Chichester Festival Theatre has announced an unmissable new season for 2026, packed with spectacular large‑scale productions that are perfect for group trips, coach tours and memorable days out in the heart of Sussex.
One of the glittering highlights of the summer is Lerner & Loewe’s My Fair Lady, staged at the the Festival Theatre for the very first time. This evergreen musical is bursting with some of the most iconic songs ever written, including I Could Have Danced All Night, With a Little Bit of Luck, Wouldn’t It Be Loverly and The Rain in Spain.
Known for its sparkling dialogue, brilliant lyrics, witty story and gorgeous costumes, this 20th century masterpiece has been described as the perfect musical.
A fresh take on a Shakespeare classic
For those who love Shakespeare, the autumn brings a fresh, high‑energy production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Artistic director Justin Audibert (Hamlet, Redlands), joined by co‑director Hannah Joss (Choir), transports audiences to the pulsating world of Sussex in the 1990s, where rave culture, romance and mischief collide.
This riotously playful new production stars comedian and satirist Munya Chawawa, making his theatrical debut as Bottom, with Jemima Rooper as a commanding Titania.
An extraordinary exploration
The season’s line‑up also features the world premiere of Magic, a compelling drama that delves into the fascinating, real‑life relationship between celebrated author Arthur Conan Doyle, played by David Haig (whose previous smash-hit Pressure reaches the big screen this year) and illusionist Harry Houdini, played by Hadley Fraser.
Exploring belief, spiritualism and friendship, it offers a thought‑provoking option for groups interested in gripping storytelling and historical intrigue. 2026 is the 100th anniversary of Houdini’s death so it’s a topical outing too.
All the drama
Another standout is Atonement, a world‑premiere stage adaptation of Ian McEwan’s dazzling masterpiece novel, which was voted by Time Magazine and the Guardian as one of the 100 greatest novels of the past century.
This unforgettable and dramatic story about lives changed by a single moment is adapted by Olivier Award‑winning playwright Christopher Hampton and directed by Adam Penford, who makes a welcome return to Chichester following his 2023 production of The Sound of Music.
Group trips to Chichester Festival Theatre
With a programme running from March to October 2026, superb on‑site dining options, beautiful parkland surroundings and first‑class hospitality, a trip to Chichester Festival Theatre promises a memorable day out. Generous group discounts for eight or more make it even easier to gather friends, colleagues or community groups for a shared cultural experience.
Tickets start from just £10, explore the full season and plan your visit at cft.org.uk/groups or call 01243 812909 to book for your group.
