Chichester theatre gets approval for new venue

Chichester Festival Theatre has received planning permission for a new 120-seat studio theatre.

Called ‘The Nest’, the venue will be the organisation's third and smallest stage and will be focused on providing a space for talent development by supporting artists and technicians at the beginning of their careers, including local writers and performers, as well as offering entertainment for a younger audience and community programmes.

The new building will use an existing temporary structure previously located in London and Edinburgh. The trust hopes to raise at least £1.5m for the project.

Director Sam Mendes began his career at Chichester and is a Patron of the Appeal.

"Nurturing the next generation of artists is vital to ensure that theatre in the UK maintains its international reputation for excellence," said Mendes. "I am delighted to support Chichester Festival Theatre – a place dear to my heart – as they embark on creating this exciting new space. I cannot wait to see the work that is incubated in The Nest."