One of the oldest theaters in London, the Hackney Empire has etched itself into London theatrical history. The famed theater architect Frank Matcham created the music hall in 1901, and many agree that it is one of the most stunning performance venues in all of London. Vaudeville, silent pictures, opera, drama, and comedy are just a few of the many genres that have graced the Hackney Empire stage over the years. Charlie Chaplin and Julie Andrews were just two of the many renowned actors whose careers were greatly impacted by it. .
Venue Details
Address: 291 Mare St, London E8 1EJ, United Kingdom
Opened: 1901
Seating capacity: 1,275
Stalls: Ground floor seating with clear sightlines.
Dress Circle: Elevated above the Stalls, this section is perfect for a wider, more balanced view of the stage
Main House sections:
Upper Circle: Perfect for value-minded guests, these seats are higher than the Dress Circle with panoramic views of the stage
Boxes: On the far ends on the auditorium, these seats offer private views of the performance. These sections offer a slighly angled view.
Now Playing at Hackney Empire
Practical Information
Accessibility
Motor: Hackney Empire has step-free access to its Mare Street entrance directly to the Stalls. The step-free entrance on Wilton Way allows guests with disabilities to directly access the lift. There are seven wheelchair spaces located at the back of the Stalls.
Audio-visual assistance: Patrons with hearing impairments may enjoy the theater's performances with the help of a Sennheiser Mobile Connect assistive listening device. The theater hosts also captioned performances.BSL Interpreted performances are arranged throughout the year.
Lift: The theatre has a lift to all levels.
Access performances: Relaxed and Dementia-friendly performances are available throughout the year.
Service animals: Assistance dogs are welcome in the theater and may even be cared for by staff if needed.
Available Facilities
Cloakroom: Patrons can stack larger items including coats and bags at the free cloakroom.
Food and drink: There is a licensed bar with drinks available to patrons at every level.
Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout this venue.
Washrooms: The venue has washrooms on every level.
Box Office: Patrons may buy tickets, get answers to inquiries about the shows, and find out more about seating requirements by visiting the box office.
Handy Tips
- Arrive early: Arrive at least 30 minutes before your show to explore the venue and settle in. The theater may deny admission to those who arrive too late until an appropriate intermission
- Access seats: Guests with disabilities, including those traveling with service dogs, are encouraged to inform the venue ahead of time of their seating needs so that they may be given the best accessible seats
- Dress code: There is no dress code for the theater, but semi-formals or smart casuals are a great choice for the occasion. Consider an extra layer, since this venue is airconditioned.
- Age rating: No ticket is necessary for children under the age of three as long as they sit on the lap of an adult throughout the performance.
- Booster chairs: For family presentations, the theater has a limited supply of booster cushions for the whole family to use.
Getting There
Bus: The nearest stop is Hackney Town Hall served by buses 30, 55, 106, 236 (24hr), 254, 276, 277 (24hr), 394, N55, N253, N277 and W15.
Tube: The nearest station is Hackney Central on the Overground, a 5-minute walk from the venue.
Train: The nearest station is Hackney Downs station, offering Greater Anglia service, a 10-minute walk from the venue.
Restaurants near Hackney Empire Theatre
1. Old Ship:Famous for its burgers, rotisserie chicken, and specialty brews, Old Ship is an old-school Hackney tavern. For the perfect game day experience, they also provide live sports screens inside.
2. Tonkotsu: Enjoy some of the greatest ramen in town with Tonkotsu's handmade noodles and spicy oil. If you happen to be in town in December, make sure to sample their beautiful Christmas menu as well..
3. Pidgin: Pne of London's most intriguing neighborhood eateries, Pidgin serves their entire meal à la carte. You may return often without ever becoming tired with the same food since their menu is always changing. .
Frequently asked questions about Hackney Empire
