From Wagner, Verdi and Rachmaninov to Frank Sinatra, The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Elton John, and Adele, the list of famous performers who have appeared at the Royal Albert Hall since it opened in 1871 is unrivaled. The Hall was developed on land purchased with the profits of the Great Exhibition of 1851, and was built to fulfil the vision of Prince Albert (Queen Victoria’s Consort) for a Great Central Hall dedicated to the promotion of Art and Science. Following the premature death of Prince Albert in 1861, the building was completed under the direction of Henry Cole with the building’s detailed design started by Captain Francis Fowke of the Royal Engineers and completed, following Fowke’s death, by Lieutenant Colonel Henry Darracott Scott. The Hall was officially opened on 29 March 1871 by Queen Victoria, however, the welcoming speech was given by Edward, the Prince of Wales, as Queen Victoria was too overcome to speak. Today, more than 350 events are staged each year in the Hall’s main auditorium including performances of classical, jazz, folk and world music, rock and pop concerts, circus, opera, dance, comedy, tennis, award ceremonies, and film premieres.
- Royal Albert Hall
- Kensington Gore, London SW7 2AP
- www.royalalberthall.com
- Underground: South Kensington and High Street Kensington