Horsham’s Capitol theatre ‘days away’ from reopening following major redevelopment

Horsham’s Capitol theatre is now only days away from reopening its doors following a major transformation of the venue, completed just in time for the panto season.

The Capitol closed in January 2026 as work began on its first major upgrade in more than 20 years.

Now that the project has been successfully completed, people across Horsham District can enjoy a refreshed theatre and cinema experience, marking the start of an exciting new chapter for one of the district's most cherished cultural landmarks.

Creating the best possible visitor experience was at the heart of the project, which was shaped by extensive public consultation. Feedback from visitors and key stakeholders highlighted priorities including greater comfort in the theatre and cinema auditoriums, enhanced toilet facilities to reduce queueing times, upgraded cinema audio-visual technology and improved accessibility throughout the venue

This significant investment by Horsham District Council has delivered new seating in both the theatre and cinema auditoriums, upgraded audio-visual facilities, expanded toilet provision, including additional facilities for women, and a complete refresh of the bar and public areas. New seating layouts and contemporary finishes throughout create a more welcoming, comfortable and high-quality environment for all visitors.

A major focus of the project has been making The Capitol more accessible and inclusive. A new Changing Places facility has been installed, while redesigned seating arrangements for disabled visitors provide better viewing positions and make it easier for people to enjoy performances alongside friends and family. These enhancements will help ensure that more residents and visitors can experience everything The Capitol has to offer with greater comfort, dignity and independence.

Behind the scenes, essential upgrades have also been carried out to the building's plumbing and heating infrastructure, including the replacement of boilers, helping to improve energy efficiency and reduce the venue's carbon footprint.

Together, these investments will ensure The Capitol remains a first-class destination for theatre, film, family entertainment and live performance for many years to come.

The Capitol will be opening its doors on November 29 with the fantastic 2026 pantomime, Dick Whittington.

Horsham District Council Cabinet Member for Wellbeing, Culture and Green Spaces, Councillor Tony Frankland, said: “This is a hugely exciting moment for us, ensuring that The Capitol is ready to enter a bold and vibrant new era.

“This investment delivers benefits for everyone, from the moment they walk through the doors to the final curtain call.

“I am particularly proud of the emphasis we have placed on accessibility and inclusion. The new facilities and improved layout will help ensure that disabled visitors can enjoy our theatre and cinema more easily and comfortably, alongside their friends and family.

“This is a fantastic milestone for the town and the wider district, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back.”

Pantomime tickets for our 2026 production of Dick Whittington are still available from the box office at https://www.thecapitolhorsham.com/events/dick-whittington-2026/.

The production offers the perfect opportunity to experience everything the newly transformed Capitol has to offer.

To check out The Capitol’s 2026 programme please go to https://www.thecapitolhorsham.com/whats-on/.