Brighton and Hove’s much loved, independent and premiere grassroots venue – The Old Market – is delighted to announce the return of its fierce and festive in-house production – The Gift. Running for three weeks from December 2-23, this is an immersive midwinter dining experience – part gig, part theatre, and fully fun.
Inspired by Berlin’s Social Muscle Club, America’s Burning Man and the intimate theatre of Colombia’s Theatre of the Senses, The Gift is a warm, generous and joyfully chaotic antidote to the usual festive season and an experience unlike any other where no two shows are the same. As audiences enter the inviting Old Market bar, complete with its twinkling lights – a cast of brilliant cabaret artists, musicians, clowns and performers set the evening’s entertainment and proceedings in motion… but where it goes is entirely down to the choices and decisions made and shaped by the visitors in the room.
Co-produced and hosted each night by award-winning director and writer Mella Faye – Artistic Director of the acclaimed Pecho Mama – The Gift is a celebration of the absurdity and the wonder of being alive. It invites you to expect the unexpected and promises a night of unique and playful entertainment. It is about living and loving life and where inhibitions are unwrapped and left at the door for a night full of bespoke game-playing and joy. It is the gift of laughter, music, magic and mayhem and the perfect festive night out with work friends, old friends and a great chance to even make new ones!
As Mella Faye explains: “Last year, we came to The Old Market with a crazy idea: what if we did whatever the audience desired and made a show out of it? The result was three weeks of experimental, joyful, funny and moving experiences that surprised us all. Now we’re thrilled to be coming back for another round of playful adventure. With a better sense of what this beast is, we’re diving deeper into how we can build worlds from a spontaneous wish from the audience. With incredible musicians and hilarious performers, we’re on course for an even wilder and more beautiful theatrical adventure.”
Tickets for The Gift also include a beautiful new menu courtesy of The Old Market’s foody friends at Circa, featuring hearty festive food to be shared between friends old and new.
The Gift runs at The Old Market (TOM) from December 2-23 – times vary so please checking listings for details. There are no shows on Mondays or Tuesdays. All shows are for 16+ but those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Tickets are priced at £47.50 each and include a shareable feast. Full menu details and choices are outlined on the website and can be selected on booking. Discounts for group bookings are available, and all groups are guaranteed to be sat together throughout the evening.
All Tickets – group and individual – are on sale now via The Old Market Box Office on 01273 201801 or online at https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/the-gift
