The Capitol Theatre, Horsham

[1] The original Capitol Theatre, built in Italian style by the Blue Flash Cinema Company, was opened on Wednesday 7 November 1923.

The first silent film shown, Chu Chin Chow was accompanied by music played by the band of the 4th Royal Sussex Regiment and singing by baritone Frank Watts.

Blue Flash had been set up to provide employment for soldiers of the battalion, especially the musicians, on a not-for-profit basis.

The building, on what was then London Road near the town centre, was set back from the street with an Italianate courtyard in front, including a fountain.

After nearly 20 years Horsham Arts Centre closed in January 2002; a following £6 million refurbishment was completed by September 2003.