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What’s On in Sussex in February

wakehurst winter garden jan 2024, jim holden © rbg kew (17) (1) (1)
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Brighton and Sussex are buzzing this month with a mix of theatre, comedy, art, and family-friendly outings. Whether it’s the spectacle of Gandini Juggling, the sharp wit of Jason Manford, or the immersive landscapes at Wakehurst, there’s plenty to explore. Art lovers can dive into Grayson Perry’s reflections on home, while Jazz Emu’s musical comedy and Jon Culshaw’s uncanny impressions bring laughter to the stage. And for those still thinking about Philip Colbert’s recent exhibition, his playful Pop Art vision continues to leave its mark.

Here is your round-up of the best events in Sussex this month.

Things to Do in Sussex in February 2025

Gandini Juggling

gandini juggling's heka, 9128 (c) camilla greenwell
Img: Camilla Greenwell

Dates: 14-15 February

Venue: Brighton Dome

Gandini Juggling, the world-renowned and much-loved contemporary circus ensemble, brings to the UK its first new show for three years, heading to the Corn Exchange Newbury on 25 February. Heka – named after the Egyptian goddess of magic – marks a departure for director Sean Gandini as he revisits the fascination with magic which began during his childhood in Havana.

Get your tickets at Gandini Juggling


Jason Manford

jason manford headshot

Dates: 28th February 2025

Venue: Eastbourne Congress Theatre

Following huge demand for tickets, Jason Manford has announced an additional 89 shows in 2025 as part of his new blockbuster live tour – A Manford All Seasons. The show is Jason’s latest comedy offering, showcasing his iconic “expert observational comedy” (The Guardian) which is already earning him standing ovations night after night.

Book at Eastbourne Theatres


Grayson Perry

grayson perry, searching for authenticity, 2018. courtesy the artist and victoria miro
Img: Grayson Perry & Victoria Miro

Dates: Until 2nd March

Venue: Charleston in Lewes

Charleston in Lewes presents ‘Grayson Perry: A Temple for Everyone’, a showcase of works by the celebrated British artist that tell a unique story about what it means to be home. This exhibition of over 30 artworks including tapestries, ceramic pots, drawings and etchings, and explores ideas such as: What does it mean to call a place ‘home’?

Get tickets at Charleston


Winter Gardens

wakehurst winter garden jan 2024, jim holden © rbg kew
Img: Jim Holden

Dates: Throughout February

Venue: Wakehurst

Wakehurst’s Winter Garden transforms into a sensory centrepiece in the winter months, and the perfect place to lift spirits on a cold day. Paths weave through bright red dogwood and swathes of tall grasses, as brightly coloured Cyclamen and snowdrops offer a pop of colour on the ground. A series of viewpoints throughout Westwood Valley offers breathtaking views.

Book at Kew


Jazz Emu

jazz emu soho fine

Dates: 19th February

Venue: Brighton Komedia

For the first time ever musical supernova Jazz Emu (The Telegraph’s Funniest Comedian of the 21st Century) will be touring the UK with his hotly anticipated brandnew show, Knight Fever, alongside his full live band, ‘The Cosmique Perfectión’. Following his run at the Soho Theatre, this tour will feature brand new songs, and an appearance from the King himself.

Buy tickets at Brighton Komedia


Editor’s Top Pick For This Month’s Must-See

Jon Culshaw

jon culshaw  (c) andy hollingworth
Img: Andy Hollingworth

Dates: 8th February

Venue: Worthing Pavillion

The star of BBC Radio 4’s Dead Ringers and BBC One’s The Impressions Show, Jon Culshaw is set to follow up his 2023 Edinburgh Festival Fringe sell-out residency with a solo tour of impressions, comedy and music throughout the UK from February 2025. Join Jon as he conjures up an array of the best-known personalities from the worlds of entertainment, politics, and beyond in his trademark style.

Get your tickets at WTM


Philip Colbert: Popstar

Philip Colbert Exhibition in Brighton

Absolutely reviews Philip Colbert’s exhibition that closed at the end of January in Brighton

Back in January, Philip Colbert presented his first collectible prints at Helm Gallery in Brighton – offering the public a rare opportunity to own work by this pioneering Pop Artist. Taking over Helm Gallery’s Exhibition Hall, the space was filled with never-before seen exclusive prints of some of his most loved works, and visitors for the first time were able to view and own works such as his iconic ‘battle scene’ pieces in print form. The exhibition was a rare opportunity for art aficionados and Colbert fans to acquire not only these prints, but also the last few sculptures from the ‘Lobstar Collectables’ series, in addition to a brand-new sculpture, toys, books and merchandise. Colbert is a true 21st Century Pop Art star and has over the past decade continued to take the artworld by storm. Known for his cartoon lobster persona, his work combines contemporary art theory with themes from old master paintings – channelling it through iconic symbols of everyday culture. His work encompasses a broad medium of paintings, large-scale projects, sculptural works and NFTs – all narrated through his Lobster alter ego. His fascination for old master paintings and contemporary art theory has seen him go so far as to fashion his own ‘lobstar’ language alongside his visual symbolism.

View Philip’s work


How Absolutely Picks the Best for You

At Absolutely Magazines, we pride ourselves on curating only the finest recommendations for our refined readers. Our editors leverage their extensive expertise in lifestyle journalism to ensure that every selection meets the highest standards of quality and relevance. From scouring local insider tips to understanding trends and feedback, we leave no stone unturned in identifying the most exceptional venues for you. Guided by an appreciation for your taste, we prioritise venues and events that epitomise luxury, style, and premium experiences. You can trust us to bring you the Absolute best, every time.

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Author

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Mark Kebble

Mark's career in journalism started in 2001 when he landed a role on a small lifestyle magazine in Angel, North London. Soon enough, the magazine was purchased by a larger organisation and Mark found himself promoted to editor at the tender age of 23. He later became group editor, working on magazines for Angel, Crouch End, Muswell Hill and Highgate. He was also involved in a launch in Hadley Wood and a major new group website, later becoming Group Hub Editor. In 2021, Mark joined Zest Media Group and oversaw the launch of many Absolutely titles across the UK. To date, Mark has launched in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, Sussex, Essex, Yorkshire and Cheshire. When he does have some free time, Mark is also the Chairman of an amateur football club in Surrey and is also a fully qualified FA football coach.
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