East Ham Granada: A key chapter in British music and culture
East Ham Granada: A key chapter in British music and culture
Exploring the legacy of a historic venue in Newham
The Granada Theatre in East Ham, built in 1936, was a landmark of architectural and cultural significance. Its Renaissance-inspired design, complete with coffered ceilings, Ionic pilasters, and a 2,400-seat capacity, made it a focal point for entertainment in Newham. The venue also housed a Wurlitzer organ until 1975, adding to its appeal as both a cinema and a live music venue.
A venue for musical icons
Throughout its history, the Granada Theatre hosted performances by some of the most celebrated figures in popular music. In 1963, The Beatles performed during the peak of Beatlemania, marking a pivotal moment in their career as they celebrated the million-advance sales of I Want to Hold Your Hand. Earlier, in 1958, Buddy Holly and The Crickets played to East Ham audiences as rock-and-roll surged in popularity. Other notable acts included Roy Orbison, James Brown, Stevie Wonder, Black Sabbath, Dusty Springfield, and The Faces, who brought diverse musical styles to the stage, drawing enthusiastic crowds from across East London
Cultural and community significance
The Granada Theatre served as more than an entertainment venue; it was part of the social fabric of East Ham. It provided a space where audiences could experience global talent in a local setting, fostering a sense of connection to broader cultural trends. The venue also reflected changing tastes and musical evolutions, from rock-and-roll to Motown to heavy metal.
The Beatles backstage at East Ham Granada
In 1963 Jane Bown captured a series of informal photographs of The Beatles relaxing backstage before their performance at East Ham’s Granada.
These contrast with the frenzied energy and screaming fans that greeted them on stage, seen in this live footage of the audience.
Documenting the Granada’s legacy
As part of Sound Waves: Music in Newham, a project funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, researchers are gathering stories to preserve the Granada’s history. Contributions from the public will help create a fuller picture of its role in shaping the cultural landscape of Newham.
Call for contributions
Researchers are seeking memories from:
- Former staff members
- Concert attendees
- Local residents
- Musicians who performed at the venue
These stories will be used to document the history of venues in Newham as part of our Sound Waves: Music in Newham project.
How to share your memories
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📩 Email: info@rendezvousprojects.org.uk
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Header image: dusashenka via Flickr.