Discover Brighton Issue 10 December 2022

The Royal Pavilion Ice Rink is free to spectate, it offers the perfect opportunity to watch your family, friends or colleagues skate from the comfort & warmth of the Royal Pavilion Ice Rink Bar & Kitchen. You can take in the magical Royal Pavilion from the rink side terrace, in particular during the evening when it is beautifully illuminated.

We offer a wide range of hot and cold drinks along with our extensive menu of snacks, burgers, pizzas and bratwurst as well as our full children’s menu.

Welcome to the December issue of your guide to what’s on and what’s good in Brighton and Hove! It’s the most wonderful time of the year and Brighton is in full festive swing. Get your mince pies and most garish jumpers at the ready because Santa Claus is coming to town! We have a bumper events section for you this fes tive season as there is just so much good stuff going on to celebrate the holidays. Check out our coverage of the best that Brighton has to offer this year on pages 11 - 15. We’ve also got a feature on this year’s pantomime Aladdin on page 19 and the scoop on a rather special Christmas cabaret show on page 31. There’s a great fea ture on our coverstar Emma Bunton on page 9, ahead of her own Christmas show at the Brighton Dome this month. On the well-being side, we also have a lovely piece on how to stay in good mental shape during the winter months on page 35. Plus a feature on a great new campaign for safer LGBTQ+ spaces on page 27. Of course, we have some lovely restaurant reviews for you this month as well as the lowdown on the best places to grab a tipple this Christmas on page 29, plus our monthly intimacy column from our friends Tim and Calandra at Lust. Here’s a heads up for you: look out for our Dine Out for £15 that will be coming out at the end of

Emma Bunton & Friends.

Following the resounding success of her 2019 special one-off Christmas show at London’s Royal Albert Hall, former Spice Girl, Emma Bunton embarks on a festive UK tour this month.

Fans will see her perform songs from her own back catalogue as well as some Spice Girl classics and all your favourite Christmas hits. The superstar will also be bringing some very special guests, soon to be announced. To date Emma Bunton has sold over 85 million records as a member of iconic 90s girl band The Spice Girls, who were the most successful female pop group of all time. Formed in 1994, for many, they were the biggest pop sensation since The Beatles, performing to sell-out crowds worldwide. The girls influenced a generation of fans and were part of ‘Girl Power’ culture spawned from 90s ‘Ladettes’ and ‘The Riot Grrrl’ movement of that time. Essentially the term ‘Girl Power’ was an attempt to rebrand the word ‘feminism’ which Geri Halliwell (Ginger Spice) revealed in a 2007 interview with The Guardian felt

was ‘unglamourous’. The girls Baby, Sporty, Scary, Posh and Ginger were anything but unglamourous, possessing a magic formula that caused fans to fall in love from the moment they burst onto our TV screens performing their first hit ‘Wannabe’. With their unique on stage personas and amazing outfits (who could forget the Union Jack tea towel?) the fivesome enjoyed a career that spanned from 1994 - 1998 when Geri Halliwell left the band. Almost 30 years later, they still have a loyal fanbase and many new fans too. A Spice Girls reunion tour took place in 2019 much to the joy of all and subsequent to the incredible tour, Baby Spice Emma returned to music as a solo artist with album ‘My Happy Place’, her first new music in 13 years. As a solo artist she has had seven UK Top 10 albums to date. The new Christmas show promises to be the perfect festive night out, with The Brighton Dome stage as a backdrop, Emma and Friends is guaranteed to get you into the spirit.

Emma Bunton and Friends 13th December - brightondome.org

By Samantha Harman

Events Dec 2022.

Mother Goose 03 - 11/12

It’s well and truly panto season and Mother Goose is in town. Starring the legendary Ian McKellen and brilliant John Bishop, this is a family-friendly show full of fun and farce. Mother Goose and her husband run an animal sanctuary but the arrival of a magical goose shakes things up for them. Expect tap-dancing puppets, singing fairies and plenty of magical mayhem. See the show 3rd - 11th December, tickets from £13.00. Theatre Royal, New Road, Brighton, BN1 1SD, 0333 009 6690 / atgtickets.com/venues/ theatre-royal-brighton.

Royal Pavilion Ice Rink

All month

One of Brighton’s most beloved Christmas institutions is back for another festive season: the iconic ice rink at the Royal Pavilion. Skate in splendid style in the beautifully lit historic surroundings and with added peace of mind - the rink is powered entirely by green energy. It’s open throughout the month of December but check the website for specific openings depending on the day. Ticket prices vary. Royal Pavilion, 4/5 Pavilion Buildings, Brighton, BN1 1EE, royalpavilionicerink.co.uk.

A Very Brighton Christmas at Brighton Concert Hall 01 - 17/12 Thursdays - Saturdays

The Brighton Concert Hall is pleased to host a very Brighton Christmas, Thursday to Saturday nights 1 - 17 December. This is your chance to celebrate the season in one of their heated igloos, beach huts or the new shared Pavilion tent. There’ll be cocktails and great food plus a live drag show and DJ! Open fires and a winter warmers bar will keep you warm and cosy whilst you raise a toast. Various tickets and packages available. Brighton Concert Hall, 127 Kings Road Arches, BN1 2FN, brightonmusichall.co.uk, info@ brightonmusichall.co.uk.

in touch,

Do you have an event you would like featured in our next issue? Get

we’d love to hear from you! discoverbrighton.org

Events Dec 2022.

Christmas Festival Until 24/12

The Brighton Christmas Festival is back with a bang for 2022! Enjoy the traditional Christmas Market (free to enter) and full of festive goodies from around the world. There’s also the Après-Ski Bar, a new attraction for this year, where you can have a featured selection of beers, mulled wines, hot chocolates and more. And let’s not forget The Big Wheel: the perfect place to take in a view of the city in the holiday swing. Between St. Peter’s Church and Valley Gardens, Brighton, BN1, brightonchristmasfestival.com.

Komedia Christmas Party Various dates

Get your funny bones tickled into the holiday spirit at the Komedia Christmas Party! There’ll be a delicious three-course Christmas meal as well as plenty of award-winning comedy, featuring two top stand-up performers as well as an MC. After you’ve eaten, drunk and been very merry then you can dance the night away at the afterparty. Laugh your way into Christmas at the Komedia, multiple dates throughout the month. Ticket prices vary. Komedia Brighton, 44-47 Gardner Street, Brighton, BN1 1UN, 01273 647100 / komedia.co.uk/brighton.

The Nutcracker 03/12

The quintessential festive tale The Nutcracker makes a return this holiday season. Clara, the Nutcracker Prince and the Sugar Plum Fairy are here in the classic Christmas ballet, after a sell-out tour last year. This is a show for all the family and a great introduction to ballet for little ones! See a bit of Christmas magic on 3rd December at The Old Market. Tickets are £16.00 for adults and £14.00 for children. The Old Market, 11A Upper Market Street, Hove, BN3 1AS, theoldmarket. com / 01273 201801.

Christmas Wreath Workshop 03/12

‘Tis the season to make Christmas wreaths! Foliage extraordinaires The Brighton Flower Company are on hand to show you how, in their one and a half hour wreath making work shop. Their expert flo rists will help you create a beautiful handmade wreath that will look fabulous and festive on your front door. Head to Temple Bar on 3rd December to get involved. Tickets from £65.00. Temple Bar, 121 Western Road, Brighton, BN1 2AD, thebrighton flowercompany.co.uk / 01273 770966.

Christmas Jumper Speed Dating 06 & 13/12

Looking for love under the mistletoe this year?

Get down to the Christmas Jumper Speed Dating events at Bohemia. Get your best jinglebells-jumper or ho-ho-ho hoodie at the ready for an evening of 10-12 mini dates, overseen by professional hosts. Who knows? Christmas could come early for you. The session for 36 - 55 yearolds is on the 6th December and 24 - 38 year-olds have their turn on the 13th. Tickets are £22.00. Bohemia Brighton, 54-55 Meeting House Lane, Brighton, BN1 1HB, speeddater.co.uk.

The Big Christmas Singalong!

06/12

This is a very special event for this holiday season: The Big Christmas Singalong! Join The Choir With No Name Brighton, a choir involving homeless and marginalised people, for an evening of Christmas classics in feel-good, singalong style. There’ll also be performances from special guests SK Shlomo, Sambaoke and the Rock Choir. Check out a musical highlight with a heart at the Brighton Dome on 6th December. Tickets are £14.00, concessions available. Brighton Dome, Church Street, Brighton, BN1 1UE, 01273 709709 / brightondome.org.

Away In A Funky Manger 07/12

Lounge legend Count Indigo brings you his festive one-man-show, Away In A Funky Manger. The world’s first funk carol service tells the story of the fourth Wise Man who, it turns out, was written out of the classic Nativity story. This is a singalong mash-up of classic funk, carols and Christmas songs. Tickets are £12.00 plus booking fee and entry includes mulled wine before and after the show! Profits will go to Care4Calais in aid of refugees there. The Nightingale Room, The Grand Central, 29 - 30 Surrey Street, Brighton, BN1 3PA, wegottickets.com/event/561728 / facebook.com/ popmelodrama.

Free Festive Fun Day at the Dome 10/12

Get down to the Brighton Dome for their Free Festive Fun Day on 10th December: a day for the whole family full of crafts, surprises, performance and dress up. Taking inspiration from Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, the Festive Fun Day celebrates the past, present and future of the Dome. There’ll be craft tables and stalls, shadow puppet workshop, chorus performances, dress up opportunities, backstage tours and more. Brighton Dome, Church Street, Brighton, BN1 1UE, 01273 709709 / brightondome.org.

Breakfast and Santa Flight Experience 10/12

Step into Christmas on the Brighton i360’s Breakfast & Santa Flight. Enjoy a festive breakfast in their sea view restaurant before boarding the i360 pod to spend some time with Santa 450 ft above the city! Little ones will be well entertained with a special Christmas craft activity and a gift to take home from Santa. Head to the skies this Christmas on 10th December. Ticket prices vary. Brighton i360, Lower Kings Road, Brighton, BN1 2LN, / 0333 772 0360

Brightoni360.co.uk.

Events Dec 2022.

Brighton Festival Chorus Christmas Concert 11/12

This is a classic musical celebration of the festive season featuring an amazing line-up of performances. See the internationally acclaimed Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by James Morgan, the fabulous Brighton Festival Chorus and the wonderful Brighton Festival Youth Choir. This familyfriendly show features beloved Christmas carols and songs. It’s at the Brighton Dome on 11th December, tickets start at £12.50. Brighton Dome, Church Street, Brighton, BN1 1UE, 01273 709709 / brightondome.org.

Live at Christmas 12/12

Calling all comedy fans - Live At Christmas is a spectacular festive show featuring some of the UK’s best comedians. The all-star line-up is headlined by the delightfully dry Dylan Moran, winner of BAFTA and Perrier awards. He’s joined by Last Leg favourite Rosie Jones, Taskmaster breakout star Mike Wozniak, award-winning Celya AB with John Robins as host. See them in action at the Theatre Royal on 12th December. Tickets from £29.43. Theatre Royal, New Road, Brighton, BN1 1SD, 0333 009 6690 / atgtickets.com/venues/theatreroyal-brighton.

Death Drop - Back in The Habit 13 - 24/12

This is a murder mystery done drag: queens are treading the boards in Death Drop Back In The Habit. A group of innocent nuns are confined to their convent but a killer walks amongst them. Can the Sisters save souls and themselves? Featuring fan favourites Cheryl Hole, River Medway, Victoria Scone, LoUis CYfer and Willam (from 19th onwards) this cast is not one to be missed. See them at the Theatre Royal 13 - 24 December, tickets from £13.00. Theatre Royal, New Road, Brighton, BN1 1SD, 0333 009 6690 / atgtickets.com/ venues/theatre-royalbrighton.

Christmas Carol Concert 15/12

Head to the Royal Pavilion for a magical evening of Christmas carols on 15th December. Set in the beautiful Music Room, this is an evening of traditional festive music performed by two superb Sussex choirs. And what’s moreduring the interval, you’ll enjoy a glass of fizz and a mince pie in the splendid surroundings of the Banqueting Room. This is classic Christmas done in style. Tickets are £34.00, reduction for members. Royal Pavilion, 4/5 Pavilion Buildings, Brighton, BN1 1EE, brightonmuseums.org. uk/visit/royal-paviliongarden.

Sussex Beacon Christmas Comedy Night

16/12

Fantastic local charity The Sussex Beacon are pleased to present their Christmas Comedy Night at the Brighton Hilton Metropole, December 16th. There’s a cracking line-up of four fabulously funny comedians, plus food and drink on offer. Tickets for £24.00 get you the show and a drink, tickets for £35.00 get you a meal too! This is set to be a hilarious night and all for the excellent cause of supporting people living with HIV. Hilton Brighton Metropole, Kings Road, Brighton, BN1 2FU, sussexbeacon.org.uk facebook.com/ thesussexbeacon.

Burning The Clocks

21/12

After a long two-year hiatus, the very much loved Burning The Clocks is returning to Brighton! Held on the night of the Winter Solstice, 21st December, this special event is a stunning lantern procession through the streets of the city ending in a fire and fireworks show. Lantern packs (including parade wristbands) are available to purchase from various venues. Check the website link for full details. New Road, Brighton, BN1 1UF, samesky.co.uk / facebook. com/burningtheclocks.

Aladdin 22 - 27/12

Celebrate Christmas in proper panto style this year with Aladdin! A new production by Brighton company E3, this is a classic pantomime for all the family. See Aladdin and Princess Jasmine fall in love, plus plenty of comedy capers from Wishee Washee and Widow Twankey. Singing, booing and maybe even help on stage is absolutely necessary to defeat the evil Abanazar. Aladdin is at the Brighton Centre 22 - 27 December.

Ticket prices vary. Brighton Centre, Kings Road, Brighton, BN1 2GR, 01273 292685 / brightoncentre.co.uk.

Beauty and the Beast Ballet 29

& 30/12

This magical production of Beauty and the Beast is brought to you by dance company Ballet Theatre UK. The classic story of learning to love and be loved in return is brought to life with a beautiful classic score and new choreography from the company. One of the most beloved stories of all time is here to enchant you this Christmas. See it at the Brighton Dome on 29-30 December. Ticket prices vary. Brighton Dome, Church Street, Brighton, BN1 1UE, 01273 709709 / brightondome. org.

Aladdin.

Get your magic carpet and magic lamp at the ready because this year’s Christmas pantomime Aladdin is coming to the Brighton Centre. Featuring dazzling special effects, amazing sets, glorious costumes and a spectacular starry cast, this is everything and more you’d expect from a proper panto experience. With plenty of songs, jokes and he’s-behind-you, this truly is a fabulous way for all the family to celebrate the holidays. Brought to you by Brighton production company E3, Aladdin features a West End cast including the magical Anita Dobson (of Eastenders fame and various theatrical productions) and theatre legend Mark Inscoe, alongside BBC Radio Sussex’s very own Allison Ferns! This brand new production tells the tale of Aladdin and Princess Jasmine, who fall in love but have the evil Abanazar to contend with before they can live happily ever after. Fortunately, they have some help from a certain magical genie. Aladdin’s brother, Wishee Washee, and his mother Widow Twankey are also on hand to help to save

the day but also to provide lots of laughter for panto-goers too. In time-honoured pantomime tradition, the audience will be called upon to provide plenty of boos and sing along as loudly as they can. Panto-goers may even be asked to get up on stage to help Aladdin and his friends! David Hill, Producer and Director of Aladdin at The Brighton Centre, commented: “We are utterly thrilled to be bringing Aladdin to Brighton. We have been producing pantomime in the city since 2017, but to be able to take this production to the Brighton Centre and have our cast perform for thousands of people is an absolute honour. We can’t wait for the laughter, and the fun, and have this much-loved Christmas tradition in our hometown! It will truly be a magical adventure for children and adults of all ages.” Aladdin is at the Brighton Centre from Thursday 22nd December to Tuesday 27th December, excluding Christmas Day. Tickets range from £15.00 to £35.00. To get yours, head to www.brightoncentre.co.uk.

brightoncentre.co.uk

By Nancy Duckels

Small Batch.

Small Batch is renowned for selling great coffee, with demand high enough to warrant opening six branches across the city.

The brand is passionate about serving its customers the best coffee, which is sourced from four continents in over 20 different countries. They only work with selected importers to ensure high ethical standards in not only the farmers’ rights but also to preserve long-standing relationships built over generations.

I was invited to the Norfolk Square branch to check out a fantastic deal being offered to Discover readers. Arriving on a busy Saturday I was impressed with the service, although the team were clearly busy they made me feel welcome from the outset and promptly delivered a vanilla oat milk latte which was delicious, they definitely live up to their reputation for serving fabulous coffee. The venue is a former bank, boasting high ceilings and comfortable, well-spaced seating. Every available corner is filled with green leafy plants, they also hang from the ceiling, and I enjoyed the relaxed vibe. Small Batch also serves brunch with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients and the menu has everything from fluffy pancakes to Eggs Benedict which I will return to try another time.

The reason for my visit was to sample the new sourdough toasties on offer and I had five to try (luckily, I had help). First up was the cheese; Vintage Cheddar, Raclette and Twineham Grange Parmesan. It was everything you’d want a straightup cheese toastie to be, perfectly melted and oozy with full-flavoured cheeses. Next was Brighton Blue & Fig Jam. I loved how the sweetness of the fig complimented the sharp blue cheese, this one was a definite winner for me. Vegans are also properly considered with two offerings - Tofu, Kimchi & Purezza’s Melty Cheese, or Mushroom, Purezza’s Melty Cheese, Cream Cheese & Truffle Cream. I found the flavours for both were interesting and it’s good to know being vegan doesn’t mean you have to miss out on cheese. Both types were fabulous substitutes. The final toastie was Milano Salami with Artichoke & Truffle Pesto which was another favourite. All the toasties clearly contain high-quality ingredients and have the perfect crunch on the sourdough bread which went great with my coffee. As I mentioned, Discover readers get a sweet deal during this month, if you quote us, you will receive a free coffee with any toastie purchased. My advice? Visit the very next time you are passing.

By Samantha Harman

The zero waste store Hunglish

Enjoy an eco-friendly Christmas this year Christmas is just around the corner and for many of us, it’s a time to eat, drink and be merry. We here at Discover Brighton are all about having a good time this festive season. But all that eating, drinking and merriment can lead to huge amounts of waste and has a real impact on the environment. So what if we told you that it’s possible to have a great time whilst also reducing waste and doing your bit to save the planet? Allow us to introduce you to Hunglish - a zero-waste shop that can help you have a healthier, eco-friendly Christmas this year. Hunglish is dedicated to providing an enjoyable and eco-friendly shopping experience from its doors on Brighton Square. They have an abundance of eco-friendly products that aim to help you live a zero-waste lifestyle. They provide conscientious alternatives in toiletries, household, soft drinks and an amazing array of food. Grains, pasta, rice, herbs, spices, cereals, confectionery, sweets and more are all here for you to dive into. They have a ‘butcher counter’ that provides delicious meat substitutes as well! Hunglish works hard to bring you great alternative products that challenge the big supermarket offerings. They stock the best, industry-leader products they can find to enable you to make the switch to a zero-waste lifestyle as easily as possible. Want to live more ethically and sustainably whilst maintaining comfort and style? Then head to Hunglish this Christmas. Shop in-store or on the website.

FB: hunglish.ecoshop / IG: hunglish.ecoshop

The Grosvenor Bar.

Hove’s premier LGBTQ venue has undergone a refurb to fabulous effect, now boasting slick midnight blue tiling, a copper topped bar, quirky copper fixtures, comfortable seating and a tiny stage perfect for Brighton’s premiere Drag Performers. Seaside Cabaret purchased the venue in February and wanted to create a welcoming environment for the local community and they have certainly achieved this for all of their regular customers and new ones alike. Discover chatted to owner Michael, who is proud of the bar’s transformation and welcoming atmosphere, he revealed ‘People have come into the bar not knowing anyone and by the time they leave, they know everyone - that’s the vibe we are going for and the fact pub is so intimate means conversation flows freely.’ The Grosvenor Bar has a wide range of classic cocktails, spirits and gins and beers, as Michael explained, he wanted to ensure the bar has something for everyone, ‘I wanted the basics as well as something that little bit special and I think we have achieved this, as everyone loves the drinks we serve.’ In terms of entertainment, it’s Bingo every Thursday, cabaret every Friday and Saturdayfeaturing well-loved favourites such as Dame Dave Lynne, Pooh-La-May, Lovinia Belle, Davina Sparkle and new current ex-West End performer Portia De Fosse. Due to the intimate size of the bar, performers are able to interact and banter with the audience more. Micheal feels this gives The Grosvenor an edge, as the acts are able to tell more jokes and deviate from their usual sets. Sunday Funday has also recently launched featuring Carmel Toe and Able Mabel who will be hosting games such as Wheel of Fortune. Wednesday is Bearvert, which is a community group for Bears. A quiz night is hosted every week, the perfect way to celebrate hump day. The venue will be open on Christmas Day, during the day to create a space for people to come and celebrate, especially if they are alone, Michael told us, ‘We want to create a welcoming environment for all, especially for those who live alone, to bring everyone together.’ Although the Bar is away from the main drag of St James’ Street it is still part of a triangle of LGBTQ+ venues with The Bedford Tavern and The Regency Tavern, so it is still possible to bar hop and enjoy the scene. Discover absolutely loves this friendly little bar and we recommend you give it a try; you definitely won’t be disappointed.

16 Western Street, Hove BN1 2PG, 01273 959209

By Samantha Harman

Nanima.

I will start by saying that Nanima isn’t a restaurant as much as owners’ Lonnie & Nicky Allon’s home to be welcomed in to dine with them.

Nanima was planned to be a local hub to visit whether for a coffee alone or a meeting as well as a location to savour any meal of the day. You can even order and take-away dishes to consume at home or even to heat up later.

The menu, created and cooked by Nicky, is inspired by the plethora of cuisines across Asia. As you step through the door of this richly decorated establishment you are struck by the equally warm ambiance and welcome. Owner Lonnie’s smile is broad, genuine and never fades throughout a very busy sitting. We were lead to our candle lit table lit and Lonnie explains that due to the dishes being changed daily there is no menu but you go to the counter to select, in your own time, from the offerings for that sitting. In the meantime we choose from a remarkable selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. I plumped for a very palatable white wine and my partner a glass of Cobra beer on tap. We wanted to have as much choice of food as possible so were quick to make our way to the counter where Lonnie describes each of the dishes available.

I started with a fragrant, beautiful beetroot and coconut soup which exploded my taste buds with utter pleasure. My partner was served a Chinese chicken congee which he delightfully announced, between grateful mouthfuls, was like nothing he’d

ever tasted before. Even at this early point he announced that we were definitely returning. The soups were accompanied by spinach paneers which melted in the mouth with a gorgeous peppery after taste.

For the main course I had chose fish cake (always my good measure of a restaurant) with homemade beetroot raita, mixed vegetable rice and stir fry. The fish cake was chunky, fresh and filling with none of the oily offerings from many other establishments. The rice dish was delightful in its delicacy of flavour and the stir fry retained a suitable amount of crunch alongside it delicious flavours.

My partner tucked into a Burmese chicken and potato stew where hearty chicken chunks sat alongside potatoes in a perfectly spiced fragrant a warm sauce accompanied by a warm salad and rice. “Perfection’ he commented.

He was too full for dessert, of which there is a seemingly infinite choice, but I had to try the stunning orange and chocolate cake – a light but firm orange sponge topped with a chocolate glaze.

We finished the evening with Vietnamese coffees which were sublime. Ethiopian farmers brought this coffee to Vietnam after the war. With the milk and sugar underneath, which you stir in, it was superb. Nanima is a wondrous treat for the senses and palate. I couldn’t recommend it more highly. We will definitely be back.

36 St. George’s Road, BN2 1ED, 01273 600932 /nanima.co.uk

By Kairen Kemp

Proud Presents Christmas Cabaret All Stars

If you’re stuck for ideas on how to celebrate the imminent arrival of Christmas with friends, colleagues or family, then look no further. Proud Cabaret have pulled it out of the bag again with a fabulous Christmas Cabaret show like no other. Our Features Editor was invited to the launch night…

Dolly Rocket is a queen in every sense of the word, opening the show in an ice blue velvet gown with her flawless vocals and razor sharp wit, I knew we were in for a very special night. Proceedings commenced with a bottle of Prosecco to accompany the five-course meal which started with a Celeriac and crispy bacon soup (Dolly spoon fed me the first mouthful).

Proud is a former ballroom and the space is old school glamour personified, with a mezzanine floor overlooking the stage and a ground floor level dining area. We were upgraded to one of the booths stage side, which was comfortable and boujee AF. The next course was smoked salmon crostini, with a lemony cream cheese, and just as we were tucking in, the first performer of the

night, Jamie Heward, burst through the curtain in a glorious red sequin suit and began a medley of Christmas songs. Up next was the fish course and more Dolly (you can never have too much) who had changed into another breathtaking gown for a rendition of Santa Baby.

The next course was a turkey dinner with all the trimmings, absolutely delicious and just the right amount of food. Our waitress Ava, was a fabulous host, as were all the girls who as you might expect are stunning and looked cute in their matching sexy santa outfits. One of the highlights for me was the Hula Hoop performer who wowed with her light up hoops and tasteful strip tease act, culminating with neon nipple covers. There was also an acrobatic hoop performer who amazed the crowd with her talent and flexibility. Dave the Bear was a delight with his standup comedy performance and erotic dance act.

I can honestly say this is the best night out I have had in a long time, this is a must see show. Everything from the doorman, to the food, Bingo, performers, drinks and venue are a solid 10 out of 10.

83 St George’s Rd, Kemptown, BN2 1EF, 01273 605789 / proudcabaret.com

By Samantha Harman

Drinks.

Discover Top Picks for Places to Drink Mulled Wine

Who doesn’t love a warm glass of mulled wine after a long day at the office or after a Christmas shopping expedition? Features Editor Samantha Harman did some investigation on where to purchase the finest Mulled Wine this festive season.

Royal Pavilion Ice Rink

Nothing says Christmas more than a skating session underneath the majestic Royal Pavilion on a cold winter’s evening. Every year the iconic building comes to life with soft pastel lights that add an ethereal glow as you glide across the ice. The bar serves a delicious Mulled Wine rinkside for you to enjoy under the gorgeous fairy lights while watching the other skaters. Make sure you book your skating session to avoid disappointment. From now until January 8th. Royalpavilionicerink.co.uk.

Druids Head

Brighton’s most haunted pub is situated a stones throw away from The Royal Pavilion and opposite Donatellos. This gorgeous traditional pub is serving Mulled Wine from their takeaway window as well as inside, so you can enjoy a cup while doing your shopping. Spiced with a cinnamon stick and a wheel of fresh orange it will certainly put some colour in your cheeks. Why not buy a cup of honey glazed Pigs in Blankets to accompany your wine?

Open daily from 10am. 9 Brighton Place Brighton BN1 1HJ.

The Cricketers

Another beautiful traditional Victorian pub with a ton of history dating back to the 1500s, situated in the South Laine is also serving a delicious homemade Mulled Wine this season. There is outside seating as well as an undercover cobbled courtyard area in which to sit and enjoy your drink. Inside features plush carpets and walls adorned with vintage gold framed prints with hidden corners to huddle up together and get warm. Black Lion Street Brighton BN1 1ND.

The Great Eastern

It’s all about traditional and quirky for us this season when it comes to enjoying a Mulled Wine. The Great Eastern is one of our favourite haunts, this cozy little boozer situated at the bottom of Trafalgar Street is the perfect winter pub with its low ceilings, fairy lights and friendly staff you will receive a warm welcome. As a curve ball, they are serving homemade Mulled Cider this season.

Cheers! 103 Trafalgar Street Brighton BN1 4ER.

Gin tasting in the sky.

Our regular readers will know that here at Discover, we love to get involved in all things Brighton. So we were absolutely delighted to receive an invite from the recently renamed Brighton i360 to join them for a Brighton Gin Tasting Flight! The gin flight offers the opportunity to sample the renowned tipple from local company Brighton Gin and find out more about this beloved Sussex business, whilst enjoying an extended 45-minute flight over the spectacular vista of Brighton and Hove lit up at night from the sky above. The team at the i360 work hard to ensure that their attraction partners with Brighton-based business to stage their events. Their aim is for the i360 to be a part of the local community as well as an attraction for any visitor to the city. The events team have been busy organising a fabulous programme of events so that local residents can enjoy the Brighton i360 and keep coming back to this spectacular venue. On arrival for the Flight, we were greeted with a very welcome Pavilion Gin and tonic, which was received warmly after a long day ‘Discovering’ Brighton! The pod began its ascent over a beautifully twinkly, night-time Brighton. Rachel Blake, Global Ambassador for Brighton Gin (or gin peddler as she may be known in the local area as she has been known to deliver local gin orders by bike) gave a fun and informative talk

on the history and ethics of the brand. As part of a majority female team here at Discover, we were pleased to see a very small all female team smashing it in the world of gin! Everything is done in-house from the distilling to the hand sealed waxing of the bottles. The team keep all suppliers as local as possible and even go as far to ensure that their recycled bottles are produced in the UK at the last remaining bottle manufacturer. Only six botanicals are used in Brighton Gin, which is what makes it so crisp. One of these botanicals is milk thistle, which has liver cleansing properties - who knew gin could be good for you! We were treated to a delicious gin and raspberry crush cocktail while we took in the sights from the newly pink neon-lit pod. We left the event with a warm fuzzy feeling and an even greater love of Brighton Gin, which we were assured won’t give us a hangover in the morning! There’s another gin flight in March along with a great winter schedule such as Santa in the Sky on 3rd December, the Breakfast and Santa Experience on 10th December or the Winter Solstice Sunrise Experience on 21st December (this one promises to be pretty special indeed, we think.) Details of all events can be found at www. brightoni360.co.uk And don’t forget to see if you are eligible for a local resident’s discount. Keep up the good work Brighton i360!

By Lynnie Mundy

Across Rainbows Launches Street Safety Campaign.

Across Rainbows have launched a new campaign Back Off Back Up (BOBU) which highlights the issues faced by the LGBTQ+ and the wider community on the streets of Brighton and Hove, fighting to make them safer. The organisation who are focused on redefining queer identity, has partnered with multiple businesses across the city who have committed to register themselves as safe spaces. The campaign has grown city-wide, with more venues signing up every week. The ethos of the campaign is that nobody should feel unsafe in public because of their gender, sexual orientation, disability, way they express themselves, religion or skin colour. The shocking fact is that many do, despite the wonderful diversity within our city. Back Off Back Up lets people know they can seek help from any public establishment displaying the yellow and black BOBU sticker if they feel threatened, even if this is just a gut feeling, or just the desire to see a friendly face and feel they can receive support at these establishments.

Why We Need BOBU?

3 IN 10 LGBTQ people avoid certain streets because they don’t feel safe being an openly queer or trans person there.

Transgender hate crime increased by 37% last year

Offenses linked to sexual orientation rose by 25%

Most women (97%) have reported being harassed at some point during their lives

Racism is the most commonly reported hate crime

Hate crimes have doubled in the last 5 years

BOBU’s mission is to strive for safer streets and venues, with less crime and targeted assaults. No one should feel unsafe going about their dayto-day lives and with this campaign maybe they won’t have to.

Get involved, participate or donate: www.backupbackoff.com

By Samntha Harman

BY TIM & CALANDRA

When I’m doing the deed with my partner I can’t stop thinking about a woman I work with and imagining it’s her - I love my wife, is this normal?

Well yet again a question that hints about cheating here! Firstly, you have made it very clear that you love your wife, which is a very important statement to make after the question you have asked. If you have not acted out with the women at work, and this is in your head, then it is a fantasy. People sometimes fantasise about sex, about different types of sex and about sex with different people. It is a natural human condition for our minds to wander and fantasise – and not just sex but also about holidays, partners, cars, new careers… wherever our minds take us. Our brain processes 70,000 thoughts a day, using 100 billion neurons that connect at more than 500 trillion points through synapses that travel 300 miles hour… so hold tight as we have no control over any of this, apart from our action AFTER we have had that thought. How you are being with this woman outside of the bedroom is more important than your fleeting thoughts in the bedroom. Are you at tracted to her? Do you flirt with her? Do you have interactions with her beyond the professional? Do you message privately? Could you show your wife those messages? If you have been acting honestly and with integrity, fine, if you have not - nip it in the bud to save your marriage and lots of heartache for yourself and the women around you.

However, you can refocus your attention on the woman you love whilst you are making love. The moment the thought of the other woman comes into your mind, say to yourself: “Oh it’s that again!” Then pay attention to your wife: open your eyes, speak to her and focus on the physical sensations in your body. It might take some practice to come out of your head and be present in the moment and your body, but you can if you are aware of this habitual mindset. Recognise it for what it is and refocus your thoughts to the women you love not some silly fantasy.

Tim Richardson and Calandra Balfour own the adult shops Taboo and Lust! They are sex educators and emotional wellbeing therapists.

Mental Health This Christmas.

Mental health issues can happen at any time of year, but they tend to be more common during the colder months. The colder weather can make us feel isolated, anxious and depressed. Anxiety can be a really hard thing to deal with. It can make you feel like you’re not in control of your own emotions and even simple tasks can feel stressful. Here are some tips to support your health and wellbeing this winter: During the winter months, our exposure to natural light is limited. This affects the levels of some hormones in our bodies which are vital for our mental health. Getting outside for some fresh air and a walk can help with this, even if the weather’s a bit nippy. If you’re not able to get out, then try to make your home as light and airy as possible and sit near a window. Food and nutrition are closely linked to how we feel. Be mindful of what you eat and try to eat healthy and balanced meals. Physical activity can also improve our mood. One of the best ways to reduce the stress hormone cortisol is through exercise. Even a 20 minute walk helps reduce your stress levels. Sleep has a huge impact on our mental health and wellbeing. Improving your sleep hygiene means finding routines and habits that help you to get the

best possible night’s sleep. This includes refraining from looking at devices for a period of time before bed, winding down with a bath or a book, setting enough time aside for sleep (the recommendation is 7-8 hours) and aiming to go to bed and get up at the same time each day. Be kind to yourself. We often set very high standards for ourselves, and can chastise ourselves if we make mistakes. But mistakes are a normal and natural part of life. Learning to be gentle with ourselves has a big impact on improved wellbeing. Let go of mistakes and try not to beat yourself up. Acceptance of ourselves involves the understanding that we won’t always get everything right, nobody does, but we can feel good about ourselves if we know we tried our best. Speaking to a trusted friend or professional can help you explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours so you can develop a better understanding of yourself and others. Getting a different perspective and feedback from someone is really helpful when dealing with stress, anxiety or depression. Here are some useful numbers: Sussex Mental Healthline 0800 0309 500 / Samaritans 116 123.

By Jade Elizabeth

Short-term letting with Khalil Properties.

At Khalil Properties, we have the experience and the expertise to help you get the most out of your property. One way that we can do this is by working with you on short-term lettings: renting out your property on a short-term basis. Demands for hotel alternatives have increased in recent years and this is a prime market that we can help you explore.

The benefits of short-term letting include:

Flexible pricing - As the lets are agreed for a shorter period, you can adjust your prices more regularly to keep up with changing demand and competition. You’re not tied into a fixed price over a long period, as with a long-term let.

Higher income generation - As prices can be raised during peak times and adjusted to keep bookings flowing throughout the year, you’ll be able to maximise your potential income. You can strategize your bookings to get the maximum return on your investment.

Flexibility with tenants - Obviously, hopefully all tenants are wonderful. But just in case they’re not, you’re not tied into a long-term contract. You can find better tenants quickly.

Regular involvement with your property - The faster turnover of tenants means that you can access your property more regularly if you want to. It’s easy to have access for maintenance or to check the property.

If you’re interested in working with us to take advantage of the short-term lettings market, call Ahmed at Khalil Properties at 01273 573960 or visit khalilproperties.co.uk. bookings@brightonholidayproperties.co.uk

brightonholidayproperties.co.uk

Christmas recycling & refuse collection dates

Collections return to your usual days from Monday 2 January

- Garden waste collections stop over Christmas and new year. The last collection will be on Friday 16 December, with the service resuming from Monday 2 January

To check your collection days in 2023 and download your collection calendar if you have fortnightly recycling, visit www.brightonhove.gov.uk/cityclean and put in your postcode.

Christmas tree recycling

Christmas tree recycling sites across the city will be open from Tuesday 27 December until Monday 9 January. Please remove all decorations and the pot before leaving your tree.

- To find your nearest site, visit www.brighton-hove. gov.uk/christmas-tree-recycling

- Don’t leave trees on the pavement, road or beside a communal bin as this is fly-tipping and you could be fined.

Recycle this Christmas!

Food and drink

- Plastic bottles can go straight in your recycling box or bin, washed and squashed.

- Rinsed drink cans and food tins can also go in your recycling, along with egg boxes, and cardboard sleeves for food packaging.

- Please keep all glass bottles and jars in a separate recycling box so glass doesn’t contaminate the other materials.

Wrapping paper and cardboard

- Please only recycle wrapping paper and plain Christmas cards - foil or paper covered in glitter can’t be recycled.

- Flatten all your cardboard boxes and paper bags to make space in your recycling bins and boxes. Please keep all paper and cardboard dry!

Batteries & electrical items

- Recycle batteries at your local supermarket or our household recycling sites.

- Recycle used electrical items, including old tech, at a number of recycling points in the city or the two household recycling sites.

- Batteries and electrical items are a fire hazard, so do not put them in your household recycling or rubbish.

Household recycling sites

- You can also take your recycling to a recycling point or one of the city’s two household recycling sites.

For all you need to know about recycling in Brighton & Hove, visit our A-Z of recycling at www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/recycling

There is no question too big or too small!