Chichester Festival Theatre has announced that a revival of the circus musical Barnum will feature in its summer season. The production is set to be performed in a temporary 1,400-seat auditorium located in a park adjacent to the theatre, while the main site undergoes redevelopment.
Recent shows staged at Chichester that have transferred to the West End include Singin' in the Rain, Kiss Me Kate and Sweeney Todd. Michael Ball, who played the demonic barber in Sweeney Todd, spoke to the BBC's Tim Masters about the importance of supporting regional theatre.
Ball described such support as vital, highlighting the role regional venues play in nurturing productions that go on to achieve success in the capital. His comments come as Chichester prepares to host Barnum, a show known for its circus-themed spectacle and demanding lead role.
The temporary auditorium will allow the theatre to continue its programme during the redevelopment, ensuring audiences can still experience large-scale productions. Further casting and creative details for Barnum are expected to be announced in due course.
