Brighton Fringe 2026: Don't Panic by Taylor Carmen

The Brighton Fringe is back, and as usual, the schedule is packed with smaller productions that often fly under the radar. One that caught my eye for this year is Don't Panic, a new play written by Taylor Carmen. It is a two-hander dark comedy, which usually means the focus is entirely on the chemistry and dialogue between the two actors on stage. The premise is set in a near-future dystopia, specifically following two stagehands named Mani and Kid. They find themselves stuck in a New York theatre during a nuclear war drill, and the play revolves around their conversations about the meaning of life while they wait out the situation. It sounds like a mix of drama, comedy, and a bit of magical realism, which is a specific blend that often works well in the intimate setting of the Fringe.

The production is being hosted at The Lantern Theatre, located at 77 St James's Street. It is a fairly accessible venue if you are already spending time in the city centre. The run is quite short, with performances scheduled for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd of May 2026. All shows are set for 21:00, so it is an evening option if you are looking for something to do after dinner. Tickets are priced at £8.00, which is standard for this type of independent theatre work. Given the themes of existential dread and the dystopian setting, it seems like the kind of show that appeals to those who enjoy contemporary, slightly experimental theatre rather than traditional plays. If you are planning your calendar for the start of May, these are the details you need to keep in mind.