The Orchard Theatre is located in the heart of Dartford town centre and hosts around 350 shows per year. Opened in April 1983 the Orchard Theatre, under HQT&H, has today established itself as one of the South East’s premier venues.

Designed with flexibility to enable it to stage everything from large West End musicals to drama, orchestral concerts, comedy and hospitality, and cabaret events using the flat floor configuration, the venue also included the first specially designed acoustic ceiling in Britain for music, drama and conferences.

The programme encompasses big West End musicals, plays, comedy and the annual pantomime is always the centrepiece of the programme, attracting a big-name cast. The Theatre is building a reputation for launching new productions prior to national tours or West End transfers and is increasing its prominence as a launch pad for premiering new productions.

 

The theatre’s restaurant is a busy and bustling area which offers an exciting menu for pre-show dining. Perfect for an intimate gathering of family and friends with canapés and champagne or up to 250 guests sitting down for a silver-service dinner in the main auditorium - the theatre offers a wealth of options and tailored menus for all occasions and budgets.

HQT&H manages the Orchard Theatre on behalf of Dartford Borough Council.

Main Auditorium: 956 seated
Main Auditorium: 1300 standing
Main Auditorium: 250 seated (flat floor event)
The Restaurant: 100 seated (event format)

The Restaurant Boasts first-class à la carte pre-show dining
Using fresh, seasonal produce, talented chefs create a delicious selection of dishes

Flexible auditorium
From West-End Musicals to flat-floor dining events seating up to 250 guests

Dartford Gets It First
Hosting premieres of brand-new productions for an array of shows every year!