An entertaining talk exploring the life and work of Scottish poet and musician Ivor Cutler and his unique orchestra, featuring rare archival material.
On 14 May 2026, Bom-Bane’s in Brighton will host an evening dedicated to the life and work of the Scottish poet, musician, and humorist Ivor Cutler. The event, titled An Evening with Ivor Cutler & The World's Worst Orchestra, is scheduled to begin at 20:00. The presentation is led by David, a long-time follower of Cutler’s work who previously featured the artist on a BBC Radio 4 broadcast and has performed alongside Cutler’s partner, Phyllis King. Having gained access to an extensive archive of Cutler’s work, David uses this material to explore the career of a performer who remained active from 1959 until 2006.
Every week we pick 🏆 the 5 best 🏆 things to do in Brighton and send them to your inbox. Just one weekly email, no spam.
By submitting your email, you accept our Privacy Policy
The session examines the history of the orchestra, addressing questions regarding their formation, their eventual split, and the involvement of figures such as Brian Eno, who played clarinet with the group. The discussion also looks into the claim that the orchestra managed to secure a Top 20 hit while simultaneously being banned from the airwaves. To illustrate these points, the programme includes a mix of archival recordings and film material that is rarely seen. The evening concludes with a live performance from David, Eliza, and Jane, featuring the harmonium, and touches on the broader question of whether humour has a place in music, a topic often associated with Frank Zappa.
Tickets for the event are available online, with prices ranging from approximately £13.00 to £16.26, depending on booking fees. The venue, located at 24 George Street, provides an intimate setting for this exploration of Cutler’s legacy. Throughout his career, Cutler collaborated with various artists, including Neil Innes, Robert Wyatt, and Fred Frith, and produced a body of work that spanned albums like Ludo and Dandruff, as well as books such as Herbert the Chicken. For those interested in the history of British radio, surrealist art, or the specific output of Ivor Cutler, the evening offers a structured look at his influence through both discussion and performance. The content is designed for those familiar with the cultural context of the era and the specific, offbeat style that defined Cutler’s performances.
Every week we pick 🏆 the 5 best 🏆 things to do in Brighton and send them to your inbox. Just one weekly email, no spam.
By submitting your email, you accept our Privacy Policy
