Seriously Collins

If you are looking for something to do in Brighton this summer, there is a tribute show coming up at the Brighton Open Air Theatre on August 1st, 2026. The event is called Seriously Collins, and it focuses on the music of Phil Collins and Genesis. It is led by Chris Hayward, who performs alongside a 10-piece band.

What stands out about this particular show is the approach they take to the performance. Rather than relying on costumes, wigs, or theatrical gimmicks to mimic the look of the original artist, the focus is entirely on the music and the vocal performance. Chris Hayward has built a reputation for a vocal style that many listeners find remarkably close to the original recordings. The setlist is quite extensive, covering a broad range of hits from both Phil Collins' solo career and his time with Genesis. You can expect to hear tracks like 'In the Air Tonight', 'Another Day in Paradise', 'Easy Lover', 'Against All Odds', 'Invisible Touch', 'Follow You Follow Me', 'I Can't Dance', and 'Sussudio'.

The show itself runs for two hours, which gives the band plenty of time to work through that catalogue. Since it is being held at the Brighton Open Air Theatre, the atmosphere will depend a lot on the weather, but it is a venue that generally offers a relaxed way to see live music in the city. It is a straightforward production that aims to recreate the sound of those classic tracks with a full band arrangement, rather than trying to stage a visual impersonation. If you are a fan of that era of pop and rock, it is a chance to hear these songs played live in an outdoor setting.