Max SteventonAcademy Music Group Limited (AMG), part of Live Nation Entertainment, has signed an agreement to operate the Brighton Hippodrome following the completion of ongoing restoration and redevelopment works at the venue.
As part of the agreement, Live Nation and AMG are investing £9.5 million in the project, contributing to a total redevelopment investment of £25 million. The funding will support infrastructure and facility upgrades intended to enable the venue to host live performances while retaining its historic features.
The Grade II listed building on Middle Street in Brighton has been vacant since 2006. Under the agreement, AMG will reopen the Hippodrome as a performance venue. The building was acquired in 2020 by Brighton-based property company Matsim Properties, which has carried out restoration works including the installation of a new roof and repairs to the auditorium and ceiling.
The interior fit-out is being led by Blueprint Studio, Live Nation’s design and development division, working alongside architectural practice Burrell Foley Fischer, venue design consultancy Charcoalblue and Matsim Properties.
The Brighton Hippodrome opened in 1901 after being converted from a skating rink by theatre architect Frank Matcham. It later operated as a variety theatre and hosted performers including Charlie Chaplin, Laurel and Hardy, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and Sammy Davis Jr.
AMG COO Steve Hoyland said, “Brighton is a new territory for AMG, and the city is truly special – thriving on creativity, arts and culture. Investing in British live entertainment and cultural institutions is vital for the future of our industry. The Brighton Hippodrome is an extraordinary venue with a rich history, and we’re proud to play a part in restoring it for generations to come.”