King's Head pub theatre closes after 53 years

The historic venue has seen several of its productions transfer to the West End including Mr Cinders, Wonderful Town, and Artist Descending a Staircase.

Last orders! The King's Head Theatre will close its doors after 53 years on 13 August.

The charity running the venue have announced that it will move into a custom-built new theatre with a 200-seat auditorium and 50-seat cabaret space. It will be located behind the existing pub in Islington Square, with official opening date to be announced.

"Next month we will bid a bittersweet farewell to London’s original pub theatre at 115 Upper Street, as work continues at the new King’s Head Theatre next door at Islington Square. The amazing opportunity for the charity to move into a new home that will stand it in good stead for the next five decades has been made possible by a dream team of partners." James Seabright from the Chair of Trustees said in a statement.

To mark the historic move, the final performance will be a gala celebrating the venue. Performers including Sherlock’s Mark Gatiss, Dame Janet Suzman and Le Gateau Chocolat, will each revive roles they played there over the years.

Founded in 1970, The King's Head is the UK's oldest pub theatre. It has helped launched the careers of some of the biggest British actors including Hugh Grant, Maureen Lipman, Richard E. Grant, and Joanna Lumley.

Photo credit: The King's Head (Photo by Simon J. Webb)