SESH

Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer, situated within the iconic Southbank Centre complex in London, United Kingdom, stands as a vibrant and versatile venue renowned for its innovative programming and pivotal role in the city’s cultural landscape. Opened in 1967, Queen Elizabeth Hall itself was conceived as part of the mid-century expansion of the Southbank Centre, aimed at providing modern spaces for the performing arts. The Foyer area, originally intended as a gathering and circulation space for concertgoers, gradually evolved into a respected venue in its own right, hosting club nights, live music events, and cross-disciplinary performances that attract diverse audiences.

Noted for its striking Brutalist architecture, the Foyer retains much of its mid-century charm while benefiting from sensitive renovations, including a major refurbishment completed in 2018 which enhanced both its accessibility and acoustics. Over the decades, the Foyer has become synonymous with creative experimentation, offering a platform for avant-garde electronic music, jazz, alternative pop, spoken word, and DJ-led club nights. It is lauded for its inclusive ethos, championing up-and-coming local talent alongside established international acts and curating events that reflect London’s multicultural energy.

Although the structure has remained largely in its original location as part of the Southbank complex, its internal function and design have been cleverly adapted to suit contemporary tastes and technologies, ensuring continued relevance within London’s ever-evolving nightlife and arts scenes. Notable artists who have performed at Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer include Gilles Peterson, Floating Points, Four Tet, Neneh Cherry, Nubya Garcia, Ezra Collective, Makaya McCraven, Matthew Herbert, Moses Boyd, Rosie Lowe, Shabaka Hutchings, and genre-blurring collectives like Jazz Refreshed and Total Refreshment Centre, along with pioneering local DJs and performers who have helped shape the character of the venue as both a launchpad for new talent and a stop for international innovators.