The Scala is a renowned nightclub and live music venue located in Kings Cross, London, United Kingdom. The venue traces its origins back to the early 20th century, having first opened in 1920 as a cinema. Over its long and colorful history, the Scala has undergone numerous transformations, both in terms of its physical structure and its function.

Following a major fire in 1999, the current incarnation of The Scala emerged as a vibrant destination catering to club nights, concerts, and diverse cultural events. Its imposing, Grade II-listed building, previously known as the King's Cross Cinema, retains many original art deco features that continue to evoke a sense of historical grandeur. The Scala has developed a solid reputation for its eclectic programming and inclusive atmosphere.

It is particularly celebrated for hosting a broad range of genres, from indie rock and electronica to hip-hop, world music, and LGBTQ+ friendly club nights. Its location in Kings Cross made it a focal point for the city's nightlife renaissance during the late 1990s and early 2000s, and it continues to play a key role in nurturing up-and-coming talent alongside established acts. Over the decades, the venue has faced several challenges, including closures and financial uncertainty, but it has consistently bounced back, underlining its cultural significance as a resilient hub for London’s nightlife and live entertainment.

The original Scala venue was located further west, near Tottenham Street, before relocating to its current address at 275 Pentonville Road in 1981. Since then, it has built a legacy as a premier performance space with a three-floor layout and a distinctive balcony overlooking the main stage. Despite changes in ownership and sporadic refurbishment, the Scala has largely retained its original charm while incorporating necessary modern upgrades.

Notable artists who have performed at The Scala include international acts such as Coldplay, Foo Fighters, Moby, Lady Gaga, Ed Sheeran, The Killers, Stereophonics, Muse, and Kings of Leon, as well as local and emerging UK artists like The Libertines, Franz Ferdinand, Amy Winehouse, Florence and the Machine, Arctic Monkeys, Kaiser Chiefs, and Dizzee Rascal. The venue’s eclectic programming has also welcomed international stars such as Björk, Kylie Minogue, Suede, Marilyn Manson, The Strokes, and Aphex Twin, cementing its status as an indispensable venue in both London and Britain’s wider music history.