Chichester Festival Theatre has launched a new venue, with support from Hollywood director Sam Mendes.
The West Sussex theatre officially opened the Nest on Thursday, after a fundraising campaign raised £1.8m in a year.
From Thursdays to Saturdays, it will host acoustic and comedy gigs, along with new theatre, in what the Festival Theatre describes as "a more intimate, informal vibe".
Mendez, who was the appeal's patron, began his career in Chichester.
He said: "Nurturing the next generation of artists is vital to ensure that theatre in the UK maintains its international reputation for excellence.
"I am delighted to support Chichester Festival Theatre – a place dear to my heart – as they embark on creating this exciting new space. I cannot wait to see the work that is incubated in the Nest."
The first event to be staged will be a gig by the stand ups Lou Sanders and Cecily Hitchcock.
Chichester Festival Theatre said all tickets will be under £20, with a full list of upcoming events available on its website.