Horsham Capitol revamp on track for November reopening

The Capitol in Horsham, which closed its doors on January 4 for its first major upgrade in more than 20 years, is set to reopen in November just in time for the pantomime season.

Councillor David Skipp, cabinet member for wellbeing, culture and green spaces at Horsham District Council, said: "This refurbishment marks a really exciting time for us.

"Our contractors Willmott Dixon Interiors have been on site for just over a month and we are really pleased with the massive amount of progress being made with all the planned works well underway.

"We are confident that we are on schedule for our grand reopening in November, well in time to host our 2026 panto Dick Whittington.

"Keep looking out for regular updates on our progress."

All seating has been removed from the main auditorium and scaffolding has been erected to allow safe access to all surfaces.

Work has begun on installing a new house lighting system, as well as full repairs and redecoration to the walls and ceilings.

Other areas including the gallery bar, ground floor bar, cinema rooms and WCs have also been stripped out, along with the removal of the revolving front door.

The venue was last refurbished in 2002.

This latest project aims to refresh key public areas, improve comfort and create a more enjoyable experience for audiences.

Improvements span the theatre, cinema screens, seating, auditorium spaces, bar and public areas, all designed to create a modern and high-quality environment.

The temporary box office in Swan Walk Shopping Centre is now open and tickets are already on sale for the 2026 pantomime, Dick Whittington.

They can be purchased through the theatre’s website at www.thecapitolhorsham.com/events/dick-whittington-2026.

Regular refurbishment updates are available at www.thecapitolhorsham.com/the-capitol-refurb.

Refurbished toilets will include more women's facilities to help reduce queues during intervals.

Greater accessibility is also being prioritised, with the inclusion of a Changing Places facility and new seating options for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility.

Behind the scenes, upgrades will include improved plumbing, heating and new boilers.