Our award-winning Chichester Festival Youth Theatre (CFYT) welcomes young people in weekly sessions at CFT and at our seven satellite locations across West Sussex. We aim to help young people of all abilities from a variety of backgrounds to develop their artistic, personal and social skills. Open to ages 5 to 25, CFYT is for anyone who wants to discover new skills, build confidence, make friends and have fun!

As well as taking part in weekly sessions, Youth Theatre members also have the opportunity to audition for CFYT productions, which are enjoyed by tens of thousands of audience members each year. Since it was founded in 1985, the Youth Theatre has staged over 80 productions. In recent years the Christmas production has become a highlight of the season, giving members the experience of performing on the Festival Theatre stage in a professional standard production. Our Technical Youth Theatre members also have the opportunity to work alongside professionals in the industry in a world-renowned theatre.

CFYT sessions take place in Chichester as well as at our seven satellite locations - Billingshurst, Bognor Regis, Burgess Hill, Horsham, Littlehampton, Midhurst and Worthing.

Alongside drama sessions we also offer Youth Dance, Musical Theatre, Technical Youth Theatre and sessions for young people with additional needs (these groups are CFYT Wednesday in Horsham and CFYT Friday in Chichester); so choose a group that's right for you and join us!

Membership costs £70 per term (bursaries available). If you’d like to find out more or have any questions about our Youth Theatre please email us at cfyt@cft.org.uk.