Stratton Theatre corner of James and Henry Streets, now a parking lot, Photo taken in 1832 A roller skating rink called Casino was built in 1884 and was soon converted to a theatre. This was destroyed by fire February 27, 1891. An elegant new theatre was designed to replace it by Middletown architect James E. Mapes, and the new Casino Theatre was opened on the site of the old building February 15, 1892. Four years later it was purchased by William D. Stratton. In May 1903, the casino was closed for refurbishing, reopened as the Stratton Theatre in August. The theatre closed in the 1940's was purchased by the city of Middletown, and torn down in March 1953.