If you’re a London parent looking for an exciting, accessible and unforgettable day out for the whole family this May, let me warmly recommend the Revel Puck Circus Gala Night at the Brighton Fringe Festival – now celebrating its 20th anniversary. I was recently invited to the opening event, and it was nothing short of spectacular.
Before my two days trip to Brighton, the word “circus” carried me straight back to my childhood in 1970s Italy. Back then, going to the circus was a big event – something you’d count the days to. I still remember the thrill of getting dressed up and going with my nonno, my grandfather, to the travelling circus when it rolled into town. There was a hush of reverence as we stepped into the giant tent – that glorious, otherworldly space that seemed to float above the ground and swallow the world inside it.
With my child’s eyes, I was mesmerised. The tigers and elephants, now rightly unthinkable in any modern show, were part of the spectacle – majestic, mysterious, almost mythical creatures doing things I didn’t understand. The jugglers, the fire-eaters, the impossibly graceful trapeze artists swinging high above us – they all seemed to belong to a world of magic and wonder. I know now there was another side to that story, but for that little girl in Italy, the circus was a place where people did magical things and made the impossible seem real.
Fast-forward to 2025, and I found myself rediscovering the circus in a completely new light – and just an hour away from London. On the warmest day of the year so far (1st May 2025), I hopped on a train to Brighton for the Gala Night of the Revel Puck Circus, one of the highlights of the Brighton Fringe Festival, which is now celebrating its 20th year. I took a long walk on the beachfront to watch happy people at the seaside (as one must in Brighton!), and later made my way to The Level, where the Revel Puck had set up their own circus wonderland.
This time, there were no animals – just breathtaking human talent and a palpable sense of joy. The Big Top was buzzing with families, laughter, and anticipation. What stood out immediately was how welcoming and inclusive the atmosphere was. Performers mingled with the audience, the bar was alive with chatter, and there was a refreshing feeling that this was a circus made for everyone.
The Revel Puck Circus combines awe-inspiring acrobatics, poetic storytelling, and moments of pure, joyous silliness. Their shows are a feast for the senses – beautifully choreographed, emotionally moving, and endlessly entertaining. While their late-night drag shows are for audiences aged 16+, the rest of their programme is incredibly child-friendly, with early showtimes that make it perfect for families travelling from London and back in a day. No need for overnight stays – just hop on a morning train, catch a matinee, enjoy an ice cream on the beach, and be back home before bedtime.
Brighton is just one hour by train from London, making it the ideal destination for a day trip that feels like a full-blown seaside adventure – minus the need for overnight accommodation. The Brighton Fringe runs from 2 May to 1 June 2025, with over 900 shows across 140 venues, offering more than 4,000 individual performances – from cabaret and circus to theatre, comedy, and family-friendly entertainment.
The Revel Puck Circus’ latest production, THE RUCKUS, is a joyful, punk-spirited, and emotionally rich circus show that genuinely lives up to their motto: “Circus for everyone, from everywhere.” Performed under their striking Big Top at The Level (just a short walk from Brighton station), the show blends astonishing acrobatics, aerial artistry, clowning, and warm humour, all held together by the fabulously chaotic and magnetic ringmaster Nancy, portrayed by Arielle Lauzon. Expect human-sized balloons, dazzling stunts, and surprises galore.
Monica Costa and drag queen Lucinda Bhind at Brighton Fringe / The Revel Puck Circus
While some of the drag cabaret shows – featuring standout performers like Lucinda Bhind and Smooch acts – are best suited for audiences aged 16+, most other circus performances are entirely child-friendly.
Monica Costa and drag queens Smooch at Brighton Fringe / The Revel Puck Circus
Families with children of all ages are not only welcome but actively encouraged to come along and experience the magic. There are even “babes in arms” policies for specific performances like Tardy Mrs G(rief) by the talented Ori Anané, allowing under-2s to attend free on a guardian’s lap. I had the honour of sitting next to Ori during the showcase and receive an insightful tale of behind-the-scene of this circus which made my evening even more special. I also truly enjoyed the performance by a roller-skating hula hoop performer from The Rola Circus by Luminous Productions.
Monica Costa and Tardy Mrs G(rief) aka Ori Anané
One of the things that struck me most was how well Brighton Fringe caters to families. Shows are scheduled earlier in the day, which means you can easily catch a performance or two, enjoy some seaside air, grab fish and chips or an ice cream, and still be comfortably back in London by evening.
The Circus Yard, which includes both the Big Puck (500-seat big top) and Little Puck venues, is purpose-built for comfort and accessibility. There’s a bar and social area for parents to relax in, and the layout is thoughtfully designed with ramped access, step-free seating, and excellent sight-lines for kids and grown-ups alike.
Beyond the circus, Brighton itself is a brilliant family destination. It’s vibrant, quirky, and incredibly friendly. From street performers to beachfront arcades and indie shops in The Lanes, there’s something for everyone – even on a quick visit. The city buzzed with energy and warmth, and I found the people genuinely welcoming and full of character.
After this dazzling gala night, I’m already planning my return trip later this month to catch the full-length shows I didn’t manage to see the first time. There’s simply too much talent and creativity on offer to miss.
So, London mums – if you’re after a unique day out with your children that’s both fun and culturally rich, hop on a train to Brighton Fringe. Between the seaside charm, the extraordinary circus acts, and the welcoming community, it’s an experience your whole family will remember.
For tickets and more information, visit www.brightonfringe.org
