Welcome to The Nest!

Our new creative venue for fresh ideas, new voices and local artists. It’s part of CFT but with a more intimate, informal vibe. Think fringe theatre, stand-up comedy live music, interactive shows for early years, and community-led events - all in one welcoming space. Come see something different or start something yourself.

Whether you’re watching or performing, The Nest is a place where stories are shared, experiments take shape and ideas come to life.

From Thursday to Saturday, The Nest will be home to live events you won’t find anywhere else in Chichester — from up-and-coming comedians and acoustic gigs to new theatre and shows for little ones. 

All tickets are under £20, and it’s always unreserved bench seating. Just turn up, grab a drink, and dive in. 

Discover what's on in The Nest

Make yourself at home in our new space

You'll find us between the Festival Theatre and Northgate Car Park amongst the trees on the CFT site. The Nest has 120 seats which are unreserved, general admission - so get here early if you want your pick of the seats! 

There is an entry ramp leading to The Nest from the walkway of the CFT site and we have two wheelchair spaces in The Nest. We have an accessible toilet with baby changing facilities, and one other toilet - you're also welcome to pop across the road to the Minerva Theatre and use the toilets there too. 

We have a bar at The Nest which opens 45 minutes before the show starts so you can grab a drink before heading in. The bar is located in our small but perfectly formed front of house space which is open to the elements, we also have some seats and tables on our outdoor decking space when the weather allows. 

Looking for a bite to eat? You can grab food from other outlets on the CFT site, some do require booking, head to this page for more information about what's on offer at CFT and the opening times. 

We're tight on space at The Nest and don't have a cloakroom or space for luggage or big bags, so please pack light. 

If you have any queries during your visit please do speak to one of our friendly Front of House staff. 

Future Theatre Makers

The Nest is also the home of our fantastic emerging artists that are supported through our Future Theatre Makers Programme. 

The programme supports local theatre-makers through a tailored, part-time, and flexible 20-month programme that develops their skills, makes vital connections to other industry professionals and delivers a performance piece at the end of the 20 months that will add to their emerging portfolio of work. 

To all those who supported

We would like to thank everyone who supported The Nest campaign, whatever the size of their gift. The huge amount of money raised through donations has been an amazing testament to the loyalty and generosity of our audience. Your gifts have made our dreams of The Nest a reality! We can't wait to share this exciting new chapter with you.