The Troxy

Beneath the grand Art Deco façade of Commercial Road, East London, lies The Troxy – a venue that transcends mere bricks and mortar to become a pulsating heart of the city's live music scene. More than just a building, it's a crucible where raw, unadulterated musical passion meets the discerning ears of London's diverse crowds. From its origins as a cinema palace to its current iteration as a celebrated grassroots music venue, The Troxy has cultivated a reputation for hosting unforgettable nights, fostering emerging talent, and providing an intimate yet expansive space for artists and fans alike. Its enduring appeal lies not just in its architectural grandeur, but in its unwavering commitment to the live music experience, making it a vital cornerstone of London's cultural landscape.

The story of The Troxy is intrinsically linked to the vibrant, burgeoning East London of the early 20th century. Opened in 1933, it was originally conceived as a lavish cinema, a palace of dreams designed to transport audiences away from the industrial realities of the surrounding Docklands. Its architect, George Coles, was renowned for his flamboyant cinema designs, and The Troxy is a prime example of his work, embodying the opulent Art Deco style. The building’s striking exterior, with its distinctive vertical signage and decorative motifs, hinted at the grandeur within. Inside, patrons were once seated in a magnificent auditorium, a space designed for spectacle and comfort. The Troxy was not just a cinema; it was a social hub, a place where the community gathered to experience the magic of the silver screen, reflecting the aspirations and tastes of its time. The very bones of the building, from its soaring ceilings to its intricate detailing, speak of an era when entertainment venues were crafted with an almost reverential attention to artistry and public engagement.

While its cinematic past is a significant part of its heritage, The Troxy's evolution into a dynamic live music venue marks its most impactful chapter. For decades after its cinema days, the building served various purposes, including a bingo hall and even a disco. However, it was in the early 2000s that The Troxy truly rediscovered its calling as a space for live performance. It began to host a diverse range of events, from club nights to concerts, slowly carving out a niche for itself. The venue’s ability to adapt, to embrace different genres and subcultures, became its hallmark. Crucially, The Troxy emerged as a vital platform for the UK’s burgeoning electronic music scene, rave culture, and underground artists, often giving them a space to thrive when other, more established venues were inaccessible. Its raw, unpolished aesthetic, combined with its significant capacity, made it an ideal canvas for the immersive and often explosive energy of these genres. This period cemented its reputation not just as a venue, but as a cultural incubator.

The Troxy's enduring USP is its ability to deliver an unvarnished, electrifying live music experience within a spectacular Art Deco shell, making it a magnet for genres that thrive on raw energy and communal immersion. This unique combination has attracted a pantheon of artists and cemented its status as a go-to for those seeking something beyond the predictable.

Here are just a few of the legendary nights that have graced The Troxy’s stage:

• The Prodigy (2015): The electronic pioneers returned to their roots with a blistering set that shook the very foundations of the historic venue, reaffirming The Troxy's importance in the rave and electronic music lineage.
• Pixies (2014): The iconic alt-rock band delivered a performance that celebrated their influential back catalogue, drawing a passionate crowd eager to witness their distinctive sound in an intimate yet grand setting.
• Dizzee Rascal (2013): The grime kingpin brought his signature energy and iconic tracks to The Troxy, creating a high-octane atmosphere that perfectly suited the venue's robust acoustics and immersive feel.
• My Bloody Valentine (2013): The shoegaze legends delivered a sonic assault that was both beautiful and brutal, their immense sound filling every corner of the Art Deco auditorium, a testament to the venue’s acoustic capabilities.
• Disclosure (2013): The electronic duo, then on the cusp of global superstardom, delivered a groundbreaking set that showcased their evolution and cemented The Troxy’s role in nurturing future chart-toppers.

The Troxy is committed to being an accessible venue for all patrons.

• Wheelchair Access: The main entrance and the main auditorium are accessible for wheelchair users. There is a dedicated viewing area for wheelchair users within the main space.
• Accessible Toilets: Accessible toilet facilities are available.
• Assistance Animals: Assistance animals are welcome at The Troxy.
• Personal Assistants: A Personal Assistant can attend for free with a paying disabled visitor. Proof of disability will be required.
• Getting Around: Venue staff are on hand to assist patrons with accessibility needs. It is recommended to contact the venue in advance to discuss specific requirements or to arrange for assistance upon arrival.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at The Troxy, please be aware of the following:

• Door Times: Doors typically open 30-60 minutes before the advertised start time of the event. Please check your ticket or the event listing for precise timings.
• Age Restrictions: Most events at The Troxy are 18+. Some specific events may have different age restrictions, so always check your ticket details or the venue's event listing. Valid photographic ID will be required for entry.
• Bag Policy: Small bags are permitted, but large bags, rucksacks, and suitcases are generally not allowed. Please check the specific event policy for details, as restrictions can vary.
• Security: For the safety of all patrons, the venue operates a strict security policy. This includes bag searches and potential pat-downs. Please cooperate with security staff.
• Photography: The use of professional cameras, video cameras, and selfie sticks is usually prohibited. Small personal cameras and phone photography are generally permitted for most events, but please check the specific event policy as this can vary depending on the artist.