A hilarious stage adaptation of the classic Ben Hur by Patrick Barlow, featuring four actors, a chariot race, and a sea battle.
If you are looking for plans in Brighton this May, the Brighton Open Air Theatre (BOAT) has scheduled a production of Ben Hur - Cue Fanfare. This is a stage adaptation of the classic novel by General Lew Wallace, written by Patrick Barlow. It is a specific take on the story, designed to be performed by a cast of just four actors. Despite the scale of the original narrative, this version focuses on how a small group can tackle complex scenes like a chariot race, a sea battle, and even a Roman orgy on stage.
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The performances are set to run from May 20 to May 23, 2026. You can catch the show at 19:00 on the 20th, 21st, and 22nd of May. On the final day, Saturday, May 23, there are two options: a matinee at 14:00 and an evening performance at 19:00. The venue, BOAT, is located in Dyke Road Park, which is a familiar spot for those who enjoy outdoor theatre during the warmer months in the city.
Regarding the logistics, tickets are priced at £17.50 for concessions and £19.00 for standard entry. The production is noted as being suitable for all ages, so it could be an option if you are planning an outing with a mixed group. It is a straightforward way to spend an evening outdoors, provided the weather holds up, which is always the variable with open-air venues in Brighton. If you are interested in seeing how four actors manage to stage such a large-scale story, the dates are set for late May.
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