Hackney Empire unveils 2021 plans

The Hackney Empire has today announced its plans for the remainder of 2021, with Hackney born music star Leona Lewis set to become patron for the venue, supporting and mentoring young individuals on the ‘Creative Futures’ programme. 

Next month, the venue will release filmed performances from its talent showcase Alter Ego, presenting the best in young talent from the local area. 21-year-old emerging actor and writer Sumah Ebelè will present a new play based on Romeo and Juliet, performed by 40 young people aged 14 to 19 with the workshop process running from 31 July to 14 August. 

It is hoped that the venue can return to playing to full capacity audiences with opera, theatre, comedy, live podcasts, and more being presented including comedy from Sindhu Vee and a performance of The Socially Distant Sports Bar: Live!.  English Touring Opera will perform at the venue in October, along with a premiere of new musical Vanara and a production of Oliver Samuel and Dennis Titus’ Crazy but True . 

In November, the venue will begin its 120th anniversary celebrations, with further details to be announced, and the venue’s iconic pantomime will return, led by Clive Rowe.