The Capitol Theatre, Horsham closed its doors on 4 January as it prepared for a major refurbishment – its first for over 20 years.
June 2026 marks The Capitol’s 90th birthday and the good news is that the refurbishment work is all progressing to plan with Phase 1 completed and everything is well on track to be finished by early November 2026, just in time for the panto season.
Over the last few months, significant progress has been made across multiple areas with improvements focused on comfort, accessibility and visitor experience.
In the theatre auditorium, a full programme of repairs and redecoration has refreshed the walls and ceilings.
Over its 90 years it has seen a whole range of colours from – reds, oranges and latterly purple and muted grey tones, but these have now been reinvigorated with a rich dark green with gold accents.
Leading industry seating providers, Kirwin & Simpson, will soon be installing new theatre seating in a traditionally dramatic red, with a flexible system allowing more wheelchair users to sit together with their friends and family. These aesthetic and practical changes will enhance the ambience of the space for all audiences, while preserving its much-admired art deco character for years to come.
Elsewhere, the venue’s cinema facilities are being upgraded, with notable progress in Screen 1. Newly installed flooring will allow for a more efficient and flexible seating layout, improving both capacity for wheelchair users and overall comfort for filmgoers.
Supporting infrastructure has also been addressed, including essential plumbing and heating upgrades. The replacement of end-of-life boiler systems marks a significant step forward in improving energy efficiency and reliability.
On the ground floor, redevelopment works have progressed which have laid the foundation for more modernised, high-quality amenities with additional toilet cubicles to help reduce those interval queues.
A key highlight of the refurbishment is the introduction of enhanced accessibility features. The redesigned ground floor toilet facilities will include a dedicated Changing Places facility – a specialist provision designed to support visitors with complex needs.
Horsham District Council Cabinet Member for Wellbeing, Culture and Green Spaces Cllr Tony Frankland, said: “This refurbishment is an exciting time for all of us involved on the project, and the results of the work so far look superb.
“Our contractors, Willmott Dixon Interiors, have been doing a sterling job and we are delighted to report that the progress to date is on schedule and we can be confident of completing on time for the re-opening in November, well in time to host our 2026 panto, Dick Whittington.
The completed Capitol Theatre space will be welcoming and accessible to everyone. This project is very much about enabling all to enjoy an improved theatre and cinema experience.
“Keep looking out for regular updates on our progress.”
A temporary box office in Swan Walk Shopping Centre is open and tickets for next year’s panto Dick Whittington are selling fast so book now to avoid missing out!