London’s Roundhouse in Camden is due to celebrate a landmark year, having opened 50 years ago as a bold new arts centre in the capital. In 2016, a new building will act as a centre of creative excellence, with the anniversary year beginning with a world premiere for choreographer Akram Khan and a first ‘in the round’ music series. Still to be announced is a major event to celebrate the Roundhouse’s birthday in October, still under wraps.
The building could be classed as one of the most iconic performance spaces in the world, and a state-of-the-art creative centre for young people. In recognition of this momentous year, the intention to add a brand new campus as a centre of creative excellence for young people has been announced. Ahead of this however, Khan’s production of Until the Lions, a brand new intimate music series and the announcement of the return of UK’s foremost festival of international contemporary circus, Circusfest in April, will also add to the celebrations throughout the year.
The Roundhouse offers audiences of all ages new and extraordinary experiences in live music, circus, theatre, spoken word and more. Additionally, each year it helps over 3,000 11-25 year-olds realise their creative potential through opportunities in music, media and performing arts. They work with industry professionals to develop their skills in a dedicated creative centre, to be championed further in 2016. June will see the Roundhouse recognise its 10th anniversary of reopening as a charity following a huge refurbishment and the 50th anniversary will be celebrated by honouring its historic role in the UK’s live music and performing arts scene.
The Grade II* listed building and former railway engine shed was built in 1846, falling into disuse until reopening as a performing arts venue led by playwright Arnold Wesker. The cutting-edge arts venue lived for 16 years before it fell into disrepair in 1983, and in 1996 The Norman Trust bought the building and set up the Roundhouse Trust. In 2006 the building reopened with a mission of providing creative opportunities for young people. Since then nearly 30,000 young people have benefitted from the centre’s projects.