After a long period in the dark, Watford Colosseum opened its doors again to the public in 2011 and has become one of the most popular venues in the area, staging all sorts of productions from bands, musicals and opera to drama, ballet and stand up comedy.
The building in Rickmansworth Road, near Watford town centre has always been renowned for its first class acoustics and has been used extensively over the years for musical performances both classical and rock, as well as recordings – most famously for the soundtracks of Lord of the Rings, Sound of Music and Star Wars, and has been a favourite choice of cellist Julian Lloyd Webber. The BBC Concert Orchestra is currently in residence for 90 days a year and use the venue for rehearsals, radio broadcasts, recordings and concerts.
The venue accommodates 2441 for standing concerts, 1254 for seated performance and is also able to host conferences and sizeable events. Tim Brinkman is now Director.
“The design allows great hospitality facility with a large foyer on two levels including a mezzanine and circle bar. The auditorium is very flexible as has retractable seats so can change from a raked to a flat floor. It is perfect for large private functions be it dances, holy days, weddings or award ceremonies! We also do our own Christmas and New Year parties.”
The chic Forum restaurant is an added bonus for pre-show meals and can also be hired to accommodate up to 100 people.
Coming by car from Chorleywood, park at the back of the Colosseum by Watford Leisure Centre.
History
The Assembly Hall was opened in 1940 and over the years became known as Watford Town Hall Assembly Halls.
The design of the hall resulted in acoustics which still have a reputation for being some of the finest in the UK.
Sir Thomas Beecham was of the opinion that “it was one of the finest venues outside London for recording”.
In 1994 the venue changed it’s name to Watford Colosseum as the result of a joint venture between Watford Borough Council and a management team formerly at London’s Town and Country club.
www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 0845 075 3993