Designed by Frank Matcham. One of London’s most popular variety theatres. Here, in January 1921, the magician P. T. Selbit performed the illusion of "sawing a lady in half" - its first public performance.
The rising popularity of television in the 1950s caused the closure of many theatres including this one. The building was then used as a scenery store until it was demolished in April 1965 and replaced with a block of flats given the appropriate name of Vaudeville Court.
This section lists the memorials where the subject on this page is commemorated:
Finsbury Park Empire Theatre
Site of the Finsbury Park Empire Theatre, 1910 - 1960, home to music hall and...
The current building designed by Walter Emden and Bertie Crewe, opened as the New Court Theatre. Many of George Bernard Shaw's early plays were produced here. It ceased to be a theatre in 1932, and...
As Sam Vagg (1827-65) he was a chimney sweep but as Sam Collins he was an "Irish" singer. In 1862 he took over the Lansdowne Arms, turned it into a music hall and renamed it after himself. Sam died...
Actor, singer and dancer. Born into a large family in Berwick Street. Made her name in theatre and in the 30's was Britain's favourite musical film star. Post-war her career flagged but in 1963 s...
The world's longest running play - still going in 2013. Written by Agatha Christie who gave the rights to her grandson. We've heard the butler did it.
Actress. Possibly born in Pall Mall. Worked a lot for the Drury Lane company. Died at home in Grosvenor Street at 59 or 60, depending on source - perhaps the street has been renumbered.
