History and Features
Koko, located in Camden Town, London, is a renowned concert venue with a rich history dating back to its inception in 1900. Originally opened as the Camden Theatre, it was one of the largest theatres in London outside the West End, designed by the notable theatre architect W. G. R. Sprague. The theatre was inaugurated by Ellen Terry, a celebrated actress of the time. Over the years, the venue underwent several transformations, becoming the Camden Hippodrome Theatre in 1909 and later a cinema known as the Camden Hippodrome Picture Theatre in 1913. During World War II, the venue was closed but was later taken over by the BBC in 1945, serving as a radio and recording studio until 1972.
Music and Cultural Hub
In 1977, the venue reopened as The Music Machine, marking its transition into a live music venue. It quickly became a popular spot for new wave and punk bands, hosting performances by The Boomtown Rats, The Clash, and The Jam. By 1982, it was renamed Camden Palace, a period during which it hosted Madonna’s first UK performance and became a hub for the New Romantic scene. The venue also embraced the burgeoning dance and new wave club music, hosting pioneering house music nights like “Delerium.” The 1990s saw it become a focal point for the rave music scene, with events like “Clockwork Orange” and “Peach” becoming legendary.
Restoration and Modern Era
In 2004, the venue was purchased by Oliver Bengough and Mint Entertainment, who undertook a significant restoration project, transforming it into a modern concert venue while preserving its historic charm. Koko reopened with enhanced facilities, allowing it to host a variety of events, from live concerts to corporate gatherings. The venue’s commitment to sustainability has been recognized with awards for environmental excellence. Despite a fire in 2020, Koko reopened in April 2022, with Arcade Fire performing at the inaugural concert, marking a new chapter in its storied history.
Verified venue information
| Location | Greater London, United Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Address | 1A Camden High Street, London, NW1 7JE |
| Opened | 1900 |
| Official website | www.koko.co.uk |
| Information checked | 2026-10-12 |
Map
Sources
Wikipedia / Wikidata / Official website
Image: APK / CC BY 4.0 CC BY 4.0
See the official website for the latest show information
Artists who have played here
- The Clash
- Hüsker Dü
- The Prodigy
- N-Joi
- Blur
- Cardiacs
- Arcade Fire
- The Rolling Stones
- The Faces
- The Goon Show
- Iron Maiden
- The Boomtown Rats
- The Jam
- AC/DC
- Madonna
- Prince
- Ronnie Wood
Names from the Wikipedia article.
