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, with a fantastic community feel and welcoming atmosphere no matter where you’re visiting from. With events ranging from drama to stand-up comedy, it 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 panto dame extraordinaire Clive Rowe at the helm, Dick Whittington tickets promise a joyful time for families this Christmas, as the Empire’s tradition of fun, inclusive festivities continue for another 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.
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