As the summer approaches, the Lights in Andover is gearing up for an action packed summer of events. 

For the first time ever in the area, The Lights is hosting a comedy festival (beginning on July 8) with 10 comedians across five nights, all of whom will be going on to play at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival later in the year.

On July 20, 10 amazing local bands will be playing for one night only in the Headliners show.

Later in September, Jennie Ryan, known better as The Vixen on The Chase, is holding a show full of stories of her life and even some singing.

Soon after in October, hit comedian Omid Djalili is playing multiple nights.

In the heart of Hampshire, The Lights holds upwards of 200 community and professional shows a year, from comedians to tribute acts, as well as being a café and local hub. 

The theatre has a wide variety of shows from the likes of Michael McIntyre, Rob Beckett and BGT magician Richard Jones.

The Lights is divided into two areas: an intimate, classy auditorium and the Arena which has a bar - perfect for a night with a music act.

Hampshire Chronicle: Value for money: The Lights, Andover.

By day the bar becomes the Atrium Café and is a bright space full of comfy seats for the local community to enjoy.

The site is entirely accessible with a team of friendly and helpful staff.

The multi-purpose venue is also used for dance classes in studios, parent and baby groups, business conferences and more. 

The Lights is a cultural staple of the town and has built a positive reputation for delivering high quality shows for all ages, with a variety of genres and many big names, all within an intimate space.

The venue hosts comedians, such as Miles Jupp and Ria Lina in June and Richard Herring in July, and both tribute and local music acts regularly, like the 50s/60s music band Rave On coming in September.

However, its diversity of events means there are other things to see from special interest talks, such as zoologist Megan McCubbin next month, and the interactive show Solve-Along-A-Murder-She-Wrote later this year.

Tracey McKenzie-Robinson, Venue Manager at The Lights said: "The venue has a broad and varied programme which aims to provide something for everyone.

"The team works hard to provide a warm welcome, and this, coupled with the variety of the programme and our excellent coffee and cakes, makes it the perfect spot to visit in Andover, whether by day or for an evening of entertainment."

For more information about The Lights or to book tickets click here. 

  • This article was written by Jamie Slack, from Peter Symonds College, as part of Newsquest's Young Reporter Scheme.