The Capitol
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Over the months our On This Day feature listed many venues that had featured some of the greatest bands and performers in popular music history.
Nearly all the venues from the Fifties, Sixties and Seventies have gone, though the memories very much remain.
Top of the Pops for any music loving fans in the Capital and surrounding area was…The Capitol Theatre, a feature on most bands tour itinerary, it’s hallowed boards were trod on by the biggest and the best including The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin and Elton John.
Opened in December 1921, it was a purpose built entertainment centre not only with the auditorium, but also a ballroom, three restaurants and a bar.
The theatre had a seating capacity of 3,158 in the stalls, circle and balcony, which at the time, was the largest purpose-built cinema in Europe.
It was originally owned by Tilney Kinema Company,but in 1931 it was leased to Paramount Cinemas.
In 1941 the Rank Organisation took over the lease, and in 1964 they purchased the theatre from the Tilney Kinema Company.
The Beatles' last live UK tour concluded with two performances at the theatre on 12 December 1965.
The Rank Organisation closed the theatre in 1978 and it was demolished in 1983.The Capitol Centre now occupies the site.
