Spiegeltent - the Colourful, Cabaret Cousin of Brighton Fringe

The Spiegeltent returns to Brighton for May 2013, I kinda didn't realise it had been away, I mean this as a compliment because I view the Spiegeltent as such an integral part of the Brighton Fringe experience that I feel its presence is obligatory.

Cabaret Clatteratti behind the Aperol bar

That said, the Spiegeltenters have been away and make a very welcome return, as they always bring with them a cheeky wink, cabaret glamour, Ragroof dancing and Voodoo Vaudeville Cabaret Clatteratti.

La Clique, Spiegeltent fun times

This year it is in association with an Italian aperitivo called Aperol, mixed with Prosecco, still the drink of the moment and tastes like a lighter, brighter version of Campari.

They are looking for talent to perform on their Aperol Spritz Stage, with auditions via facebook.com/ukaperolspritz. There will also be a giant, interactive digital gaming screen, which I'll let you know more about when I see it for myself. Follow them @AperolSpritzUK for more events and competitions.

Within the grounds of the Spiegeltent fun palace will be the glorious Candy Queens, who I met with fellow Blogger Rosie Davis at the Spiegeltent launch. On the night we met them the Candy Queens were rocking fluorescent pink hair that reminded me of Marie Antoinette (all good in my book). Sue, Candy Princess had made their 50s style dresses out of a Flamingo print and they were spinning their fun pedalling, sugar heightened pinkness while making candy floss, to show what they will be doing at the Spiegeltent. Find them in the hoopla part of the garden, selling candy floss, playing some games like Operation and overseeing Arm Wrestling Championships. Follow @CandyQueensHQ for more sugar-coated hijinks.

We also met Chris Cresswell, the Maestro of Voodoo Vaudeville who has teamed up with Paul (of Children's Parade fame) to create a family friendly show to begin when the Children's Parade ends. There will be five different acts and will include some Junk Percussion, Samba dancing, a Brazilian act, some Cuban rhythms and will be getting the crowd involved. The Birdy man of the North Laine's area, Tim Bat who happens to be a world famous juggler will also be appearing and their finale will be played using a massive drum kit. Follow them @Clatteratti to find out more.