Palace of Varieties

In 2025, The Clapham Grand celebrates its 125th anniversary and we’re marking the occasion with a dazzling birthday extravaganza at Wandsworth’s iconic ‘Palace of Varieties’. Honouring the venue’s history, the night promises to celebrate 125 years of variety and entertainment, brought to you by a diverse range of artists.

A Palace of Varieties was what the residents of Clapham and Battersea were promised when the New Grand Theatre opened its doors for the first time on 26 November 1900, established by some of the most popular performers of the time. Launched at the height of the Music Hall, The Grand has always remained true to its original aim: to entertain.

It established itself as one of London’s premier venues, attracting the stars of its day. Favourite performers included Marie Lloyd, Little Tich and a young Charlie Chaplin. In its time it evolved to be a cinema, bingo hall and – having been saved from being turned into a pub in the 1990s – was restored to its former glory. It became a haven for bands on the verge of breaking through from Jamiroquai to Coutney Love, The Verve and then more mainstream performances from Oasis, Muse and Brian May played to packed crowds.

In recent years The Grand has revived its original mission as a high-quality Palace of Varieties. 

The Clapham Grand presents a vibrant and diverse programme year-round in the heart of Clapham Junction. Reflecting its Music Hall and Variety roots, the programme regularly features performances by up-and-coming comedians, as well as being a home for the LGBTQ+ community, with the cream of London’s drag scene treading the boards, plus sing-alongs, movie nights, Bongo’s Bingo and the occasional theatre show.