In the heart of Brighton, an artistic haven thrives under the stewardship of Brighton Dome & Brighton Festival. Managing a year-round programme of events across three distinctive venues—the Concert Hall, Corn Exchange, and Studio Theatre—this organization is a beacon of creativity, fostering a vibrant arts scene in the city. This December Brighton Dome is offering an amazing festive programme in the lead-up to Christmas and two events to celebrate New Year’s Eve, adding even more fun to the things you can do in Brighton.
Situated on the Royal Pavilion Estate, Brighton Dome’s venues boast a rich history that spans over two centuries. These hallowed halls have been witness to the evolution of art and culture, providing a captivating space in which the arts can truly come alive. A recent major capital refurbishment project has restored and protected the Grade I and Grade II listed Corn Exchange and Studio Theatre.
What’s happening at Brighton Dome in the Festive Season leading up to Christmas 2023?
As the winter chill sets in, Brighton Dome is gearing up for a December filled with an array of performances and festive cheer.
Events in the lead-up to Christmas at Brighton Dome
Touch & Glow | 1st – 24th December |
ORGANOKE | 7th December |
Film Screenings with Live Orchestras | “The Muppet Christmas Carol” (9th December) and “The Snowman” (17th December) |
Christmas with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra | 10th December |
Snowed In | 13th – 17th December |
Live at Brighton Dome: Festive Comedy Edition | 14th December |
Kate Rusby | 12th December |
The Unthanks | 18th December |
Big Christmas Singalong | 19th December |
The Little Match Girl | 20th – 24th December |
Celebrating New Year’s Eve at Brighton Dome
Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra New Year’s Eve Gala | 31st December |
Polyglamourous New Year’s Party – Out Roots | 31st December |
Touch & Glow: Interactive Fun for Young Minds (1-24 December)
Catering to the youngest members of the audience, “Touch & Glow” offers an interactive and multi-sensory experience for young children and babies. This delightful break from the hectic festive season allows children to explore the wonders of technology, creating their arctic world with light and colour, featuring adorable creatures like penguins, mammoths, and narwhals.
ORGANOKE: A Unique Christmas Karaoke Party (7 December)
For those seeking a unique way to celebrate the season, ORGANOKE brings together karaoke and the historic Brighton Dome organ on December 7. Hosted by the self-declared ‘People’s Pensioner’ Ida Barr, the night offers a blend of festive pop music and Barr’s hilarious rapping style, known as Artificial Hip Hop.
Film Screenings with Live Orchestras – “The Muppet Christmas Carol” (9 December) and “The Snowman” (17 December)
For a cinematic experience, two classic festive films, “The Muppet Christmas Carol” (9 December) and “The Snowman” (17 December) will be screened accompanied by live orchestras in the Concert Hall.
Christmas with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (10 December)
The iconic Brighton Festival Chorus returns on December 10 for “Christmas with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra,” a joyful and comedic celebration of carols, classical music, and festive attire that is sure to get the whole family in the holiday spirit.
Snowed In: An Interactive Family Adventure (13-17 December)
For a truly immersive family experience, the interactive show “Snowed In” (13-17 December) takes the stage. Set in a mountain village, the performance unfolds as four friends wake up to find themselves surrounded by snow. The show promises an energetic and imaginative journey, complete with an audience-friendly snowball fight and a magnificent adventure.
Live at Brighton Dome: Festive Comedy Edition (14 December)
Comedy legend Dylan Moran, star of “Black Books,” takes centre stage on December 14 for a special festive edition of “Live at Brighton Dome.” The evening promises laughter galore, with Moran joined by award-winning ventriloquist Nina Conti and Maisie Adams from “Mock The Week,” alongside other comedic talents.
Musical Delights for All Tastes – Kate Rusby (12 December), The Unthanks (18 December), Big Christmas Singalong (19 December)
Music enthusiasts have plenty to look forward to, with Mercury Music Prize and BBC 2 Folk Award winner Kate Rusby (12 December) and Mojo Magazine’s Folk Album of the Year winners, The Unthanks (18 December), gracing the stage with seasonal performances. The Choir with No Name also returns (19 December), bringing their Big Christmas Singalong to raise money and awareness for homelessness.
The Little Match Girl: A Dance of Hope and Kindness (20-24 December)
Headlining the season is a reimagining of Hans Christian Andersen’s timeless winter tale, “The Little Match Girl.” Award-winning choreographer Arthur Pita breathes life into this poignant story through dance and song. Set on a cold Christmas Eve in an imaginary Italian town, the production explores themes of kindness and hope, earning acclaim from The Guardian as a “funny and moving” experience for all ages.
New Year’s Eve events at Brighton Dome To wrap up 2023
As December draws to a close, Brighton Dome offers two New Year’s Eve events.
Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra New Year’s Eve Gala (31 December)
The Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra presents a New Year’s Eve Gala (31 December) featuring Lehár, Johann Strauss, and Prokofiev, providing an uplifting afternoon of musical brilliance.
Polyglamourous New Year’s Party at Brighton Dome – Out Roots (31 December)
For those seeking a different way to ring in the New Year, Brighton Dome has partnered with local club legends Polyglamorous and Gal Pals to bring back the Our Roots clubbing extravaganza.
Following its sold-out launch at this year’s Brighton Festival, the event returns to the newly refurbished Corn Exchange for a night of music, dance, and celebration. With a special guest set from Brighton-based DJs Dykes on Decks, Our Roots is an inclusive night that celebrates Brighton’s LGBTQIA+ community, providing a vibrant and welcoming space for all.
Address: Church St, Brighton, BN1 1UE
For more details visit: brightondome.org