The Pavilion Pub is open – and almost anything can happen – in this packed variety show for the summer season.
The seaside show is something of an institution, and Gorleston Pavilion’s 2026 version keeps many of the traditional elements while adding a few new twists.
There is still plenty of song and dance, some groan-inducing Dad jokes, and a splattering of magic, but they are weaved together with a gentle narrative.
Cromer-based singer Eddie Bushell is the pub landlord at the Pavilion Pub, with the events of the day giving a context for many of the sketches: the arrival of a jukebox sparks off a Queen medley, a function room Zumba booking gives an excuse for some lycra-clad electronica, and planning for a quiz night sparks a modern re-heat of the old Two Ronnies’ Mastermind sketch.
It’s done smoothly and with lots of attention to detail thanks to creator and director Joe Ringer, plus the tight cast, with Bushell and ‘sidekick’ magician Joshua Pickering forming the core. Pickering is a particular delight, with his straight-jacket escape full of nice surprises.
Vocal duties largely fall to Ben Carruthers and Nina Taylor, both showing great range with songs ranging from Irish classics, through country, to Coldplay. Carruthers has the bigger stage presence – particularly his commanding appearance as Freddie Mercury for Day-O! – but that’s not to do down Taylor.
Joined by Pickering the two do a particularly charming performance of Something Stupid, with a neatly choreographed piece of musical comedy hitting every button.
The four-strong dance troupe (Sophie Howman Payne, Rebecca Searjeant, Lizzie Stanley, and Brooke Martin) add plenty of dazzle, with Searjeant also leading on some vocals and a crowd-pleasing impromptu line dance lesson.
Altogether it makes for a light, fun, night of entertainment, likely to leave you humming a few tunes and happier then when you went in. Just like a good night at the pub.
- The All-New Summer Show 2026 continues at Gorleston Pavilion until 10 September 2026, with shows on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Tickets £20-£27.