News Story
Our CEO Chris Sudworth and the whole team at Hackney Empire are delighted to announce the first plans for our 125th anniversary year, as we look ahead to a new chapter under the banner of Hackney:Central - supporting the ambitions of artists & young people, forging new partnerships, premiering new productions, and making Hackney more central to the local, London and national theatre landscape.
Since 1901, Hackney Empire has stood at the centre of its community, creating unforgettable experiences, championing global majority and under-represented creatives, igniting change with young people and communities. In celebration of our 125th birthday in December 2026, we are launching a 16-month programme which will celebrate the artists, audiences and communities who have shaped our story, and step into a new chapter as a cultural and creative home for Hackney, London and beyond.
The programme will include:
- A special 125th Anniversary Launch Weekend featuring an outdoor festival stage curated by our Young Producers, a new exhibition celebrating Hackney Empire’s 125 year-history, the launch of a new football kit for Hackney Women’s FC and celebrations across the building.
- Talawa’s 40th Anniversary Showcase, celebrating four decades of Black excellence in British theatre, with a star studded line up (to be announced), reflecting our continued commitment to championing global majority creatives and communities.
- The launch of Empire Nights, an unmissable new live series bringing together some of the most exciting names in comedy, music and culture, curated by a special guest host. This first edition will be hosted by Jamali Maddix, whose handpicked line-up includes Guz Khan, Michelle de Swarte, Kyrah Gray, Manga St Hilare and DJ Lex Blondin, plus a very special music guest to be announced.
- Celebrations of our influential role in the 1980s renaissance of alternative comedy, welcoming back early headliners Lenny Henry and Jo Brand.
- The 10th anniversary tour of The Nature of Forgettingfrom internationally acclaimed company Theatre Re.
- The return of Clive Rowe as Dame and director in our much-loved pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk.
- The 2027 world premiere co-production of Nanny of the Maroons.
Further announcements about our 125th anniversary year will be made in the coming months.
“Hackney Empire is a unique and magical venue, delivering iconic experiences of theatre, comedy, music and cultural change with the people of Hackney since 1901. Our 125th anniversary is a moment of huge celebration, and a moment to look forward, imagining what is possible. I’m excited, proud and honoured to be leading Hackney Empire into its 125th year, alongside our committed, caring and talented team, and to share the first phase of plans for a year that will celebrate our history, our community and our future.”
Chris Sudworth, CEO
