Frank Matcham
Videos
Francis Matcham was an English architect who specialised in the design of theatres and music halls. He worked extensively in London, predominantly under Moss Empires for whom he designed the Hippodrome in 1900, Hackney Empire (1901), Coliseum (1903) and Palladium (1910). His last major commission before retirement was the Victoria Palace Theatre (1911) for the variety magnate Alfred Butt. During his 40-year career, Matcham was responsible for the design and construction of over 90 theatres and the redesign and refurbishment of a further 80 throughout the United Kingdom.
Of the two centre buildings; the Matchams' house in Union Street, Torquay (left), with the Bridgemans' on the right
The Gaiety Theatre in the Strand, a building from which Matcham took inspiration as a student
The stage with unobstructed sight lines
Hackney Empire
Videos
Hackney Empire is a theatre on Mare Street, in Hackney in the London Borough of Hackney. Originally designed by Frank Matcham it was built in 1901 as a music hall, and expanded in 2001. Described by The Guardian as "the most beautiful theatre in London" it is an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation.
Hackney Empire (August 2005)
The refurbished Hackney Empire built in 1901, retains the original structure, but adds modern facilities (September 2005)