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 University theatre/cabaret venue |
14-17 Manchester Street Kemp Town Brighton, East Sussex BN2 1TF United Kingdom +44 1273 62 2633 |
This live performance venue is run by students from the University of Brighton. It has a lofty feel to it and is decked out in black and red. As well as the latest in new theater productions there's a healthy dose of comedy and music with local bands and those from further afield dropping in for some raucous gigs. There is an annual comedy festival here with workshops and discussions with professional, and often well-known, performers including Graham Norton, to mention just one. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Popcorn anyone? |
Brills Lane The Lanes Brighton, East Sussex BN1 1NF United Kingdom +44 1273 22 0902 |
For most of the time, Ali Cats is actually a bar down at the seafront, underneath The Prodigal pub, however come early evening it turns into an informal picture house showing cult favourites like Withnail and I or Easy Rider. Get there early as this basement venue starts the films rolling at 5:45p (4:45p Su)and they're free. Get there early to find a seat and you may never leave. There are regular cocktail promotions and DJs from Tu-Su every week. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lucia Willems Ramíre  |
 Ambience Gallery |
38, Meeting House Lane The Lanes Brighton, Sussex BN1 1HB United Kingdom +44 127 377 6607 http://www.ambiencegallery.co.uk/ |
If you have art at heart, then the Ambience Gallery is the place for you. Pop in here while you are in Brighton and find everything from oil and water paintings to pastels on canvas, ceramics, sculptures and glassware on display. Also up for grabs are books written by leading artists, most of which are limited signed editions. The staff is welcoming and warm, and the art-work diverse and refreshing. Admission is free and the gallery is open seven days a week. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Cosy comfortable restaurant |
31 Upper North Street Brighton, East Sussex BN1 3FG United Kingdom +44 1273 32 8939 |
This homely restaurant has been serving Brightonians and visitors for several years. The host, Barry, has a reputation for entertaining his guests with fascinating tales and anecdotes. With about five tables and room for 20 diners, the setting is cosy and comfortable. Starters such as mushrooms stuffed with crab and garlic will tantalise the tastebuds. For a dazzling dessert, Grand Marnier trifle should not be missed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Stars in your eyes |
Kings Road Brighton, East Sussex BN1 2GR United Kingdom +44 1273 29 0131 http://www.brightoncentre.co.uk |
Brighton's premier venue for major gigs and conferences, the Brighton Centre is a 5,100 capacity auditorium. Currently under discussion is a £200 million re-build programme. As well as putting on luminaries such as Van Morrison, Shirley Bassey and Michael Crawford it's also the chosen venues of bands of the moment. The Labour Party Conference is often staged here and the centre is renowned as an exhibition and conference space. It also houses the East Wing which comprises two halls of 400 capacity each, used for after club parties or a more intimate venue for touring bands. Ticket prices vary according to programme. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Insite Photography |
 Photo: Sam Collins |
 Photo: Alex Laurie |
 Photo: Linnie Rawlinson |
 Photo: Ice Jelly |
 Photo: Neil Collingbourne |
 Photo: Richard Harrison |
 Photo: Jay Gooby |
 Photo: Alan Woods |
 Photo: Pascal Baffert |
 Photo: Emily Brown |
 Photo: pauly b |
 Photo: Alan |
 Photo: Maurice Atkinson |
 Photo: rengirl |
 Photo: Angharad Hughes |
 Photo: Ben Browning |
 Under construction |
12A Pavilion Buildings Castle Square Brighton, East Sussex BN1 1EE United Kingdom +44 1273 70 0747 http://www.brighton-dome.org.uk |
Currently undergoing a EUR30m overhaul, The Dome is part of the Royal Pavilion building complex. Nestling in the far corner of the Pavilion Gardens it is a huge behemoth of a building and stages theatre, magnificent concerts, shows and conferences. Similar in lay out to the Albert Hall, you sit around the main stage. The acoustics are second to none, important bearing in mind the calibre of acting and classical concerts put on here, as well as the big name pop gigs. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andy Wright |
 Photo: David Dorward |
 Photo: Frank Jepsen |
 Photo: Riikka Puustinen |
 Photo: Ross Boozeniges |
 Photo: Melita Dennett |
 Photo: Paul D Wade |
 Photo: James Shiell |
 Photo: nick.hider |
 Photo: Jacqui |
 Photo: David Taylor |
 Photo: Sue Purbrick |
 Photo: Caffeinated fruits |
 Photo: Priya Dave |
 Photo: Sam Corn |
 Photo: klausdelanghe |
 Photo: kiki vee |
 Photo: klactoveesedstein |
 Photo: Liza Rogers |
 Photo: Tim Brooke |
 Photo: Spixey |
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Take in some culture |
Various venues throughout the city Brighton BN1 4EE United Kingdom +44 1273 709 709 http://www.brighton-festival.o... |
Brighton's annual arts jamboree occurs every second weekend of May and is an eclectic mix of theatre, classical music, free street theatre, literature and art. All the big venues play a part with the Corn Exchange and Theatre Royal taking centre stage. Past performers have included Courtney Pine, Irvine Welsh, Carlos Fuentes and many, many more. Ticket prices vary. There is also the Streets of Brighton weekend with three days of free music, circus and local community events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jeremy Keith |
 Photo: Nick Frewin |
 Photo: Scribe |
 Photo: Nick Frewin |
 Photo: Jem Stone |
 Photo: Baronvonhorne |
 Photo: Cas Hoskins |
 Photo: James Boyes |
 Photo: Poles Apart Stilts |
 Photo: Charlie Fleming |
 Photo: Dennis Hunt |
 Photo: julianjoyce2000 |
 Photo: James Wragg |
 Photo: Robin Manuell |
 Photo: Barney Livingston |
 Photo: stuartgmurden |
 Photo: Paul R Jackson |
 Photo: Hubert McFootlong |
 Photo: Pornrutai Lohachal |
 Photo: Steve Collins |
 Photo: adriangracie |
 Photo: Miss Aniela |
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Experimental Theatre Venue |
9 Clarence Gardens Brighton, East Sussex BN1 2EG United Kingdom +44 1273 390 004 http://www.the-little.co.uk |
This little gem of a theatre was once a small church serving the heart of the Brighton and Hove border community. Now it's doing much the same thing save the religion as a cutting edge/experimental theatre. For a play to stretch your boundaries head for the Little Theatre directly behind the Pull and Pump pub. Several plays are staged each year in this intimate venue. Look elsewhere for mainstream theatre, this is a place for the new and the interesting. Call for programme details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Brighton's digital media centre |
15-17 Middle Street The Lanes Brighton BN1 1AL United Kingdom +44 (0)870 416 3299 http://www.mediacentre.org |
This is where it all happens media wise. There are magazines, the Cinematheque cinema, and the Contact Gallery as part of the complex. The BMC also runs varied courses in multi-media discipline. It's the place to come to if you want to get ahead in the fast changing world of information technology. You can also stop by for a drink at the bar. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Telmo Carlos |
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Historical and contemporary art collection |
Royal Pavilion Gardens Brighton, East Sussex BN1 1EE United Kingdom +44 1273 29 0900 http://www.brighton.virtualmus... |
Opened in 1873, the Brighton Museum houses collections of local and national importance, including Art Nouveau and Art Deco collections of furniture, glass and ceramics, and arts and crafts worldwide. The Willett Collection contains more than 2,000 pieces of pottery and porcelain from the 1700s to the 1900s. Other displays include fine art, local history, costumes and toys. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ms. Bexy |
 Photo: Tom Page |
 Photo: bunnygirl793 |
 Photo: Sam Scoggins |
 Photo: d0ct0rk |
 Photo: Prince Heathen |
 Photo: ozziebackpacker |
 Photo: Anne Dickins |
 Photo: David Le Masurier |
 Photo: Lesley Renton |
 Photo: Christina Branson |
 Photo: Moira Douglas |
 Photo: Keiron* |
 Photo: Philipp Rutishauser |
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Clubbing home of big beat |
Madeira Drive, Madeira Shelter Hall Brighton BN2 1EN United Kingdom +44 (0)1273 67 3311 http://www.concorde2.co.uk/ |
Brighton's best-known and loved venue for gigs is a refurbished biker's cafe along the seafront. The high ceilings and lush interiors of purple and chrome replace the cramped garage-like feel of the original Concorde, now demolished. The new building is divided into three sections, a bar and seated area as you walk in, a dancehall and stage for bands, and finally a smaller area for food and drinks. The venue hosts performances by the cream of UK pop, rock, indie and dance bands from time to time. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Barkaway |
 Photo: Beddoes |
 Photo: Andi Frost |
 Photo: Sheri Foreman |
 Photo: Nicola Jane |
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Theater and Conference Center |
Carlisle Road Brighton BN21 4BP United Kingdom +44 132 341 2000 http://www.eastbournetheatres.... |
A theater and conference facility, Congress Theatre is located in Eastbourne, a short drive from Brighton. The theater's diverse calendar of events include children's shows, musicals, plays, and concerts. Check their website for details on upcoming events and ticketing information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Cutting edge art |
Brighton Media Centre 9-12 Middle Street Brighton, East Sussex BN1 1AL United Kingdom +44 1273 38 4200 |
Part of the Brighton Media Centre complex in Middle Street, the Contact Gallery is a leading contemporary art space. Exhibitions specialise on photography and painting with the exhibits often spreading over into the adjacent Sumo bar. Past shows have included a photographic exhibition of ecstatic Tibetan rituals that had never before been chronicled, and quirky looks at the world of sports photography. It's an unfussy affair on the whole, a white, square room with nothing to distract from the art. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Take in a show |
Church St., Brighton, East Sussex BN1 1UG United Kingdom +44 1273 674357 http://www.brighton-dome.org.uk |
Part of the Brighton Dome Complex, the Corn Exchange plays host to theatre, lively shows, conferences and even kick-boxing bouts. With a vast interior, the seating capacity accommodates from 300-1,000. While it primarily presents shows and conferences, The Exchange also comes alive with Brighton's annual Jazz Bop, a summer festival celebrating the very best in contemporary jazz music. Ticket prices vary according to performance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Emma Batchelor |
 Photo: Mike Mantin |
 Photo: Drew McLellan |
 Photo: Philip McAllister |
 Photo: Claire Griffiths |
 Photo: (c) Rowan Stanfield |
 Photo: Queenie Ching |
 Photo: celticblade |
 Photo: Lorne Thomson |
 Photo: Katharine Falk |
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Big night out clubbing venue |
Kings West, West St Brighton, East Sussex BN1 2RE United Kingdom +44 1273 732 627 |
The Event II doubles as a nightclub and gig venue. For clubbing it attracts a younger clientele into their house and garage and smattering of R'n'B. It's one of Brighton's larger clubs, and inside it's done out in heavy pile carpets and chrome. The dance floor is nicely sprung so there's ample chance to shake your booty all night long. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Leading gallery in a church |
40 Duke St Brighton, East Sussex BN1 1AG United Kingdom +44 1273 77 8646 http://www.fabrica.org.uk |
One of Brighton's more unusual galleries, Fabrica is actually based in a church. This gives the gallery a nice, airy, lofty feel to it and the height is used to good effect. Previous exhibitions have featured feathers hanging suspended like snow and the costumes of performance artist Leigh Bowery. The gallery is renowned for its installation pieces and in the past the whole space has been turned into a virtual home with computer links ups to other galleries in Sussex. The gallery is open from April to December, but closes from January to March as there's no heating. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Panoramic views |
Foredown Tower Countryside Centre Foredown Road, Portslade Brighton, East Sussex BN41 2EW United Kingdom +44 1273 29 2092 |
This disused Edwardian water tower is now home to a countryside centre on the South Downs and the only surviving camera obscura in the south-east. The viewing gallery gives outstanding views over surrounding countryside and across the Channel. It also features a weather station providing satellite views of the weather, interactive computers, countryside research and data and displays relating to local environment. There is a programme of talks and events throughout the year. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: hollidaypics |
 Photo: Zoe Parsons |
 Photo: Jo and William |
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Innovative artworks |
73 St James's Street Kemp Town Brighton, East Sussex BN2 1PJ United Kingdom +44 1273 67 4788 |
Gallery 73 is one of Brighton's more innovative art spaces with the focus on pushing first time and little known artists out into the limelight. It is run by a group of committed volunteers and is situated in the heart of Kemp Town. As well as painting and photographic exhibitions, the gallery also showcases sculpture and ceramics as well as occasional textile exhibits. The gallery is accessible on foot from central Brighton, which is only a five minute walk away. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Impressive purpose built arts centre |
University of Sussex, Lewes Rd Falmer Brighton, East Sussex BN1 9RA United Kingdom +44 1273 68 5861 http://www.gardnerarts.co.uk |
The Gardner Arts is an architect's dream, built on campus at the University of Sussex, just outside Brighton in Falmer. The purpose-built rotund block houses an impressive theatre, exhibition space, cinema and cafe/bar. On the major touring runs, you can expect to see everything from Stoppard to Brecht alongside slightly more experimental dance and music performances plus children's shows from the UK and abroad. The Visions International Animation Festival is also held here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Violette Vérité |
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Beach party time |
127-132 King's Road Arches Brighton, East Sussex BN1 2FN United Kingdom |
Set under the Arches right next to the beach, Gemini's is one of the many bars/clubs jostling for attention from large groups of twenty-something students and party crowds that congregate in Brighton each weekend. Like many of its local counterparts, Gemini's is all about garage and hard house - so if your cup of tea edges more towards disco - look elsewhere! Bottled beers and ready-mixed alcoholic drinks are most popular with the clientele - presumably as dancing with a glass of wine or pint of beer requires much better balancing skills. Snacks are also available for the hungry party-goer. Prices are reasonable and in line with most of the competition, with bottled beers just over the £2-mark. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Abstract art |
4 George Street Brighton, East Sussex BN2 1RH United Kingdom +44 1273 68 1852 |
A homely affair this one, located in Kemp Town with a picture framing business down in the basement. The gallery on the ground floor is fairly minimalist and specialises in abstract art. As well as this there's often stunning black and white photography, a recent exhibition featured the nudes of Eva Grant. The gallery also features exhibitions on painted landscapes and still-lifes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 World famous venue |
Ringmer (B2192) Brighton, East Sussex BN8 5UU United Kingdom +44 1273 81 2321 http://www.glyndebourne.com |
Fancy a bit of opera, but don't fancy all the stuffiness of London? Glyndebourne could be just the answer. Located just outside Brighton, this beautiful opera house and complex is set on its own grounds and it offers opera lovers the chance to enjoy both indoor and outdoor performances. Check the Web site for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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20th century art housed in Victorian villa |
19 New Church Road Hove Brighton, East Sussex BN3 4AB United Kingdom +44 1273 29 0200 http://www.hove.virtualmuseum.... |
Housed in an important Victorian villa, this museum contains a fine collection of 20th century paintings and drawings, decorative art and the South East Arts collection of contemporary craft. It also houses the Hove to Hollywood film collection and the Childhood Room packed with toys, dolls and other childhood memorabilia. There is an excellent cafe in the museum serving cakes and sandwiches for those overwhelmed by culture. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Designs on ceramics |
7 East Street The Lanes Brighton, East Sussex BN1 1HP United Kingdom +44 1273 32 1694 http://www.hugobarclay.co.uk |
Come here for a taste of modern designer jewellery and ceramic collections by artists like Tony Laverick, Peter Wright, Perry Lancaster and Jennie Hale. This two-floor gallery emphasises contemporary design with interesting use of materials such as metal and plastic in clocks, ornaments and jewellery. The glass perfume bottles make perfect gifts. You don't have to be an art connoisseur to shop here as the work, displayed in glass cases, is accompanied by a short note detailing the artist's background and training. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Seriously groovy |
10 Ship Street The Lanes Brighton, East Sussex BN1 1AD United Kingdom +44 1273 32 8439 |
The Jazz Rooms are a bit of an institution in Brighton, not only providing some fine live jazz but also excellent jazzy funky records a la top Brighton DJ Russ Dewbury. It's a subterranean affair, partly in a dank and somewhat dingy basement. The club also caters for the reggae crowd with some fine regular nights belting out roots favourites. Then there's the hip-hop; another staple in the fare on offer here. Go just for the experience. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: missemilyjones |
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Spirit of Brighton |
135 Western Road Brighton, East Sussex BN1 2LA United Kingdom +44 1273 72 0059 http://www.kobauk.com |
Although Koba is equipped with five spacious bars, you'll be lucky if you can find a vacant spot. The resident music club boasts of an endless loyal clientele and they are the culprits when it comes to full houses. And of course, the eclectic range of cocktails and a cozy dining area with a fireplace add to Koba's charm. In addition to its cool ambience, the crowd puller is the impressive repertoire of DJ's and jazz bands every evening. The club can also be reserved for corporate events and family gatherings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jane Dallaway |
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Laugh your head off |
Gardner Street (North Laine) Brighton, East Sussex BN1 1UN United Kingdom +44 1273 647100 http://www.komedia.co.uk |
Komedia is a popular haunt that presents comedy, theatre, workshops and live music. The Krater Comedy Club takes place every Saturday and Sunday evening and presents a line-up of established and new comedians. There are two shows on Saturday, the later one is always a bit more raucous, but either is always a great night out. More informal performances are presented on Sunday. Ticket prices and show times vary; call for details. There is a fine restaurant, "Curve," on the ground floor for a pre-show meal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: clive darr |
 Photo: Alexis Parkin |
 Photo: odreiuqzide |
 Photo: georgie scissor |
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World renowned guitar festival |
P.O. Box 76 Lewes Brighton, East Sussex BN7 3WP United Kingdom http://www.lewesguitarfestival... |
This annual celebration of the guitar features a mix of performers from around the world, as well as guitar making events and music workshops. The festival activities also include flamenco and sitar demonstrations plus free lunchtime shows.Past performers have included Eric Roche, Asere and Vini Reilly. Performances take place in various venues around Lewes. The town is quite small and easily navigated on foot. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Melita Dennett |
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Fabulous Latin fodder |
60 Church Road Hove Brighton, East Sussex BN3 2FP United Kingdom +44 1273 778777 |
For nearly ten years Los Amigos has been serving fine Latin food. There's seating for over 70 and the setting is smart but laid back and lively. Be sure to book at weekends: there is live music and a real party atmosphere. A good selection of beers, wines and cocktails are on offer. The menu is huge and making a decision might take a while. Options are plentiful for veggies and meat eaters alike. Paella for up to four can be ordered (£20.95-£39.95) but allow half an hour for preparation. For those who prefer the comfort of their own abode, a delivery service is available from 6pm-11pm daily. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Theatre/music/spoken word venue |
4 Princes St Brighton, East Sussex BN2 1RD United Kingdom +44 0778 227 8521 http://www.marlboroughtheatre.... |
Situated upstairs from the gay and lesbian pub, The Marlborough, this tiny theatre is the place to be for raw talent. The front row of ten rows of seats (50 capacity) is almost on the stage so you're very much a part of the on-going action. It's an intimate venue putting on cutting edge, theatre, cabaret, spoken word and music. Telephone for details of this season's forthcoming programme. Call for performance times. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dials (C)R Roundhill |
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Old-fashioned fun |
Kings Road Arches Lower Promenade Brighton BN1 2LN United Kingdom +44 (0)1273 60 8620 |
The National Working Museum of Penny Slot Machines is the UK's only public vintage penny arcade, situated on the beach near Brighton Pier. There are over 50 old machines, including "What the Butler Saw", strength testers and fortune tellers. Games for all members of the family are played with old pennies, bought from a vintage booth (50p gets you seven pre-decimalisation pennies). Machines date from between 1895 and 1945. This is a really good fun attraction and certainly worth a trip. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Josephine Lloyd |
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Intimate Theatre Venue |
Bedford Place Brighton, East Sussex BN1 2TP United Kingdom +44 1273 74 6118 http://www.newventure.org.uk |
On the Brighton-Hove boundary, this impressive Georgian structure, once a school, houses a theatre which concentrates on local as well as national productions. The average sized auditorium used to be the school assembly hall. Now it plays host to markedly complex productions, experimental in outlook. The New Venture puts on around ten plays a year. The theatre always welcomes new members who wish to become involved in the staging of the productions; either behind or in front of the camera. Admission: £7.50 for non-members/£6.50 members. Membership of the theatre costs £24 per year, £12 for a student/unwaged, and £6 for a friend. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Central entertainment venue |
29 New Road Brighton, East Sussex BN1 1UG United Kingdom +44 1273 70 9709 http://www.brighton-dome.org.uk |
Part of the Brighton Dome complex which is currently undergoing major redevelopment. The Pavilion is home to many Brighton Festival events which take place in May. The newly refurbished building houses its 240 seat theatre on the first floor with a foyer on ground level for exhibitions. The theatre is also used for music events. Ticket prices vary depending upon performance; call for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: The Circus Project |
 Photo: Brian J Graham |
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Working art gallery |
10-14 Waterloo Place Brighton, East Sussex BN2 9NB United Kingdom +44 1273 60 3700 http://www.phoenixarts.org |
This giant gallery offers cutting edge exhibitions, often from artists working in studios in another part of this unattractive building. But don't let the exterior put you off. Inside is very much a working gallery. The giant showing space is split into one room and a smaller annex. You will see sculpture, video art, installation pieces, painting, photography, ceramics and jewellery. Exhibitions are usually themed and featuring various artists. The gallery also houses a stall selling collector's records. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rebekah Kortokraks |
 Photo: The Permanent Bookshop |
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A round of applause |
36 Montpelier Road Brighton, East Sussex BN1 3BA United Kingdom +44 1273 73 7624 http://www.promptcorner.com |
Prompt Corner has been serving fine food for over 50 years. Well known for serving local and visiting thespians, including Joan Collins and Joanna Lumley, the restaurant is situated in a basement building and operates a kind of one way system for entry and exit. Masks hanging in a window will direct one to the right location. All food is home-made and available in a menu made up of five "Acts". Local grilled rainbow trout is well worth a try. To end a perfect dining experience, indulge yourself with a luscious dessert. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Arts centre |
Upper Gardner Street North Laine Brighton, East Sussex BN1 4AN United Kingdom +44 1273 69 2151 |
At the rawer edge of Brighton theatre life the RTC puts on a lively array of theatre, cabaret and music from around the world. Come here for the more exotic plays and sounds with theatre and music culled from as far afield as Zimbabwe and the tropics. For a truly colorful night out. Everything on one floor and there's a bar. This arts centre does the occasional film (one or two a month) and when they do it's most definitely art house. Past presentations have included Cinefeel Electronic Video Music Lounge, a short animation film and the latest music video releases from Aphex Twin through to Laurent Garnier. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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University arts/music venue |
University of Brighton 58-64 Grand Parade Brighton, East Sussex BN2 2JY United Kingdom +44 1273 64 3010 http://www.bton.ac.uk |
The Sallis Benney is the University of Brighton theater. It puts on alternative touring plays, spoken word and musical events. You could expect to see Theatre de Complicité, Linton Kwesi Johnson doing dub poetry in a Do Tongues event (Brighton spoken word forum) or Bert Jansch playing jazz - all in any one month. Do be aware that the place shuts down over the spring and early summer. This place doubles as a cinema for the occasional one-off. For films on local history and the like it's the place to come. In the past, the Moving History series has shown featuring The South East on Film. There is also an exhibition space and bar. Call for program details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Films and food |
51-55 Brunswick East Hove Brighton, East Sussex BN3 1AU United Kingdom +44 1273 77 0002 http://www.sanctuarycafe.co.uk/ |
This friendly and hip venue on three floors houses a renowned Brighton cafe which puts on a wide variety of events almost every night, from live music to poetry, for a small entrance fee. They also provide board games to play whilst drinking your coffee. Originally a completely vegetarian cafe, the menu has recently expanded to offer Burmese, European and African cuisine. Lunches range from home made soups, salads and baguettes. Evening meals include specials like Friday fish suppers - the Calimari in red wine and tomato sauce served with a mushroom risotto is divine. There are no GM foods and organic wines are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Best view in town |
106 Kings Road (by Metropole Hotel) Brighton, East Sussex BN1 2FU United Kingdom +44 1273 77 5775 |
Steamers draws a mixture of both residents and visitors to its New Orleans-look venue. It's not quite wild enough to rival some of the bars under the King's Road Arches, but the frequent performances of live bands and bright breezy atmosphere all add to its charm. The large terrace at the front of Steamers is the perfect vantage point on sunny days to watch the waves roll in, hip Brightonians meander by and enjoy a pint or two of cool crisp beer. The food is a bit hit and miss: if burgers and chips, generous sandwiches, and scampi are dishes akin to paradise for you. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Arts centre and members club |
7 Ship St The Lanes Brighton, East Sussex BN1 1AD United Kingdom +44 1273 72 7371 http://www.sussexarts.com |
Down at the seafront end of Brighton, the Sussex Arts Club is actually a members' club, a favoured haunt of the illuminati - Julie Burchill among them. However it does open its doors for plays, music and cabaret. The impressive arts space at the rear of the building is a circular room with a huge glass domed atrium. Seating is limited and informal but then you're likely to be foot-tapping anyway to regular rock, folk and world music nights on offer. There's a small bar, the main bar unfortunately for members only. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: theboywhokickedpigs |
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Music to your ears |
1 Phoenix Place Brighton, East Sussex BN2 2ND United Kingdom +44 1273 60 3974 http://www.zelnet.com |
This pub off Grand Parade is a favourite gigging venue in town. It's been recently made over but retains its electric atmosphere. The pub is quite spacious with pool table and fruit machines, but the stage round the other side is by comparison just like your front room. So the bands, invariably indie or punk, blare out at unbelievable decibels right next to your ears. Many of Brighton's bigger bands have started out here and the Freebutt also attracts bands from abroad as well as hip hop club nights. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stephen Burch |
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Hove's premier arts centre |
11a Upper Market St Hove Brighton, East Sussex BN3 1AS United Kingdom +44 1273 73 6222 http://www.theoldmarket.co.uk |
The Old Market is a grand building, recently renovated and boasts Hove's premier arts centre. The 300 capacity auditorium plays hosts to plays, gigs, classical concerts and conferences. There's also an exhibition space and a cafe and bar for a pre-performance meal or to meet up afterwards. The bar hosts live jazz between 1:30p-3:30p on Sunday. If you want to go upmarket, go Old Market. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Adam Stockdale |
 Photo: Lilly Creightmore |
 Photo: Sarah Dobinson |
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Mainstream theatre venue |
New Road (North Laine) Brighton, East Sussex BN1 1SD United Kingdom +44 1273 32 8488 |
Perhaps Brighton's grandest theatre, this old style palace (1,000 seats) puts on the big touring plays, shows and musicals. The lush interior features lots of mahogany and red velvet, putting you in a luxurious mood for the West End farefrom the best in Shakespeare to panto. There is a bar the size of a hotel lobby. Step next door to Colonnade Bar for more opulence and walls festooned with shots of the stars. Ticket prices vary per performance, call or check web site for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Susie Moursi |
 Photo: stevewright tn1 |
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College theatre |
Pelham Tower, Pelham Street North Laine Brighton, East Sussex BN1 4FA United Kingdom +44 1273 66 7788 |
This theatre is part of City College Brighton (formerly Brighton College of Technology) and is located in the main college building. The Tower puts on a lot of stage adaptations of literary masterpieces. There are performances from up and coming touring companies as well as plays put on by drama students from the college. These performances are sometimes accompanied by workshops and opportunities to meet the actors. Other events at the theater include comedy gigs, dance and concerts. Call for program details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Marina cinema multiplex |
Marina Village Brighton Marina Brighton, East Sussex BN2 5UF United Kingdom +44 0871 200 2000 http://www.ugccinemas.co.uk |
A giant beast of a multiplex out in Brighton Marina. This frankly ugly building is where you can come and see all your favourite Hollywood blockbusters. The place has the added advantage of showing films at the civilised hour of 9pm-9.30pm giving you a chance to get dressed up or down depending on the film. Tickets £5 upwards. See local press for details of films being shown or call the cinema. Call for programme details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Art for art's sake |
58-64 Grand Parade Brighton, East Sussex BN2 2JY United Kingdom +44 1273 64 3010 |
One of Brighton's bigger galleries, the University of Brighton puts on major touring shows, contemporary exhibitions and student graduate displays. The University's art faculty is widely regarded for the standard of the students' work. Recently it's been the venue for Carnivalesque widely acclaimed as the best exhibition outside London last year, featuring works of Goya and Breugel. The gallery is split into three viewing areas and has also been used for installation pieces in the past. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Small collective gallery |
39 Sydney Street North Laine Brighton, East Sussex BN1 4EP United Kingdom +44 1273 67 1212 |
This basement gallery is based in the North Laine and below a jewellery and ornament shop. Run by a collective of Brighton designers it puts on shows featuring local as well as national artists. Expect ceramics, jewellery and abstract photography and prints. The gallery also concentrates on recent degree show graduates from Brighton and Sussex Universities. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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So Contemporary |
80 Trafalgar Street Brighton BN1 4EB United Kingdom +44 1273 69 8500 http://www.ocontemporary.co.uk/ |
A spacious North Laine establishment, the place is an endeavor to encourage contemporary art. Artists of international fame as well as local talent showcase works in two exhibition spaces. The Gallery comes up with innovative exhibition programs every five to six weeks. A haven for collectors and lovers of art, the gallery is taken care of by knowledgeable staff, eager to help. The gallery has also been a part of the Affordable Art Fair and the London Art Fair. Your collection is sure to be enriched with a piece or two from this art space. Review © 2007, Wcities |