The Halls are set to open their doors to the public in spring next year with the Norfolk and Norwich Festival confirming they will be holding events at the Grade I medieval listed building.
Councillor Claire Kidman, cabinet member for culture and wellbeing, said: “I can confirm the council is taking The Halls back into our management and that this medieval gem will be opening next spring.
“This will kick off wider collaboration with all creative organisations across the city so that our beautifully refurbished Grade I listed building can host a wide range of arts, cultural and community events for the people of Norwich. I am also delighted to announce the Norfolk and Norwich Festival will be holding events at The Halls next May.”
Daniel Brine Artistic Director & Chief Executive of Norfolk & Norwich Festival said: “As a place of community gathering and celebration The Halls should be central to cultural identity in Norwich. Norfolk & Norwich Festival welcomes Norwich City Council’s investment in The Halls and we look forward to working with them to embed the Festival in the future of this important civic building.
“The Festival is a collaborative organisation and we’re delighted to share our programme in the Halls in May 2026 with Festival partners.”
The first shows of 2026’s Norfolk & Norwich Festival will be announced on Thursday 13 November.
The Halls are currently undergoing refurbishment following investment from The Towns Deal Fund, Arts Council England and the council, with further work will take place for the site to be ready to be open to the public next year.
The refurbishment features work to The Halls’ roof, stained glass windows and secondary glazing.
Following on from the refurbishment further preparations are needed to be made before The Halls open their doors in Spring 2026.
Cllr Kidman added: “Next year the city will see its fully restored medieval gem sparkle once again.”
Further announcement of the programme will take place over the next few weeks and months.
