The pub itself is, we are told, much older, and has the backroom which now houses the theatre was previously a boxing ring and a pool hall. Indeed, a Kings Head Pub was apparently mentioned in Samuel Pepys' diaries, and is rumoured to have been called the Kings Head after Henry VIII began stopping in for a pint on his way to see a mistress.
Whilst Crawford died in 2005, the Theatre continues, and offers regular performances in various genres. The pub, meanwhile, offers free music on most nights.
For more information, see http://www.kingsheadtheatrepub.co.uk/
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Pub theatres are a great way to see Shakespeare without spending a fortune. I recall seeing a rather good production of King Lear in a pub theatre in Kentish Town back in the 90s. Actually, there's quite a funny story about that which is best told over a beer...
ReplyDeleteThis is still one of my favourite pubs, never mind the theatre... there are live bands on most nights and it's almost impossible not to make new friends
ReplyDeleteThanks Chaz, thanks Jane. I'm always free for a beer Chaz. It's been too long!
ReplyDelete"Henry VIII began stopping in for a pint on his way to see a mistress". Great story ... I hope it is true :)
ReplyDeleteThe king apparently didn't have a security problem or an image problem, happily slumming it with his citizens. Or perhaps King Henry was just having a post-coital discussion with the lads.