Heroes

The Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus is returning to the stage this May as part of the Brighton Fringe 2026 with a new show titled Heroes. Taking place at St George’s Church in Kemptown, the performances are scheduled for Friday, 1 May, and Saturday, 2 May. Doors open at 18:45, with the show itself starting at 19:30. The production is set to run for 120 minutes, including an interval, and is recommended for those aged 16 and over, though please note that the 'Babes in Arms' policy means children under two are not permitted.

The concept behind this show is a mix of musical tributes and live interviews. The chorus will perform original choral arrangements of songs by artists such as David Bowie, Freddie Mercury, George Michael, JADE, and Self Esteem. Interspersed with the music, the event features live interviews with local LGBTQ+ figures who have influenced the community. The confirmed guests for these segments include Sarah Savage, CEO of Trans Pride Brighton; Gail Smith, former chair of the Sussex Gay Liberation Front; Professor Sheena McCormack, the epidemiologist who led the UK’s PrEP study; and Duncan Lustig-Prean, a retired Royal Navy officer known for challenging the ban on LGBTQ+ personnel in the Armed Forces. Joe Paxton, the artistic director, has noted that the show aims to provide a platform for these community figures while celebrating musical icons.

Tickets for the event are available through the chorus’s official ticketing platform at tickets.brightongmc.org, with prices ranging from £15 for concessions to £20 for standard entry. Beyond the performances, the chorus is using this show to raise funds for their new charity partner, Tonic. This organization operates as a social group for gay men and those who identify with gay male culture, specifically focusing on providing spaces for connection that are free from alcohol and drugs. It is a straightforward approach to combining local history, music, and community support within the context of this year's Fringe.