The Roundhouse, Chalk Farm Road, London

The Roundhouse is a magnificent Grade II* listed building, originally built in 1846 to repair steam engines. It later became a train turning station and a gin warehouse before becoming a legendary stage venue.

The Roundhouse is famous for being the home of punk and glam rock; Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd and The Doors made their names there. The Roundhouse also played host to controversial theatrical performances during the 60's and 70's including works by Peter Brook and the Living Theatre from New York. More recent performing companies include De La Guarda, Stomp, the Michael Clark Dance Company, Ballet Boyz, and the RSC, as well as a sell-out run by comedian and political satirist Michael Moore.

The redevelopment of the Roundhouse will turn it into one of Europe's most dynamic performance spaces and one of the world's most exciting Creative Centres for young people. The redeveloped Roundhouse will accommodate an artistic programme which will include a wide range of the performing arts - music, theatre, dance, circus and digital media experiences from all over the world. The redevelopment will cost £24million.

The Creative Centre (artist's impression)

At the heart of the Roundhouse will be a unique Creative Centre for young people, especially those who normally have little or no access to arts education. The Creative Centre will house state-of-the-art facilities including TV, radio, music, new media and performance studios. New studios will ensure that the young people involved with the project have the chance to explore their talents, work with professional artists, develop interests. skills and new career opportunities.

The Roundhouse currently runs a creative arts programme across London, delivered with arts, education, community and corporate partners. Young people participate and they have a strong voice in the project and the development of the Centre itself.

Email: robert@crowleyprojects.co.uk