Return to the Forbidden Planet

Last night I had the strangest dream…….Actually it wasn’t a dream it was a performance of Return to the Forbidden Planet – a love story set in space, said to be based on The Tempest and billed as Shakespeare's forgotten rock and roll masterpiece.

The comic strip-styled caper is an Olivier award winning best musical and, as such, is laced with vocal numbers throughout.  From 50s Good Vibrations through to Nirvana and with a spot of Jimi Hendrix in-between; all performed with passion and a hint of Hammond.

The costumes reminded me of Brighton Pride more than Battlestar Galactica and I really wasn’t sure what was going on until the second half  - that could be down to my lack of comic-strip nous or else Shakespearean plot ignorance - but the singing and musical talent is second to none and made for an all-round enjoyable, if slightly bonkers experience.

For feel-good high jinks, complete with a Brian May VT and cola branded robot in padded trunks, I can’t think of anything better.

Return to the Forbidden Planet is on at the Theatre Royal until Saturday 24 January.

Ruth

Make a trip to Brighton Marina

When you're planning your break to Brighton & Hove this year, why not move away from the city centre and take a look at Brighton Marina? Far more then just a place to park your boat, the Marina is a great place to eat, drink, shop, stay and play.

Naturally being by the water there are plenty of businesses there to help you enjoy it, whether it's a relaxing pleasure boat ride with Ross Boat Trips; whizzing round on Jet Skis or trying your hand at all manner of watersports. Or for land-based activities you'll soon be able to hire an electric bike, perfect for exploring the Undercliff route.

After all that action you'll need to refuel and there are lots of popular restaurant brand names to choose from as well as new eateries Blue Mango Indian restaurant and Jimmy's Restaurant serving dishes from around the world.

Once you build up some more energy why not explore the shops at the Marina, there are outlet shops for well-known brands as well as the independent fair-trade store Lovethatstuff and the Laughing Dog Gallery which features lots ot pieces by local artists.

After that revive your weary body with a pampering session at Spa Tara or enjoy a night out at the Rendezvous Casino with Waterside Bar & Brasserie.

Once you're ready to hit the hay there are  plenty of accommodaiton options including self-catering with Sea Fizz and Palms Properties or there's the contemporary Hotel Seattle.

Hotel Seattle

To really make the most of your Brighton Marina visit sign-up for the Brighton Marina Gold Card which has over 40 money-saving deals and also gives you the chance to win a Mini One!

Charlotte

Last minute Brighton break with ice skating!

Forget the January blues and treat yourself to a break in Brighton & Hove, plus if you book through www.visitbrighton.com you will receive two free adult tickets to the Royal Pavilion Ice Rink!

There are double rooms available from just £49 a night so once you've enjoyed your ice skating session why not explore the independent shops of the Lanes & North Laine or grab a bargain at Churchill Square Shopping Centre?

Hot on the heels of the Conde Nast award for best destination for restaruants and bars, Huffington Post has also discovered that Brighton is a foodie hotpot so refuel at one of the city's fantastic restaurants. Don't worry about breaking your resolutions though as The Stylist featured three Brighton places in their guide to the best healthy eating dining out options.

So hope to see you on the ice rink soon!

Charlotte