Arts & Culture
Originally published on Tuesday, 31st January 2006
Round like a Record, Baby
There have been many rock casualties of the '60s and '70s. More pitiful than the burn-outs, however, are those that never went away. Hulking obsolete relics that act as sad reminders of their former glory.
And such might have been the fate of the legendary Roundhouse in Chalk Farm, but - like Pete Burns' face - this former rock folly has undergone massive redevelopment and is due a major revival. From 1966 to 1983 the former steam engine repair room was the counterculture's playground, playing host first to hippy freak-outs then later to glam rock and punk. The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd, David Bowie, The Ramones and The Clash all played seminal gigs there.
Having raised £28 million in funding, the Grade II listed building will reopen this spring as an international performing arts venue and creative centre. In addition to concerts, performances and plays, it will host exhibitions, and have a rather snazzy restaurant and café/bar.
The shiny all-new opening season will be announced at a press launch today (details will be on their website from noon), and tickets are guaranteed to be snapped up fast. No details of the opening shows are available yet, but as a venue with such an illustrious past, it will be worth checking out.
The Roundhouse
Chalk Farm Road, NW1 - 020 7424 9991
