In February 2007, Academy Music Group Ltd (AMG) announced the acquisition of its twelfth venue and expansion for the Group to the South Coast. AMG successfully concluded negotiations and agreed terms on the leasehold interest of the Hippodrome on Middle Street in Brighton with Southampton property developers Urbanfirst Ltd.
An outstanding Grade II listed building, the Hippodrome dates back to 1897 as Brighton Ice-Rink, before in 1901 it was converted by renowned theatre architect Frank Matcham and renamed the Hippodrome. The following year it became one of Brighton's principal variety theatres offering high quality entertainment to all.
Many famous performers from the music hall era graced the Hippodrome stage in the early years from comedians and singers such as Max Miller and Judy Garland. As trends in entertainment changed over the years, the 1960's welcomed performances by both The Beatles and the Rolling Stones, playing to capacity crowds along with many other stars.
It closed as a live performance venue in 1965 and became the Mecca Bingo Hall in 1967 until closing in 2006. Academy Music Group is working to redevelop the site to a premier live entertainment venue in spring 2009.
Further development and investment details will be announced in due course.
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