News Story
We hope you are as excited as we are to delve into Festival 2026, which offers gripping storytelling, jaw-dropping magic, laughter, stimulation and glorious music – truly theatrical experiences, with something to appeal to everyone. We have eight world premieres, as well as our eagerly anticipated summer musical and Shakespeare’s most popular comedy.
In the Festival Theatre are five shows with spectacle and theatricality at their very heart, encompassing puppetry, illusion, romance, music and mischief. It's hard to believe that Lerner & Loewe's My Fair Lady has never been done at Chichester before; this 'perfect musical', with its luscious songs, gorgeous costumes and witty, provocative book, will be directed by Rachel Kavanaugh.
Roald Dahl's much-loved The BFG is a book that holds a special place in many adults' hearts, and Daniel Evans's production is a real feast for the senses for all ages. 2026 marks the 100th anniversary of Houdini's death, and David Haig's gripping new play Magic is based on the extraordinary true story of the illusionist's clash with Arthur Conan Doyle over the existence of a spiritual realm.
Atonement, adapted from Ian McEwan's celebrated novel by Christopher Hampton, is a powerful story about the sweep of history and how lives can be changed by one moment. A Midsummer Night's Dream, co-directed by Justin Audibert and Hannah Joss, set in Sussex during the famous raves of the 1990s, will feel immersive and lots of fun!
In the intimate Minerva, which allows us to see into people’s heads and hearts, five new plays explore family and our place in the world on a very human level: John Morton’s wryly funny Eclipse; Hannah Patterson’s tense 45 Years; Emily White’s humanely urgent Atlantis; Stephanie Street’s unforgettable a small and quiet light; and Nina Segal’s blistering Antigone Exits.
All ask searching questions about ourselves and our society, while often making us laugh too. They’ll be brought to life by a superb group of directors, designers and actors; keep an eye on our website and social media for further casting updates.
Don’t forget to check out our events in The Nest, too. December brings a welcome second chance to see the enchanting Hey! Christmas Tree, and a sparkling musical version of Peter Pan.
Kathy Bourne and Justin Audibert, Executive and Artistic Directors, say: 'As we share our brand new season with you, no fewer than six previous CFT productions are playing in London or around the country. It’s a powerful testimony to the quality and appeal of the shows we make here that many go on to delight audiences far beyond West Sussex. As the Official London Theatre website put it, ‘Chichester Festival Theatre has a strong record of West End transfers – and it shows no signs of slowing down.'
'We look forward to seeing you, and hope you enjoy the season.'
Have a flick through our digital e-brochure for Festival 2026.