Hackney Empire
Hackney Empire is one of London’s most iconic and characterful theatres, standing proudly in the heart of East London since 1901. Designed by the celebrated theatre architect Frank Matcham, the building is a masterpiece of late Victorian theatre design, combining ornate detailing with an atmosphere of grandeur and theatrical intimacy.
The auditorium is richly decorated with gilded balconies, sweeping curves, and an intricately painted ceiling, creating a sense of occasion from the very first step inside. Despite its scale — seating over 1,200 guests — the theatre maintains a remarkable closeness between stage and audience, allowing performances to feel both spectacular and personal.
Renowned for its vibrant cultural programming, Hackney Empire hosts concerts, orchestral performances, contemporary productions, and special events across a range of genres. Its superb sightlines, balanced acoustics, and historic charm make it an exceptional setting for immersive musical experiences.
To perform at Hackney Empire is to step into a space shaped by more than a century of artistic history — a venue where tradition, diversity, and creative excellence converge in one of London’s most dynamic boroughs.
Hackney Empire has a step-free entrance from Mare Street straight into the Stalls, plus a step-free side entrance on Wilton Way leading to a lift that serves all levels. There are seven wheelchair spaces at the back of the Stalls and step-free access to the front Stalls, with level access via the lift to Boxes J and K; there is at least one accessible toilet on each level. The auditorium has a Sennheiser Mobile Connect assistive listening system streaming the show to your own phone, and the venue runs BSL-interpreted, captioned, relaxed and dementia-friendly performances. Assistance dogs are welcome (please tell the Box Office when booking), and for access bookings or queries call 020 8985 2424 or email box.office@hackneyempire.co.uk.
Hoe lang duurt een concert hier?
De meeste concerten duren ongeveer 60–75 minuten zonder pauze. De deuren openen ongeveer 30 minuten voor aanvang.
Zijn de plaatsen genummerd?
De plaatsing is meestal per zone in plaats van per individuele stoel — details staan op de boekingspagina van elk concert.
Mag ik kinderen meenemen?
Ja — de meeste concerten zijn aanbevolen vanaf 6 jaar, onder de 16 jaar onder begeleiding van een volwassene.
