Arabian Nights

The New Venture Theatre in Brighton is currently preparing for its upcoming run of 'Arabian Nights', also known as 'Al Layla Wa Layla'. This production, which was previously staged by the Royal Shakespeare Company, is an adaptation by Dominic Cooke and is directed by Diane Robinson. The show is designed to incorporate a variety of performance styles, including drama, dance, puppetry, and live music. The narrative centres on the character of Shahrazad, who recounts stories as a means of protection for herself and other young women, blending themes that range from the fantastical to the moral and, at times, the more intense aspects of the original tales.

The musical elements of the production are a significant part of the experience, featuring original compositions by Liz Ryder-Weldon and live percussion and drumming provided by Leon Baruah. The theatre aims to use these elements to explore the storytelling tradition, inviting the audience to engage with the material in a new way. The performances are scheduled to take place in the upper theatre space at the New Venture Theatre.

In terms of logistics, the evening performances at 7:30 PM on March 20, 21, 24, 25, and 26 are currently listed as sold out. However, there is still availability for the matinée performance on Sunday, March 22, at 2:30 PM. Tickets for the show are priced at £12, with a discounted rate of £10 available for theatre members. These can be purchased through the TicketSource platform.

If you are planning to attend, it is useful to be aware of the venue's physical layout. The theatre is situated in the upper part of the building, and because of the nature of the space, access is restricted to stairs. This is a practical consideration for anyone attending the performance. The production is part of the theatre's ongoing programme, and the team has been working to bring this specific version of the classic stories to the local stage.