Justin Audibert has been appointed Chichester Festival Theatre’s new artistic director.

Justin will be succeeding Daniel Evans, and he will take up his new appointment in July, when he will be working beside director Kathy Bourne.

Justin, who is also a freelance director and writer, was, until his new appointment, artistic director of London’s Unicorn Theatre, and he admitted he was sad to be leaving.

However, he said he was “thrilled and delighted” to be joining the team at the Chichester Festival Theatre, which is noted for its innovative productions and inspirational artists whose influence has spread across the UK and the world.

Justin also admitted Chichester held a special place in his heart.

He said: “As a child I used to holiday in this beautiful area and I have a deep affection for its wonderful countryside and friendly people.”

To mark his last season, Daniel Evans has produced a spectacular Chichester Festival programme that includes three premieres and three musicals, including Arthur Miller’s View From The Bridge, Noel Coward’s The Vortex and A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

He has also lined up a top cast including Eileen Atkins, Rory Bremner, Greg Wise, Danny Mac, Samuel Barnett and Zizi Strallen.