The Brighton Dome took a step back to its royal beginnings when it was officially opened by HRH the Princess Royal.

The historic building, originally the Prince Regent's riding stables, has been transformed by a £22 million restoration project.

To mark the occasion, Princess Anne was invited to meet some of the groups who use the complex as well as unveil the opening plaque.

In a speech, Princess Anne said: "I would like to congratulate everyone who has been involved. I am sure those who live here will have the opportunity to enjoy the Dome and associated rooms for many years."

Built in 1803, the Dome was designed by William Porden and inspired by watercolour pictures of India. It was not fully completed until 1805, when its roof, 80ft in diameter and 65ft high, was one of the largest in the world.

In 1850, the stables and riding house were let out as cavalry barracks until 1864. The interior was reconstructed as a concert hall in 1867. In 1935, the Dome was given the art deco treatment.

The Dome closed in 1999 for refurbishment, which was funded by the National Lottery, Brighton and Hove City Council and arts and business funding. As part of the revamp, improvements have been made to the acoustics and seating. A new foyer and bar area has been installed.

It was due to reopen on February 23 this year but, due to a problem with the fire alarms, it was postponed to the following week. There have been many successful performances in the run up to yesterday's royal visit.

Sir Michael Checkland, Chairman of the Brighton Festival Society Limited which is responsible for The Dome, said: "It is very exciting the Princess Royal came to open the Dome. It has been a long haul getting it open."

David Wright, an architect who worked on the transformation, said: "What is emerging is that we have achieved a building where there is a real resilience and that is capable of doing different types of performances really well."

During her visit, Princess Anne watched the Circus School, a group of 11 to 16 year olds working on trapezes, juggling, stilt-walking, acrobatics and tumbling.

Charlotte Fox, 14, of Staplefield Drive, Bevendeen, said: "It was an experience I will tell people about."

The Circus School's teacher, Richard Thompson, said: "It is always nice to meet people who are interested in what the kids do."

The royal visitor was also treated to a dance rehearsal by the Brighton College of Media and Arts and was able to meet Omara Portuondo, the Cuban singer who was performing to a sold-out audience in the Dome last night.

Ms Portuondo said: "The Princess wanted to know what I thought of the venue. The acoustics are much better than last time I was here."

After unveiling the plague, the visit was concluded by a presentation of a bouquet of flowers to the Princess by Harriet, nine, and Eleanor, five, the daughters of Nick Dodds, chief executive of Brighton Festival Society.