Horsham’s The Capitol to close for major refurbishment

The Capitol in Horsham will close on January 4 for a major refurbishment to modernise and improve facilities.

The venue was last refurbished in 2002 and houses a 400 seat theatre, a studio theatre and two cinema screens. 

The improvements are designed to refresh and improve key public areas, including the theatre, cinema screens, bar and auditorium spaces.

There will be upgrades to the toilet, with improvements for disabled visitors and the provision of more facilities for women to help deal with queueing in intervals.

Behind the scenes improvements will include upgrades to the heating and plumbing and a boiler replacement.

The work will begin after the last performance of this year’s pantomime, Robin Hood, which runs until January 4.

Councillor David Skipp, cabinet member for wellbeing, culture and green spaces at Horsham District Council, said: “This is a hugely exciting moment for us.

“After more than 20 years since its last refurbishment, The Capitol is ready for a bold, vibrant new era.

“This investment will bring major improvements for all our customers – from the moment people step through the doors to the final curtain call.

“It is such a positive milestone for the town and broader district and I’m delighted that we are securing the future of such a beloved venue for generations to come.”

The Capitol has screened films in Horsham for over a century, celebrating its 100 year anniversary in 2023. 

The previous refurbishment, which cost £6 million and involved demolishing the original building, was opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 2003.