The 60th edition of Brighton Festival will feature an extensive lineup of theatrical performances, circus acts, and dance presentations.

A fresh chapter begins this year with the inaugural Brighton Festival Production, marking a significant milestone for the event.

The festival’s maiden original creation, titled ‘Kohlhaas,’ comes from acclaimed theatre-maker Omar Elerian, who secured the Best Director prize at the 2026 Evening Standard Theatre Awards.

This piece was specifically designed for the renovated Brighton Dome Corn Exchange and will be presented from May 2 through May 5.

The production presents a bold theatrical interpretation of Heinrich von Kleist’s 1810 novella ‘Michael Kohlhaas,’ featuring well-known performer Arinzé Kene in the lead role.

The play explores modern perspectives on the psychology of protest and resistance, examining themes of justice within flawed systems.

Complete information about the festival program is available at brightonfestival.org.

The Corn Exchange will also welcome ‘Time Keeps The Drummer’ by Fevered Sleep from May 8 to 10.

This production merges theatrical performance, dance, music, and visual artistry to deliver audiences an innovative exploration of time.

Each show differs from the last, with performances improvised on stage and featuring twelve local young performers alongside a single adult drummer.

Additional festival highlights encompass Fix+Foxy’s ‘Dark Noon,’ which will run from May 21 to 23 at the Corn Exchange.

This satirical reexamination of America’s frontier period treats audiences to an immersive historical experience.

The festival also showcases the world premiere of an ambitious new creation from British circus ensemble NoFit State.

Running from May 2 to 25, this immersive performance, helmed by director Firenza Guidi, blends circus arts, live musical accompaniment, and cinematic visual elements.

KlangHaus brings two presentations to Brighton Dome’s Anita’s Room: ‘Darkroom’ and ‘Last Haus on Earth.’

Both productions deliver fully immersive, multi-sensory experiences for audience members.

Emma Rice Company’s interpretation of ‘Malory Towers’ will appear from May 19 to 23.

The festival additionally presents Harry Clayton-Wright’s ‘Mr Blackpool,’ combining variety performance, dance, drag, and magic, scheduled for May 7 to 9.

Additional noteworthy presentations include ‘The Black Saint & The Sinner Lady’ on May 16 and 17, alongside Akram Khan Company’s ‘Thikra: Night of Remembering’ on May 23 and 24.