Brighton Italian Festival returns with music, art and food

The Brighton Italian Festival returns next month after more than people 1,000 turned out for a series of sell-out shows for the debut edition last year.

And the organisers are promising that its second year will be bigger, bolder and even more vibrant.

They said: “Taking place throughout May across Brighton, the festival celebrates Italian culture through music, theatre, food, opera and interactive family events – blending Mediterranean energy with Brighton’s creative spirit.

“This year’s programme features returning favourites alongside exciting new additions.”

Among the programme highlights next month are

• Sunday 3 May – Pottery Gagliano Workshop
• Saturday 9 May – Festival Launch Party: Live Music, DJ plus Guests (Horatio’s Bar, Palace Pier)
• Saturday 9 May and Sunday 10 May – Lucifero on Tour (irreverent theatre)
• Saturday 9 May and Sunday 10 May – A Wander Fool Word (interactive kids’ clown show)
• Sunday 10 May – Betty Accorsi Jazz Quartet (Horatio’s Bar)
• Monday 11 May – Opera Viva (semi-interactive Italian opera)
• Thursday 28 May – Spaghetti Disco: DJ, live music and spaghetti (Hotel Pelirocco)
• Sunday 31 May – I Colori del Sole: Sicilian Folk Choir plus Sicilian food

The organisers added: “Throughout the month, local partners Pizza 500 and Crocodile Café will host a culinary ‘Giro d’Italia’, presenting regional Italian menus that change weekly, offering audiences a true taste of Italy from north to south.”

The festical aims to be accessible for all, with tickets starting from just £5 and with a special “One for All” Festival Pass available for £50, for entry to each of the events – a relatively affordable way to experience the full programme.

Festival director William Ranieri said: “The Brighton Italian Festival was born to build cultural bridges.

“After the incredible response last year, we are proud to return with a programme that mixes tradition, experimentation and community.

“Brighton has embraced Italian culture – and this is just the beginning.”

The BIF Fringe aims to become a permanent fixture in Brighton’s cultural calendar, supporting international artists while collaborating with local venues, schools and businesses.

For more details, contact brightonitalianfestival@gmail.com or visit www.brightonitalianfestival.com.