Hackney Empire has unveiled a stellar lineup of shows for its 2025 season, offering something for everyone—from comedy and theatre to music, dance, and live podcasts. Whether you’re a theatre lover, a comedy enthusiast, or simply looking for a fantastic night out, this season promises unforgettable performances. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming up at Hackney Empire!
🎭 Comedy That Will Have You in Stitches
Prepare for a laughter-filled season with an incredible lineup of comedians gracing the stage. After a sold-out show in January, Live at the Empire returns in March with Taskmaster and Live at the Apollo stars Phil Wang and Fern Brady, alongside John Kearns, Janine Harouni, and Laura Smyth.
Other must-see comedy highlights include:
- Munawar Faruqui: Dhandho (7 Feb) – A unique blend of stand-up, storytelling, and raw truth.
- Jimbo’s Drag Circus (20 Mar) – A wild night starring Canada’s own JIMBO from RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 8.
- The Divine Variety: A Celestial Happening (3 Apr) – Drag queens, kings, alternative performances, and queer fabulousness hosted by Jonny Woo and John Sizzle.
- Nish Kumar: Nish, Don’t Kill My Vibe (24 May) – Politically charged comedy on everything from climate collapse to UK politics.
- The Lavari Show (12 Jul) – A premier Gujarati talk show blending comedy and improv with Manan Desai, Chirayu Mistry, Om Bhatt, and Deep Vaidya.
Other comedy greats include Eshaan Akbar, Ellie Taylor, Kerry Godliman, Nick Mohammed, Jamali Maddix, and World Comedy Clash 2025.
🎶 Hackney Empire 2025 Season: A Spectacular Music Lineup
Music lovers are in for a treat with a diverse range of performances:
- Soul & Qawwali – Chand Ali Khan & Leo Twins (4 Feb) – A fusion of timeless Qawwali and modern musical artistry.
- English Touring Opera: The Capulets and the Montagues (22 Feb) – Bellini’s dramatic reworking of Romeo & Juliet performed in its original Italian.
- London City Voices: Rock Gods & Divas (11 Apr) – A 300-strong choir belting out anthems from Queen, Bon Jovi, Bowie, and more.
- London Community Gospel Choir: Out of Many, One Voice (19 Apr) – A soul-stirring celebration of gospel music.
- Delta Goodrem: Mistaken Identity – A Night of Celebration (14-15 May) – The award-winning singer-songwriter brings her powerhouse vocals to Hackney Empire.
- CBeebies Prom: Wildlife Jamboree (13-14 June) – Join Duggee, Bluey, and the Octonauts on a musical wildlife adventure with the BBC Symphony Orchestra.
🎭 Theatre, Dance, and Musicals at Hackney Empire 2025
The 2025 season brings a stunning mix of classic and contemporary theatre:
- Stephen Sondheim’s Into The Woods (28 Feb – 1 Mar) – A magical intertwining of fairy tales with unforgettable music.
- Ballet Black: SHADOWS (13-15 Mar) – Featuring My Sister, The Serial Killer adapted for the stage.
- SAD BOOK (2 Apr) – A moving adaptation of Michael Rosen’s award-winning book, blending theatre, dance, and animation.
- The Witch of Konotop (7-8 Apr) – A mystical tale of power, superstition, and women’s strength.
- Romeo & Juliet (23-26 Apr) – A fresh take on Shakespeare’s classic featuring rap and R&B.
- The Cool Ruler: The Musical (25 May) – A powerful tribute to reggae legend Gregory Isaacs.
🎙️ Talks & Live Podcasts at Hackney Empire
Hackney Empire will also be hosting a series of live conversations and podcast recordings:
- Brian Bilston & Henry Normal (16 May) – A night of poetry and wit.
- Ashley Walters: Always Winning (26 May) – A deep dive into the career of the Top Boy star.
- Other live events include Gary Stevenson, Miss Me with Miquita Oliver & Lily Allen, Have A Word podcast, and Sisters in the City Live.
👠 A Magical Pantomime for 2025: Cinderella
Following the success of Dick Whittington and His Cat, Hackney Empire brings the timeless fairytale Cinderella to life from 22 Nov – 31 Dec, directed by the legendary Clive Rowe. Expect dazzling costumes, hilarious performances, and a touch of Hackney magic.
🎟️ Get Your Tickets for the Hackney Empire 2025 Season!
With such an incredible lineup, tickets are bound to sell fast. Secure your seats now and be part of the magic at Hackney Empire! Visit www.hackneyempire.co.uk for bookings and further details.
Whether you’re into laugh-out-loud comedy, breathtaking music, or heartwarming theatre, Hackney Empire’s 2025 season has something for everyone. Which shows are you excited to see? Let us know in the comments!
