‘Chichester’s prestigious theatre is renowned for its outstanding productions. From plays, musicals and cabaret nights, there’s guaranteed to be something that will tickle your fancy.’ BRITAIN MAGAZINE, 2023
You might think you pretty much know what to expect from a Chichester Festival Theatre Winter season – classic dramas, sparkling comedy, a musical or two, and some well-known faces off the telly. Well, you’d be right. But this season we really think we’ve outdone ourselves in pulling together a packed programme of some of the best touring work out there for our audiences to enjoy here in Chichester.
We’ve got five-star shows coming direct from the West End – Life of Pi, Noises Off, and 2:22 A Ghost Story – together with top quality touring dramas. From A Voyage Round My Father with Rupert Everett to The Merchant of Venice 1936 with Tracy-Ann Oberman; Lucy Kirkwood’s Mosquitoes to Somerset Maugham’s The Circle; ThickSkin return with their latest piece Peak Stuff, the original cast of Drop the Dead Donkey are reuniting on stage, and the incredible Nina Simoneinspired Black is the Color of My Voice arrives following a sell-out tour.
Christmas at CFT this year will be a true family affair as, alongside our new dramatisation of The Jungle Book for kids aged 7+, we have a perfect first musical for ages 3-7 in the Minerva, the Unicorn Theatre production of Stiles & Drewe’s The Three Billy Goats Gruff directed by our very own Justin Audibert. And we’ll have a visit from The Man in Red himself as we’ll be working our theatrical magic on a Santa’s Grotto for the first time at CFT (see p51).
A revised production of Fantastically Great Women Who Changed The World and We’re Going on a Bear Hunt will be taking over the Festival Theatre for the February half-term, followed by a brand-new production of the acclaimed book The Boy at the Back of the Class. Plus, there are loads more shows and events for all the family on p40 and p50.
We could rave about every single date in our line-up of music, comedy and community shows, plus the talks, tours and late-night events we produce ourselves, but we’ll let you discover that all for yourselves; make sure you flip to pages 42 to 49 to read about what’s on offer.
It is safe to say this is one of the most varied seasons you’ll have seen at CFT in a long time. And we can’t wait to welcome you all back for it. See you soon!
Justin Audibert Artistic Director Kathy Bourne Executive Director
Rory Bremner
Charley Webb Lewis Reeves with Mark Benton
Directed by Daniel Evans and Seán Linnen
Rory Bremner, Britain’s top satirical impressionist, stars as Chris Tarrant in James Graham’s thrilling, entertaining and provocative drama, alongside Charley Webb, Lewis Reeves and Mark Benton, directed by Daniel Evans and Seán Linnen.
September 2001: the nation is gripped by a scandal that remains, to this day, a mystery. In an outrageously audacious heist, Charles Ingram, aka the Coughing Major, and his accomplices duped the world’s most popular TV quiz show, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, out of £1,000,000. Or did they? And if they did cheat, how did they really do it?
Uncovering new evidence, it’s time to ask you, the audience, to put fingers on keypads and answer the ultimate 50:50: guilty or not guilty?
Nominated for two Olivier Awards including Best New Comedy, James Graham’s smash hit play, Quiz, transferred to London’s West End with sensational reviews in 2018, following a sold-out run at Chichester Festival Theatre. The 2020 ITV adaptation was viewed by millions.
22 – 30 Sep Festival Theatre
Visit cft.org.uk for up-to-date casting news and further information about this production
Tickets
From £10
Concessions available, scan the QR code for all discounts and pricing
See p56 Schools
£8.50 (see p56)
A Chichester Festival Theatre co-production with Headlong, Octagon Theatre Bolton and Rose Theatre
Directed by Holly Race Roughan
On the Brooklyn waterfront, where the fierce passions of ancestral Sicily linger, the orphaned Catherine falls for her handsome, newly arrived cousin Rodolfo – an illegal immigrant. Their romance is encouraged by her aunt Beatrice but viewed with revulsion by her uncle, Eddie Carbone, who harbours an unspoken desire. As tensions rise, their story spins inexorably beyond control.
Arthur Miller ’s visceral and compelling drama is a timeless masterpiece.
A View from the Bridge will be directed by Holly Race Roughan, Artistic Director of Headlong, where her work includes Hedda Tesman (a co-production with Chichester in 2019), the UK tour of People, Places and Things with Jeremy Herrin, and Henry V for Shakespeare’s Globe/UK tour.
The cast includes Nancy Crane, Rachelle Diedericks (Our Generation Festival 2022), Luke Newberry and Jonathan Slinger (Crave Festival 2020).
Visit cft.org.uk for up-to-date casting news and further information about this production
From £10
Concessions available, scan the QR code for all discounts and pricing
See p56 Schools
£8.50 (see p56)
Arthur Miller Experience Weekend
Sat 14 & Sun 15 Oct, 10am – 5pm, £60
A practical workshop with scenestudies, masterclasses and talks about the great American playwright. Price includes a matinee ticket.
Sponsored by
Supported by A View from the Bridge Supporters Circle
‘Will always stand with the masterpieces of Ibsen, Shakespeare and Sophocles.’
Nicholas Hytner
Directed by Joanna Bowman
MP Arthur Gill is one of Westminster’s rising stars. Still in his 30s, he’s just become the Secretary of State for Justice, assuming the role of Lord Chancellor too; and with a leadership race on the horizon, he’s a favourite to be the next Prime Minister.
But there’s a problem. An inquiry headed by Lady Justice Deborah Wingate is on the brink of publishing its findings about a public health disaster: a scandal that happened on Gill’s watch when he was Environment Minister. As leaks multiply and the waters grow murkier, how far will he go to hide his past and protect his future?
The Inquiry is a gripping drama about the pernicious collision between politics, justice and ambition.
Harry Davies is a writer and an investigative reporter for The Guardian; this is his first play. Joanna Bowman (Sing Yer Heart Out for the Lads Festival 2022) directs.
The cast is led by Deborah Findlay (TV’s The Split, Separate Tables Festival 2009), John Heffernan (Much Ado About Nothing, Edward II National Theatre, Oppenheimer RSC/ West End) and Malcolm Sinclair (This House Festival 2016, Pressure Festival 2014 & West End), alongside Shazia Nicholls, Macy Nyman, Nicholas Rowe and Stephanie Street.
13 Oct – 11 Nov
Minerva Theatre
Visit cft.org.uk for up-to-date casting news and further information about this production
Tickets
From £10
Concessions available, scan the QR code for all discounts and pricing
See p56 Schools
£8.50 (see p56)
Sponsored by
Supported in research and development by The Playwrights Fund
Supported by The Inquiry Supporters and Patrons Circles
BAFTA and Golden Globe nominee Rupert Everett stars in John Mortimer’s celebrated autobiographical play.
Growing up in the shadow of a brilliant and eccentric barrister, a man whose tea-time conversation could take in music hall, adultery, evolution, the ridiculous inconvenience of sex, Shakespeare and the importance of avoiding anything heroic in wartime, the son continually yearns for his father’s love and respect.
In shining a light on this delicate relationship between a young man and his father who adored his garden and hated visitors, and whose blindness was never mentioned, A Voyage Round My Father introduces us to a gallery of unforgettable and often hilarious characters.
John Mortimer was a novelist, playwright and a barrister in his own right, renowned for his political dramas and creator of Rumpole of The Bailey.
Rupert Everett returns to Chichester following his acclaimed performance as Salieri in Amadeus (Festival 2014). Julian Wadham’s screen appearances include The Madness of King George, The English Patient and Downton Abbey.
The world-class creative team behind this production includes former Artistic Director of the National Theatre Richard Eyre (4000 Miles).
Evenings
Tue – Sat 7.30pm
Matinees
Wed, Thu & Sat 2.30pm
Tickets
Tue – Thu £10 – £42
Fri – Sat £10 – £45
Friends & Concessions
£2 off top three prices Tue – Thu
See p56
Schools
£8.50 (see p56) Tue – Thu
Groups 8+
10% off top three prices Tue – Thu
A clever, comic evocation of another era.’ Guardian
Adapted by Lolita Chakrabarti from the novel by Yann Martel
Directed by Max Webster
Winner of five Olivier Awards including Best New Play and three Tony Awards! After conquering the West End and Broadway, the five-star ‘theatrical phenomenon’ (Telegraph) embarks on its biggest adventure yet.
Jaw-dropping visuals and world-class puppetry combine in a unique and ‘breath-taking’ (The Times) theatrical event that is ‘a wonder to behold’ (Daily Mail).
After an epic storm in the Pacific Ocean, Pi is stranded on a lifeboat with four other survivors – a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, and a Royal Bengal tiger. Time is against them, nature is harsh, who will survive?
Based on the global phenomenon and winner of the Man Booker Prize, selling over fifteen million copies worldwide, Life of Pi is the hugely popular story of an epic journey of endurance and hope. Don’t miss the West End and Broadway spectacle on its first ever UK tour.
Ages 8+
‘Everything about this production is amazing.’ Observer
16 Nov – 2 Dec Festival Theatre
Performance times
Evenings
Mon – Sat 7.30pm
Matinees
Thu & Sat 2.30pm
Tickets
Mon – Thu £10 – £45
Fri – Sat £15 – £50
Friends & Concessions
£2 off top three prices Mon – Thu
Family ticket
Half price for up to four Under 16s with every full price paying adult (top three prices, excludes Sat eve) See p56
Schools
£8.50 (see p56) Mon – Thu
Groups 8+
10% off top three prices Mon – Thu
‘Breath-taking. Roar it out: this is a hit.’
Sunday Times
‘An extraordinary journey. Unmissable.’ Guardian
Trafalgar Theatre Productions and Eilene Davidson Productions, in association with the Royal Shakespeare Company, presents the Watford Palace Theatre & Home Manchester production
Ambition, power and political unrest explode onto the stage in The Merchant of Venice 1936, direct from the RSC. Starring Tracy-Ann Oberman (Fiddler on the Roof 2017, EastEnders, Doctor Who) as Shylock, Shakespeare’s classic is transported to 1930s Britain in this ‘striking and impactful’ (Guardian) new production that ‘makes theatre history’ (Telegraph), from acclaimed director Brigid Larmour
Tensions in London’s East End are rising and Shylock, a resilient single mother and hard-working businesswoman, is desperate to protect her daughter’s future. When the charismatic merchant Antonio comes to her for a loan, a high-stakes deal is struck. Will Shylock take her revenge, and who will pay the ultimate price?
Don’t miss this unforgettable, electrifying new production of The Merchant of Venice, a ‘fascinating and timely’ (Daily Mail) reminder of a key moment in British history.
‘Urgent and deeply moving.’
WhatsOnStage
‘Striking.’ Guardian
‘Oberman gives a galvanizing central performance.’ Financial Times
Evenings
Tue – Sat 7.15pm
Matinees
Wed & Sat 2.15pm Mon – Thu £10 – £34 Fri – Sat £15 – £40
Tickets
Friends & Concessions
£2 off top two prices Tue-Thu See p56
Schools
£8.50 (see p56) Tue – Thu
Groups 8+
10% off top two prices Tue – Thu
Alice is a scientist. She lives in Geneva. As the Large Hadron Collider starts up in 2008, she is on the brink of the most exciting work of her life. Jenny is her sister. She lives in Luton. She spends a lot of time Googling. When tragedy throws them together, the collision threatens them all with chaos.
Lucy Kirkwood’s wildly ambitious play is a brilliantly funny and occasionally brutal exploration of the workings of the universe and our place within it, and what it means to be a sister, a mother and a daughter.
With its strong debate about the merits of vaccination and the limitations of science, this production – the play’s first UK revival since its 2017 premiere at the National Theatre – offers a particular resonance in the context of the global pandemic and the ongoing climate change debate.
Since her debut in 2008, Lucy Kirkwood has firmly established herself as a leading playwright of her generation, the writer of a series of savagely funny, highly intelligent and beautifully observed plays that tackle the pressing issues of our times including Chimerica, The Children and The Welkin
Contains adult language and themes. Ages 14+
28 Nov – 2 Dec
Minerva Theatre
Performance times
Evenings
Tue – Sat 7.15pm
Matinees
Wed & Sat 2.15pm
Tickets
£10 – £20
Friends & Concessions
£2 off top two prices Tue – Thu
See p56
Schools
£8.50 (see p56) Tue – Thu
Groups 8+
10% off top two prices Tue – Thu
‘An accomplished revival. The chemistry is electric.’ The Stage
‘One of those moments of theatre that it becomes a privilege to witness.’
British Theatre Guide
Portsmouth and Chichester Cathedral Choir
It’s that most wonderful time of the year again! Kick off the festive season in style at CFT as we welcome back The Band of His Majesty’s Royal Marines, joining with the rousing voices of the Cathedral Choir for a concert full of true Christmas cheer. You’re guaranteed to leave feeling 100 times more twinkly than when you arrived!
You can expect an evening of customary carols and traditional tunes, alongside some new arrangements, all wrapped up into one beautifully presented musical celebration.
And don’t forget, you’ll have a chance to cast your vote for Chichester’s Favourite Christmas Song to be performed on the night. Hearing an uplifting rendition of the winning number (audience sing-along encouraged at this point) is always a highlight. It’s the best possible musical start to Christmas.
Ages 7+
‘The Christmas season has begun in spectacular style on a far from silent night in Chichester. It was rousing, it was fun and it was gloriously festive.’ Chichester Observer on Christmas Concerts 2022
‘There is no more glorious welcome to the festive period than the Christmas Concerts.’
West Sussex Gazette on Christmas Concerts 2022
Performance times
Evenings
Tue – Sat 7.30pm
Matinee Sat 2.30pm £10 – £33
Tickets
Friends
£2 off top three prices Tue only
Family ticket
Half price for up to four Under 16s with every full price paying adult (top three prices, excludes Sat eve) See p56
Groups 8+
10% off top three prices Tue – Thu
Sponsored by
with Chichester Festival Theatre
Music by George Stiles
Book and Lyrics by Anthony Drewe
Directed by Justin Audibert
Following a hugely successful run at the Unicorn Theatre last Easter, Stiles and Drewe’s joyful hit musical The Three Billy Goats Gruff arrives in Chichester for a strictly limited run. Don’t miss out!
Baby, Middle and Big are three very hungry goats, and there is absolutely no grass left to eat on their side of the valley. Come on their adventure as together with Little Bo-Frilly they hatch a plan to cross the bridge to the lush green grass on the other side. They just need to outwit that horrible tricksy troll first.
Directed by Chichester Festival Theatre’s new Artistic Director Justin Audibert and featuring music and lyrics by Olivier award-winning composers Stiles and Drewe (Mary Poppins, Honk! ), this magical, fairy-tale show is the perfect first musical for young families.
Ages 3–7
‘Captivates right to the final bleat.’ Guardian
‘This spirited musical fairy tale is not baa-aaa-ad.’ Times
10.30am, 1.30pm & 4.30pm
Performance times vary from day to day so make sure you check the diary p60-61
Relaxed Performance
See diary p61
£10 – £20
Family ticket
Half price for up to four Under 16s with every full price paying adult (top two prices)
Schools
£8.50 (see p56) Tue – Fri
Groups 8+
10% off top two prices Tue – Fri
Adapted by Sonali Bhattacharyya
Music by Ruth Chan
Directed by Matt Hassall
This Christmas experience Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book like never before, as our brand-new adaptation by Sonali Bhattacharyya spins into exciting, pulsating life –featuring original songs by Ruth Chan written especially for Chichester Festival Youth Theatre.
With a huge cast of characters from the formidable snake Kaa and laughing jackal Tabaqui, to Ikki the gossiping porcupine and Mao the strutting peacock, this beloved tale is a coming of age story about the desire for freedom that beats in the heart of every child.
Once upon a time a wolf pack discovers an abandoned child in the heart of the forest, and shelter her from the fearsome tiger Shere Khan. She’s given the nickname ‘Mowgli’, and raised as one of the pack. Baloo, the fun-seeking bear, and Bagheera, the serious panther, try to teach her from the Jungle Book, but she soon realises the Book doesn’t have all the answers.
When Shere Khan tries to banish Mowgli from the jungle she has to search for somewhere to belong – discovering what it really means to be human and how she can always rely on her friends.
The adventures are far from over...
Ages 7+
‘You’re a brave little thing, aren’t you? That’s right? As brave as a wolf.’
Performance times
Evenings
7pm
Matinees
2pm (26 Dec 4pm)
BSL Interpreted & Relaxed Performance
See diary p60
Other Access Performances
See diary p60
Tickets
£10 – £33
Friends & Concessions
£2 off top three prices*
Family ticket
Half price for up to four Under 16s with every full price paying adult (top three prices)* See p56
Schools
£8.50* (see p56)
Groups 8+ 10% off top three prices*
*Applies to all performances excluding 2631 December and Relaxed Performance
Sponsored by
Supported in research and development by The Playwrights Fund
Supported by The Jungle Book Supporters and Patrons Circles
Direct from the West End, one of the greatest British comedies ever written embarks on a major UK tour.
Michael Frayn’s celebrated play serves up a riotous double bill, a play within a play.
Hurtling along at breakneck speed, Noises Off follows the on and offstage antics of a touring theatre company as they stumble their way through the fictional farce, ‘Nothing On’.
Liza Goddard’s extensive stage comedy credits include Life of Riley, Communicating Doors, Season’s Greetings and Relatively Speaking.
Matthew Kelly won the Olivier Award for Of Mice and Men. His West End credits include Waiting for Godot, Comedians and Troilus and Cressida.
Simon Shepherd’s many credits include Peak Practice on TV and the West End productions of Posh, The Duck House, Rapture, Art and Hay Fever
‘The ultimate comedy of theatrical chaos and confusion.’
Sunday Times
‘Lindsay Posner’s miraculously choreographed revival is proof that Noises Off has lost none of its power to reduce adults to hysterical, helpless wrecks.’
Mail on Sunday
Performance times
Evenings
Tue – Sat 7.30pm
Matinees
Wed, Thu & Sat 2.30pm
Tickets
Tue – Thu £10 – £42
Fri – Sat £10 – £45
Friends & Concessions
£2 off top three prices Tue – Thu
See p56
Schools
£8.50 (see p56) Tue – Thu
Groups 8+
10% off top three prices Tue – Thu
Theatre Royal Bath Productions presents the Orange Tree Theatre production of
Jane Asher Clive Francis Nicholas Le PrevostDirected by Tom Littler
Jane Asher ( Alfie, Deep End ) plays Lady Kitty, a society beauty who notoriously abandoned her stuffy husband Clive (Clive Francis, The Crown), and eloped with the handsome Lord Porteous (Nicholas Le Prevost, Shakespeare in Love, Testament of Youth).
Thirty years later, love’s young dream has descended into non-stop squabbling… Meanwhile their son Arnold faces the same marital fate, as his wife Elizabeth threatens to elope with the dashing Teddie Luton.
Will history come full circle? Or can one generation learn from their parents’ disastrous mistakes? Somerset Maugham’s sparky comedy of manners was first staged in 1921 and has remained a firm favourite with audiences ever since.
Somerset Maugham was among the most successful novelists and playwrights of the inter-war years. Many of his novels, including The Painted Veil, Theatre, Up at the Villa and Of Human Bondage, have been adapted for the screen.
‘An exceptional cast. Thrilling to watch. A comic treat.’ WhatsOnStage
‘Tom Littler’s deft production of Maugham’s play is consistently candid and surprising. Strongly acted.’ Guardian
Performance times
Evenings
Tue – Sat 7.30pm
Matinees
Wed, Thu & Sat 2.30pm
Tickets
Tue – Thu £10 – £42
Fri – Sat £10 – £45
Friends & Concessions
£2 off top three prices Tue – Thu
See p56
Schools
£8.50 (see p56) Tue – Thu
Groups 8+
10% off top three prices Tue – Thu
Winner of Best New Play at the WhatsOnStage Awards, this edge-of-your-seat, supernatural thriller that has taken the West End by storm now comes to Chichester.
Jenny believes her new home is haunted, but her husband Sam isn’t having any of it. They argue with their first dinner guests, old friend Lauren and new partner Ben. Can the dead really walk again? Belief and scepticism clash, but something feels strange and frightening, and that something is getting closer, so they’re going to stay up… until 2:22… and then they’ll know.
Written by Danny Robins, creator of the hit BBC podcasts
Uncanny and The Battersea Poltergeist, 2:22 A Ghost Story comes fresh from record-breaking seasons at five West End theatres with a host of acclaimed star performances. It’s a brilliantly funny and adrenaline-filled night where secrets emerge and ghosts may or may not appear… What do you believe? And do you dare discover the truth?
Cast to be announced.
‘A modern classic.’ Sunday Times
‘ A slick, chilling romp of a play.’ Guardian
‘ A cracking supernatural thriller.’ Time Out
Performance times
Evenings
Tue – Sat 7.30pm
Matinees
Wed, Thu & Sat 2.30pm
Tickets
Tue – Thu £10 – £42
Fri – Sat £10 – £45
Friends & Concessions
£2 off top three prices Tue – Thu
See p56
Schools
£8.50 (see p56) Tue – Thu
Groups 8+
10% off top three prices Tue – Thu
Adapted from Kate Pankhurst’s award-winning book published by Bloomsbury
This ‘pop-fuelled, upbeat’ (The Times) hit musical, based on the book by Suffragette relative Kate Pankhurst and adapted by Chris Bush (Standing at the Sky’s Edge), comes from one of the producers of SIX
Join our inquisitive heroine Jade as she breaks away from her class to take a peek at the not yet open Gallery of Greatness in the local museum. On her journey she meets the incredible wonder women Frida Kahlo, Rosa Parks, Amelia Earhart and Emmeline Pankhurst to name just a few.
From explorers to artists, scientists to secret agents, hear the stories of some of history’s strongest women; all independent icons who really did change the world.
Ages 7+
‘A joyous night out.’
Broadway World
‘A fist-pumping, roofraising roll call of historic female achievement.’
i Newspaper
Performance times
Wed & Thu 7pm
Fri & Sat 4pm & 7.30pm
Tickets
Sun 3pm Wed 14 Feb £10– £15
All other perfs £10 – £26
Friends & Concessions
£2 off top three prices Thu & Fri
Family ticket
Half price for up to four Under 16s with every full price paying adult (top three prices, excludes Wed eve & Sat mat)
Schools
£8.50 (see p56) Thu & Fri
Sponsored by
‘Quite simply, the best family show I’ve seen.’ Sky Arts
‘A fun-filled frolic.’ Guardian
Based on the much-loved picture book by
Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury
See the smash-hit production of We’re Going on a Bear Hunt at CFT, as it returns vividly and noisily in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid family of adventurers and their musical dog on a quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes, plenty of adventure and a few surprises along the way.
We’re going to Chichester
We’re going to see a bear hunt
What a beautiful play!
We’re not scared
Ages 3+
Performance times
Thu 2pm Fri & Sat 10.30am & 1pm Sun 11am £10 – £17
Tickets
Friends & Concessions
£2 off top two prices (excludes Sat perfs)
Family ticket
Half price for up to four Under 16s with every full price paying adult (top two prices)
Schools
£8.50 (see p56) Thu & Fri
Groups 8+ 10% off (excludes Sat perfs)
Directed by Neil Bettles
One performer and three stories about young people’s relationship with stuff...
Alice is done with fast fashion. Ben can’t stop buying trainers. And Charlie just wants to sell out...one organ at a time. Peak Stuff presents three fast-paced, funny, f***ed-up stories, taking a deep-dive into consumer culture. In an age of thrifting, retail therapy, climate crisis and click and collect – how does ‘stuff’ define us? And do we know when to stop?
Award-winning theatre company ThickSkin have teamed up with the writing talents of Billie Collins (Too Much World at Once) to produce one of the most visually thrilling and inventive shows you will see this year.
Underscored by live drumming and featuring a spectacular video design, one actor performs multiple stories to chip away at the role consumer culture plays in shaping our identity. Directed by ThickSkin’s Neil Bettles (How Not to Drown, The Unreturning), Peak Stuff is a tale for modern times.
15 – 17 Feb
Minerva Theatre
‘Truly stunning.’
The Scotsman on How Not to Drown
Performance times
Evenings
Thu – Sat 7.15pm
Matinee
Sat 2.15pm £10 – £25
Tickets
Friends & Concessions
£2 off top two prices Tue – Thu
See p56
Schools
£8.50 (see p56) Tue – Thu
Groups 8+
10% off top two prices Tue – Thu
BREAKING NEWS: 30 years since the launch of the trailblazing, smash-hit TV series, the Globelink News team are back, and now live on stage for the very first time.
Starring the original cast members Susannah Doyle, Robert Duncan, Ingrid Lacey, Neil Pearson, Jeff Rawle, Stephen Tompkinson and Victoria Wicks, the iconic BAFTA and EMMY award-winning comedy is reimagined in this brand-new topical commentary on the cut-throat world of 24-hour news.
Bursting with razor-sharp wit and classic British humour, this hot-off-the-press production will leave you in stitches. Written by the same award-winning writing team Andy Hamilton and Guy Jenkin (Outnumbered ), Drop the Dead Donkey: The Reawakening! exposes the underside of the broadcasting industry in all its riotous glory. Whether you’re one of the legions of die-hard fans of the TV sitcom that was watched by millions at its peak, or a British comedy fanatic, come and experience this hilarious revival of an all-time comedy classic.
Evenings
Tue – Sat 7.30pm
Matinees
Wed, Thu & Sat 2.30pm
Tickets
Tue – Thu £10 – £42
Fri – Sat £10 – £45
Friends & Concessions
£2 off top three prices Tue – Thu
See p56
Schools
£8.50 (see p56) Tue – Thu
Groups 8+
10% off top three prices Tue – Thu
‘We’re overjoyed to be working again with the original cast. It’s going to be hugely enjoyable to watch the funny, flawed characters from Globelink News trying to navigate through the daily chaos of social media, fake news, and Interim Prime Ministers.’
Andy
Hat Trick and Simon Friend Entertainment present
Hamilton and Guy Jenkin
Inspired by the life of Nina Simone, and featuring many of her most iconic songs performed live.
Apphia Campbell’s acclaimed play follows a successful singer and civil rights activist as she seeks redemption after the untimely death of her father. She reflects on the journey that took her from a young piano prodigy destined for a life in the service of the church, to a renowned jazz vocalist at the forefront of the Civil Rights Movement.
This hit play comes to Chichester following a sell-out UK tour in 2022 where it played to standing ovations, and sell-out seasons in Shanghai, New York, Edinburgh, and the West End.
Ages 12+
‘Moving portrayal of determination and survival.’ Times
20 – 24 Feb Minerva Theatre
‘Nothing short of sensational… will make you cheer for her, smile with her and then sting your eyes with tears.’
Broadway Baby
‘A compelling and heartbreaking story, punctuated with bursts of song.’
Ed Festival Magazine
Performance times
Evenings
Tue – Sat 7.15pm
Matinee
Thu 2.15pm £10 – £25
Tickets
Friends & Concessions
£2 off top two prices Tue – Thu
See p56
Schools
£8.50 (see p56) Tue – Thu
Groups 8+
10% off top two prices Tue – Thu
Based on the book by Onjali Q. Raúf
Adapted for the stage by Nick Ahad
Directed by Christopher Haydon
There used to be an empty chair at the back of the class, but now a new boy called Ahmet is sitting in it. He’s nine years old (just like me), but he’s very strange. He never talks and never smiles and doesn’t like sweets – not even lemon sherbets, which are my favourite!
After learning that he has fled his own war-torn country, Ahmet’s classmates have ‘The Greatest Idea in the World’ – a magnificent plan to reunite Ahmet with his family. An unexpected and often hilarious adventure follows, all topped off with a terrific twist.
Told from a child’s perspective, balancing heart and humour, The Boy at the Back of the Class highlights the power of friendship and kindness in a world that doesn’t always make sense and reminds us that everyone needs a place to call home.
Ages 7+
Winner
Winner
27 Feb – 1 Mar Festival Theatre
Performance times
Tue 7pm
Wed 2pm & 7pm
Thu 10.30am & 2pm
Fri 2pm & 7pm
Tue £10 – £15
All other perfs £10 – £26
Friends & Concessions
£2 off top three prices (excludes Tue) See p56
Schools
£8.50 (see p56), excludes Tue
Family ticket
Half price for up to four Under 16s with every full price paying adult on top three prices (excludes Tue)
Groups 8+ 10% off top three prices (excludes Tue)
of the Blue Peter Book Award 2019 of the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize 2019‘A lovely, warm-hearted celebration of courage and friendship.’ Guardian
‘This is a beautiful, open-hearted debut that should help children be the best they can be and realise the power of kindness.’ Book Trust
A Chichester Festival Theatre production
Two original stories written by Alice Reeves and illustrated by Phoebe Kirk, from their popular series of books celebrating difference, are brought to life in this stage adaptation directed by Bobby Brook. Meet Roxy The Raccoon and her friends as they work to make the forest an inclusive place for all, and Carlos The Chameleon as he learns that it’s okay to be a little different.
5 – 8 Oct
See diary for times
Minerva Bar
Ages 4-7
Tickets £12, £6 for Under 16s
Our favourite family-friendly comedy club is back for October half term, bringing the best comedians from the circuit doing what they do best… but without the rude bits! It’s just like a normal comedy gig but there’s a higher than usual chance of heckles like “why is that your face?!” And why not check out our Play Café during your visit, see p51.
24 Oct 1pm
Minerva Theatre
Ages 6+
Tickets £12, £6 for Under 16s
Have yourself a merry little Christmas at this festive concert for all the family.
After sold-out shows this summer, don’t miss this chance to sing and dance along to classic Christmas musicals and films, performed by West End singers. Festive fancy dress encouraged and expect bubbles, bells, flying babies and puppets!
18 Dec 10am & 11.15am
Minerva Bar
For all the family
Tickets £7
Join celebrated children’s author Michael Morpurgo with cellist Clare O’Connell for an unforgettable performance in celebration of the natural world. Based on his collection of poems, inspired by the spectacular music of French composer Camille Saint-Saëns, you’ll hear animals speak in their own voices, full of humour and energy, about their lives and the impact of humanity on their habitats.
13 Jan 7pm
Minerva Theatre
Ages 8+
Tickets £10-£20, Half price for Under 16s (top two prices)
HurlyBurly Theatre return to Chichester with this very first opera for babies and grownups that explores the magic of nature. Combining the joy of gentle classical singing and sensory play, it is an invitation to see beauty in the smallest things and to let plants be our guides. We’ll conjure a world out of breath, water, sunlight and soil in this magical musical adventure. And why not check out our Play Café during your visit, see p51.
26 Jan 10.30am, 12pm & 2pm
Minerva Theatre
Ages 0-2
Tickets £16 adult & baby, £8 extra adult.
Join best-selling author Julia Donaldson for a funpacked hour as she and her guitar-playing husband act out stories and songs based on her many books. Get ready to meet old friends and new as she brings to life her much-treasured and well-known stories alongside some new ones. All proceeds go to buy books for local children.
24 Feb 11.30am & 3pm
Minerva Theatre
Ages 4+
Tickets £10-£20, half price for Under 16s (top two prices)
Fascinating Aida’s Liza Pulman teams up with acclaimed musician and singer, Joe Stilgoe, in a vibrant and entertaining evening of classic songs and wit, virtuoso piano playing and exquisite vocals. Liza and Joe collaborated during lockdown on the beautiful Memphis In June and Bye Bye Blackbird, resulting in many requests to play live together and the creation of this show – a magical musical pairing in an evening of some of the best music ever recorded.
6 Jan 7.30pm
Festival Theatre
Tickets £10-£36
Prologue See p56 for £5 tickets
A decade ago, Fisherman’s Friends signed a millionpound record deal that saw their album Port Isaac’s Fisherman’s Friends go Gold as they became the first ever traditional folk act to land a UK top ten album. And thanks to the small film with a big heart that shares their name, the story of the original Cornish ‘buoy band’ is known around the world. With nine albums to their name and a sell-out tour, they now arrive in Chichester for the very first time!
19 Jan 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Festival Theatre
Tickets £10-£39
Prologue See p56 for £5 tickets
Scripted and performed by pianist Lucy Parham with narration by Henry Goodman, Rêverie evokes Debussy’s complex emotional life through a personal and revealing journal, illuminated by a sequence of his most famous and atmospheric solo piano works.
BBC Music Magazine
24 Jan 7.30pm
Festival Theatre
‘Winningly compiled and performed.’
Tickets £10-£25
Prologue See p56 for £5 tickets
Join the BBC Concert Orchestra, conductor Roderick Dunk and star vocalists Katie Birtill and Emma Kershaw for a celebration of the very best of Broadway and the West End. With songs from shows including Cabaret, West Side Story, Company, Follies, Chicago, Wicked, Annie Get Your Gun and more, it will be a night to remember.
26 Jan 7.30pm
Festival Theatre
Tickets £10-£36
Prologue See p56 for £5 tickets
One of the most extraordinary British singers of her generation returns with her most recent collection, My Marquee in which she turns her attention to some of the greatest songs in British pop history. Barb will be joined by her trio of musicians for a new take on classic songs from bands and songwriters who performed at the legendary Soho venue The Marquee including The Who, Jethro Tull, The Yardbirds and The Move.
3 Feb 7.15pm
Minerva Theatre
Tickets £10-£25
Prologue See p56 for £5 tickets
Join us in a celebration of classic songs and theme tunes from the films which have been delighting and thrilling us for over sixty years. Musical theatre stars Alice Fearn, fresh from playing Elphaba in Wicked, and Oliver Tompsett join the BBC Concert Orchestra with songs to include Diamonds Are Forever, Thunderball, The Man With the Golden Gun, Moonraker, You Only Live Twice, Skyfall and For Your Eyes Only… this concert is licensed to thrill.
2 Mar 7.30pm
Festival Theatre
Tickets £10-£36
Prologue See p56 for £5 tickets
Join the inimitable and beloved Judi Dench in conversation with friend, actor and director Brendan O’Hea to celebrate their new book Shakespeare: The Man Who Pays The Rent. Judi will walk us through her love letter to the nation’s greatest playwright, all brightened by her signature mischievous sense of humour. With never-before-heard stories, the triumphs, disasters, backstage shenanigans and moments from Shakespeare’s greatest works, this unique occasion will be an evening you won’t want to miss.
3 Nov 7.30pm
Festival Theatre
Tickets £10-£75, top four prices include a copy of the book (£25)
Prologue See p56 for £5 tickets
You might have seen him on Scared of the Dark, Would I Lie to You, Have I Got News for You, The Royal Variety Performance, QI, Blankety Blank, The Last Leg, and tons more as well. He’s been called an “overnight success” – even though he’s been doing this for bloody yonks! After his last sell-out tour, Chris McCausland is hitting the road again with another masterclass in stand-up comedy that has literally been yonks in the making.
15 Jan 7.30pm
Festival Theatre
Ages 16+
Tickets £10-£25
From 40 years on Radio 4’s Just A Minute to 4 years on Channel 4’s Celebrity Gogglebox, Gyles Brandreth can’t keep his mouth shut. He even talks in his sleep. What’s it all about? He’s going to tell you – because this is his life story: a roller-coaster of tales and revelations from his unlikely life in showbusiness and politics. There will be surprises too (for him and you) when the audience spins a wheel to decide what he’s going to talk about next.
17 Jan 7.30pm
Festival Theatre
Tickets £10-£30
Go behind the scenes of broadcasting in an unforgettable evening of comedy, music and nostalgia. Sir Richard Stilgoe composes comedy songs on the spot. Alistair McGowan does brilliant impressions, of course. Charlotte Green and Garry Richardson share inside stories from their lives on radio. Together these presenters have been broadcasting on our airwaves for over two centuries. Join them and special guests for a celebration filled with sparkling anecdotes, sketches and music spanning decades.
20 Jan 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Festival Theatre
Tickets £10-£30
The UK’s premier baby-friendly comedy club comes to CFT with an award-winning show featuring some of the funniest comedians from the circuit and TV. It’s all about you, the parents! But don’t worry, younger guests are taken care of too. You don’t have to wind the bobbin up to have a good time.
26 Feb 12noon
Minerva Bar
Ages 18+ (with babies up to 15 months) Tickets £13 (babies free)
Rob Brydon’s critically acclaimed show, A Night of Songs & Laughter, returns to Chichester. Featuring Rob’s brilliant stand-up comedy plus songs ranging from Tom Waits to Tom Jones, and Guys and Dolls to Elvis (and almost everything in between). Join celebrated comedian, singer, actor, presenter and impressionist – the brilliantly talented Rob Brydon and his sensational live band, for a very special evening of toe-tapping tunes and side-splitting laughter!
3 Mar 7pm
Festival Theatre
Tickets £40
Prologue See p56 for £5 tickets
Southern Pro Musica returns with this perfect introduction to live music played by a full professional orchestra. This hour-long concert features musical classics such as Rossini’s William Tell Overture, Offenbach’s Can-Can and much more, including audience participation compered by the brilliant musical magician Neil Henry and conducted by Jonathan Willcocks. Financial
16 Jan 10.45am & 1.30pm
Festival Theatre
Ages 5-11
Tickets £5
The best local young musicians return to the Minerva for the Ovation Rock Show, an evening of live music featuring children and young people (ages 8-18) from local schools, Chichester Music Academy and Ovation Music. Ovation Music is a Chichester-based charity providing music sessions and live performance opportunities to children and young people, encouraging creativity, teamwork and a positive outlook. ovationmusic.org.uk
20 Jan 7pm
Minerva Theatre
Tickets £20
Chichester Marks Holocaust Memorial Day with a specially-commissioned one-woman show from novelist, historian and Cicestrian, Kate Mosse. Celebrating extraordinary women of World War II whose courage and bravery deserve to be better known, from Irena Sendler, Yukiko Sugihara, Sophie Scholl and Renia Kukielka to Mary Elmes, Noor Inayat Khan and Violette Szabo, come and hear about some of the heroines who stood firm against the evils of the Third Reich. For one night only.
27 Jan 2.15pm & 7.15pm
Minerva Theatre
Tickets £25
Prologue See p56 for £5 tickets
Fri 22 & Sat 23 March
Steven Pimlott Building
Tickets £5
Dance students from Chichester College present their eclectic new repertoire of works. Encompassing a range of styles from jazz to contemporary and commercial, the students will be presenting work they have developed with professional choreographers, dance lecturers and on their own as part of their vocational training programmes.
1 Feb 7.15pm
2 Feb 1pm & 7.15pm
Minerva Theatre
Tickets £10, concessions £8
We Aren’t Kids Anymore explores the collision of artistic expression and the realities of growing up. This new theatrical song cycle was born of Drew Gasparini’s journey forging a creative path and navigating the world at large, and his desire to offer empathy and hope. BA (Hons) Musical Theatre (Music), directed by Steven Dexter with musical direction by Sarah Travis. This amateur production is presented in agreement with concordtheatricals.co.uk
8-9 Feb 7.15pm
10 Feb 2.15pm & 7.15pm
Minerva Theatre
Tickets £18, concessions £15, students £10
Running since 2018, Chichester Festival Theatre’s two-day celebration of the creativity and talent of learning disabled and neurodivergent people is back! Full of incredible performances from local companies including our own Friday Company, and workshops to get even the most reserved audience member up on your feet, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Whether you want to find out more about our shows, have fun with the whole family or enjoy a heated discussion, we’ve got something for you in our fantastic programme of off-stage events.
Backstage Tours
Check the diary for dates and times All ages Festival Theatre Foyer £10
Explore behind the scenes in our 60-minute tours of the Festival Theatre. New for 2023, we’re also hosting Family Friendly Backstage Tours. Check the diary for all dates. To book a private or group tour email tours@cft.org.uk
Pre-Show Talks
FREE but booking essential
Wed 27 Sep, 5.45pm Quiz
Daniel Evans and Seán Linnen
Mon 9 Oct, 5.45pm A View from the Bridge
Holly Race Roughan
Mon 16 Oct, 5.30pm The Inquiry
Joanna Bowman
Post-Show Talks
FREE
Mon 16 Oct A View from the Bridge
Mon 23 Oct The Inquiry
Fri 10 Nov A Voyage Round My Father
Wed 22 Nov (mat) The Merchant of Venice 1936
Tue 28 Nov Life of Pi
Thu 30 Nov Mosquitoes
Thu 21 Dec The Jungle Book
Wed 10 Jan Noises Off
Thu 1 Feb The Circle
Fri 16 Feb Peak Stuff
Tue 20 Feb Drop the Dead Donkey
CFT Lates
Fridays each month
Ages 16+
Minerva Bar £10 (Prologue members £5)
Our Lates series is silly, fun and a little bit different. From musicals bingo to live music, comedy and cabaret, you’ll find all of these in the Minerva Bar on the last Friday of the month (usually).
Fri 15 Sep, 10pm
Musicals Bingo
Fri 27 Oct, 10pm Murder Mystery: Burying the Hatchet
Fri 24 Nov, 9.30pm Dear So and So…
Fri 26 Jan, 8pm Comedy Night
Fri 23 Feb, 9pm Cabaret & Cocktails
Fri 29 Mar, 8pm Backroom Gig
FREE but booking essential
Be part of the conversation. Inclusive and welcoming, everyone is invited to listen, speak and learn from each other. Plus everyone gets a free glass of fizz – bonus!
Thu 21 Sep, 6.30pm Bring your own book club
Thu 7 Dec, 6.30pm ADHD, Neurodivergence and what it’s like to think a little differently with Grace Timothy
Fri 8 Mar, 11am-3pm International Women’s Day
Prologue members £5
Our free membership scheme gives 16-30year-olds access to career and networking opportunities, and £5 tickets to shows throughout the season! We also have two special events this autumn.
Tue 26 Sep, 5.30pm Q&A discussion with writer James Graham and director Daniel Evans
Sat 4 Nov, 10am-5pm Prologue Masterclass writing workshop with writer and investigative reporter Harry Davies
Wednesdays during term time Ages 2-5 Steven Pimlott Building £60 per term
This term, we have brand new classes for 2 to 5-year-olds! Choose from Storytime Rhymes, Little Artists and Mini Movers, and be prepared to join in as each child will need a grown-up partner to enjoy the session with! Check our website for more details.
If you’d like to find out more about our bursary scheme for Mini Makers & Shakers please get in touch with us at leap@cft.org.uk
Thursdays during term time Ages up to 4 yrs
Steven Pimlott Building £88 per term
Led by classically trained opera singer and musician Mark Bradbury, Little Notes creates a fun and interactive musical space where children and adults explore sounds, shapes, rhythms and rhymes, making new friends along the way.
Dates and times vary, check diary All ages
Minerva Bar FREE
Popping up for extra fun around family shows in the Minerva, children can play, snuggle up and read a book, enjoy colouring in and dressing up while grown-ups can relax with a well-earned coffee and sweet treats (snacks and drinks for children too). Crafts available on selected dates.
Sun 26 Nov, 10.30am
Ages 8+
Steven Pimlott Building £5 per person
What could be more roar-some than picking up some puppetry skills from the award-winners behind the tiger in Life of Pi? CFYT alumni and Life of Pi cast member Romina Hytten will be teaching you some basic tricks for bringing everyday objects to life. You’ll be a puppet master in no time!
Sat 23 Sep, 10am-3pm All ages
Festival Theatre Foyer FREE
A hit last year, drop into the theatre and spend some time cutting, colouring and creating your favourite local landmarks (and people!) to add to our giant 3D map.
Mon 23 Oct, Mon 12 Feb, 10am, 11am Ages 2-11 Foyer Café £7 per child
More fun-filled craft sessions are coming! Creation Station Chichester return with their award-winning classes designed to nurture and inspire creative skills and spark curiosity. Book direct with Creation Station at thecreationstation.co.uk
NEW Santa’s Grotto
12-23 Dec, 10am-6.30pm
All ages £12 per child
We’re elf-static that Father Christmas is coming to CFT! We’ve been tinkering away with Master Elves, Tinsel and Beau, for a brand-new family experience. Believers get to go behind-thescenes at the Elves’ Workshop, where creativity and craft combine to make Christmas magic happen, take an ‘elfie with Father Christmas himself as well as getting an early present.
Tue 2 April, Ages 2+ 10am, 11.30am, 1pm, 2.30pm, 4pm
Festival Theatre Foyer £5 per person
Love LEGO®? The BRICK People are coming to CFT with loads of LEGO ® and Duplo ® activities and we’re super excited. Come along to build mosaics and towers, take part in speed challenges, and get your name on the leader board. Plus lots of amazing creations.
Workshops. Talks. Tours. Our Learning, Education and Participation team (you can call them LEAP for short!) does it all. And the best part? Everyone’s welcome. Any age, any ability. There’s something for you in our programme of activities. From Drop-in sessions to Chichester Festival Youth Theatre (CFYT), this is a space where experiences are created and shared, and where everyone can find their place. Join us and be part of the story.
‘The session was so much fun – my tummy hurt from all the laughing.’ CFYT member
‘I’ve enjoyed getting theatre back in to my life after many years away.’
Chatter Project participant
In 1962 we were built by the local community, for the local community. This ethos hasn’t changed and we’re still creating inspiring arts experiences for everyone we meet. Children from local schools rebuilding their confidence in Festival Fridays People coming together to get creative at The Chatter Project. And refugees who fled their homes being welcomed in our community. These are just some of the many ways we transform lives. Scan the QR code for more stories.
Want to help more people get involved? Donate to our Light a Spark fundraiser today and you’ll be helping us create magical theatre experiences for all.
cft.org.uk/LightASpark
Come and relax at CFT whether you’re seeing a show, having lunch with friends or grabbing a coffee while browsing with our free Wi-Fi.
With a locally sourced, modern British menu and excellent service, our inviting restaurant The Brasserie is the closest place for a pretheatre meal. And we guarantee to have you in your seat in time for the show.
Fancy a drink? The vibrant Minerva Bar and The Bar in the Festival Theatre are open before shows (with an extensive menu of local and much-loved gin, wine, beer and ales) plus you can pre-order interval drinks on arrival via an easy-to-use app.
Enjoy barista coffee, home-made cakes and sandwiches (plus free treats for well-behaved dogs) all served by the awesome Caper & Berry team in our Café on the Park. With comfortable, open spaces meaning easy access for all,
a family play area and quiet corners if you’re wanting to plug in and work, there’s a warm welcome for everyone. Open from 10am Monday to Friday and from 9am on Saturdays for the Park Run (top tip: bring your own cup for 50p off hot drinks).
For our full menu of food and drink visit cft.org.uk/eat, email dining@cft.org.uk or call 01243 782219.
12-15 Dec, 7pm
The Brasserie £65
Make a night of it with your friends, family, or even an office outing, as we entertain you with marvellous music and cracking comedy, combined with fabulous food!
Your ticket includes a delicious locally-sourced three-course meal (four exciting options for each course to choose from) and a festive glass of fizz on arrival. You’ll pre-order your options a few weeks before the event and on the night order extra drinks from the bar. Why not enjoy a Christmas cocktail?
In the Minerva Bar, we’re changing it up with truly scrumptious Afternoon Teas and in The Brasserie a new family friendly bistro style menu, bursting with local ingredients and epic desserts. Children can enjoy half portions of firm family favourites like posh fish & chips, burgers and, of course, turkey with all the trimmings. Yum!
In the Café on the Park we’ll have mince pies, mulled wine and we can’t wait for the smell of mulled apple juice from The Bar (extra shots of festive cheer available!).
More details coming soon at cft.org.uk/eat
Walking? Driving? Hopping on your bike? However you’re getting to CFT, we’re easy to find. For detailed maps and more info visit cft.org.uk/your-visit
Chichester Station is linked to London Victoria, Brighton, Portsmouth and Southampton (change at nearby Havant for London Waterloo).
Coaches can drop off outside the Festival Theatre and there’s a coach park in Via Ravenna. For local buses check stagecoachbus.com
We have space for 26 bicycles at our bike park just off Broyle Road, check out the local cycle network at chichester.gov/cycling
Every audience member should have the best possible theatre experience; it’s one of our top priorities. We have a number of accessible facilities in place to help during your visit. And remember, our team are always happy to chat if you think you might need help but you’re not sure what to ask for.
If you have specific requirements, sign up to our free Access List Membership so we can provide you with assistance tailored to your needs.
Scan the QR code to register for membership, find out more about all of our facilities and book for access performances including our Relaxed Performances. cft.org.uk/access
We do large-print and audio versions of this brochure too! If you need one, drop us a line at access@cft.org.uk
For more information, email access@cft.org.uk, call the Box Office on 01243 781312 or visit cft.org.uk/access
Northgate pay and display car park is on our doorstep (park for free after 8pm). Matinee days are particularly busy so allow plenty of time. chichester.gov/parking Blue badge holder? You can park anywhere in Northgate car park free of charge. There are 9 non-reservable spaces close to the Theatre entrance and you can drop off in front of the Festival Theatre via our access road off Broyle Road.
A Chichester quirk. On Wed 18 Oct the car park closes at 6pm in preparation for Sloe Fair and will remain closed until midday on Sat 21 Oct.
01243 781312 box.office@cft.org.uk
Monday to Saturday 10am – 8pm (6pm when no evening performance); and Sundays, when there is a performance, two hours before the start time. The Minerva Theatre Box Office opens one hour before each Minerva performance.
Cards: MasterCard and Visa.
Your tickets will be sent by email. Please remember to add your mobile number to your CFT account as your tickets will also be sent in a text to you on the day of the performance, this ensures they are easily to hand on arrival at the Theatre.
Tickets are non-refundable but you can change the date for the same production if you contact the Box Office at least 48 hours before the original performance; subject to availability. There is a £1.50 exchange fee per ticket (free for Friends).
Supporters & Patrons Circle and Festival Players (1000+) opens:
Thu 7 September
Festival Players (500+ & 250+) opens:
Fri 8 September
Friends priority booking opens:
Sat 9 September
(online and by booking form only)
Tue 12 September
(by phone and in person)
Groups & Schools booking opens:
Thu 14 September
(groups@cft.org.uk 01243 812909)
General booking opens:
Sat 16 September (online only)
Tue 19 September (by phone and in person)
Join the Friends of CFT for just £45 per year cft.org.uk/friends
Single show discounts are available on many shows in the Winter season, see show pages for details. Friends can book up to four discounted tickets per production.
Aged 16-30? See a show for just £5! Check show pages for details and visit cft.org.uk/prologue to sign up.
Where applicable, available Mon – Thu evenings and weekday matinees (unless otherwise specified). £8.50 per ticket plus free teacher ticket with every nine paid.
Where applicable, up to four Under 16s go half price with every full price paying adult.
Friends memberships give the gift of theatre all year round, with great discounts and priority booking. Annual membership from £45. And if you want to help a loved-one get even closer to CFT, take a look at our Festival Players and Supporters Circle memberships. cft.org.uk/memberships
Please note Only one reduction applies per ticket, all discounts are subject to availability and at the discretion of the Box Office. ID may be required for certain discounts and events. CFT reserves the right to change pricing and discounts and make changes to the programme if necessary. Latecomers may not be allowed in until a convenient break in the performance. Children under 14 must be accompanied by, and seated with, an adult and children under four, including babes in arms, will not be admitted unless the event is advertised as suitable for that age group. Tickets are non-refundable. See full terms and conditions for more information cft.org.uk/terms
Wheelchair spaces
Some seating areas may not be available for all performances For detailed seating plans go to cft.org.uk/your-visit
Wheelchair spaces
Prices are guaranteed until Monday 9 October and are then subject to change. For the latest prices, visit the show pages at cft.org.uk
KEY
BBC CO: Broadway... BBC Concert Orchestra: Broadway... and All That Jazz Fantastically Great Women Fantastically Great Woman Who Changed The World Bear Hunt We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Black is the Color Black is the Color of My Voice
BSL Signed performance CAP Captioned performance AD Audio described performance P Preview PN Press night
SN Supporters night RP Relaxed performance LP Last performance BH Bank holiday MT Minerva Theatre
PB Steven Pimlott Building FF Festival Theatre Foyer MB Minerva Bar BR Minerva Brasserie
Image credits
Front cover image Bob King Creative, P4 Image Feast Creative, photo Seamus Ryan | P6 Image Emilie Chen | P8 Image Bob King Creative, photo Seamus Ryan | P41 The Gruffalo & Friends photo Steve Ullathorne | P45 Radio Live photo
David Munn | P55 The Wind in the Willows photo Manuel Harlan | All other photos by Richard Gibbons and Tim Hills Design Bob King
Bedales School
FBG Investment
J Leon Group
Jones Avens
Montezuma’s
Deborah Alun-Jones
Robin and Joan Alvarez
David and Elizabeth Benson
Philip Berry
Gold Level
Oldham Seals Group
Pallant House Gallery
Protozoon
William Liley
Financial Services Ltd
Silver Level
George W. Cameron OBE and Madeleine Cameron
Sir William and Lady Castell
David and Claire Chitty
John and Pat Clayton
David and Jane Cobb
John and Susan Coldstream
Clive and Frances Coward
Yvonne and John Dean
Jim Douglas
Nick and Lalli Draper
Mrs Veronica J Dukes
Melanie Edge
Huw Evans
Steve and Sheila Evans
Val and Richard Evans
Sandy and Mark Foster
Simon and Luci Eyers
Angela and Uri Greenwood
Themy Hamilton
Lady Heller and the late Sir Michael Heller
Liz Juniper
Roger Keyworth
Vaughan and Sally Lowe
Jonathan and Clare Lubran
Mrs Sheila Meadows
Elizabeth Miles
Eileen Norris
Jerome and Elizabeth O’Hea
Mrs Denise Patterson DL
Stuart and Carolyn Popham
Dame Patricia Routledge DBE
Sophie and David Shalit
Simon and Melanie Shaw
Greg and Katherine Slay
Christine and Dave Smithers
Alan and Jackie Stannah
Oliver Stocken CBE
Howard Thompson
Wendy Usborne and the late Peter Usborne
Bryan Warnett
Ernest Yelf
The Arthur Williams Charitable Trust
The Arts Society, Chichester
The Bateman Family Charitable Trust
The Bernadette Charitable Trust
The Chartered Accountants’ Livery Charity
The Dorus Trust
The D’Oyly Carte Charitable Trust
Elizabeth, Lady Cowdray’s Charity Trust
Epigoni Trust
The Foyle Foundation
The G D Charitable Trust
John Coates Charitable Trust
The Mackintosh Foundation
The Maurice Marshal Preference Trust
Noël Coward Foundation
Theatre Artists Fund
The Vernon Ellis Foundation
Wickens Family Foundation
…and all those who wish to remain anonymous. Thank you for your incredible support!
Prof. E. F. Juniper and Mrs Jilly Styles