Name: Betsy: Wisdom of a Brighton Whore
Start: 2025-04-06 18:00:00
End: 2025-04-06 20:00:00
Location: Phoenix Arts Club

Once The Prince Regent began frequenting Brighton, the market for prostitution took a sudden upturn.

Betsy: Wisdom of a Brighton Whore combines a gripping plot from award-winning writer and director Jonathan Brown, sublime acting from actor Imogen Strachan, and the stunning, exotic surroundings of The Phoenix Arts Club, Soho, creating an incredibly intense drama, set in 1800's Brighton, the party destination & era for risqu & racy Londoners to this day.

This sordid tale, recently back from its run off-Broadway, NYC, centres around Betsy, who has just been expelled from St Marys Home for Penitent Women. By a stroke of luck, and of the right nob, she comes under the protection of local dignitaries, and discovers she can still make a very good living from her body. But, having heard too many incriminating and indiscreet late-night ramblings, she finds herself in grave danger.

Writer Jonathan Brown says, It's a visceral, shocking and tender play blending the brutality of street life with deep instinctual tenderness. Imogen Strachan in the titular role, provides a riot of irreverence, bawd and vulnerability. We're very proud that Betsy has won multiple awards, including The International Fringe Encore Series Award

Since you’re here…

… we have a small favour to ask. We don't want your money to support a hack's bar bill at Abattoir, but if you have a pound or two spare, we really encourage you to support a good cause. If this review has either helped you discover a gem or avoid a turkey, consider doing some good that will really make a difference.

You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

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Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
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Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
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Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
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