The Nest, a brand-new venue powered by Chichester Festival Theatre, has announced its full autumn line-up running from September to December 2025. Following its successful summer launch, the intimate 120-seat venue will host live entertainment every Thursday to Saturday, from emerging comedy acts to bold new plays fresh from the Edinburgh Fringe. Booking opens at 10am on 31 July via thenest.cft.org.uk.
Tucked beside the Festival Theatre and equipped with its own bar and accessible facilities, The Nest champions sustainability with a structure that previously served audiences at the Pleasance Theatre in London and Edinburgh.
CFT Artistic Director Justin Audibert said the new programme offers a vibrant mix designed to intrigue newcomers and give regular theatre-goers something fresh. Tickets are priced at £20 or less, making performances accessible for all.
Highlights include Alex Hill’s acclaimed one-man show Why I Stuck A Flare Up My Arse For England, Temi Wilkey’s genre-bending Main Character Energy, and the musical drag cabaret Glenda and Rita Live. Comedy takes centre stage with Harriet Kemsley headlining Comedy at The Nest, while music lovers can enjoy a performance by folk favourites The Furrow Collective. For a spine-tingling alternative to festive fare, Arena Theatre and Beautiful Shadows present Dark Tales in Winter: The Face, a chilling retelling of E.F. Benson’s eerie short story.
With new events added regularly, The Nest is set to become a lively creative hub for Chichester and beyond.
