Hackney Empire London
Hackney Empire Tickets
What’s On at Hackney Empire
Hackney Empire’s rich history and diverse programming make it one of London’s most vibrant theatres outside of the West End. It has a fantastic community feel and welcoming atmosphere no matter where you’re visiting from. With events ranging from drama to stand-up comedy, why not book for Jack and the Beanstalk? The Empire is most well known - and loved - for its annual pantomime, which mixes traditional elements, community participation and contemporary twists to create a real showstopper over the holidays. It's so good that locals have been flocking to see it annually since 1988! With dame extraordinaire Clive Rowe at the helm, Hackney panto tickets promise a joyful time for families year on year.
About the Hackney Empire
Hackney Empire is a stunning 20th-century music hall, but on stage it delivers a fantastic programme of 21st-century entertainment. From music hall to bingo hall and now to a major entertainment hub, this is one theatre that is well worth visiting off the West End’s beaten track.
Prolific Victorian and Edwardian theatre architect Frank Matcham designed Hackney Empire and it opened in 1901. With its distinctive terracotta exterior and grand interior, this Grade II listed venue is just as impressive as any of its central London counterparts.
Over the 20th century, the Empire has gone through a number of transformations, and in the 1980s it was even up for demolition! Thanks to the dedicated work of C.A.S.T. (Cartoon Archetypical Slogan Theatre), it was saved and went on to become a home for alternative comedy in the ‘80s and ‘90s.
The theatre underwent a multi-million-pound refurbishment from 2001-2004, partly funded by local boy Lord Sugar, but its original period features that make it so unique are still standing proud. The theatre is an independent venue and registered charity, owned and operated by Hackney Empire Ltd.
Famous performers who have graced the Empire's stage include Charlie Chaplin, Marie Lloyd and Julie Andrews. Hackney Empire now welcomes a variety of comedy and theatre shows each year, including an acclaimed pantomime.
Map and Address
291 Mare Street, Hackney, London, E8 1EJ
Tube: The area is well connected by Overground services. Hackney Central, on the Mildmay line, is around a 5-minute walk away, and Hackney Downs and London Fields stations on the Weaver line are around a 10-minute walk away.
Bus: The area is well served by bus routes. The closest stop is less than a minute away and is served by many routes, including: 30, 55, 106, 236, 254, 276, 277, 394, N55, N253, N277 & W15.
Car: There is very limited parking in the area, with Hackney Council enforcing a Controlled Parking Zone locally. A limited number of Blue Badge spaces are available on roads surrounding the theatre. Drop-offs can be made in Wilton Way, just to the side of the venue.
Nearby Attractions
Hackney is a vibrant area in East London. The immediate area around the venue is full of bars and restaurants, with other options a short walk away.
At weekends, Broadway Market hosts a wide range of market stalls alongside the bricks and mortar stores. Around 20 minutes away is the Victor Wynd Museum of Curiosities, an esoteric collection of taxidermy and oddities. Alternatively, the Young V&A is around a half-hour walk from the theatre, with a collection of childhood toys and clothes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the Hackney Empire box office open and how do I collect tickets?
The box office is usually open from 10am - 6pm on Monday-Friday, except Bank Holidays, for in person and telephone bookings and ticket collection. On weekends, the box office is open two hours before the start of a performance.
What time does Hackney Empire open for a show?
The theatre’s doors open between 45 and 60 minutes before the start of a performance, and you are welcome to enjoy a drink at the bar at any time after this.
What food and drink are available at Hackney Empire?
There are bars at the back of each seating level, and a champagne bar at the entrance to the Dress Circle, one floor up from the lobby. Visitors can purchase a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks including wine and beer, as well as small cold snacks. Hot food is not sold at the venue. Bars are open before the show and during the interval.
Does Hackney Empire have a cloakroom?
There is a cloakroom on the ground floor of the theatre, and visitors can check bags in here free of charge. Large bags will not be allowed into the auditorium and security checks are in place at the entrance and in the cloakroom.
Where should I eat near Hackney Empire?
The theatre is located on Mare Street in the centre of Hackney, with lots of international restaurants and eateries nearby. Try Mare Street Market for casual, open-plan dining. Options include pizzas and small plates with Indian, Middle Eastern and European flavours. Popham’s is another good option; this popular local bakery becomes a fantastic Italian restaurant by night.
What is the best hotel to stay at near Hackney Empire?
Hotels in Hackney are cheaper than central London and for theatregoers on a budget, Travelodge is on Amhurst Street, just five minutes away from the venue. If you travel half an hour to Shoreditch, you will find some unique boutique hotels, including the original Hoxton hotel, while trendy apartment-style accommodation Kingsland Locke, with a microbrewery and Latin American street food options, is great for extended stays and just 12 minutes away on public transport.
How do I contact the box office?
For ticketing enquiries, the box office can be contacted by phone on 020 8510 4500 or email at info@hackneyempire.co.uk. Phone lines are open from 10am-6pm on weekdays, and two hours before a performance on weekends.
