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O2 Academy Brixton
Proscenium arch
The award-winning Academy Theatre was built in 1929 as the flagship of the Astoria Group’s chain of atmospheric variety theatres. The venue boasts a magnificent Art Deco interior, with a grand entrance hall and sweeping double stairway in the foyer. The main auditorium contains Europe’s largest fixed stage, framed by an elaborate proscenium arch based on the design of the Rialto Bridge. It was the first truly atmospheric English theatre where built-up forms were combined with colour and plasterwork to produce the illusion of an auditorium with the atmosphere of the outdoors.
O2 Academy Brixton is a celebrated venue on the European and UK tour circuit with acts such as Sex Pistols, Bob Dylan, Rolling Stones, Radiohead, The Clash, N*E*R*D, Kings Of Leon, Foo Fighters, Coldplay, Missy Elliot, P!nk, REM and the Pixies choosing to play there because there isn’t an atmosphere to touch it.
In 2009, one of the most important bands in the history of popular music, The Specials, performed five sell-out nights at O2 Academy Brixton, 30 years since the release of their debut single 'Gangsters'.
In November 2007, O2 Academy was delighted to host 5 outstanding sell-out Sex Pistols shows to celebrate three decades since their seminal debut album was unleashed.
In November 2000, the venue was chosen by Madonna to play to a selected audience as a “club” gig. This show was broadcast on the Internet and accessed via an estimated audience amounting to “9 MILLION HITS” – a world record!
The O2 Academy easily has the capacity to transform from a gig venue into a club and dance environment using its unique ‘level dance floor’; also suitable for awards ceremonies and dinners. The legendary NME Awards will take place at O2 Academy Brixton in February 2010.
O2 Academy Brixton can also be fully seated and has welcomed events such as Little Britain Live, Russell Brand, Jimmy Carr and The Mighty Boosh.
