Howard Katz

If you are looking for something a bit different to catch in Brighton this June, the Brighton University Drama Society (BUDS) is putting on a production of Patrick Marber’s Howard Katz. It is scheduled for 5 June 2026 at The Lantern Theatre. I’ve been reading a bit about it, and it sounds like a fairly intense piece of theatre, which is typical of Marber’s writing style.

The play, originally written in 2001, centres on the titular character, a middle-aged talent agent who is Jewish and known for being quite cynical. The story follows his life as he goes through a severe mid-life crisis, tracking his journey from a successful career to a point where he ends up homeless and suicidal. It is structured using flashbacks to piece together how he arrived at that state, exploring themes like professional decay, faith, and relationships along the way. It is definitely a dark, character-driven drama rather than a light-hearted evening out.

Because of the subject matter, it is worth noting that the production deals with some heavy topics, including suicide ideation, gambling references, and strong language. It is the kind of play that focuses heavily on the internal state of the protagonist, so if you enjoy theatre that digs into the messier, more difficult sides of human experience, this might be one to consider. You can find the specific details regarding the schedule and ticket prices on the official Visit Brighton website if you want to check the logistics before deciding.