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THAT'S ENTERTAINMENT!
The rebuilt Hackney Empire gives London a new venue but the modern Hackney
Empire has already had a massive impact on the capital and beyond…
In September 2004, the Hackney Empire celebrated the opening of the new annexe
and the completion of an extensive, multi-million redevelopment project. The
Empire's re-birth marks a new stage in its history allowing it to realise it
potential as a leading, large scale, venue for younger movers n shakers
Londoners with an interest in popular culture.
The Hackney Empire's programme is eclectic, always providing something modern,
edgy and progressive – with everything from rock gigs to opera; from big name
comedy acts to urban dance and from physical theatre to club; the
result is a programme that brings a wide range of different people into the
theatre. But don't just take our word for it…
“Every time I've played there, it's been an absolute joy and has reminded me of
why I do what I do
-Paul Merton, Comedian
"I was born just around the corner from the Hackney Empire. It was the first
theatre I ever went to. It's a wonderful theatre. When I was a child I used to
go to the music hall there with my parents and see Max Miller"
-Harold Pinter, playwright, actor and patron
"The Hackney Empire New Act of the Year contest has established a reputation for
unearthing the finest rookie comedians in the London cabaret circuit and
catapulting them into the public eye of television and nationwide touring"
-William Cook, The Guardian
"Hackney's exuberantly mulitcultured shows so lift the spirits. It also has a
performance tradition second to none – from Chaplin, Laurel and Marie Lloyd to
Harry Enfield, Paul Merton and Ralph Fiennes"
-Richard Morrison, The Times
