Brighton is a vibrant coastal city known for its lively arts scene and home to a fabulous array of theatres and performing arts venues. Here are five outstanding venues in Brighton that any budding performer will love to explore:
Theatre Royal Brighton
As one of the oldest and most prestigious theatres in the country, Theatre Royal Brighton holds a special place in the hearts of performers and audiences alike. Situated in the heart of the Lanes, this Grade II listed building exudes elegance and grandeur, providing a fitting backdrop for its diverse programme of theatrical productions. Performing arts students will appreciate the theatre’s rich heritage and its commitment to staging high-quality performances across a range of genres, from touring West End musicals to cutting-edge contemporary theatre. Boasting state-of-the-art facilities and a renowned artistic reputation, Theatre Royal Brighton offers students a truly immersive and inspiring theatre experience.
The Old Market
Nestled in the North Laine area, The Old Market (TOM) is a dynamic arts venue that celebrates creativity and innovation. Housed within a beautifully restored Victorian building, TOM offers a versatile space that hosts a wide range of performances, including theatre, dance, comedy, music and more. Dance students will find plenty to inspire them, from contemporary dance showcases to experimental performances and interdisciplinary collaborations. On the other hand, for acting students, there are many opportunities to participate in workshops, residencies and community projects. With its inclusive ethos and eclectic programme of events, The Old Market is a hub of artistic exploration and discovery for all performing arts enthusiasts.
Brighton Dome
Located in the heart of Brighton, Brighton Dome is a historic venue with a modern twist. Comprising three unique performance spaces – the Concert Hall, Corn Exchange and Studio Theatre – Brighton Dome offers music, theatre, dance, comedy and more. Performing arts students will be drawn to the venue’s extensive programme of performances, which range from classical ballet to contemporary theatre. Brighton Dome also hosts a variety of workshops, masterclasses and creative residencies, providing locals with opportunities to develop their skills in a supportive environment. Brighton Dome is undoubtedly a cornerstone of the city’s cultural landscape and a must-visit destination for aspiring performers.
The Marlborough Theatre
Tucked away in vibrant Kemptown, The Marlborough Theatre is a hidden gem that champions diversity, inclusion and artistic experimentation. As the city’s oldest operating theatre, The Marlborough has a rich history of supporting queer artists and pushing boundaries in performance art. Dance students will have plenty of opportunities to experience shows in an intimate and friendly setting, while acting students will enjoy The Marlborough’s regular programme of innovative theatre productions, spoken word performances and multimedia events. The Marlborough Theatre is proud to offer performers a platform to be creative and express themselves authentically.
Ironworks Studios
Located in Brighton’s creative quarter, Ironworks Studios is a versatile performing arts space housed in a converted industrial building. Known for its focus on contemporary and experimental art, it offers spacious dance studios, a black box theatre, and facilities for multimedia projects. The venue hosts cutting-edge dance showcases, avant-garde theatre productions, and interdisciplinary collaborations. With its industrial aesthetic and commitment to nurturing emerging talent, Ironworks Studios provides an inspiring environment for performers to explore and develop their craft across various performing arts disciplines.
So, whether you’re studying musical theatre, dance or acting, Brighton’s theatres and performing arts venues offer a wealth of opportunities to express your creativity. From historic theatres to cutting-edge arts spaces, each venue has its own unique charm and character, making Brighton an incredibly exciting destination for any aspiring performer.
To discover more about joining Institute for Contemporary Theatre, including auditions and how to apply, contact us at [email protected] or book an Open Day on our Events page.
