An historical account of one of Britain’s last-standing music hall theatres, the Hackney Empire. Opened in 1901 this wonderful theatre became the home for many famous British music hall artists and entertainers right up into the 1950s when it was finally closed down in 1956. However, against all odds, the music theatre has survived and this film documents the re-opening in 1989 with interviews, personal reminiscings, stills, archival footage and live performances from past and present entertainers including Bernard Bresslaw, Roy Hudd, Chas ‘n’ Dave, Helen shapiro, Frankie Vaughan, Tommy Trinder, Barbara Windsor, Larry Adler and many more. Also features the Royal Artillery Orchestra. Variety at its best.
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How to watch
Collection
In ACMI's collection
Credits
Collection metadata
ACMI Identifier
318755
Language
English
Audience classification
G
Subject categories
Advertising, Film, Journalism, Mass Media & TV → Entertainers
Documentary → Documentary films - Great Britain
Feature films → Feature films - Great Britain
Food, Health, Lifestyle, Medicine, Psychology & Safety → Nostalgia
Music & Performing Arts → Entertainers
Music & Performing Arts → Music - Great Britain
Music & Performing Arts → Music-halls (Variety-theaters, cabarets, etc.)
Music & Performing Arts → Performing arts
Music & Performing Arts → Theater - Great Britain
Sound/audio
Sound
Colour
Colour
Holdings
VHS; Access Print (Section 1)