Cr David Bowe: Memories for a good cause

Published on 29 March 2022

When I read about conserving Horsham Theatre's heritage, I automatically think of going to watch the Horsham Arts Council productions of Pirates of Penzance in 1999 and Les Miserables in 2000, it was fantastic to see local talent and friends perform on stage. 

It inspired me to be part of the Arts Council’s show Anything Goes in 2001.

In recent years it’s also been fantastic to spot many of our community members who were part of major films such as The Dressmaker and The Dry.

It’s important to have a record of our memories and experiences of coming together to see the latest movies, live production shows, theatre events or just spending quality time with family and friends.

It’s nearly 10 years now since I assisted in the filming of the social documentary Horsham Town Hall - 75 Years of Memories.  Back then, it was amazing to see and hear people’s memories and photos or outfits they wore to a show or debutante ball.

I want to encourage you to share experiences and memories of going to the Horsham Theatre, the Council-owned building that is currently home to the Centre Cinemas. 

You can find out more about how to share memories and stories here.

Having a proper record of the memories will give our future generations a valuable insight into our community’s intangible history. 

But importantly it will also strengthen Horsham’s bid to undertake a conservation management plan which would see the Theatre’s physical heritage features safeguarded for the years to come.

Some memories I have heard include people rolling Jaffa’s down the aisle, watching a matinee movie or a school production or concert.

This is only one of many community engagements happening now. I encourage you to also have a say on the Horsham North Local Area Plan.

Recently, the people of Horsham North have been terrific in the way they have participated in consultation sessions and I look forward to when it is presented at a council briefing and meeting in due course.

Come on, let’s help make our community the best it can be by working together and keeping an eye on the future.