Famous venue may be back in Brighton

Organisers are said to be in the advanced stages of securing the world famous Spiegeltent to be pitched on the Old Steine throughout May.

The wooden and canvas structure, of which there are just a handful left worldwide, will host a mix of cabaret, musical acts, circus performers and burlesque shows.

The venue was last part of the Festival and Fringe back in 2009.

Its owners pulled out of the event the following year due to poor sales figures and it hasn’t appeared since.

Brighton and Hove City Council’s economic development and culture committee is expected to agree landlord’s consent when they meet next Thursday.

Councillor Geoffrey Bowden, who chairs the committee, said: “This is a really welcome return for a feature of the Fringe which has been sadly missing in recent years.

“It’s brilliant that it’s coming back.”

The news has also been welcomed by arts bosses across the city.

Julian Caddy, Fringe director, said that there were still a few “bits and pieces” to sort out but added that he was “excited” and “hopeful” for its return.

He said: “Things are looking up and hopefully in May we will have the Famous Spiegeltent in Brighton.

“It’s at an advanced enough stage to appear on council papers so we’re very hopeful.

“It is currently in Sydney for their festival before it travels to Melbourne and Canberra. I think it’s a case of ‘watch this space’. It would be fantastic.”

The hand-hewntent travels across the world to various arts events.

Primarily made of wood and canvas they also feature numerous mirrors and leaded glass – often detailed in velvet and brocade.

The original Spiegeltents were constructed in the Flemish Region of Belgium in the late 19th century and used as mobile dance halls.

Promoters would take them to the towns and villages of the Low Countries and host lavish parties.

The venue, which will hold 350 people, will be situated on the south side of the Old Steine between May 3 and June 2.