The Capitol Horsham has closed its doors on 4 January as it prepares for a major refurbishment – its first for over 20 years.
After the final performance of this year’s record-breaking pantomime Robin Hood, The Capitol closed to commence a major refurbishment programme. The refurbishment will mark the start of a new chapter for one of the District’s most loved cultural venues.
After the 10-month closure, people from across the Horsham District will be set to enjoy an improved theatre and cinema experience
The Capitol was last refurbished in 2002, and after more than 20 years this next round of planned works will refresh key public areas, improve comfort, and create an even more enjoyable experience for the thousands of residents and visitors who come through The Capitol’s doors each year.
The refurbishment will significantly enhance the overall experience for customers, with improvements across the theatre, cinema screens, seating, auditorium spaces, bar and public areas, creating a modern, welcoming and high-quality environment. All of the toilets will be refreshed with more facilities being provided for women, in order to reduce queue times during intervals.
There will be significant improvements for disabled people. A Changing Places facility will be created, and additional seating arrangements for wheelchair users and customers with limited mobility which will give them a more accessible viewing position and increased space to sit with friends and family.
Additionally, behind the scenes we will be improving the plumbing and heating and replacing the boilers.
The plans ensure The Capitol will remain a leading venue for many years to come.
It will re-open in time for the 2026 panto season in November 2026. In the meantime, we are looking to secure a temporary box office within the town centre from February 2026. More information to follow.
This year’s amazingly successful panto Robin Hood has built our reputation for West End standard performances and tickets for next year’s panto Dick Whittington are already on sale and selling fast, so book now and don’t miss out!
Tickets are available via The Capitol website.
Stay tuned for regular updates on refurbishment progress at: www.thecapitolhorsham.com/the-capitol-refurb
Horsham District Council Cabinet Member for Wellbeing Culture and Green Spaces Cllr David Skipp, said: “The start of this refurbishment is a hugely exciting time for us.
These transformation plans will ensure The Capitol remains a top destination for theatre, film, family entertainment and live performance long into the future, bringing improved experiences for all our customers – from the moment they step inside until the final curtain call.
“I am particularly pleased that accessibility for disabled people will be much improved with better visibility and more spacious seating arrangements for friends and family, and the creation of a Changing Places facility as part of the extensive toilet improvements.
“Do look out for regular updates on our progress.”