Established in 1970 by the visionary Dan Crawford, this pub theatre quickly became a beacon for emerging talent and innovative productions. Originally housed in the back room of the King's Head Pub on Upper Street—an old boxing ring and pool hall—the theatre has now moved to a swanky new home just behind the pub at 116 Upper Street, opening its doors in 2024.
Crawford's 35-year tenure transformed the King's Head into a creative hub. The likes of Maureen Lipman, Hugh Grant, Jennifer Saunders, Dawn French, Alan Rickman, and Richard E. Grant all tread its boards, and productions often transferred to the West End and even Broadway. The theatre premiered works by heavyweights such as Steven Berkoff, Tom Stoppard, Bryony Lavery, and Victoria Wood, establishing itself as a hotbed of artistic excellence.
In 2010, the Olivier Award-winning company OperaUpClose made the King's Head its home, earning acclaim for productions like "La Bohème," which snagged an Olivier for Best New Opera. Under Artistic Director Adam Spreadbury-Maher, the venue affectionately became known as "London's Little Opera House." Yet, opera is just one of the many genres the King's Head excels in, alongside plays, musicals, cabaret, and more.
The theatre's policy is as vibrant as its history: joyful, irreverent, and proudly queer. It champions LGBTQ+ voices, offering a stage for stories that explore the full spectrum of experiences symbolized by the rainbow flag. From its intimate 200-seat auditorium to its cozy 50-seat cabaret space, the King's Head Theatre promises a diverse lineup of performances.
Supported by the Mayor’s Good Growth Fund, the new venue is designed to be a sustainable, inclusive space, featuring a café, bar, and workshop areas. It continues to uphold its legacy as a nurturing ground for fresh talent while embracing new and daring artistic expressions.
Details
- Address:
- 115 Upper Street
- N1 1QN
- Transport:
- Bus numbers: (St Mary's Church (Stop N) 4, 19, 30, 43 Tube: Angel Train Station: Essex Road