Horsham Capitol memories sought as big anniversary looms

1967 when venue’s name was changed to ABC from The Ritz

Of course, nothing can be certain at the moment, with the venue – like venues up and down the country – remaining locked down and shut.

But the Capitol mood has been one of optimism throughout the crisis and the Capitol team are determined to start planning some kind of celebration for their 85th anniversary in June.

To help them, they are looking for theatre-goers past and present to get in touch with their memories of visiting the multi-arts venue. Anyone with a tale or two should get in touch with the Capitol’s marketing officer Tracey Grubb.

“Do you have a connection to The Capitol? When was your first visit? Have you performed there? Perhaps you’re a former employee or is there a film or show which holds a special place in your heart?”

Email Tracey on [email protected].

The Capitol in Horsham first opened as a cinema called The Ritz in June 1936. The cinema was re-named The ABC in 1967 and following a conversion to provide a theatre and cinema, Horsham Arts Centre opened its doors in December 1984. After 20 years, the venue underwent an extensive refurbishment which was completed in time for re-opening as The Capitol (named in homage to the old Capitol Theatre) in September 2003 and then officially re-opened by HRH Queen Elizabeth II a month later.

“Since then it has been a hugely popular community arts venue welcoming local schools, theatre groups, businesses, audience members from far and wide and some well-known performers including Dame Judi Dench, Simon Callow, Nigel Kennedy, Patricia Routledge. Rick Wakeman, Andrew ‘Freddie’ Flintoff and Alexander Armstrong.”

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