Circus Calamitous

If you are looking for something a bit different to do in Brighton towards the end of June, the Brighton Open Air Theatre (BOAT) is hosting a show called Circus Calamitous. It is a comedic take on the traditional circus format, focusing on a premise where the 'World’s Greatest Showman', Rex Bartholomew, arrives at the wrong address. This mishap leaves him and his assistant, Darren, to manage the entire production themselves. The show was written by comedy writer Justin Sbresni and actor Stewart Wright, and it involves the pair attempting various circus acts, such as juggling, fire-eating, lion taming, and bullet catching, all while dealing with the chaos of being understaffed.

The performance is scheduled for Saturday, 27 June 2026, and Sunday, 28 June 2026, with both shows starting at 14:00. It is designed for families and children aged 6 and up, featuring elements like audience participation, cream pies, and the appearance of a lion character named 'Childeater'. Given the nature of the show, there are some specific content warnings to be aware of. The production includes loud noises, whip-cracking, a prop gun, smoke, fog, and the use of fake blood and swords. If you or anyone in your group has sensitivity to loud sounds, it is worth noting that the organisers recommend using ear protection.

Regarding the logistics, tickets are priced at £14.00 for children and £15.00 for standard entry. The venue, BOAT, is located in Dyke Road Park, which is a familiar spot for many locals who frequent the outdoor theatre scene during the summer months. It is a straightforward setup, but because it is an open-air venue, it is always a good idea to check the weather forecast closer to the date and dress accordingly for an afternoon outdoors.