Theatre abuse allegations prompt calls for action against discrimination in Chichester

Chawawa, who played Bottom in Chichester Festival Theatre’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, described incidents of racial abuse, harassment and intimidation during his time in the city.

His comments followed a reported homophobic incident involving a fellow cast member, which led to a performance being cancelled.

A 16-year-old boy was arrested in connection with the incident, which took place in Little London car park on October 13. Sussex Police said the boy was released on bail pending further enquiries.

Chichester Fringe said it was ‘deeply saddened’ by the harassment and abuse experienced by members of the company and audience members.

A spokesperson said: “This does not reflect the Chichester we know and we love.

“There is no place for racism, homophobia, xenophobia or any other form of discrimination in our city and we stand to support those affected.”

The organisation welcomed the cast speaking publicly about their experiences and reporting the harassment.

“As an organisation, we are glad the cast have spoken out and reported their experience of harassment, because as a community we must come together,” the spokesperson added.

“Chichester should be a safe place for everyone. We must stand united against discrimination and abuse in our city.

“All are welcome here.”

Chichester Pride also condemned the experiences shared by Mr Chawawa, describing them as ‘deeply saddening and appalling’.

The LGBTQ+ charity said it had spoken out the previous week following the reported homophobic incident involving a cast member, before Chawawa described further alleged incidents during the production’s run.

A spokesperson said: “These experiences must not be dismissed as isolated incidents or the actions of a small minority. As a community and as a city, we must be willing to listen, acknowledge uncomfortable realities and challenge prejudice wherever it happens.”

The charity called on local authorities, community leaders, businesses and organisations across Chichester to take the accounts seriously and demonstrate a clear commitment to tackling discrimination.

It said this should include ‘listening to those affected, strengthening support for people experiencing hate and taking practical steps to make public spaces safer and more inclusive’.

Chichester MP Jess Brown-Fuller also condemned the reported abuse, describing it as “truly disgusting” and calling for a coordinated approach to tackling discriminatory behaviour.

Chichester City Mayor councillor Sean McHale encouraged anyone experiencing or witnessing discrimination to report it, while Chichester District Council leader councillor Adrian Moss said everyone should feel safe and respected regardless of their background.

Chichester Festival Theatre’s artistic director Justin Audibert and executive director Kathy Bourne also expressed concern about the experiences described by members of the company and their guests. The theatre said it was reviewing what further action it could take.

Chichester Pride said creating a welcoming city required meaningful action, rather than words alone.

The spokesperson added: “Everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and welcome in Chichester, regardless of their race, ethnicity, nationality, sexuality or gender identity. That must be our shared responsibility, backed by meaningful action.”