Families looking for things to do in Brighton this autumn and winter have plenty to look forward to, as Brighton Dome unveils a packed programme of family-friendly entertainment.
From interactive theatre and puppetry to comedy, creative workshops, circus and festive film screenings, the programme offers plenty of opportunities for children and grown-ups to enjoy quality arts experiences together.
The season brings together local talent, much-loved children’s characters and international performers, with events designed to appeal to a wide range of ages.
In The Night Garden comes to Brighton
Kicking off the family programme on 12 September, the Brighton Dome Concert Hall welcomes the stage version of much-loved CBeebies favourite In the Night Garden.
Children of all ages can meet familiar characters including Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy and Makka Pakka, brought to life through full-size costumes, magical puppets and enchanting music.
There will also be a very special appearance from a flying Pinky Ponk, making it a fun introduction to live theatre for younger children.
A half-term adventure with Your Toys
During October half term, Lewes-based Slot Machine Theatre brings Your Toys to Brighton Dome’s Studio Theatre for ten performances from 28 October to 1 November.
Aimed at children aged 4–9, this joyful puppetry show explores the power of play and invites children to bring their own toys from home to become part of the adventure.
Expect music, plenty of laughs, surprises and an imaginative story celebrating children’s creativity.
Comedy for older children
Brighton Dome Comedy Festival returns for its third year with a selection of family-friendly comedy shows and activities during the October half term period.
Comic duo Shelf return to the Studio Theatre with The Kids Show 2 on 24 October, combining music and sketch comedy for children aged 6+.
For older children, Live at Brighton Dome BLEEPED takes place at Brighton Dome Corn Exchange on 24 October. The swear-free stand-up showcase is suitable for ages 11+.
Young people aged 11–16 can also take part in free comedy workshops in partnership with Komedia Productions. The programme culminates in The Young Comedians Comedy Showcase.
Puppetry, storytelling and getting creative
Later in November, children aged 3+ can join Rey and their loyal bunny companion in Rabbit & Rey and the Lost Things on 22 November.
Presented by renowned children’s theatre company Stuff and Nonsense Theatre, the funny and touching production combines puppetry and visual storytelling for an imaginative adventure about all the things we lose.
There are also plenty of opportunities for children to get creative themselves.
Crafty Kids workshops take place in Brighton Dome’s Anita’s Room on 4 October and 29–30 October, giving children aged 3–11 the chance to make things alongside their grown-ups. Materials are provided – and, importantly for parents, the mess is taken care of afterwards!
On 7 November, Brighton Dome will also host African Night Fever’s Family Day Take Part, a free celebration of arts, culture and heritage celebrating the city’s diaspora communities. Families can enjoy global cuisine, workshops and performances.
Christmas comes to Brighton Dome
The festive programme brings even more family entertainment to Brighton Dome throughout December.
From 14–20 December, Ceilidh The Musical comes to the Concert Hall. The new musical invites families and children of all ages into the heart of one of Scotland’s oldest traditions, with music and dance helping to tell the story.
For families with older children, acclaimed Australian circus company Circa presents Duck Pond from 23–28 December.
A spectacular circus reimagining of Swan Lake, the production combines acrobatics, aerial performance and tongue-in-cheek humour and is suitable for ages 7+.
Younger children can enjoy The Adventures of the Little Red Hen, presented by Stuff and Nonsense Theatre at the Corn Exchange from 21–24 December.
The much-loved fable is brought to life with puppetry, live music and plenty of comedy and is suitable for ages 3+.
Christmas workshops and a classic festive film
There will also be plenty of hands-on Christmas activities.
Christmas editions of Crafty Kids take place in Brighton Dome’s Anita’s Room from 5–20 December, with children aged 3–11 able to create festive projects including snowy scene decorations and colourful silhouette shadow lanterns.
And for a truly traditional Christmas experience, the Concert Hall will host a big-screen showing of The Snowman on 19 December, accompanied by a live soundtrack performed by a professional orchestra.
Opportunities to make music
For children inspired by the performances to pick up an instrument themselves, Create Music, Brighton Dome & Brighton Festival’s music education service and lead organisation of the Sussex Music Hub, provides music lessons throughout the year.
Children can learn a wide range of instruments, including brass, guitar and piano, with lessons available one-to-one, in schools and online.
Create Music’s Music Centres also give young musicians the opportunity to play together in groups, with sessions taking place across the Sussex region.
Slavka Jovanovic, Producer at Brighton Dome, said:
“We’re incredibly excited about this season’s family programme, which is packed with imagination, adventure and plenty of opportunities to have fun together.
“From brilliant puppetry and interactive theatre to comedy, circus and hands-on workshops, there’s something to spark every child’s curiosity.
“We’re especially proud of the mix of local, national and international artists bringing such high-quality, diverse experiences to Brighton Dome, creating magical moments for families throughout autumn and winter.”
With theatre, comedy, crafts, circus, music and festive favourites all on the programme, Brighton Dome looks set to offer families plenty of reasons to make a trip to Brighton this autumn and Christmas.
For full event details, dates, ages and tickets, visit Brighton Dome.
