UK: Brighton Beach Memoirs

The weather is finally perking up in fair ol’ England, and it’s time again for the Brighton Festival. Now in its 41st year, the fest runs from May 5 through May 27 and showcases an array of up-and-comers in the fields of dance, theater, music, and literature. There’s plenty of family-friendly fare too.

The 2007 line-up includes seven world premieres. On opening night, the band responsible for the Run Lola Run soundtrack, The Bays, will perform their film score live. Cheapo note: Opening night tickets are all sold out, but you can still nab seats for the May 6 show.

Other reasons we’re packing our bags and heading to the shore? Writers like Simon Armitage, Lionel Shriver, and Dave Eggers will read and discuss their work. Dizzie Gillespie’s All-Star Band will play a set. And a special performance of La Traviata takes center stage in the gorgeous Royal Pavilion.

For information on visiting Brighton and cheap accommodations, check out the city’s tourism Web site.