Kohlhaas

The Brighton Festival is reaching its 60th edition this year, and they are doing things a bit differently by staging their first-ever internal production. The play is titled Kohlhaas, a world premiere adaptation of Heinrich von Kleist’s novel, and it will be running at the Brighton Dome Corn Exchange from 1 to 5 May 2026. It is a notable choice for the venue, which has recently undergone a full restoration, providing a fresh setting for a story that explores the complexities of protest and resistance.

The narrative centres on a horse dealer from the 16th century who, after being wronged by a local nobleman, embarks on a pursuit of justice that eventually challenges the social order. This version focuses heavily on the psychological side of why people choose to resist, making the historical setting feel more like a backdrop for contemporary questions about activism. Arinzé Kene stars in the production, marking a new collaboration with director Omar Elerian. The two previously worked together on the play Misty, and they are joined here by a creative team that includes Matthew Herbert on sound and Jackie Shemesh on lighting, with the original adaptation credited to Marco Baliani and Remo Rostagno.

For those planning their schedules, the ticket situation is straightforward. Prices range from £20 to £45 depending on where you sit. If you happen to be a festival member, booking opens today, 19 February, but the general public will have to wait until 26 February to secure their spots. Given the themes of social justice and the internal mechanics of protest, it’s the kind of production that seems to target a crowd interested in theatre that looks at how individuals interact with power. It’s a significant step for the festival to produce its own work, and choosing a world premiere with this specific focus suggests a clear direction for this landmark year.