Brighton Open Air Theatre

What's On @ Brighton Open Air Theatre

Jane Eyre

10 Jun 2026 - 13 Jun 2026

The attic burns with secrets untold! In Polly Teale’s bold reimagining, Bertha Mason - the infamous “madwoman in the attic”- steps from the shadows and emerges as the living embodiment of Jane’s suppressed longings and rage. Dive into Jane’s inner world and unearth the psychological battles between passion and restraint, duty and desire. Arresting and emotionally charged, this adaptation breathes raw, urgent life into one of literature’s most enduring heroines - a Jane Eyre like no other. A daring interpretation that reveals the storm beneath Charlotte Brontë’s classic.

Seriously Collins

24 Apr 2026 - 12 Dec 2026

No gimmicks, wigs or gorilla suits Just a genuine tribute to the biggest artist of our generation. Packed with hits and fan favourites, this two-hour extravaganza will take you back to Phil in his hey-day. Featuring the award winning tribute to the man himself, Chris Hayward and his world class 10 piece band, including the "Serious Horn Section". Phil's extensive catalogue has been meticulously studied and arranged to give the ultimate Phil Collins & Genesis experience. Featuring, In the Air Tonight - Another Day in Paradise - Easy Lover - Against All odds - Invisible Touch - Follow You Follow me - I Can't Dance - Sussudio. Seriously Collins is the show that fans deserve.

DS:UK Tribute To Dire Straits

23 Apr 2026 - 18 Dec 2026

1991 brought us the final Dire Straits album - On Every Street - and was commemorated by an enormous 2 year world tour that was one of their most successful to date. In On Every Street, Mark created some classic Dire Straits songs such as Calling Elvis, The Bug and On Every Street and the expanded lineup created yet another 'sound' that remained instantly recognisable as "Dire Straits". Over the past years, DS:UK have become the Dire Straits tribute act that the fans deserve - delivering the music with an attention to detail that few tribute bands strive for. The On Another Night show is DS:UK's third tour, representing the final era of Dire Straits' phenomenal career, and brings a genuine and unique experience that will bring fans the tracks they love from On Every Street, alongside the classic Dire Straits songs you love to hear. This will be DS:UK's most packed and exciting set yet... are you and your friend gonna come around?

The Vox Beatles

16 May 2026 - 27 Sept 2026

It’s now over 50 years since the Beatles decided to go their own ways. They may be gone but they are certainly not forgotten! The Vox Beatles are the UK’s premier and most authentic Beatles tribute band. Their passion, enthusiasm and superb musicianship capture live on stage the essence of pure Beatles performance. Expect all of the hits plus well-known album tracks from The Cavern in 1962 right through to Let It Be in 1970. The Vox Beatles perform their show with the upmost of respect for the Fab Four lads from Liverpool complete with authentic equipment and era costume changes. A show celebrating a band whose music changed everyone’s musical lives, for ever.

Mania - The Abba Tribute

18 Apr 2026 - 16 Oct 2026

Direct from London’s West End, Mania is accepted as the world’s number one ABBA tribute show. A special concert which celebrates the music of ABBA in a respectful and enjoyable way, this production revives memories of when ABBA ruled the airwaves. With over 40 years since ABBA won the Eurovision Song Contest and they have filled our lives with music ever since. Now it’s your chance to thank them for the music! Mania brings fans old and new, a memorable night not to be missed.

Fearlessly Taylor

29 May 2026 - 24 Jul 2026

Following her sell out show in 2025, Fearlessly Taylor returns to Hanger Farm in 2026 Step into the spotlight with Fearlessly Taylor as she presents an exhilarating tribute to the one and only Taylor Swift. Get ready to be swept away on a whirlwind journey through Swift's legendary career, with show-stopping replica costumes, powerhouse live vocals, and electrifying choreography. Accompanied by her exceptional live band , this show promises an unforgettable experience. Including not only the chart-topping hits but also, the fan favourites. Every song resonates with the essence of Swift's artistry, making it a must-see for devoted 'Swifties' and music lovers alike. Each performance is a unique spectacle, featuring surprise songs and iconic tour highlights from Swift's storied past and present. This full-scale production sets a new standard in the tribute world, captivating audiences across the UK and beyond with its faithful homage to Taylor Swift. Join us for an "enchanted" evening that celebrates the magic of Taylor Swift's music and legacy. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience as we bring the magic of Fearlessly Taylor's tribute to theaters near you!

Drag in the Park

2 May 2026 - 4 Sept 2026

BOAT’s infamous Drag in the Park returns for 2026, with 4 huge shows with bigger and better line-ups than ever before! Hosted as always by local legend Alfie Ordinary, expect the usual raucous fun from some of the top Drag Queens in the UK. With shows in May, June, September and the bombastic Pride Edition, we’ve got you covered throughout the whole summer. May 2nd Featuring Sandra, Dave Lynn and of course, our fabulous host Alfie Ordinary! June 27th Starring Kate Butch, from RuPaul's Drag Race UK vs The World! Further acts to be confirmed shortly. July 31st - PRIDE EDITION Line-ups to be confirmed shortly. September 4th Line-ups to be confirmed shortly. We are also delighted to host the return of our Family Edition for Pride Weekend.

Impromptu Shakespeare

3 May 2026 - 3 May 2026

Hold onto your doublets, ruffs and trunk hose. The Bard is back! With story and verse improvised in the moment, enjoy a riotous new Shakespeare play every time - performed by Impromptu Shakespeare’s whip smart cast. Packed with priceless wit, lyrical smarts, romance, and a dash of double-crossing, this leading ensemble do the Bard proud with a brand new hit every time, inspired by audience suggestions. Impromptu Shakespeare have been a smash hit at the Edinburgh Fringe and Bristol Shakespeare Festival, and have appeared on BBC Shakespeare Live.

Bleak Expectations

7 May 2026 - 7 May 2026

The story Charles Dickens might have written after drinking too much gin... Follow half-orphan Pip's extraordinary exploits with sisters Pippa and Poppy and best friend Harry Biscuit, as they attempt to escape the calculating clutches of the dastardly Mr Gently Benevolent, defeat the hideous Hardthrasher siblings, and deflect disaster at every turn! Will evil be vanquished by virtue? Can love triumph over hate? Mark Evans' stage play Bleak Expectations is a hilarious, chaotic caper, featuring dastardly villains, preposterous names, pulse-quickening romances, heart-rending death scenes, and definitely, probably, hopefully a happy ending. Based on the award-winning BBC Radio 4 series, the play opened at The Watermill Theatre, Newbury, in 2022, directed by Caroline Leslie. It transferred to the Criterion Theatre in London's West End in 2023, where it featured a medley of many well-known actors and comedians. Newman College Drama Academy are delighted to be performing this play marking their 5th annual production at BOAT.

Old School Block Party

10 May 2026 - 10 May 2026

For the fifth year running, Dad La Soul are throwing down a funky, family-friendly block party of hip-hop, funk, and soul. Picture the New York block parties that birthed hip-hop in the seventies. Music doing what policy never could. Now fast-forward that energy into a family space, without making it soft, worthy, or beige. Expect heavyweight DJs, live singers, MCs, and dance battles. Expect kids’ entertainment that respects kids. Expect live art happening in front of you. Expect a licensed bar for grown-ups who need a minute. This is for new dads, knackered dads, mums, nans who love raving, kids who never stop moving, and kids who need space. This is not a children’s party with music added. It’s a cultural moment where, no matter your age, colour, or bank balance, you are welcome. As seen on The Guardian, BBC Radio 4, BBC Radio 1, TED, The Graham Norton Show & The One Show.

West End On Sea

13 May 2026 - 13 May 2026

West End on Sea celebrates the very best of musical theatre, performed by exceptional local performers who have graced the stages of London’s West End. With a host guiding the evening, a live band, and a glorious collection of songs from the shows you know and love, it’s a joyful night of storytelling and song. Claire Marlowe Productions are delighted to be bringing West End on Sea to the BOAT for a magical evening of music under the sky.

Suspiciously Elvis

24 May 2026 - 24 May 2026

Elvis has entered the building! Join us in the afternoon sunshine as Suspiciously Elvis and his full live band return to BOAT to perform the King’s biggest Rock’n Roll classics. All the hits, all the theatricality ... this is the greatest Elvis show this side of Vegas.

The Artificial Monkeys

25 May 2026 - 25 May 2026

The Artificial Monkeys are the UK’s premier tribute to the iconic AM-era Arctic Monkeys, faithfully recreating the energy, attitude, and sound from 2006 to the legendary AM album. No gimmicks. No fillers. Just four musicians fully locked in, channelling the era fans fell in love with. While many tribute acts span the full Arctic Monkeys discography, The Artificial Monkeys stay true to the original four-piece era - from Whatever People Say I Am... to AM. Their mission is to give fans the full-throttle, four-piece Arctic Monkeys experience. From major UK festivals to packed-out club gigs, they treat every show like it’s a headline night at the Sheffield Lead mill. If you loved the Arctic Monkeys at their loudest, fastest, and rawest... this is the show for you.

Romeo & Juliet

29 May 2026 - 31 May 2026

Two hearts. One fate. A timeless love reborn. The Duke’s Theatre Company presents Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, a bold reimagining of the iconic tragedy directed by Joseph Pitcher. Pitcher’s acclaimed credits include Gypsy (UK Theatre Award for Best Musical Production) and My Fair Lady at The Mill at Sonning, and Macbeth at the Salomons Theatre, Tubridge Wells. Returning to the company following Macbeth (2025), this vibrant production also features original music by composer Rob Millett (Rambert Dance Company and The Royal Opera House, The National Theatre and Shakespeare’s Globe). Blending dynamic staging, evocative sound, and the enduring power of Shakespeare’s verse, this retelling illuminates the passion, peril, and youthful intensity at the play’s core, inviting audiences to rediscover the world’s most famous star-crossed lovers.

John Bishop, Emmanuel Sonubi and MC Stephen Grant

1 Jun 2026 - 1 Jun 2026

John Bishop The John Bishop Show, Live at the Apollo, A League of Their Own, Doctor Who Emmanuel Sonubi Live at the Apollo, Comedy Central Live, Stand-up Sketch Show MC Stephen Grant Multi award-winning MC and owner of Brighton's no.1 Comedy Club, The Forge All line-ups may be subject to change Please note that babes in arms are not permitted at comedy events.

Jeff Innocent, Marcus Brigstocke and MC Stephen Grant

2 Jun 2026 - 2 Jun 2026

Jeff Innocent 'Smart Casual' titan of the comedy circuit Marcus Brigstocke Have I Got News For You, Live at the Apollo, Argumental, The Now Show MC Stephen Grant Multi award-winning MC and owner of Brighton's no.1 Comedy Club, The Forge All line-ups may be subject to change Please note that babes in arms are not permitted at comedy events.

Ian Stone, Special Guest and MC Stephen Grant

3 Jun 2026 - 3 Jun 2026

Ian Stone The Stand Up Show, Mock The Week, Nevermind The Buzzcocks, The 11 O'Clock Show Special Guest to be announced soon! MC Stephen Grant Multi award-winning MC and owner of Brighton's no.1 Comedy Club, The Forge All line-ups may be subject to change Please note that babes in arms are not permitted at comedy events.

Stephen K Amos, Harriet Kemsley and MC Suzi Ruffell

4 Jun 2026 - 4 Jun 2026

Stephen K Amos Have I Got News for You, Mock the Week, QI, Live At The Apollo, I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! Australia Harriet Kemsley Last One Laughing UK, 8 Out Of 10 Cats, Would I Lie To You, Live At The Apollo, Roast Battle MC Suzi Ruffell Live At The Apollo, Mock The Week, The Now Show, The News Quiz, co-host of Like Minded Friends, Out and Big Kick Energy podcasts, best selling author of Am I Having Fun Now? All line-ups may be subject to changePlease note that babes in arms are not permitted at comedy events.

Ed Byrne, Catherine Bohart and MC Stephen Grant

5 Jun 2026 - 5 Jun 2026

Ed Byrne Live At The Apollo, Mock The Week, Nevermind The Buzzcocks, Have I Got News for You, The Late Late Show Catherine Bohart Live At The Apollo, The Mash Report, Mock The Week, Last One Laughing Ireland and the Trusty Hogs podcast co-host MC Stephen Grant Multi award-winning MC and owner of Brighton's no.1 Comedy Club, The Forge All line-ups may be subject to change Please note that babes in arms are not permitted at comedy events.

Kerry Godliman, Special Guest and MC Stephen Grant

6 Jun 2026 - 6 Jun 2026

Kerry Godliman Taskmaster winner, Live At The Apollo, Mock The Week, Star of Whitstable Pearl, Trigger Point, After Life, Derek and co-host of the Memory Lane podcast Special Guest to be announced soon! MC Stephen Grant Multi award-winning MC and owner of Brighton's no.1 Comedy Club, The Forge All line-ups may be subject to change Please note that babes in arms are not permitted at comedy events.

Special Guest, Sean McLoughlin and MC Stephen Grant

6 Jun 2026 - 6 Jun 2026

Special Guest to be announced soon! Sean McLoughlin Live At The Apollo, Mock The Week, Frankie Boyle's New World Order, The Stand-Up Sketch Show and Ricky Gervais international area tour support MC Stephen Grant Multi award-winning MC and owner of Brighton's no.1 Comedy Club, The Forge All line-ups may be subject to change Please note that babes in arms are not permitted at comedy events.

Special Guest, Cally Beaton and MC Stephen Grant

7 Jun 2026 - 7 Jun 2026

Special Guest to be announced soon! Cally Beaton Live at the Apollo, The Apprentice: You're Fired, House of Games, best selling author of Namaste Motherf★ckers MC Stephen Grant Multi award-winning MC and owner of Brighton's no.1 Comedy Club, The Forge All line-ups may be subject to change Please note that babes in arms are not permitted at comedy events.

Jerusalem

17 Jun 2026 - 20 Jun 2026

"Mr Byron? Mr Johnny ‘Rooster’ Byron?” St. George’s Day. An old caravan sits at the edge of the Wiltshire woods, an eviction notice pinned to its door. Johnny “Rooster” Byron - a former daredevil and local outlaw - offers stories, sacraments and sanctuary to Flintock’s runaways and misfits, as he stands defiant against the bulldozers of Kennet and Avon County Council. Following its debut in 2009 at the Royal Court, Jerusalem has been hailed by critics as “the greatest British play of the century” and “the hit that transformed British theatre”. Both magical and haunting, this irreverent hymn to myth, mischief, and England’s lost wildness beats its drum against the relentless march of modernity. What is England without its myths? Content warning: Contains frequent strong language, drug references and adult themes.

Richard Durrant: Music for Midsummer

21 Jun 2026 - 21 Jun 2026

A wonderful live music event for acoustic and classical guitar lovers and the musically curious. Featuring Richard’s original, haunting guitar music including his newly released track The Art of Levitation. Richard will also play music from the High Baroque, the English Baroque and (in a fascinating homage to John Renbourn & Martin Carthy) the English Folk Baroque. Durrant’s intriguingly unpretentious style of delivery should not belie the emotional depth of his music; witness the onstage persona of an informative, friendly stand-up and the playing of one of the world’s most inventive, guitar virtuosos. Sit back and enjoy Richard’s annual musical celebration of the Summer Solstice. As heard live on BBC Radio 2, Radio 3, Radio 4 and 6 Music.

Our Day Out

23 Jun 2026 - 23 Jun 2026

Willy Russell's Our Day Out is a poignant yet humorous play about a group of disadvantaged school children on a, often chaotic, day trip. It contrasts the children's fleeting joy and freedom with their bleak futures, highlighting themes of social deprivation and educational inequality. Originally set in 1980's Liverpool, the play was written about Russell's own experience as a teacher of a similar class to the one depicted in Our Day Out, on a trip to Conwy Castle in Wales. However, our production is a little closer to home, with our group setting off from Brighton on their way to Pevensey Castle, with a few well-known stops along the way. The Year 9 Newman Drama Academy are delighted to be performing this play marking their 3rd annual production at BOAT.

Laura Smyth, Ivo Graham and MC Suzi Ruffell

24 Jun 2026 - 24 Jun 2026

Laura Smyth Live At The Apollo, Frankie Boyle’s New World Order, Alan Davies: As Yet Untitled, 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown and co-host of the Shouldn't Laugh But podcast Ivo Graham Taskmaster, Live At The Apollo, author of Yardsticks For Failure and acclaimed theatre show, Carousel MC Suzi Ruffell Live At The Apollo, Mock The Week, The Now Show, The News Quiz, co-host of Like Minded Friends, Out and Big Kick Energy podcasts, best selling author of Am I Having Fun Now? All line-ups may be subject to change Please note that babes in arms are not permitted at comedy events.

Opera at Sunset 2

25 Jun 2026 - 25 Jun 2026

A thrilling new programme of operatic highlights from some of the world’s favourite operas, as well as a few not so well-known pieces. Arias, duets, ensembles and choruses from the “pops”, such as Carmen, La Boheme, Turandot, Don Giovanni, The Magic Flute etc to the lesser-known Louise, Lakme, La Fanciulla del West, La Rondine etc. Featuring a cast of more than 30 experienced opera singers who, between them, have appeared at Glyndebourne, The Royal Opera, ENO, English Festival Opera, Holland Park, Regency Opera etc. The Director/Musical Director is the versatile Simon Gray who has worked with many opera companies in the UK and abroad and has also worked in musical theatre on tour and in the West End. As with most “Simon Gray Presents” events, this one will be supporting The Martlets Hospice.

The Scarlet Pimpernel

1 Jul 2026 - 1 Jul 2026

France is burning, the guillotine is busy, and Marguerite Blakeney is stuck in England with an idiot husband and a past she’d really rather not discuss. However when ruthless revolutionary Chauvelin - head of the French Republic's Committee of Public Safety - with a very loose grip on the word “safety” - threatens her brother’s life, Marguerite is dragged into a world of spies, secrets and very sharp blades. Will she betray the mysterious Scarlet Pimpernel, or let her brother face the guillotine? What do you do when every choice costs you the person you love? Three actors tear through revolutions, opera houses, seedy Dover pubs and glittering ballrooms using nothing but a mountain of wigs and sheer nerve. Expect quick-fire gags, high-octane multi-rolling in this sharply modern, joyously theatrical retelling of Baroness Orczy’s swashbuckling classic.

The Improvised Shakespeare Show

2 Jul 2026 - 2 Jul 2026

Shakespeare hasn’t written anything new for an age, so ShakeItUp thought they'd give him a hand! Using his language, your audience suggestions, and their overactive imaginations, marvel as they create a brand-new Shakespeare play live on stage.Pick your authentic Shakespearean genre: Epic History, Romantic Comedy, or Gruesome Tragedy! Pen your wittiest Shakespearean line for our brave actors to pull from their suitably-Shakespearean breeches when they need a helping hand - the twist? They’ll have no idea what the line will be before they say it! Then sit back and watch the hilarity unfold in a totally bonkers play that Willy Shakes himself would be proud of. Expect big laughs, high drama, and plenty of Bard-based Bedlam! ShakeItUp Theatre launched The Improvised Shakespeare Show in 2018. Since then they have performed well over 100 totally improvised Shakespeare plays to audiences across the UK, from the Minack Theatre in Cornwall, to London’s The Other Palace, and to the Edinburgh Fringe; even performing internationally in Italy, Poland, and Germany. ★★★★★ “Quick witted, inexhaustible and absolutely hysterical.” London Theatre Reviews ★★★★★ “Brilliantly bonkers...one of the best improvised shows out there” West End Best Friend ★★★★★ “Not just a play, it’s an experience” The Upcoming

The Funky Motown Soul Show

3 Jul 2026 - 3 Jul 2026

The Blunter Brothers started playing live in 1989 and has become established as one of the premiere ‘Revue’ acts in the country. Expect an authentic sound, with an old school band playing classic tracks, complete with a 4-piece horn section. With hits from artists such as James Brown, Stevie Wonder, Prince, Ray Charles, Curtis Mayfield, EW&F, The Average White Band and many more. Come and fill the Dancefloor!

Kaspar: Prince of Cats

4 Jul 2026 - 4 Jul 2026

Based on the book by Michael Morpurgo. Step into the heart of the Savoy Hotel with Kaspar: Prince of Cats, a magical family adventure brought to life through enchanting puppetry, original music and vivid storytelling. Follow Johnny Trott, a young bellboy, and Lizziebeth, a spirited American girl, as they form an unlikely bond with the extraordinary cat Kaspar. Their journey takes them across oceans, in a story of friendship, courage and survival that will captivate audiences of all ages.

Around the World in 80 Days

4 Jul 2026 - 5 Jul 2026

Pack your bags and hold on to your hats - the race is on! Join a fearless troupe of actor-musicians as they hurtle across continents in this riotously entertaining, globe-trotting show inspired by Jules Verne’s much-loved classic. With the clock ticking, Phileas Fogg and his quick-thinking companions attempt the impossible: travelling around the world in just 80 days. Expect dazzling live music, outrageous characters and inventive storytelling as London, Bombay and beyond burst into life. Featuring trains, boats and plenty of theatrical mayhem, this joyful open-air adventure is packed with fun, flair and surprise at every turn. Based on the novel by Jules Verne, Adapted by Chris Fung, Directed by Tara Noonan and with Composition / Musical Direction by Thomas F. Arnold.

Noises Off

8 Jul 2026 - 11 Jul 2026

The funniest farce ever written! With technical brilliance and split-second timing, Noises Off takes us behind the scenes with a company of actors in a hilarious and heartfelt tribute to the unpredictability of life in the theatre. Hailed as one of the funniest plays of all time, this Olivier Award-winning play is brought to BOAT in an exuberant new production by the team behind The Ladykillers, One Man, Two Guvnors, Don't Dress for Dinner and last year's smash hit The 39 Steps.

If I Told You Once & The Birds

12 Jul 2026 - 12 Jul 2026

Stories keep us alive, helping us escape, whether they’re folklore from around the world or mythical tales of a perfect city in the sky. In If I Told You Once, a girl, who is critically ill in bed, is kept alive by those beside her, with tales from Ukraine, North and Central Africa, the Middle East, and more, making sure that hope is whispered in her ears. In The Birds, two men want to leave the confines of their oppressive society. They dream of a new home and plan to fly there, on a wing and a prayer. Will the perfect city be waiting for them, or will they fly too close to the sun? ThirdSpace Theatre’s young performers share these incredible tales, which are sure to inspire and entrance. Based off folktales from around the world and the brilliant comedy by Aristophanes, these young actors will entertain and enthrall audiences in this brilliant outdoor event. The two productions are ticketed separately. If I Told You Once is at 2.30pm and The Birds is at 5pm.

The Pickwick Papers

15 Jul 2026 - 15 Jul 2026

Welcome to the delightfully chaotic Victorian world of The Pickwick Papers, where misadventure and merriment collide in a whirlwind of Dickensian absurdity! Join the lovable Mr. Pickwick and his eccentric band of companions as they bumble their way through confusing courtships, courtroom shenanigans, questionable duels, and carriage rides gone terribly wrong. Expect fast-paced wit, slapstick humour, more multi-rolling mayhem, and a cast of larger-than-life characters in this brand new and hilarious adaptation by Jon Legg. Dickens has never been this delightfully unpredictable! So prepare for an uproarious adventure with the Pickwick Society, where the only certainty is a thoroughly good time to be had by all!

The Ghost of Achilles

16 Jul 2026 - 16 Jul 2026

Odysseus has returned home - the suitors are dead, Penelope and Telemachus restored to him, and peace should follow. Yet the war still lives inside him. As he journeys to his father’s house, Odysseus tries his old disguises, but before Laertes’ grief, every trick falters. For the first time in twenty years, he is simply a son - no hero, no king - seeking counsel and forgiveness. But ghosts walk beside him. Achilles’ shadow looms large: the rival who chose death and glory where Odysseus chose survival. Now, facing his father, he wonders if he has truly come home. Between rage and remorse, pride and tenderness, the old warrior must ask the question no victory can answer: How does one return in mind, not just in body? Drawing on The Odyssey, The Iliad, The Aeneid, and Jason and the Golden Fleece, this powerful retelling brings together the stories of fathers and sons, grief and legacy, and the cost of heroism. At its heart lies a single, timeless struggle - to lay down the sword and find peace after war. A haunting, human story of homecoming and healing - Odysseus as you’ve never seen him before.

Northanger Abbey

17 Jul 2026 - 17 Jul 2026

The power of stories. The power of the imagination. This summer, Moving Parts Theatre Company brings you Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey. A thrilling Gothic tale of dark deed, or a playful, heartwarming Regency romance? Let’s find out, shall we? Follow the fortunes of young Catherine Morland, a wild devotee of “horrid” fiction. Growing up in a world of balls, bonnets and Bath society, Catherine dreams of discovering secrets, skeletons, and ancient mysteries. But does she have what it takes to become... a heroine? Moving Parts Theatre Company takes a fresh, inventive perspective on the classics. Following the huge success of last summer’s Vanity Fair, they return to BOAT with this brand new adaptation of Jane Austen's novel. Written and co-created by Joanna Nevin, Martin South and Simona Hughes, with an original score of music by Tamara Douglas-Morris and movement direction by Nevena Stojkov.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

19 Jul 2026 - 19 Jul 2026

Four Forty Theatre tackle A Midsummer Night’s Dream with their trademark mix of irreverence, wit, and theatrical ingenuity. Lovers are enchanted, fairies feud, and a troupe of hapless players rehearse their way into disaster - all in a single moonlit night. Celebrated for inventive staging, breakneck character changes, and playful dismantling of tradition, Four Forty breathe fresh mischief into Shakespeare’s best-loved comedy. The result is part affectionate homage, part riotous reinvention: clever, chaotic, and utterly alive. It’s a Dream performed with wit turned sharp and imagination turned loose - Shakespeare, but with Four Forty’s unmistakable spirit driving the mayhem.

Jekyll and Hyde

22 Jul 2026 - 22 Jul 2026

Step into the shadowy, fog-drenched streets of Victorian London, where the well-meaning Dr. Henry Jekyll embarks on a noble scientific quest to unlock the mysteries of human nature... and promptly makes a complete mess of it! With the best of intentions (and absolutely no thought for potential side effects), he brews a potion that unleashes his inner monster-cue dramatic lighting and ominous music. Enter Edward Hyde: the world’s worst houseguest and an absolute nightmare on a night out. As Hyde rampages through the city, Jekyll scrambles to explain away his increasingly suspicious behaviour to concerned friends, alarmed authorities, and anyone unfortunate enough to cross his path. With mind-blowing transformations, atmospheric staging, and edge-of-yourseat tension, this is a show that stays true to the original tale whilst embracing the comedic magic of theatre in a hilarious fast-paced spin! Enjoy this classic novella as one wild ride that will leave you breathless and helpless with laughter. A comedy with all the drama left in!

Jeeves and Wooster in ‘Stiff Upper Lip, Jeeves’

23 Jul 2026 - 23 Jul 2026

We cordially invite you to an uproarious adventure with P.G. Wodehouse’s beloved characters, Jeeves and Wooster! Enter the whimsical world of Bertie Wooster, an affable young gentleman with a penchant for getting himself in the most outlandish predicaments. Thankfully, he has his razor-sharp valet, Jeeves, to rescue him from all sorts of mishaps. Facing misadventures, from ill-fated romances to comical escapades, all set against the backdrop of a world filled with eccentric aunts, quirky friends, and a host of unforgettable characters. Featuring live jazz music, from our ensemble of actor-musicians - a jolly good time awaits you!

Saucy Songs at Sunset

24 Jul 2026 - 24 Jul 2026

Saucy Songs at Sunset is a deliciously naughty evening of musical theatre, packed with sass, sparkle and more double entendre than a row of seaside postcards. A talented cast of seasoned performers serve up a mix of classic and contemporary songs, alongside razor-sharp comedy numbers guaranteed to raise eyebrows and a knowing wink or two. Guiding the mischief are special guest hosts Pearl & Dean, bringing their inimitable brand of camp chaos. Featuring strong language and adult themes, and supporting Martlets Hospice, this is not for the faint-hearted-but perfect for anyone who likes their music with a generous splash of sauce. Ooh... matron!

Live in Brighton!

25 Jul 2026 - 25 Jul 2026

Comedy you control. The undisputed kings of improvised comedy are back in Brighton's blissful outdoor theatre with another round of off-the-cuff laughs. There aren't many comedy shows that ask you what you want to see next... And no matter what you come up with The Noise Next Door will transform it something hilarious. The Noise Next Door are award-winning, twelve-time sell-out legends of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and have blown audiences away on BBC One, ITV1, Comedy Central, and in comedy clubs and theatres all over the world. Don’t miss your chance to see them live.

Improvised Comedy Family Show

25 Jul 2026 - 25 Jul 2026

At last! A comedy show that the whole family will enjoy. Bring kids, grandparents and your grumpy uncle Kevin... EVERYONE is going to laugh! Join The Noise Next Door for an afternoon of crazy characters and stupid stories and glorious gags all made up on the spot by Britain's best improvisers. The Noise Next Door have appeared on ‘The One Show’ (BBC One) and ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ (ITV1) and have even worked with the likes of Michael McIntyre, Katherine Ryan, Romesh Ranganathan and Jason Manford.

The Hound of the Baskervilles

26 Jul 2026 - 26 Jul 2026

How can one show possibly contain so much action and adventure? Elementary, my dear! The critically-acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company present a brand-new riff on the fiendishly famous case. Will detective duo Holmes and Watson discover the deadly secret of the Baskerville family curse before it strikes again? Or are they barking up the wrong tree? Find out in this delightfully inventive show that will have you yelping with excitement and howling with laughter. Features live music, audience interaction and more mystery than you can shake a magnifying glass at. Stick that in your pipe and smoke it!

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

29 Jul 2026 - 30 Jul 2026

Following its sell-out success from several years ago, IKP’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz returns to BOAT for another “bonkers” theatre adventure in Summer 2026, in a family comedy adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s classic book. Join Dorothy, the Tin Woodman, the Scarecrow, the Cowardly Lion and Toto as they encounter munchkins, witches, winged monkeys, enchanted slippers and a Wonderful Wizard! Expect the unexpected in this comedy for all the family, featuring physical humour, fast-paced multi-roling and plenty of laughs for all ages.

Drag in the Park: Family Edition

31 Jul 2026 - 31 Jul 2026

Dust of those sparkles and warm up those singing voices, Brighton’s best family-friendly Drag event is back! Get ready to boogie in the sunshine and sing along to your favourite pop and Disney songs, as some of the UK’s biggest Queens deliver an inclusive and inspiring show for all ages. Line-ups to be confirmed soon. Please note line-ups may be subject to change

A View From The Bridge

5 Aug 2026 - 8 Aug 2026

A longshoreman stands on the edge of the Brooklyn docks, the skyline glittering beyond him. The law is watching - and inside his own home, boundaries of familial responsibility have already begun to erode. In this visceral new outdoor production of A View from the Bridge, Arthur Miller’s electrifying tragedy burns with an urgent contemporary relevance. In the shadow of the American Dream, Eddie Carbone welcomes two cousins illegally from abroad into his family’s already cramped apartment. They are men who have crossed an ocean without papers. chasing work, dignity, and survival. But as fear of deportation tightens its grip and suspicions seep through the tenement walls, loyalty becomes dangerous currency. As immigration debates and toxic masculinity stories dominate headlines across the globe, this blistering new co-production from Brighton Open Air Theatre and the award-winning The Conor Baum Company (Homestead, Electra, Suddenly Last Summer) confronts timeless questions about the responsibilities we have to our families, and who has the right to belong. With raw intensity and devastating inevitability, A View from the Bridge exposes the limits of masculinity, honour, and power in a world that is quick to criminalise the vulnerable. What begins as an act of generosity unlocks the fault lines already rippling through a family and initiates a spiral that can only lead to obsession, jealousy, and acts that cannot be undone.

Brighton Beach Boys: Dearly Departed

9 Aug 2026 - 9 Aug 2026

Following on from shows in 2017 and 2022, the Brighton Beach Boys return with a new edition of Dearly Departed, making the musical talents, heroes and mavericks who passed on in 2025. No genre of popular music was left unaffected with stars from every era being taken, such as Brian Wilson, Sly Stone, Robert Flack, Jimmy Cliff and many more. The show will mark their passing and offer a musical tribute to every who has left songs or beauty and inspiration for the generations to come. Featuring Glen Richardson, Charlotte Glasson, Adrian Marshall, Jono Harrison and Tom Arnold under the musical direction of Steve Wrigley, this will be a tribute to savour.

Much Ado About Nothing

12 Aug 2026 - 13 Aug 2026

Shakespeare’s famous romcom gets a gothic makeover. Glitz, glamour and scandal hit Messina in Changeling’s revival of Much Ado About Nothing. Think decadent costume balls and devious misdemeanours, in a play where love’s a battlefield and the gossip never stops. Beatrice and Benedick swear they can’t stand each other. Hero and Claudio seem picture-perfect until a little drama crashes their party. Lurking behind the cocktails and confetti is one deliciously devious Don John stirring up trouble. It’s sharp, it’s funny, it’s Shakespeare’s ultimate romcom with more twists, tunes and turns than you can shake a stick at. Join Changeling in Summer 2026 as they celebrate 25 years of outdoor touring. Bold, sexy, and unapologetically fun, Much Ado About Nothing is the perfect summer play. There ain’t no party like a Shakespeare party...

Reggae Party

14 Aug 2026 - 14 Aug 2026

Reggae. Rum. Rice & peas. African Night Fever and friends bring the irresistible joys of Kingston, Jamaica and the Caribbean to BOAT for an evening of dance, food and happiness. Sample the delicious African Caribbean cuisine from the Soul Food Sisters, sip on the rum in BOAT's house cocktails, and sway to the beats of Roots Reggae. Following the popularity and success of Steel Pulse & Strictly UB40, this strong core of seasoned founding musicians have since formed the Bob Marley & The Wailers Tribute Band - XODUS, who are often joined on stage by reggae legends Steel Pulse founding member/keyboard player & songwriter Selwyn Brown (who spent a significant amount of time touring with Bob Marley & The Wailers, on the same events billing with Steel Pulse back in the 1980s.) XODUS will headline the evening, with support from Easy Skankin, a collective of some of the best Reggae DJs in Brighton. Bring yourself, your friends and your smiles for an evening of celebration of unity, culture and friendship.

Peter Rabbit

15 Aug 2026 - 16 Aug 2026

Quantum Theatre are back with an enchanting new adaptation of Beatrix Potter’s The Tales of Peter Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny. Peter and his naughty cousin Benjamin know very well that they are not to go into Mr McGregor’s garden, but they cannot resist and soon they find themselves in all sorts of scrapes; caught in a net, trapped by a snarling cat, and face to face with Mr McGregor himself! How will they ever escape? Can Old Mr Bunny come to the rescue in time? And whatever will Mr McGregor make of all those footprints in the flower beds? Grab the kids, a blanket and a picnic and join Peter and Benjamin on their hair-raising adventures - a magical afternoon of fun for all the family.

The Watsons

19 Aug 2026 - 22 Aug 2026

What happens when the writer loses the plot? Emma Watson is 19, new in town, and newly cut off by her wealthy aunt. Sent back to the family home, she and her sisters must marry, and quickly. Otherwise, they face poverty, spinsterhood, or worse: a lifetime trapped with their boorish brother and his dreadful wife. So far, so Austen. But here’s the twist - Jane Austen never finished The Watsons. Who will write Emma’s happy ending now? Brimming with wit, mischief, and a touch of theatrical magic, this sparkling play peeks under the bonnet of Austen’s world and asks: What can characters do when their author abandons them? When Jane Austen forgets the ending, the characters write it themselves.

Bee Gees Gold

23 Aug 2026 - 23 Aug 2026

Get ready to relive the magic of the Bee Gees with Bee Gees Gold, the ultimate tribute show celebrating one of the greatest bands in music history! Featuring a cast of world-class performers with West End and international touring credits, this spectacular production brings the legendary harmonies, iconic falsettos, and timeless hits of the Bee Gees to life like never before. Sing along to classics like Stayin’ Alive, Night Fever, How Deep Is Your Love, and More Than a Woman as Bee Gees Gold delivers an unforgettable afternoon of music, nostalgia, and pure entertainment. From the disco anthems that defined an era to heartfelt ballads that touch the soul, this show is a must-see for Bee Gees fans.

King Arthur and the Holy Fail

26 Aug 2026 - 26 Aug 2026

The Three Inch Fools present an epic tale of Arthurian adventure and medieval mayhem. In a land of daring quests, dashing knights, and endless jousting, there lived a would-be hero - waiting in the wings - who went by the name of Arthur. But when Camelot is rocked to its core by a tragic - and frankly improbable - incident involving a large table of an undisclosed shape, Arthur is thrust into the quest of a lifetime. Will he bravely battle through blistering cold and scorching fire to save his beloved realm, or will he crumble as fate refuses to cooperate? Destiny awaits, chivalry calls, and the quest to end all quests begins. Saddle up - things are about to get legendary.

Lady Windermere’s Fan

27 Aug 2026 - 27 Aug 2026

DOT Productions presents Oscar Wilde’s Lady Windermere’s Fan, a sparkling revival brimming with wit, charm. This nimble five-actor adaptation brings Wilde’s razor-sharp dialogue and delicious social satire to life, with inventive staging and playful character doubling. When Lady Windermere begins to suspect her husband’s loyalty, a mysterious woman’s arrival threatens to upend her world. A whirlwind of gossip, temptation, and mistaken intentions follows, leading to a revelation that challenges every assumption. Light-footed, stylish, and irresistibly funny, this production captures the heart of Wilde’s classic while offering a fresh, intimate twist. A delightful evening of scandal, elegance, and laughter awaits.

Jolene: The Dolly Parton Experience

28 Aug 2026 - 28 Aug 2026

Endorsed by Dolly herself on the BBC's The One Show, this truly incredible show captures the image, the personality, the stage presence, and most importantly, the voice of The Queen of Country. From the very opening song the hits keep coming; 9-5, I Will Always Love You, Here You Come Again, Coat of Many Colours, Jolene, Applejack and many, many more.

The Great Gatsby

29 Aug 2026 - 29 Aug 2026

Step into the roaring 1920s, where the champagne flows, the jazz trumpet blows, and the American Dream gleams with irresistible allure. This electrifying stage adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s timeless novel brings Jay Gatsby’s glittering world to life - a place of opulence, obsession, and heartbreak. As Nick Carraway is drawn into the orbit of his mysterious neighbour, the secrets behind Gatsby’s lavish parties begin to unravel, revealing a story of love lost and illusion pursued. Featuring live music and a dynamic ensemble, This Is My Theatre’s adaptation invites audiences to experience one of literature’s best-loved stories like never before - glamorous, grandiose and undeniably... Great.

Pinocchio

31 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Carlo Collodi’s classic is a perennial favourite. It is the third most translated book in the world, having appeared in no fewer than 260 languages since it was first published in 1883. Childless toymaker Geppetto buys a piece of wood to make a puppet - little realising the chaos he is about to unleash. The puppet yearns for adventure and runs away, but instead of excitement only finds glorious attractions containing hidden dangers. He returns home hoping to be showered with sympathy and learns his tribulations are just beginning. Running away hasn’t worked; lying won’t work; he must become a real boy to achieve the belonging he craves. Illyria celebrates this magical coming-of-age tale in a thrilling musical outdoor show.

Dracula

3 Sept 2026 - 3 Sept 2026

When celebrated vampire hunter Mina Harker is invited to speak at a Victorian scientific society, their aim is to belittle and discredit her ridiculous claims. But as they hear the tale of her fight with the sinister Count Dracula, they are chilled to the bone by a story they will never forget. British Touring Shakespeare, the team behind previous acclaimed open air tours of The Hound Of The Baskervilles, The Strange Case Of Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde and Frankenstein, are delighted to return to BOAT. Their innovative production brings Bram Stoker’s gothic horror classic to life in a brand new adaptation that will thrill audiences and delight fans of the novel.

The Pirates of Penzance

5 Sept 2026 - 5 Sept 2026

Frederick, accidentally apprenticed to Pirates as a child, is indentured to the Pirate King until his 21st birthday. On the day he reaches 21 he leaves the ship, announcing that he now intends to dedicate his life to the Pirates’ destruction. However, the Pirate King realises that as Frederick’s was born in a leap year on 29th February, he has technically only had four birthdays, and is actually indentured for another 63 years! With only the inept Penzance constabulary to protect him, will Frederick be forced to serve the pirates until he is 84? And will his sweetheart, Mabel, wait for him that long? Performed by a six-strong cast of actor/singers with fully orchestrated accompaniment, The Pirates of Penzance boasts such gloriously memorable songs as “To be a Pirate King!” and “The Modern Major General”. With razor sharp satire and glittering wit, it remains as fresh as if it had been written today.

Macbeth

10 Sept 2026 - 10 Sept 2026

Join The HandleBards for a hilariously high-octane production of Shakespeare’s Macbeth like you’ve never seen before. Forget the tears and tragedy, this Macbeth is chock full of mishaps, mayhem and mirth. We all know the story. Three Witches promise Macbeth the Scottish crown and like any normal people would, Macbeth and Lady Macbeth plot to kill the king. Things get rapidly out of hand from there as foul deeds are done, plots unravel and mysterious spirits appear... The HandleBards are an intrepid troupe spending the summer bringing environmentally sustainable Shakespeare to venues across the UK. Praise for previous HandleBards performances: ★★★★★ “Explodes with energy and is a genuine treat from start to finish.” The Stage ★★★★★ “Five stars just don’t seem enough” The Sunderland Echo

Hush BOAT Disco

11 Sept 2026 - 11 Sept 2026

It’s BOAT’s Battle of the Beats! 3 legendary Brighton DJs vie for dominance of the Astroturf Dance Floor. Choose your Colours, Tune into your Tribe, or Channel-Hop as you please: Channel 1: Pop-Tastic and Disco ClassicsChannel 2: Expect Drum ‘n’ Bass, Jungle, Techno and non-stop Repetitive Beats Channel 3: Indie dance-floor-fillers: the best of Ska, Punk, Soul, Hip Hop, Rock, Reggae and everything in between. Whatever you choose, bring your dancing shoes! DJ announcements coming soon ...

Chris McCausland, Zoe Lyons and MC Iain Stirling

16 Sept 2026 - 16 Sept 2026

Chris McCausland BAFTA winner for Strictly Come Dancing, Would I Lie To You?, Have I Got News For You, QI, The Wonders of The World I Can't See Zoe Lyons QI, Mock The Week, Lightning, Survivor, The News Quiz MC Iain Stirling The voice of Love Island and host of The Dog Ate My Homework and CelebAbility, Taskmaster All line-ups may be subject to change Please note that babes in arms are not permitted at comedy events.

Dorian Gray

17 Sept 2026 - 17 Sept 2026

Oscar Wilde's only novel is adapted for the stage in this atmospheric one-man show. What awful secret is stored inside the attic? Only the eternally youthful and charming Dorian Gray knows. But as his appetite for sin leads to ever greater acts of wickedness, Gray will stop at nothing to make sure no one discovers the dreadful truth!

Sara Pascoe, Jack Skipper and MC Stephen Grant

19 Sept 2026 - 19 Sept 2026

Sara Pascoe Taskmaster, Frankie Boyle's New World Order, host of Last Woman on Earth, Comedians Giving Lectures and Guessable Jack Skipper The Stand Up Sketch Show, Winner of So You Think You’re Funny? 2022 and Best Debut Show at Leicester Comedy Festival 2024 MC Stephen Grant Multi award-winning MC and owner of Brighton's no.1 Comedy Club, The Forge All line-ups may be subject to change Please note that babes in arms are not permitted at comedy events.

The Take That Experience

30 May 2026 - 6 Mar 2027

As Take That celebrate over 30 years as the UK's number one boy band, The Take That Experience mark over a decade together as their most popular and recognised tribute act. With acclaimed vocal performances, stunning replica costumes and iconic dance routines, The Take That Experience recreate the magic of Take That live on stage with their ‘Greatest Hits Tour’. This incredible show features hit after hit from Take That’s career spanning three decades - from classic 90s hits through to their most recent triumphs. Songs include Pray, Relight My Fire, Patience, Shine, These Days, Rule The World and Amore. This show is a must for any Take That fan as the boys don’t just give you a night you’ll Never Forget… they give you The Take That Experience!

The Alter Eagles

9 May 2026 - 21 Nov 2026

The Alter Eagles are an experienced, authentic Eagles tribute band. Formed in 2003, they perform the whole repertoire of Eagles tracks, from tasteful country rock – complete with full harmonies – through to hard rocking numbers, showcasing the Eagles’ trademark duelling electric guitars. The current set comprises material from 35 years of Eagles’ performances, up to and including 2007’s Long Road Out Of Eden. Lauded for their accuracy, the Alter Eagles are a tribute to the Eagles, pure and simple and in a typical two hour set play many of the band’s greatest hits, including ‘Hotel California’, ‘Desperado’, ‘Life In The Fast Lane’, ‘How Long’, ‘Lyin’ Eyes’, ‘Take It Easy’ and ‘One Of These Nights’.

The Carpenters Experience

25 Apr 2026 - 5 Feb 2027

When we were young we'd listen to the radio, waiting for our favourite songs. Now they're back again, like a long-lost friend, all the song we loved so well The UK's leading Carpenters show, featuring the amazing voice of Maggie Nestor and eight top-class musicians, captures the sights and sounds of the amazing talents of Richard and Karen Carpenter. Karen's silky contralto is combined with Richard's delightful piano and seamless harmonies in this big production that brings Close to You, We've only Just Begun, Top of the World, Rainy Days and Mondays, Solitaire, Goodbye to Love, Please Mr Postman, For All We Know, Only Yesterday and dozens more classic songs to the stage. The Carpenters Experience is coming to town for an evening of non-stop hits - it's yesterday once more.

West End In The Open

13 May 2026 - 13 May 2026

West End in the Open celebrates the very best of musical theatre, performed by exceptional local performers who have graced the stages of London’s West End. With a host guiding the evening, a live band, and a glorious collection of songs from the shows you know and love, it’s a joyful night of storytelling and song. Claire Marlowe Productions are delighted to be bringing West End in the Open to the BOAT for a magical evening of music under the sky.

Drag in the Park – September

2 May 2026 - 4 Sept 2026

Returning for its 5th season at BOAT, Drag In The Park is the UK’s only outdoor drag show and has become a must see spectacular/sensation in Brighton. Join award winning, internationally renowned local fruit Alfie Ordinary as he welcomes some of the UK’s best drag artists to the park for an alfresco drag extravaganza! With ballads belted in the bushes and lip-syncing on the lawn, this all singing, all dancing show is drag like you’ve never seen it before. Each show features a cast of top drag acts, with stars of stage and screen joining the roster, including drag legends like Dave Lynn, Sandra and Son-of-a-Tutu, as well as RuPaul’s Drag Race fan favourite Victoria Scone and Celebrity Mastermind 2024 champion Kate Butch making their Drag In The Park debut! May 2nd Sandra, Dave Lynn and of course, our fabulous host Alfie Ordinary! June 27th Kate Butch, from RuPaul's Drag Race UK vs The World! Further acts to be confirmed shortly. July 31st - PRIDE EDITION Drag legend Son of a Tutu, plus more to be announced! September 4th Drag Race UK's first cis female contestant Victoria Scone, plus Brighton rising star The Madame! We are also delighted to host the return of our fabulous Family Edition for Pride Weekend.

Oh What A Night

25 Apr 2026 - 20 Nov 2027

Oh What a Night! takes you back in time on a musical journey through the incredible career of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Valli’s unmistakable voice dominated the airwaves for more than two decades with classics such as Sherry, Let’s Hang On, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, My Eyes Adored You, December 63 (Oh What A Night), Bye Bye Baby, Who Loves You and many, many more. Selling over 100 million records worldwide, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons secured their place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1990. Oh What a Night! combines infectious personalities, amazing vocals, slick harmonies and even slicker dance moves to deliver a show full of energy and nostalgia which always leaves audiences wanting more. Don’t miss the ultimate celebration of one of the world’s greatest Rock & Roll bands!

Simon and Garfunkel Through the Years

2 May 2026 - 24 Oct 2026

Critically-acclaimed as one of the greatest tribute shows in the world, Simon & Garfunkel Through the Years has toured extensively in the UK, Europe, Australia and USA, receiving standing ovations and selling out theatres night after night. Fronted by Dan Haynes and Pete Richards collectively known as Bookends, the show is a “masterpiece” (BBC Radio) in musicianship; exquisitely recreating the unmistakable sound of Simon & Garfunkel. Featuring all the iconic songs, including The Sound of Silence, Mrs Robinson, The Boxer and the smash hit Bridge Over Troubled Water. This live concert experience is without a doubt the most authentic tribute to Simon & Garfunkel touring the world today.

Swing That Music with The Down for the Count All-Stars

25 Jun 2026 - 16 Oct 2026

Join Down for the Count All-Stars, the UK's hardest swinging band, for "one hellova celebration of vintage music" (TimeOut London) – it's time to Swing That Music! Described as "a breath of fresh air on the swing scene" (Twinwood Festival), Down for the Count are regularly found in legendary clubs across the UK and abroad (Ronnie Scott's London, Le Caveau de la Huchette Paris), at festivals such as London Jazz Festival, and on BBC Radio. Now, they’re bringing the sounds and vibes of the best jazz clubs to theatres around the country – with an electrifying show packed full of energy, top-notch musicianship, and bags of their signature wit and charm. In this new show for 2026, you'll hear instrumental songs from the likes of Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Glenn Miller, vocal classics from singers such as Nat 'King' Cole, Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald, and original arrangements of jazz standards penned by the band’s own musicians. Down for the Count recreate classic tunes from the Swing Era, but this is no mere nostalgia trip – the band perform each song in their own unmistakable style, breathing new life into the best vintage music. Combine that with the top-tier instrumental solos, sublime vocal performances, and irresistible warmth and joie de vivre, and you get a show that will leave you in the highest spirits, wanting more.

Dr Hook Songbook

4 Jul 2026 - 16 Oct 2027

The songs of American country rock band, Dr. Hook, are timeless classics. Who can forget ‘Sylvia's Mother', ‘When You're in Love With A Beautiful Woman', ‘Sharing the Night Together', ‘Only Sixteen', ‘Sexy Eyes' and ‘Cover of the "Rolling Stone"'. The Dr. Hook Songbook breathes new life into the Dr. Hook catalogue with their sensational live concert, recreated for the stage by talented young singer & songwriter, Billy Shannon, and his spectacular live band.

Kapow May Day Wrestling

4 May 2026 - 4 May 2026

The superstars of SWF and Kapow wrestling return to BOAT for 2 huge shows in 2026! For the first time in Brighton, May Day Mayhem is family friendly and headlined by an all women’s tag team match, featuring 4 of the top superstars on the roster. The action-packed, 2-hour show also features a full supporting line-up, including the best performers in British wrestling.

Locomotive For Murder - The Improvised Whodunnit

9 May 2026 - 9 May 2026

Welcome aboard Locomotive for Murder: The totally improvised, totally hilarious murder mystery, where killing the cast and cracking the case is in your hands! Offie-nominated Edinburgh Fringe favourites, Pinch Punch, are bringing their five-star, sell-out show back to BOAT for a fifth year running! So, don your deerstalkers and oil your moustaches for a night of shaky alibis, silver-tongued sleuths, thrills, spills, and good old-fashioned kills. Four characters board a train, but not everyone will survive… Luckily, a world-famous detective is on board, ready to root out the killer. But who is the murderer? Only one person knows—the murderer themselves! Can you put your wits to the test and solve the case? Using real-life audience stories and suggestions, watch Pinch Punch create a unique, one-of-a-kind, never-to-be-repeated whodunnit. If you love comedy or murder mysteries, then this is the show for you!

Circus Calamitous

27 Jun 2026 - 28 Jun 2026

The Greatest Show On Earth (ish). The ‘World’s Greatest Showman’ (his words) Rex Bartholomew brings his internationally-renowned award-winning world-famous circus to the grandest of venues. Except that he doesn’t, because a clerical error means the circus performers have gone to the wrong address and are 100 miles away. The only people left in the company are Rex himself and his put-upon stagehand Darren ... so the two of them will have to put on the show themselves! Rex and Darren need to do all the juggling, fire-eating, lion-taming, bullet-catching, the lot. There’s mishaps, squirting water, custard pies, audience participation and a cameo from the only member of the circus troupe that remained on site ... Leslie the Lion. Drawing on traditions of circus, pantomime and classic comedy, it’s a circus that goes very wrong. Written by BAFTA nominated TV Comedy writer Justin Sbresni and Stewart Wright.

The Production Garden Presents ‘Parody of the Rings’

14 May 2026 - 14 May 2026

What happens when a cinema's Lord of the Rings marathon goes terribly wrong. At the local cinema, all hell breaks loose when the ushers misplace the DVDs of The Lord of the Rings trilogy every single copy! With only the soundtracks left in hand, the team of hapless ushers must somehow improvise an entire three-film saga in front of a live audience. Get ready for an uproarious evening of comedy, chaos, and utter nonsense, as they attempt to recreate the epic tale of hobbits, elves, and orcs without any visuals, any planning, or any clue what they're doing. It's a show that's more fun than a barrel of hobbits, and definitely more chaotic than a Gandalf speech. If you've ever wanted to see Gollum fight a battle with sound effects, or Gandalf desperately trying to remember what happens next, then you're in for a hilarious treat!

Ben Hur - Cue Fanfare

20 May 2026 - 23 May 2026

They said it was unachievable! They said it couldn’t be done! And yet … The greatest book ever penned is brought to the stage by the towering team who produced last year’s smash hit The 39 Steps … and with just four actors! Complete with a bona fide chariot race, an authentic sea battle and a decadent Roman orgy (suitable for all ages), Ben Hur is The Greatest Story Ever Told. Adapted for the stage by Patrick Barlow, based on the novel by General Lew Wallace.

Open Air Poetry Slam - Hammer and Tongue

15 May 2026 - 15 May 2026

For the fifth year running, the legendary poetry slammers Hammer & Tongue bring their epic grand final into the open air! Finalists will come equipped with their unique styles and perspectives to battle it out for the crown. Lucky audience members will hold up scores out of ten to decide the fate of our brave poets. It’s sure to be an epic clash of words, syntax and rhyme like no other. Hosted by the hilarious Leanne Shorley and featuring a headline performance from a spoken word superstar, join us for the best in performance poetry from Brighton’s longest-running poetry night.

Sherlock Holmes Vs Arsene Lupin

16 May 2026 - 16 May 2026

A new camp comedy pitting England’s famous consulting detective against France’s infamous gentleman burglar. Arsène Lupin voyages across the Channel to challenge Sherlock Holmes, with Dr John Watson caught in the middle of a tug-of-war between these literary legends. Meanwhile, Lupin plots a grand heist that threatens to send the British Museum airborne. The Department of Ulterior Motives (DUM) specialises in high-concept productions that blend physical performance and accessible storytelling with a mischievously political edge. Their debut production, an adaptation of The Man Who Was Thursday, was selected for SPRINT Festival 2026 at Camden People’s Theatre.

Alice In Wonderland- Let's All Dance

17 May 2026 - 17 May 2026

The Let’s All Dance Ballet Company returns to BOAT with this fabulous family favourite. Stunning dancing, much loved characters and super costumes bring the famous tale to life in this magical production. Come and join Alice as she enters the curiouser and curiouser world of the White Rabbit, Queen of Hearts and Mad Hatter. Suitable for all, especially 2 – 12 year olds, including children with special needs. Don’t be late for this very important date! Photo opportunity with dancers after every show!

The Rime of the Ancient Mariner

27 May 2026 - 27 May 2026

A blustering theatrical blunder through brine, blood and ballads. Framed around the themes of Coleridge’s famous epic, two troubadours fumble their way through a number of short stories, songs and poems on a quest to find the emotional truth of the sea. Including retellings of true shipwrecks, selkie folktales and, of course, The Rime itself.

Gershwin's 'Porgy and Bess'- Chris Coull

28 May 2026 - 28 May 2026

A new jazz suite from Chris Coull, featuring award winning vocalist Imogen Ryall, playing the music of George Gershwin in an engaging and enthralling story that is both accessible and permeates the traditions of the post bop jazz movement. Embark on a story through time as we take you to 1930’s Charleston and a love story between down on his luck ‘Porgy’ and the sassy ‘Bess’. Featuring songs instantly recognisable (Ain’t Necessarily So, I Love You Porgy and of course Summertime) unhackneyed classics (I’ve Got Plenty Of Nothing, There’s A Boat Leaving Soon For New York) and rarely heard gems (Buzzard Song, Prayer, Strawberry Woman). In this project, Chris has brought together three of the finest rhythm section players London has to offer, one of the finest vocalists on the UK scene and his own skills to create a dynamic, swinging and above all thoughtfully hip jazz suite, that swings from hard bop grooves, sumptuous ballads, toe tapping Latin grooves and orchestrally inspired harmonies: Using the original 1935 Gershwin score, influences from the seminal record from Miles Davis and Gil Evans and nuggets of gold from BlueNote’s heyday, the result is a narrated concert full of twists and turns in both plot and form.

Romeo & Juliet

29 May 2026 - 29 May 2026

Two hearts. One fate. A timeless love reborn. The Duke’s Theatre Company presents Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, a bold reimagining of the iconic tragedy directed by Joseph Pitcher. Pitcher’s acclaimed credits include Gypsy (UK Theatre Award for Best Musical Production) and My Fair Lady at The Mill at Sonning, and Macbeth at the Salomons Theatre, Tubridge Wells. Returning to the company following Macbeth (2025), this vibrant production also features original music by composer Rob Millett (Rambert Dance Company and The Royal Opera House, The National Theatre and Shakespeare’s Globe). Blending dynamic staging, evocative sound, and the enduring power of Shakespeare’s verse, this retelling illuminates the passion, peril, and youthful intensity at the play’s core, inviting audiences to rediscover the world’s most famous star-crossed lovers.

Funny That Summer Comedy Festival: Jeff Innocent, Marcus Brigstocke, MC Stephen Grant

2 Jun 2026 - 2 Jun 2026

Jeff Innocent - ‘Smart Casual’ titan of the comedy circuit Marcus Brigstocke - Have I Got News For You, Live at the Apollo, Argumental, The Now Show MC Stephen Grant - Multi award-winning MC and owner of Brighton’s no.1 Comedy Club, The Forge

Funny That Summer Comedy Festival: Ian Stone, Soecial Guest and MC Stephen Grant

3 Jun 2026 - 3 Jun 2026

Ian Stone - The Stand Up Show, Mock The Week, Nevermind The Buzzcocks, The 11 O’Clock Show Special Guest to be announced soon! MC Stephen Grant - Multi award-winning MC and owner of Brighton’s no.1 Comedy Club, The Forge

Funny That Summer Comedy Festival: Special Guest, Sean McLoughlin and MC Stephen Grant

6 Jun 2026 - 6 Jun 2026

Special Guest to be announced soon! Sean McLoughlin - Live At The Apollo, Mock The Week, Frankie Boyle’s New World Order, The Stand-Up Sketch Show and Ricky Gervais international area tour support MC Stephen Grant - Multi award-winning MC and owner of Brighton’s no.1 Comedy Club, The Forge

Funny That Family Friendly Comedy Show

7 Jun 2026 - 7 Jun 2026

Line-up coming soon!

Funny That Summer Comedy Festival: Special Guest, Cally Beaton and MC Stephen Grant

7 Jun 2026 - 7 Jun 2026

Special Guest to be announced soon! Cally Beaton - Live at the Apollo, The Apprentice: You’re Fired, House of Games, best selling author of Namaste Motherfckers MC Stephen Grant - Multi award-winning MC and owner of Brighton’s no.1 Comedy Club, The Forge

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