Brighton Fringe: A Venue a Day

Brighton Fringe Festival, 1st - 31st May 2015! Twitter Facebook Pinterest Brighton Fringe

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Hotel Pelirocco: 9-10 Regency Square, Hove, BN1 2FG

Celebrating its 15th birthday this year, Hotel Pelirocco is an independent boutique hotel located in Regency Square. From the beginning the idea was to create something completely different from the traditional hotel offer in Brighton. So this is why all the rooms have been themed in collaboration with local businesses and are mainly related to music culture – guests can choose among a Dolly Parton dedicated room, a Motown themed one and many others. During Brighton Fringe Hotel Pelirocco is hosting the site-specific play ‘In a Better Place’ - conceived after a stay at the hotel, and being performed in their bar and in one of the bedrooms - and the comedy ‘Johnny Kingshott: Alternative’.  They will also celebrate their 15th anniversary with monthly events and a special exhibition featuring 5 designers, 5 illustrators and 5 photographers. If you are wondering where the Hotel took its name, it comes from one of the founders and his pseudonym: Dj Pelirrojo, meaning ‘gingerhead’. To find out more about Hotel Pelirocco and its next events, check http://www.hotelpelirocco.co.uk/ To check out the Brighton Fringe events that will take place here http://goo.gl/lBhgc1

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The Verdict: 159 Edward Street, Brighton, BN2 0JB

Located near two courts and Brighton Police Station, it’s no wonder The Verdict took this name when it opened 3 years ago as a jazz club. Since then, it has gone through some major changes related to the management and the introduction of delicious food on their menu. The café is bright and welcoming and John (the manager) has two hidden spots for his clients: a wonderful back garden - perfect for a tea under the sun – and an acoustic space in the basement, originally built and designed to host jazz concerts but now used for many other shows, from stand-up comedy to folk gigs.

The Verdict takes part in Brighton Fringe for the first time this year and hopes to be more involved in the local community, building meaningful relationships with audiences and artists beyond the jazz niche. As a matter of fact, Short and Girlie Productions (who will showcase their improv comedy here during May) are regularly performing and holding workshops in the venue. For the next months, The Verdict has already many plans: Wednesday jam sessions and Sunday workshops, together with many concerts on Fridays and Saturdays. To find out more about The Verdict and its upcoming events, check http://verdictcafe.com/ To check out the Brighton Fringe events that will take place here http://goo.gl/utDRfL

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SILO: 39 Upper Gardner Street, Brighton, BN1 4AN

Open since October 2014, SILO is a waste free restaurant/bakery/coffee house based on a pre-industrial food system. The philosophy adopted by the executive chef and manager Douglas McMaster relies on local quality products, avoidance of waste and transparency. As a matter of fact, their enormous food composter is proudly on display front of house. Within Brighton Fringe SILO is hosting the exhibition “National Open Art @ SILO”, and aims at becoming part of the community vibe created by the festival. There will be artworks made of waste as well as some others related specifically to the venue. After the Earth Hour celebration and their first wedding reception, SILO is looking forward to host many more events in the upcoming months. To find out more about SILO and its next events, check https://www.facebook.com/silobrighton To check out the Brighton Fringe events that will take place here http://goo.gl/sDzaaq

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Morris & Jacques: 100 St James's Street, Brighton, BN2 1TP

“Hail guest we ask not what thou art. If friend we greet thee hand & heart. If stranger such no longer be. If foe our love shall conquer thee.” This is the saying from Patcham Pylon that welcomes every guest when entering  Morris & Jacques.

Part of Brighton Fringe since 2014, this relaxed and friendly café located in the heart of Kemptown is hosting this year the workshop “Cake and Death” and the literary event “The Genius of Charles Dickens”.

At Morris & Jacques you can find a wide range of local products, no matter if during their famous breakfasts, afternoon teas or for their quarterly wine tastings. The café is also available for private hire and has a lovely back garden.

To find out more about Morris & Jacques, you can visit their website http://www.morrisandjacques.co.uk/

To check out the Brighton Fringe events that will take place here http://goo.gl/e2NSGc

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Bluebird Tea Co.: 41 Gardner Street, Brighton, BN1 1UN

This new Brighton Fringe venue borrows its name from the expression “bluebird sky”, used to describe a cloudless bright blue sky. And this is the exact impression one has entering Bluebird Tea Co.: a colourful, open and inviting tea shop and café, where people can come to drink and buy home-mixed blends, as well as any possible item you need to prepare the perfect tea. Born as an online shop, Krisi and her partner (who manage Bluebird Tea Co. together) decided to turn it into a physical business after they came to Brighton for the Food Festival two years ago and saw the perfect location for their tea mixes. At that time Brighton Fringe was on as well, they took part in some of the events and enjoyed it so much that they decided to be one of the venues this year, in order to have fun and become more involved in Brighton community life. The shop, fully built and furnished with recycled crafted materials, regularly hosts tea mixology workshops and tastings. This Friday, however, there will be a special live music night to celebrate the 1st birthday of Bluebird Tea Co. To find out more about Bluebird Tea Co. and its upcoming events, check http://bluebirdteaco.com/ To check out the Brighton Fringe events that will take place here http://goo.gl/jgthqf

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Sidewinder: 65 Upper St James's Street, Kemp Town, Brighton, BN2 1PJ

Sidewinder is a lovely pub situated in Kemp Town. It is famous for its beers, Mexican cuisine and tequila, but also for its two gardens perfect for enjoying a cocktail in the sun. Having taken part in Brighton Fringe in 2014, Sidewinder will host two events this year: the theatre piece/search party ‘Missing in Brighton’, and the ‘Sidewinder Fringe Festival!’ - a whole weekend of live music, burlesque, art battles, body-doodling and much more. Hosting these performances means attracting more people outside of the city centre (where many Brighton Fringe shows take place) to a different area of Brighton. As sunny days and longer nights are approaching, Sidewinder has many plans for this summer; for instance, the next big event will be the Summer Garden Launch Tea Party taking place later this April. To find out more about Sidewinder and its upcoming events, check http://www.drinkinbrighton.co.uk/sidewinder To check out the Brighton Fringe events that will take place here http://goo.gl/DZG6Fs

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Angel House: 1 Brunswick Terrace, Hove, BN3 1HN

Right on the Brighton/Hove boundary, Angel House was built in the 1820s by the Regency architect Charles Busby. During its long history, the house has been through many owners and had many different purposes. In the 80s the anecdotal book “Breakfast in Brighton” was written here, claiming many 60s rock stars have crossed its threshold, among which is John Lennon. Though, we have evidence that last year Paul Weller played some of his classic songs at the piano, while being there for a photo shoot. After three years of renovation works, the manager of Angel House wishes to (re)open it to Brighton’s cultural scene by taking part in Brighton Fringe with Regency dance events and classes. This venue is usually used for private hiring (capacity around 80 people), so take advantage of this rare opportunity to peek inside. During the upcoming months, Angel House is hosting many networking and food events, as well as wedding and conferences. To find out more about this venue, check http://www.angel-house.com/ To check out the Brighton Fringe events that will take place here http://goo.gl/orzppS

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Artista Studio & Gallery: 42 Waterloo Street, Hove, BN3 1AY

Artista Studio & Gallery was opened last year by the enthusiastic photographer Alex during Brighton Photo Fringe with a month-long group exhibition. Despite being a former run-down restaurant, he has been able to transform it into a really vibrant and inspiring place. Open for only several months, Artista has already hosted a wide range of events – from supper clubs, to spoken word nights and networking events. The venue includes a bar, a shooting studio and a cosy basement, and is available to hire for various purposes. During Brighton Fringe, the manager hopes to keep on with variety, showcasing many different events appealing to a varied audience. Currently, it is open only for specific events, but they hope to keep it open from Thursday to Sunday in May, and then for the whole summer. To find out more about this venue and its upcoming events, check http://artistastudio.co.uk/ To check out the Brighton Fringe events that will take place here http://goo.gl/cnSCXj

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Brighton Buddhist Centre: 17 Tichborne Street, Brighton, BN1 1UR

Founded around 40 years ago, the Brighton Buddhist Centre is located in a four-storey building in the heart of the city. They regularly hold meditation, Buddhism and yoga classes. The centre has been committed to arts and culture for many years, thinking it as a way to refine the spirit and support meditation, just as their courses do. They have been part of Brighton Fringe for several years now, trying to let people get to know the centre without committing to their philosophy. They have hosted many different art forms - from art exhibitions, to classical music concerts and comedy. Among the most memorable past events, a 10 hour storytelling marathon and the play ‘Meeting of Minds’, recreating the encounters between a hypnotist and the composer Sergei Rachmaninov. Brighton Buddhist Centre’s events have always been run by Buddhists, as a way to celebrate their community. This year you will be able to experience a puppet show, as well as a jazz concert and a writing workshop. To find out more about Brighton Buddhist Centre, you can visit their website http://www.brightonbuddhistcentre.co.uk/ To check out the Brighton Fringe events that will take place here http://goo.gl/Fm7Ali

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Unlimited: 10 Church Street, Brighton, BN1 1US

Unlimited is an independent design shop, studio and gallery in Church Street. Coming from London, this husband and wife team are doing Brighton Fringe for the first time, but have already taken part in Artists Open Houses as well as in the famous Pick Me Up festival. They moved their studio in 2013 to a former plastic merchants shop, in order to have more space for both the studio and the connected shop. Through their mix of design and curating, they have brought a unique and very contemporary offer to Brighton. Unlimited plans for 2015 include the touring exhibition “Four Play”, waiting to be brought to Shoreditch, Brighton and abroad; monthly showcases with new artists and a range of different products, from ceramics to wood and textile; but also a collaboration with a brand new Brighton-based beer shop. To find out more about this venue and its upcoming events, check https://www.unlimitedshop.co.uk/ To check out the Brighton Fringe events that will take place here http://goo.gl/8TWFZm

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Brighton Open Market: Marshalls Row, Brighton, BN1 4JU

Brighton Open Market has been in Marshalls Row for almost 90 years, but it got a new look just last July with a big re-opening and a unique mix of trade and creativity – now it features 45 permanent market stalls on the ground floor and 12 art and craft studios upstairs, together with spots for temporary stalls as well. Managed by Ethical Properties, the Market hosts independent businesses in a community space with many different personalities, and is open to welcome more creative opportunities. It is part of a larger regeneration program for the London Road area, aimed at bringing more people to this part of the city and creating a lively vibe. To celebrate its 1st birthday many events have been organized – not only the Brighton Fringe show ‘Brightonshed TimeHop’, but also Artists Open Houses, an independent record labels fair during The Great Escape, and regular vintage fairs and antique markets. To find out more about this venue and its upcoming events, check: http://www.brightonopenmarket.co.uk/ To check out the Brighton Fringe events that will take place here: http://goo.gl/hRhaCw

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Emporium Theatre: 88 London Road, Brighton, BN1 4JF

Presented as “Brighton’s only professional producing theatre”, the Emporium Theatre opened in May 2013 to give the city a small scale space (100-200 seats) for independent productions with the patronage of Alan Rickman.  Along with a mix of dance, drama and music, the Emporium hosts on its stage pantomimes and cabaret too. Classes, workshops and a rehearsal studio are also available.

To be financially sustainable, the managers – James and Gary – decided to open a café/bar to let visitors have a nice cup of coffee or a slice of cake. The café is open all day every day and with its cosy atmosphere and large spaces brings back the past of this building. As a matter of fact, the Emporium was once a Methodist church and a hangout for travellers.

For the first time at the Brighton Fringe, they have carefully selected only three shows – ‘May-we-go-round?’, ‘Puss in Boots’ and ‘Thirst of the Salt Mountain’ - in order to be able to give them full support, a rehearsal space, and the right time to grow and possibly get reviews.

For the upcoming months, Emporium is preparing a musical summer season with an adaptation of “The Jungle Book”.

For more info about this venue: http://emporiumbrighton.com/

To find out more about the Brighton Fringe events taking place at Emporium: http://goo.gl/hAV6vC

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Peter Joannou Male Grooming: 40 Middle Street, Brighton, BN1 1AL

Barber and singer for a long time, Peter Joannou opened his grooming salon in Middle Street (Brighton) two and a half years ago. Since then, it has been famous for its nice atmosphere, enjoyable music and good service. Part of the Fringe since last year, Peter - Brighton’s Singing Barber - offers songs and haircuts that can be enjoyed from the street-facing window, which he said to be “a natural and perfect stage”. This can be the right opportunity to have a good time by listening to songs like “Mambo italiano” and “Arrivederci Roma”, while helping for a good cause, since donations will be accepted to support cancer research. Models are needed, but you are also welcome to get a spontaneous haircut! To find out more about Peter’s grooming salon, check: http://www.peterjoannou.co.uk/

And to know more about the performances at this venue, http://goo.gl/GBsELR

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Werks Central Studios: 15-17 Middle Street, Brighton, BN1 1AL

Having been known as Brighton Media Centre during its previous involvement with Brighton Fringe which dates back to 2007, Werks Central Studios is still the same fantastically versatile space just with a newname and new management. With a great performance space and separate exhibitionarea, as well as an alcohol licence, this venue is used for a variety of different events and performance styles including art exhibitions, workshops, video and photo shoots and small theatre productions for which the space can hold around fifty audience members.

For the last two years, the venue has hosted the well-known production of ‘Laurel and Hardy’, starring Philip Hutchinson and Tony Carpenter, which has led the audience to tears on both occasions. This year, the writer of last year’s ‘Hats Off to Laurel and Hardy’ returns with a new show, ‘Mr Merrick the Elephant Man’, a retelling of the classic tragic story, while you can also expect to catch the venue’s first ever kids’ show ‘The Little Leaf’ as well as ‘2095: A Mind Odyssey’ by David Weedall of Second Impression Theatre Co. There’s a lot going on at Werks Central Studios this May, so don’t miss out!

Find out more at: http://www.mediacentre.org/

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Jubilee Library: Jubilee Street Brighton, BN1 1GE

Opened in 2005, Jubilee Library will celebrate its 10thanniversary on World Book Day in March this year. Since opening, the library has won a number of awards, including the Prime Minister’s Best Public Building Award and the Green Apple Environment Award. With over a million visitors last year, Jubilee is the second busiest library in the UK and its not surprising considering the endless selection of books, including an amazing rare collection dating back to the 13th century, as well as the wonderful children’s space featuring a beautiful wall display by artist Kate Malone, which regularly hosts class visits from local schools. Jubilee Library also offers a great space for exhibitions and events, such as regular Baby Boogie sessions and story times for kids as well as adult book clubs and film screenings.

As part of Brighton Fringe in the past, Jubilee Library has hosted many events and activities including ‘The Incredible Book Eating Boy’ and an illustration workshop from Carlos Garde Martin. This year, expect to find the third instalment of the library’s ‘Evolving in Conversation’ project which began in the summer last year and aims to explore how individuals can change society. As well as this, the library will be the venue for a secret event, so keep your eyes peeled for what that could be when May rolls along.

Find out more at: www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/jubilee-library

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Brighthelm Church and Community Centre: North Road, Brighton, BN1 1YD

In 1987, the Brighthelm Community Centre was built around the chapel that has sat at the top of North Road since 1825. Having recentlygone through a major refurbishment, the centre now holds a number of different spacesincluding meeting rooms, a fully stocked café, a pre-school and multiple rehearsal spaces and dressing rooms. The chapel, used for weekly Sundayservices, offers a beautifully open space, which can be used for a number of different purposes, as demonstrated by the huge variety of events that will be hosted at Brighthelm during the Fringe this year.

Last year the centre hosted a number of notable performances, including comedy from ‘Kevin Eldon and Some Colleagues’ as well as popular kids’ shows such as ‘Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People’s Ears’. This year, Brighthelm will welcome Brighton University Drama Society’s production of Terry Pratchett’s ‘Weird Sisters’ as well as political events including a Palestinian solidarity campaign. Just a short walk from Brighton Station, the auditorium holds 230 people seated and 360 standing audience members.

Find out more at: http://www.brighthelm.org.uk/

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Exeter Street Hall: 16-17 Exeter Street, Brighton BN1 5PG

Located in a small suburb just above Brighton station, Exeter Street Hall is the result of a group of residents coming together to hold on to an important part of their community. Built 137 years ago as a Sunday school, the building went up for sale just over two years ago and rather than allowing it be sold to developers or an outside organisation, the local residents joined forces and raised funds to collectively buy the property. It is now managed by volunteers, who hire it out for a number of purposes including yoga and pilates workshops, youth groups and kids clubs, as well as smaller scale theatre productions.

This is the first year for Exeter Street Hall as part of Brighton Fringe and they have something particularly exciting in store, with award-winning director and performer Jonathan Brown bringing three one-man shows to an incredibly lucky audience. The venue has the capacity to hold an audience of 100 people seated and is also licensed to sell alcohol on the premises. Tucked away just outside of Brighton, Exeter Street Hall is a real hidden gem just a short walk away from the main station. This one is not to be missed.

Find out more at: http://www.exeterstreethall.org/