful moments designed to engage the audience actively. Children are encouraged to move and dance rather than sit still, creating an interactive and lively atmosphere.
At the end of Bluey's Big Play Bournemouth, some children are invited on stage to join a game of Keepy Uppy with balloons and bubbles. This segment is a highlight for many families and often sparks conversation on the journey home. The show welcomes all ages, but children aged 18 months and under are admitted free. Parents should check the venue’s age guidance if attending with very young toddlers.
For families looking for other child-friendly activities in the area, thebournemouthguide.com offers a detailed Bournemouth with kids guide covering indoor and outdoor options.
How to get to Bournemouth Pavilion and buy tickets for Bluey's Big Play Bournemouth
Bournemouth Pavilion is located on Westover Road, close to the Lower Gardens and just a five-minute walk from Bournemouth Pier and the seafront. The theatre is an art deco building with a prominent position above the gardens. It is easily accessible on foot from Bournemouth town centre and the railway station, which is about a 15-minute walk away.
Several car parks are available nearby, including the Westover Road Car Park and the Lansdowne Car Park, both within a short walk. However, parking spaces fill quickly in August, so public transport or walking is recommended where possible.
Performance times vary across the four days, typically scheduled as daytime matinees. It is important to check your ticket for the exact date and time. Tickets for Bluey's Big Play Bournemouth are sold through the official Bluey's Big Play website at https://www.bluey.tv/blueys-big-play/ and authorised sellers such as Ticketmaster and Live Nation. Family shows during school holidays tend to sell out fast, so early booking is advisable.
Additional travel details for reaching Bournemouth by road or rail can be found on thebournemouthguide.com’s travel information page.
Where to watch from and seating considerations at Bluey's Big Play Bournemouth
The Bournemouth Pavilion offers a traditional theatre seating arrangement with good sightlines from all seats. The auditorium is designed to be welcoming for families with young children, with facilities including accessible seating and baby-changing rooms.
Parents should note that Bluey's Big Play Bournemouth encourages audience participation, so seating near the front may offer a more immersive experience for children keen to engage with the puppets and performers. However, all seats provide a clear view of the stage.
The theatre’s location above the Lower Gardens means there are pleasant outdoor spaces to relax in before or after the show. The venue also has a café and bar for refreshments.
Combining Bluey's Big Play Bournemouth with a day out in Bournemouth
With performances finishing by early afternoon, Bluey's Big Play Bournemouth fits well into a full day of family activities. The nearby Bournemouth Beach is a short downhill walk from the Pavilion, offering seven miles of golden sand ideal for paddling and play. The beach is patrolled by RNLI lifeguards during the summer months, ensuring safety for children.
Families can also explore the Lower Gardens directly below the theatre. These gardens feature play areas, water features, and open lawns suitable for picnics. For a longer outing, Boscombe Chine Gardens is about 2 miles east along the coast, with a model railway and mini-golf.
When hunger strikes, Bournemouth town centre and the seafront provide a wide range of dining options. From casual cafés serving ice cream and snacks to family-friendly restaurants offering varied menus, there are choices to suit all tastes and budgets. Thebournemouthguide.com’s places to eat page lists recommended venues across the town.
For visitors travelling from further afield, staying overnight allows a more relaxed schedule. The guide’s hotels in Bournemouth page includes accommodation near the Pavilion and seafront. Families can extend their visit with the 48 hours in Bournemouth itinerary, which outlines a two-day plan of the town’s highlights.
Planning for families attending Bluey's Big Play Bournemouth
Bluey's Big Play is designed with toddlers and young children in mind, making it a suitable outing for families with children aged from around 2 to 6 years. The show’s short duration and interactive format help maintain young children’s interest.
Parents should consider arrival times to allow for parking or walking and settling children before the performance. The Pavilion’s facilities include accessible entrances and toilets, as well as quiet spaces if children need a break.
Bringing snacks and drinks is allowed in the auditorium, though the venue’s café offers refreshments before and after the show. It is advisable to dress children in comfortable clothing suitable for movement and play.
For additional family activities in Bournemouth, the guide’s Things to Do section offers ideas for attractions, parks, and indoor play centres.
Bluey's Big Play Bournemouth and local cultural context
Bluey has become a global phenomenon since its debut, with its stories reflecting everyday family life and imaginative play. The live show continues this tradition, bringing the characters to life in a way that resonates with local audiences.
Bournemouth’s cultural scene includes a range of family-friendly theatre and events throughout the year. The Pavilion regularly hosts children’s shows, music, and dance performances, contributing to the town’s reputation as a welcoming destination for families.
Visitors interested in other cultural attractions can explore the Attractions page for museums, gardens, and the famous Bournemouth Pier.
Dates & times
- 6–9 August 2026