Brighton Telltales

If you find yourself with a free Wednesday evening and fancy something a bit different from the usual pub routine, you might want to look into Brighton Telltales. It is a monthly gathering held at The Yellow Book on York Place, specifically focused on spoken word and traditional storytelling. It is not a performance in the sense of a polished theatre production; rather, it functions as an open space where people can share stories, whether they are seasoned professionals or just someone with a tale to tell. The atmosphere is centred on the act of listening and sharing, creating a space for both performers and those who simply want to be part of the audience.

The range of content is quite broad, covering everything from everyday drama to more fantastical dreamscapes. Because it is an open format, the tone of the evening shifts depending on who is sharing that night. You can go along simply to listen and enjoy the stories, or if you have something prepared, you can participate. It is a straightforward setup: a room, a microphone, and a collection of people interested in the craft of storytelling. The Yellow Book itself provides a specific backdrop for these evenings. Located at 3A York Place, it is a venue that hosts a variety of cultural events, and this particular night fits into their schedule as a regular fixture. The focus here is on the wordsmithery and the act of telling a story, which creates a different dynamic compared to live music or comedy nights. You are not going there for a high-production show, but rather for the human element of listening to someone recount an experience or a piece of fiction.

For those planning to head down, the next sessions are scheduled for 3 June 2026 and 1 July 2026. The events run from 19:00 to 21:30. The venue is located at 3A York Place, Brighton, BN1 4GU. While the event is free to attend, you do need to register beforehand to secure your spot. Because it is a monthly event, it has developed a rhythm that allows for a mix of regulars and newcomers. If you are interested in the local spoken word scene, it is a practical way to see what people are working on. The inclusive nature of the event means you will hear a variety of voices, which is often the main draw for those who attend regularly. It is a straightforward, accessible way to engage with local storytelling.