FOLLOWING the extensive refit of Brighton’s Grand Central pub in Surrey Street, the upstairs performance space - formerly known as The Nightingale Theatre - has reopened under new management.

Rather than new theatre and scratch performances, the 1920s themed Nightingale Room will be focusing on comedy and cabaret with a series of new nights.

Friday nights from 8pm are being devoted to stand-up, with a new night hosted by former Big Brother winner Pete Bennett.

Pete’s Comedy Caper is set to feature top character comedy from the circuit, including Quint Fortana, Sol Bernstein and Tina Turner Tea Lady.

“Visitors won’t recognise the Nightingale Room,” says promoter Simon Hanning.

“It’s been completely made over and is sumptuously comfortable. We wanted to mark the new look venue by launching a series of interesting and off-beat comedy nights.

“Every week we will have Top UK comedians performing and we offer guests full table service drinks. We want to make this a luxurious night but one which very much has Pete’s zany personality stamped on it.”

Also coming to the venue are Thursday night jazz from Jo Rotunno; a night of cabaret and burlesque Cabaret De Artistes which launches on Saturday, July 18; Brighton’s own chap-hop pioneer Mr B The Gentleman Rhymer on Wednesday, July 22; and Joe Black’s Gin Parlour Cabaret, on Thursday, July 23, based around a gin-drinking musical comedy drag queen.

For more information visit thenightingaleroom.co.uk or www.comedycaper.com