Charity variety show fundraiser dazzles Mayflower Theatre audiences
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
A variety show in support of local cardiac charity Heartbeat dazzled audiences at Southampton’s Mayflower Theatre last Sunday, delivering an evening filled with live music, comedy, and a diverse range of performances.
‘Variety From the Heart’ brought the stage to life with appearances from emerging local talent, including Phoenix Performing Arts, Sing Now Choir, and Spot-On Productions.
The spectacular evening was hosted by comedy wordsmith Lloyd Hollett, while ventriloquist and comedian Max Fulham - who is returning to Mayflower Theatre for their 2026 pantomime – Robin Hood, alongside Ashley Banjo & Diversity - kept audiences entertained.
The night’s grand finale was delivered by 2005 X-Factor winner and 2025 Strictly contestant Shayne Ward, ending the evening on a high note with a collection of show-stopping songs.
A final total of just over £40,000 before costs was raised, funding renovations of the heart failure unit at University Hospital Southampton and Renovations to Rotary Heartbeat House.
CEO of Heartbeat Mark Ind said: “’Variety from the Heart’ was a wonderful evening for the whole family, filled with joy and laughter designed to lift the spirits. Our aim was to bring together experienced performers and emerging local talent to celebrate creativity while raising funds to continue supporting our cardiac community.
“Proceeds will go towards 2 incredible renovation projects that we are funding, the Heart Failure Unit to help it become the second dedicated Heart Failure Unit in England and the largest in the UK, and the renovation of Rotary Heartbeat House to be more accessible, inclusive, and better suited to the diverse needs of the families who stay with us”
Mark added: “Events like this simply wouldn’t be possible without the support and partnerships of our corporate sponsors, including Mayflower Theatre, Peter Cooper Motor Group, Barratt Homes, PTS Compliance, Paris Smith LLP, Hobbs the Printer and New Forest Water. We are also incredibly grateful to our supporters, donors and everyone who attends our events, as their involvement is what truly makes them so special.”
Chief Executive of Mayflower Theatre Michael Ockwell said: “The show certainly lived up to its name! We had a terrific turnout on the night and the final total raised is remarkable. Better still, we’re placing some exceptional local talent in front of new audiences and giving them a chance to shine.”
