The Halls will reopen to the public tonight for the first performance of its 2026 programme, marking a major milestone in Norwich’s cultural landscape after a significant, Town Deal‑funded transformation.
The Grade I listed medieval friary – already Norwich’s largest concert venue – has been reimagined as a vibrant, multi‑use cultural hub designed to serve the city for generations to come. The improvements strengthen the city’s cultural economy, enhance visitor experience and ensure the space is accessible and welcoming to all, while preserving Norwich’s historic character and aligning with its future ambitions.
Following a period of specialist renovation, the venue is once again ready to welcome audiences and begins an exciting new chapter as a revitalised civic and cultural asset.
Councillor Claire Kidman said:
“The Halls is one of Norwich’s most treasured landmarks and today marks the start of its next chapter. We’ve taken a steady, responsible approach to reopening, ensuring the venue is ready to welcome audiences and performers safely and confidently.
“This is an important step in re-establishing The Halls as a thriving home for culture, community and creativity.”
Phased return of events
The first public performances form part of a staged reintroduction of activity throughout the year. Norwich City Council is working closely with local partners – including the Norwich Philharmonic, UEA Orchestra and the Norwich Beer Festival – to build a programme that reflects the venue’s special role in the city, alongside bookings from performers and organisations across the country.
In May, The Halls will also serve as a major venue for the Norfolk & Norwich Festival, marking an exciting new era for the historic setting.
Improvements for visitors and performers
Audiences returning to The Halls will notice a number of early improvements, including:
- A refurbished bar operated by local favourite The Bicycle Shop, bringing an independent, Norwich-first feel to the venue’s hospitality offer.
- Improved back-of-house facilities for performers and visiting companies.
- A renewed focus on the audience experience for both residents and visitors.
Renovation by numbers
- More than 330 people worked on the project
- Over 30 tonnes of concrete were removed from the Blackfriars roof allowing the building to breathe
- If the scaffold tube was laid end to end it would reach London!
- Approximately 23,000 individual panes of glass were painstakingly removed and repaired from the West Window in St Andrews Hall
- 400 sheets of ply were used on St Andrew’s Hall roof to achieve the smooth finish
- 8 tonnes of copper was used
- 90% of all materials removed from site were recycled
A growing programme of events is already confirmed for 2026, including live music, community performances and the return of the Norwich Beer Festival. As the programme expands over the coming months, audiences will be able to browse and book events directly through providers’ platforms.
Later in the year, residents will also have further opportunities to explore the building as part of Heritage Open Days.
