It’s safe to say that Brighton has a booming art and culture scene, with a host of galleries and a schedule full of festivals and events taking place throughout the year. Most of the time, new venues go unnoticed but Emporium, a new arts and performance venue, has managed to stand out amongst the plethora of other ‘up and coming’ creative venues in the city.
This might, actually, be due to its location. Situated along the (infamous among Brightonians) London Road, a once-rundown area that’s in the process of being renovated, Emporium is somewhat of a diamond in the rough.
Image from Emporium’s site
From the outside, there is a small seating area, separated from the wide pavement by low wooden fences and bursts of flowers and, of course, a blackboard highlighting the show of the moment along with vital information – like whether it’s sold out.
Last weekend I had the pleasure of visiting for lunch. I didn’t see a show because, as it happened, it was sold out (thanks, handy blackboard!). And I have to say; the inside is as cutesy and welcoming as the outside. Set inside a large warehouse-type space, the wooden floors and mix and match style furniture prove that Emporium is bang on with current trends. The only downside for me was the lack of choice in food and drinks (although everything was organic and fresh). I suppose this isn’t the point of Emporium, though – as an arts venue its main aim is, well, its shows and exhibitions.
Image from Emporium’s site
Of course, I plan on going back at some point to see a show there but, until then, here’s a calendar of their upcoming events incase you happen to be passing.
Into the Woods
Now – Sat 27th July
A weird and wonderful (and slightly dark) showcase of your favourite fairytale characters, as you’ve never seen them before, by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine.
Guerilla Fashion III
Fri 15th August
Featuring a collection of unknown but extremely talented fashion designers throughout the city.
Image from Emporium’s site
Sunrise
Fri 5th September
Come and watch F W Murnau’s classic Sunrise, which will be acted out alongside the original score.
The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari
Wed 10th September
A screening of The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, Robert Weine’s expressionist silent horror film. It’s slightly premature for Halloween, but a live score will be played alongside it.
The Space
Thurs 11th September
A regular feature at Emporium, The Space is an arts and entertainment show hosted by Lisa Holloway that highlights a selection of popular creatives. On this occasion, screenwriter William Nicholson and Jan Harlan (Stanley Kubrick’s producer) take to the stage.
Image from Emporium’s site
It’s Only a Way I’ve Got
Sat 13th Oct
A varied cabaret act featuring a host of comical songs by Noel Coward, Gilbert & Sullivan, and Ivor Novello.
As you can see, Emporium has an interesting range of events. Plus, in between shows, there are a selection of exhibitions that display props and stage costumes from local performances as well as well-known films and plays.
Find out more about Emporium on its website.
Note: I am in no way affiliated with Emporium and visited on my own time and dime, I just thought I’d highlight a great arty find that I came across.
Have you found an arty hidden gem in your hometown? Let us know in the comments below!
Finally… Musement, a site offering museum tickets, art tours, and cultural activities has kindly let Wanderarti readers get €5 off purchases up until the 31st July. Just use the code WANDERARTI and you can get discounted offers all over Europe!
