Bold new LGBTQ+ work promised as new era opens for Brighton's Marlborough Productions

Marlborough Productions, the company behind the Marlborough Pub & Theatre’s cultural programme, have ceased management of the historic LGBTQ+ Brighton venue.
Tarik+David by Rosie PowellTarik+David by Rosie Powell
Tarik+David by Rosie Powell

The company will instead present their internationally recognised performances, parties and community gatherings at venues and spaces in Brighton & Hove.

Spokeswoman Anna Goodman said: “Many events are to be held within the atmospheric surroundings of The Spire, Kemptown’s Grade II listed, deconsecrated church venue whilst Marlborough Productions continues to develop both local and touring projects.

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“Bold, new LGBTQ+ work will be produced in the months ahead with details to be announced.

“Whilst Marlborough Productions’ 2020 live programme is on hold as the world struggles with the Covid 19 crisis, the company is delivering cultural and community projects online including Radical Rhizomes: Brighton & Hove’s social network for queer trans & intersex people of colour: https://marlboroughproductions.org.uk/our-projects/radical-rhizomes/ Brighton LGBTQ+ History Club: Monthly talks exploring the city’s hidden queer heritage: http:/www.queerinbrighton.co.uk, a new digital commission from award-winning performance artist Harry Clayton-Wright http://hcw.horse plus a series of internationally focused, digital events exploring queer creativity and resilience through the pandemic. Seed commissioning opportunities for LGBTQ+ artists plus a digital version of Brownton Abbey: https://brownton-abbey.com/ are also to be announced soon.”

Tarik Elmoutawakil and David Sheppeard became co-artistic directors of Marlborough Productions in 2008.

“Their creative vision and inclusive, nurturing approach has enhanced the careers of hundreds of LGBTQ+ artists. Many, such as Travis Alabanza, Emma Frankland, Lucy McCormick, Harry Clayton-Wright and Rachael Young have become high profile within UK Queer culture.

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“Marlborough Productions has also hosted international and established performers including Justin Vivian Bond, Big Freedia, Mykki Blanco, Bette Bourne, David Hoyle, Le Gateau Chocolat, Scottee, KUCHENGA, Lorraine Bowen and Kate Bornstein amongst others, working with key local partners including Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts and Brighton Dome & Festival.

“Providing a welcoming, safe environment and taking a specific interest in the intersection between LGBTQ+ and BAME identities, Marlborough Productions have historically recognised these communities as pivotal in the organisation’s evolving programme, as well as at the Trans Pride and Brighton Pride parties.”

Tarik said: “After twelve years and hundreds of performances we made the difficult decision to leave the Marlborough Pub & Theatre.

“We are so proud of the artists who contributed to the creative life of the building, the cultural life of the city and the community that has made it their queer home. We want to thank our team members past and present for all they have done in supporting The Marlborough and making it one of the most radical and joyful venues in the UK.

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“We recognise the achievements of The Marlborough would not have been possible without the bravery and unending creativity of the black and brown, queer, trans and non-binary artists and communities. We compel all arts organisations to do the vital and necessary work to dismantle structurally racist hierarchies within our sector and across society.”

All information about upcoming Marlborough Productions work can be found on http://www.marlboroughproductions.org.uk.

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