Centre Stage: Music Hall at The London Archives

This insightful event will showcase the depth and diversity of our collections and explore the social, cultural, and architectural legacy of Music Hall through engaging talks by leading historians and cultural experts, especially curated document displays from our archives, and interactive sessions with archivists and conservators.

With a particular focus on the London and Middlesex area and the approximate period 1890-1920 when Music Hall was at its height, the event will aim to explore the architectural, and social legacy of Music Hall in the capital. We will delve into topics ranging from licensing and regulation by the London and Middlesex County Councils, to the architectural impact of Music Halls on the urban and suburban landscape, the evolution of this popular and mass entertainment, and the legacy of Music Hall in contemporary culture and research arenas.

Expert staff from The London Archives will be on hand and you'll have the opportunity to find out more about how to trace those connected to the Music Hall and conservation insights into preserving Music Hall ephemera and memorabilia.

Our cast of distinguished speakers includes:

• Dr Jason Price, cultural historian with a special interest in theatre and art histories
• Dr Naomi Paxton, freelance performer, writer, broadcaster, host and researcher
• Mark Fox, Chairman of the Frank Matcham Society and President of PERSPECTIV, the Association of Historic Theatres in Europe
• Tony Fletcher, film historian and author.
• Alison Young, Vice Chair, British Music Hall Society

Additional Information:

• Tea and coffee, and a complimentary glass of wine or a non-alcoholic alternative are included.
• A paying bar will also be available.

Special Offers:

1. Early Bird tickets are available at a discounted price until 11.59pm on 16 September 2025.
2. £5 discount for British Music Hall Society members on both Early Bird and Standard tickets (see email from BMHS for the discount code).
3. “Book two featured events for a discount”: Book a standard price ticket for this event (Centre Stage - Music Hall) and receive a discount code for £5 off a standard price ticket for Magic Lantern Show and Exhibition Late View event taking place on 30 October 2025. [OR, receive £5 off a standard price ticket for this event if you’ve already booked a standard price ticket for the Magic Lantern Show]. Offer does not apply to Early Bird tickets.

Whether you're a fan, researcher, historian, performer, or simply curious about London’s theatrical past, this event promises to be inspiring, informative, and entertaining.

This one day event complements our upcoming display "Spotlight on Music Hall", which will run from 6 October 2025 until 5 February 2026.