Chichester Festival Youth Theatre - why this play set at West Dean Gardens is a dream come true

Shakespeare rarely attracts mass audiences these days. For too many his work is regarded as incomprehensible and academic – rather than easily accessible, joyous entertainment.

So what a delight to attend this promenade production – where the audience walks round the gardens at West Dean and witnesses each scene in its own unique setting – performed by a young cast who make the Bard’s words both utterly meaningful and compelling.

It is no overstatement to say that thanks to the inspirational leadership of Dale Rooks over many years, Chichester Festival Youth Theatre has a global reputation both for excellence and identifying and nurturing some of the finest potential talent.