Dorking Halls to Reopen After £4 Million Renovation

A Surrey theatre is preparing for its official reopening following a £4 million renovation. Dorking Halls is scheduled to resume operations on December 9th, after refurbishment work was completed on its ceiling. Mole Valley District Council closed the 1930s Art Deco theatre in June 2024 to allow for these improvements. Council leader Stephen Cooksey indicated that the theatre would provide an enhanced experience for film enthusiasts. He stated, “Whilst Dorking Halls has been closed, the opportunity has been taken to upgrade our film projectors meaning that they will not only present even better-quality visuals, but also run in a greener, more energy efficient, manner.” According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, in addition to the upgraded cinema projectors, the building will feature new restroom facilities and a redesigned lobby. The reopening will include screenings of “Paddington in Peru,” “Wicked,” and “Gladiator II.” A pantomime production of “Sleeping Beauty” is scheduled to run at the venue starting December 20th. A special event to mark the reopening and showcase the upgraded site is planned for December 6th.