For more than three decades, Vincent Hayes MBE has been keeping the spirit of British Music Hall alive in the heart of East London. As founder and host of Brick Lane Music Hall – the UK’s only permanent home for the genre set in a gorgeous former church, he’s built a place where laughter, song, and community come together under one roof. This winter, the venue will transform into a festive wonderland for The Magic of Christmas, complete with live music, comedy, hearty food and good cheer. We spoke to Vincent about keeping this uniquely British art form alive, dining and dancing with audiences, and what makes a Brick Lane Christmas unlike anything else in London.
Hi Vincent! Can you explain to our readers who may not be aware of Brick Lane Music Hall, what it is, your involvement and what the 2025 Christmas show ‘The Magic of Christmas’ includes?
I was first drawn to music hall because of the audience participation and their involvement with the artists onstage – to me that was theatre in its highest form. I always wanted to recreate that magic, so I set up Brick Lane Music Hall in the early 1990’s, the only full-time music hall in the country. I think people come for the sense of community, of belonging, of familiarity. Music hall is unique in the opportunity it gives for participation. Everyone watching the show becomes one. The Magic of Christmas is our special festive show for the Christmas season. It combines comedy and song as well as a traditional Christmas meal – either a three-course festive lunch or dinner or afternoon tea.
Does food, music and entertainment all go hand-in-hand at Brick Lane Music Hall?
I’ve always seen music hall as being centred around three elements – eat, drink, and be merry. If the audience are able to have a relaxed dining experience, and in doing so forget the rush or journey of having to get there, they’re much more likely to be able to enjoy the show and to join in. Without a doubt it enhances their experience.
You were awarded an MBE for your services to British Music Hall back in 2013. Tell us about that please.
My MBE was awarded by the King (at that time Prince Charles). He had a keen interest in theatre, and specifically asked me about music hall, and was surprised at its popularity. He thought that it would have more or less died out. And I said to him – hurry up, I’ve got a matinee at 2o’clock!
Brick Lane Music Hall is the UK’s only permanent music hall, dedicated to the genre year-round. What makes the venue itself so special, why is the only one still going strong?
I think the way I approach it is quite unusual, because it always centres around the audience, in ensuring all their needs will be met. This means it’s not just about the show but about the quality of the food, the cleanliness of the toilets – anything that could enhance the experience of the visit. In terms of the show, I am meticulous – we punch well above our weight theatrically for a small venue. Me and the rest of the team are always anxious that each show has matched or exceeded the expectation of the audience.
You’ve been staging shows for decades. What, or who inspires you creatively the most?
I’ve always been inspired by theatre of the highest order – performances over the years by artists such as Joe Longthorne, Danny La Rue, Barbara Windsor. Watching Joe Longthorne and seeing what he was able to create every time he stood on stage or working with Danny La Rue and Barbara Windsor and seeing how the second they stepped out on stage they would be enveloped by this almost ecstatic, palpable warmth, which has lifted the audience out of themselves. Not that I would suggest I can do it, but at least I try.
The production promises to deliver the “spirit of the season.” How do you and your team turn the ideas into a full live, festive experience?
Most people come to experience the whole atmosphere of Brick Lane Music Hall which is housed in a beautiful gothic former church in Silvertown. From the magnificence of the building itself, to the friendliness of the staff, the lovely food, which is all freshly prepared on the premises, the general cheeriness of the venue makes it a lovely place to be and at Christmas it is extra special, with theming, our traditional Christmas menu and a show which is dedicated to everything we love about Christmas.
Who is it best to enjoy The Magic of Christmas with? Friends, family, work colleagues?
Music hall is about bringing people together. We want everyone to feel welcome and at home from the moment they arrive, even before the show starts. We would like everyone to come along and celebrate together!
‘The Magic of Christmas’ runs from the 19th November to 19th December 2025 at Brick Lane Music Hall. Whilst enjoying the show, guests can choose from a festive afternoon tea, a Christmas lunch or a three course Christmas dinner. Tickets start from £55 per person and are available from here: https://www.bricklanemusichall.co.uk/shows/the-magic-of-christmas/