Crighton Theatre Upgrades Seats for 2026 Season

**Historic Crighton Theatre Unveils Major Seating Overhaul, Enhancing Patron Comfort for 2026 Season**

**CONROE, TX – January 8, 2026** – The historic Crighton Theatre, a beloved cornerstone of performing arts located at 234 N. Main Street in downtown Conroe, is set to welcome patrons to its 2026 season with a significantly enhanced experience, following the completion of a comprehensive $150,000 renovation project: the full replacement of all 489 theatre seats.

The extensive upgrade, which commenced in late 2025, has successfully concluded, ensuring the new seating is fully installed and ready for audiences from the very start of the new year. For decades, the theatre’s patrons have been seated in chairs dating back to the building’s original 1935 opening or extensively refurbished versions thereof. The newly installed seats mark a significant leap forward in comfort and accessibility.

Designed to be notably wider and offer greater legroom, the new seating promises an unparalleled level of comfort. Crucially, this modern enhancement has been achieved while meticulously preserving the classic, historical aesthetic that defines the Crighton Theatre’s unique charm. Each seat was carefully selected to complement the venue’s elegant interior and architectural heritage, ensuring a seamless blend of past and present.

Funding for this substantial renovation was a testament to robust community support and strategic partnerships. The project was primarily fueled by a blend of dedicated patron donations and grants. A pivotal moment in the fundraising campaign came with a generous $50,000 matching grant provided by the Humphreys Foundation, a prominent philanthropic organization known for supporting arts and education in Southeast Texas. This challenge successfully spurred the theatre to raise an additional $50,000 from the community, demonstrating widespread commitment to the theatre’s future.

This seating upgrade is the latest in a series of ongoing restoration efforts at the Crighton Theatre, which is listed as individually significant within the Conroe Commercial Historic District. Previous improvements have included critical enhancements to the theatre’s roof, state-of-the-art sound system, updated flooring, and modern stage rigging, all aimed at preserving the venue while enhancing its functionality.

Jim Bingham, President of the Crighton Theatre Foundation, emphasized the delicate balance achieved by the project. “Our goal has always been to provide the best possible experience for our audiences while honoring the rich history and architectural integrity of this magnificent building,” Bingham stated. “These new seats embody that commitment, offering modern comfort without compromising the timeless elegance our patrons cherish.”

Managing Director Raeanne Martinez echoed Bingham’s sentiments, describing the completed project as a “significant step forward” for the beloved institution. “The Crighton Theatre is more than just a venue; it’s a living piece of Conroe’s history and a vibrant hub for culture,” Martinez said. “We are thrilled to offer our community an even more comfortable and enjoyable way to experience the magic of live performance.”

As a unique token of appreciation and a way to connect patrons with the theatre’s legacy, those who contributed to the seating campaign were offered the opportunity to claim one of the theatre’s original seats. This initiative proved highly popular, allowing a piece of Crighton history to find new homes within the community that supports it.

The Crighton Theatre is now poised to embark on its 2026 season, inviting audiences to experience the enhanced comfort and enduring charm of this Conroe landmark. For more information on upcoming shows, how to support the theatre, or its history, please visit www.crightontheatre.org.