Theatre operator takes chunk of former Debenhams at Westfield London

Capital Theatre has signed a 10-year lease with Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) for a new permanent 36,000 sq ft venue at Westfield London.

The theatre operator will occupy the ground floor of the former Debenhams department store, with the new venue set to launch in October 2025.

The new venue will launch with Dirty Dancing – The Classic Story on Stage, following the success of Dirty Dancing as the fastest-selling show in West End theatre history.

The 620-seat venue is to be operated by Kindred Partners in partnership with award-winning producer Karl Sydow.

Designed and built by the design team responsible for venues including The Bridge Theatre and The Young Vic, Capital Theatre at Westfield London will feature new backstage facilities, rehearsal rooms, dressing rooms, and creative and technical spaces. Food and drink will also be available throughout the day at the foyer café, whilst an onsite box office and merchandise store will be open seven days a week.

Capital Theatre at Westfield London will join a number of existing leisure and entertainment options at Westfield London, including Exhibition London – a 17,000 sq. ft music and events venue— as well as mini-golf, climbing, and bowling experiences such as Sixes, Puttshack, City Bouldering, and All Star Lanes.

Constantin Wiesmann, director of leasing UK at URW, said: “Signing Capital Theatre at Westfield London and launching with Dirty Dancing – The Classic Story on Stage marks an exciting evolution in our commitment to redefining retail destinations. This addition reflects the growing demand for immersive, diverse experiences in retail environments and underscores our vision of Westfield as a dynamic destination where culture and entertainment lead the way.”