Our Story: The History of MADhurst

MADhurst, short for Music, Arts & Drama in Midhurst, began life with a simple but powerful aim: to celebrate and promote local creativity in all its forms. What started as a grassroots idea has grown into a month-long summer festival full of colour, energy and community spirit.

Launched by a group of passionate volunteers, MADhurst has always been about bringing people together, whether through music, theatre, art exhibitions, comedy nights or family-friendly fun. Over the years, the festival has become a much-anticipated highlight in the town’s calendar, drawing in residents and visitors alike.

Held every August, MADhurst is now a true showcase of local talent and a platform for performers, artists and community groups. While the main festival events are organised by the MADhurst committee, the programme also includes a growing number of ‘fringe’ events put on by local venues and organisations. From pub gigs to art workshops, classical concerts to street food evenings, MADhurst offers something for everyone. What sets MADhurst apart is its community focus. We’re a not-for-profit organisation, run entirely by volunteers who give their time and energy to make the festival a success. All proceeds go back into supporting local events, helping us grow year after year.

As we’ve grown, so have our ambitions. We now support events and collaborations all year round, not just in August. We’ve also expanded our reach beyond Midhurst to include surrounding villages like Easebourne and beyond. MADhurst has faced its share of challenges – not least keeping up with modern technology! But through it all, our commitment to showcasing local creativity and building community spirit has never wavered.

Whether you’re a long-time supporter or discovering MADhurst for the first time, we invite you to join us as a performer, a volunteer, a partner, or simply as a friendly face in the crowd. Come and be part of something special.