Popchestra: Maxed Out!

If you have spent any time listening to the radio over the last few decades, you have almost certainly heard the work of Max Martin. He is the songwriter behind a massive catalogue of hits from artists like Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, Justin Timberlake, the Backstreet Boys, and Britney Spears. On May 22, 2026, those familiar pop melodies are being reimagined in a different format at Ironworks Studios in Brighton. The event, titled Popchestra: Maxed Out!, takes these well-known tracks and arranges them for an orchestral performance, aiming to blend the structure of classical music with the familiar energy of pop hits.

This show returns to the city following its debut during the 2025 Brighton Fringe. For this 2026 edition, the organisers have put together an expanded setlist. The performance is scheduled to run from 20:00 to 22:30, offering a chance to hear these songs in a setting that focuses on the musical arrangements rather than the original studio production. It is a straightforward concept: taking the pop songs that many people grew up with and presenting them through the depth and drama of an orchestra.

For those planning to attend, the venue is located at 30 Cheapside, Brighton, BN1 4GD. Standard tickets for the evening are priced at £25.00. Given the nature of the show, it is designed for anyone interested in seeing how pop compositions translate into an orchestral context. It is a specific type of musical experience that relies on the recognition of the original hits while providing a different listening environment.