Waterloo East Theatre reached a major milestone last Sunday, celebrating 15 years since opening beneath the railway arch on Brad Street. The anniversary was marked with a one-night Gala Concert on 14 September – an evening of songs, laughter and anecdotes, with special guests returning to share memories from across the years.
What began in 2010 as founder Gerald Armin’s bold idea – transforming an unused railway arch into a fully fledged Off-West End venue in under six months – has grown into one of Waterloo’s most cherished independent stages. To see the incredible transformation, visit Waterloo East Theatre’s Instagram for photos of the railway arch becoming a theatre, brick by brick.
From day one, Waterloo East has championed new writing, created space for emerging talent, and given audiences an intimate way to discover shows they might not otherwise see.
Over the past decade and a half, Waterloo East has:
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Staged 200+ productions for 150,000+ ticket-holders
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Seen shows transfer Off-Broadway and develop into feature films
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Earned Off West End awards and nominations
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Championed new writing and emerging talent, on and off the stage
Venues like Waterloo East Theatre are vital for anchoring the Waterloo community – bringing people together and boosting the high street, while nurturing the talent and bold ideas that keep London’s theatre ecosystem inventive, welcoming and accessible.
If you haven’t visited yet, now’s the time – bring a friend, book a midweek treat, or plan a night out with colleagues.
What’s on: check our events page for upcoming shows, or head to the Waterloo East Theatre website to book.
Thank you to everyone who’s supported Waterloo East over the years – artists, audiences, volunteers and neighbours. Here’s to the next chapter for Gerald Armin and the Waterloo East team, and to many more stories shared under the arches.
