A steam engine repair shed in Victorian times, the Roundhouse From is now not only a north London landmark but a well-known cultural venue.
in 1964 the building was used as an arts venue for the first time when playwright Arnold Wesker established Centre 42 at the Roundhouse.
After extensive refurbishment, the Grade II listed Roundhouse reopened in 2006. While keeping many of the original features, architects John McAslan + Partners created a modern and dynamic 'new' venue. At the Roundhouse you can enjoy music festivals, theatre, circus, multi-media festivals, installations, talks and screenings. Recent events include the BBC Electric Proms, the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Histories and Lucha Libre London. It has seen performances by artists such as of Jimi Hendrix, the Doors, Paul McCartney, The Who, James Brown, Kasabian, Jarvis Cocker, The Chemical Brothers, The Beastie Boys, Morrissey.
What is probably most remarkable about the Roundhouse is the fact that it involves young people at every level. Every year, there are creative projects for up to 6,000 13-25 year-olds from all backgrounds. From radio, TV, sound engineering and music production, to drama, poetry or photography – all of the projects cost just £2 and are led by professionals.
The Roundhouse Camden
Farm Road, Camden, Kentish Town, NW1 8EH
0844 482 8008
Venues
Kentish Town
Website
www.roundhouse.org.uk
The Roundhouse Camden Picture Gallery
All In London Review
£30 million well spent on Camden’s vast arts centre
Reviewed by Leila
Published on Sep 7, 2011
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Once a railway engine shed, the Roundhouse is now one of London’s most extraordinary concert venues. The shape, size and depth of the place puts it in a live music bracket of its own. And The Roundhouse also hosts performing arts.
Victorian remains in London
London's chock-full of them
When it first opened in 1846 its purpose was as a warehouse for steam engine repairs. It then became a corn and potato warehouse, and then a gin distillery. It wasn't until the 60s when it was turned into an arts centre, and later a squat until it was transformed into the live music venue it is today. The cone-shaped roof which gives it its name was the first of its kind in Victorian Great Britain.