Step into The Royal Esplanade Hotel Victorian Music Hall with an enchanting evening of song, laughter, and spectacular musical antics
!!! WE ENCOURAGE DRESS-TO-IMPRESS !!!
Friday night at Gears & Giggles sets the tone for a weekend of entertainment, blending live music, comedy, and unmistakable showmanship. Four performers take to the stage in a lively mix of songs, stories, and sharp wit, promising an evening full of laughter and toe-tapping moments.
Seating is available in the main function room, with additional space in the adjacent coffee lounge for a more relaxed view of the action. As ever, the basement bar will be open throughout the evening, serving drinks to keep the atmosphere flowing. Doors open at 7pm, with the first act on at 7.15pm—arrive early, settle in, and let the entertainment begin.
The hotel's kitchen is providing hot basket meals during the earlier part of the evening as an optional extra and are not included in the ticket price.
THIS IS A TICKETED EVENT, AGE 16 AND OVER
This venue has limited capacity, so grab your tickets early. This sold out very quickly in 2025.
Experience the Magic of Matt Black: The Piano Man!
We welcome the highly talented legend, Matt Black, to top off our Vintage Musical Soiree!
This is not just a performance; it’s a spectacular blend of comedy and fine musicianship that will leave you in stitches and awe.
Matt has shared the stage with an incredible lineup of celebrity talents, including the legendary Tom O'Connor, the iconic Boy George, the charismatic Brian Connelly, and the sensational Bjorn Again, to name just a few! His unique ability to mix humour with incredible musical talent makes every performance a one-of-a-kind experience.
Prepare for a night filled with laughter, incredible melodies, and unforgettable moments. Matt Black’s debut appearance at our festival promises to be a highlight you won’t want to miss. Grab your tickets now and get ready to be entertained like never before.
Don't miss out on this extraordinary evening with Matt Black – the Piano Man!
The Antipoet, Paul Eccentric and Ian Newman, are together the world's finest exponents of beatrantin' rhythm 'n views! Having become somewhat successful over the last decade, they have tirelessly toured the poetry, comedy and music circuits and have appeared at countless festivals including, Glastonbury, Bestival, Camp Bestival, Edinburgh, Brighton, Rebellion, Lake Fest and, Larmer Tree.
We are so lucky to have enticed this star performer to our festival. If you haven’t heard, then let us introduce to you to the famous all round entertainer and rapper, with amazing credentials having performed at Glastonbury, Edinburgh Fringe, NME Paris on TV and lots more.
Well known for his stylish and sophisticated presentation of ‘CHAP-HOP’ and his dapper parodies of well-spoken rhyme.
Magnificently dashing, impeccably dressed, and undeniably charming, join up to be regaled by his eloquent verses and unparalleled sophistication straight from a time of yore!
Get Ready to Swing! And dance !
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the enchanting sounds of the 1920s and 1930’s with our sensational 4-piece Acoustic Swing Jazz Band! Inspired by the legendary French gypsy guitar virtuoso, Django Reinhardt, this talented quartet brings you an irresistible blend of vintage charm and boundless energy that will have you tapping your feet and dancing in no time!
Join us for our special "Dress to Impress" evening, where elegance meets exuberance. As you don your finest Steampunk attire, let the captivating melodies and infectious rhythms of Cat Skellington transport you to a bygone era of jazz clubs and lively soirees.
Don’t miss this chance to experience the magic of live swing jazz, the band take you on a delightful journey through the golden age of music.
