May sees the return of the much-loved Brighton Fringe Festival. The city once again bursts into life with an incredible display of creativity, performance and artistic expression. Each year, the festival transforms Brighton into a vibrant hub, drawing in performers and audiences from across the UK and beyond.
Some of our wonderful Brilliant Brighton businesses are getting ready for a month full of fun and festivities. From hosting performances to welcoming visitors and creating spaces to relax in between shows, local businesses are at the heart of the Fringe experience.
With a packed programme and a long list of must-see shows, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Let’s take a look at what’s coming up throughout Brilliant Brighton…
KOMEDIA
BEAVERHAUSEN
Fri 8 May, Thu 28 May (BSL signed), and Fri 29 May (BSL signed)
Beaverhausen (the third, twice removed) is a silly sausage extraordinaire. This gender-bending drag king serves big prat energy and will leave you feeling camp and probably quite gay.
Winner of the Brighton Fringe Cabaret & Variety Bursary.
PEARL & DEAN: PICK OF THE FRINGE
Sat 9 May
Dip your hand into Pearl & Dean’s pick and mix of Brighton’s best. Which tasty morsel will be your favourite? A night that’s sure to leave you wanting more…
Featuring Matt Daniels, Oro Rose, Brandy Bex, David Ingram, and Stefania Licari (line-up subject to change).
THE GLITTER PROJECT
Sun 10 May
Funny Women’s special Fringe edition of The Glitter Project features an industry panel and speed-mentoring session with comedy industry experts covering production, performance, media, and wellbeing.
Hosted by Funny Women founder Lynne Parker.
ALEX LOVE: HOW TO WIN A PUB QUIZ 2026
Sun 17 May
Part stand-up, part actual pub quiz. Quick-witted quizmaster Alex Love is back in Brighton with more trivia to split the audience into teams to compete for prizes in this highly interactive hour show. Expect facts, niche references, controversy over points, and squid. “A Fringe cult smash.” ★★★★★ BroadwayBaby
BRIGHTON FRINGE COMEDY SHOWCASE
Sat 30 May
Hosted by the BAFTA award-winning comedian Luke Rollason (star of Disney+ sitcom Extraordinary), this show features Zoe Cousin (BBC New Comedy Award nominee), Gabriel Featherstone (absurdist stand-up), Alice Ella (surreal musical comedy), and Anand Sankar (unhinged comedy whirlwind).
LIBERATION ART GALLERY
CLAY HARMONY
Sat 2nd, Sun 3rd, Sat 9th, Sun 10th, Sat 16th, Sun 17th, Sat 23rd, Sun 24th, Sat 30th & Sun 31st May
Led by Harmony, resident potter at Liberation Art Gallery, you’ll be making pots on the wheel to take home with you. Children can make a handmade pinch bowl if preferred. There is also a sculpture area, as well as some model making, along with the pottery throwing. Don’t forget to bring an old t-shirt as things can get messy!
THE LAST BOOKSHOP
FOUND OUT THERE – PUBLIC TYPIST (FREE)
Friday 1st – Sunday 10th May at 12pm
Follow the sound of clacking typewriter keys and step into a world of storytelling magic with public typist Adam Holton. Give him three random words and a character name, and watch as he types a unique story just for you – right before your eyes in just five minutes.
Each story is roughly a 400 words and typed live. Donations can be made on a pay what you feel basis.
PIER PRESSSURE at the i360
THE MILE DIE CLUB
2nd & 15th–16th May
Step into the most dangerous dinner party in Brighton with this murder mystery fine-dining experience on the i360. Meet a cast of suspicious characters, watch the drama unfold, then enjoy a three-course meal while you interrogate the suspects, uncover clues, and piece together the truth. Finally, take to the skies in the i360 pod, soaring 450ft above the city as the mystery is revealed and justice is served.
