This week Brick Lane Music Hall celebrates its 31st birthday!

The only permanent home for Music Hall in the UK, Brick Lane Music Hall first opened its doors in 1992, in London’s famous Brick Lane, from where it took its name when it started life in the old Truman’s Brewery. Fast forward an incredible 31 years, and these days, of course, you can find Brick Lane Music Hall housed in the now transformed former Church of St Mark’s, in Silvertown.

During our annual pantomime for grown-ups (Goldilocks and the Bare Bears) Andrew Robley stopped the show for the cast and staff to surprise Vincent Hayes with a happy birthday cake! It took some time for the applause to die down as everyone wanted to pass on their heartfelt congratulations to Vincent on his achievement in creating 31 years of joy and laughter.

Born in Galway in Ireland, but growing up in London, Vincent was drawn to the great stars of variety, such as Danny La Rue. While working around the country as a comedian, Vincent got to work with many of his heroes, eventually being able to bring some of them together in a Music Hall setting, featuring artists from Barbara Windsor and Roy Hudd to Ruby Murray and Alvin Stardust, not to mention Danny La Rue himself, who went on to become a great friend to the theatre. Vincent has combined an eclectic mix of Music Hall and variety to bring Music Hall to a modern day audience; in 2013 he was awarded an MBE in recognition of his services to Music Hall and the community and credited with keeping Music Hall alive in this country.

Over the years, not only have visitors come back time and time again to enjoy the special magic of the venue, but Brick Lane Music Hall has managed to take the fun and laughter out to the community as well, to the frail elderly and to local community groups and schools.

“Brick Lane Music Hall is a gift from heaven – and not just because it is housed in a former Royal Docks church. This jewel in the crown of Newham gives back to the community in which it is located in a very special way.”  Royal Docks Review

Happy Birthday Brick Lane Music Hall!