The Torch

If you are looking for something a bit different to do this May, there is a gig-theatre production called The Torch coming to Moulsecoomb on Sunday, 17 May 2026. It is part of the Brighton Festival this year and blends a few different styles, specifically Afrobeat, hip-hop, and rap, all woven into a narrative. The show is directed by Nigel 'Kobby' Taylor and focuses on themes like identity, legacy, and that specific moment when someone figures out their own path. It is essentially a story told through music, which includes some comedy and drama about the experience of not quite fitting in.

The setup is quite interesting because the cast of four people handles everything themselves. They are not just actors; they are also the musicians. Throughout the performance, you will see them switching between roles while managing live percussion, keyboards, a violin, and DJ decks, all while rapping. It is a collaborative project that has received support from several organisations, including Without Walls, and has been commissioned by a variety of festivals like the Greenwich+Docklands International Festival, Freedom Festival, and the Hull Jazz festival, among others.

Regarding the logistics, there are three separate performances scheduled for that Sunday: at 12:00, 14:00, and 16:15. If you are interested in the 12:00 show, it is worth noting that it will include British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation. The event is free to attend, which makes it an accessible option if you are planning your weekend around the festival schedule. Just be aware that the content of the show does touch on themes of racism and bullying, so it is good to keep that in mind depending on who you might be attending with.