The Hazlitt Theatre is one of the main theatres in Maidstone, Kent. It was named after William Hazlitt, the famous essayist, who was born in Maidstone in 1778. It opened in 1955. It presents a varied programme of professional drama, comedy, music etc. as well as local community theatre groups. This traditional proscenium arch theatre seats 353. The sister venue, The Exchange, is a multi-purpose venue suiting a variety of events from theatre or dancing to conferences.