Chichester theatre announces all shows cancelled this year

The theatre had been due to reopen in July with South Pacific and The Unfriend, both of which it now intends to reschedule to 2021.

Kathy Bourne and Daniel Evans, executive and artistic director respectively, said: ‘We are devastated that for the only time in Chichester Festival Theatre’s history, no festival performances will take place this year.

‘We had been hoping to be able to produce at least some shows in the summer and autumn but all the indications from government point to social distancing being in place for many months to come, as the country continues its vital fight against coronavirus while protecting the NHS.

‘At this unprecedented time, with the full support of the trustees, we feel this is the most responsible course of action we can take in order to ensure the future resilience of our organisation as well as protecting our staff, artists and audiences.’

A revised shorter programme of work from autumn 2020, including Pinocchio over the Christmas period, is being considered.

A new schedule for 2021 is being worked on which may include some of the planned 2020 shows.

Sir William Castell, chairman of the theatre, added: ‘This year we will concentrate on extending our virtual activities, supporting the community and, whenever we can, our carers, nurses and doctors.’

All ticket holders will be contacted by our box office with the option of exchanges, credits, refunds or donations in good time.

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