About Rivoli Ballroom
The Rivoli Ballroom is a film and TV location that also hosts party nights, jive nights, ballroom dancing, music videos and music gigs
Rivoli Ballroom Description
From Wikipedia:
The Rivoli Ballroom is the only intact 1950s ballroom remaining in London, England. It is famed for its original decor and interior fittings (red velvet, flock wallpaper, chandeliers, glitter balls and oversized Chinese lanterns) and is often used as a film location and plays host to many dance and musical events. [1]
The current building was originally the Crofton Park Picture Palace[2] which opened in July 1913. It was designed by Henley Attwater with a simple barrel-vaulted auditorium. It became The Rivola Cinema in 1929. [3]
The last film there was shown on 2 March 1957 after which the building was converted to a dance hall by local businessman Leonard Tomlin. It reopened as The Rivoli on Boxing Day, 1959 with a large Canadian sprung maple dance floor. Further improvements were made with the addition of a Member's Bar in 1960. It is currently owned by Bill Mannix.
The Brockley Road frontage is based on an Art Deco elevation which dates from 1931. A broad flight of steps passes into a deep-recessed central foyer. Pilasters, topped with plasterwork urns, terminate the elevation and the frontage currently features two signs reading 'Dancing' and 'Tonight'.
The ballroom comprises an eclectic mix of neo-classical, Deco and oriental motifs set within an exotic and luxuriant decorative scheme mainly dating from the 1950s. The main auditorium ceiling survives from the earlier cinema. From the off-street entrance steps a small foyer is reached featuring a raked floor and Deco-style marquetry panelling. The main motif is a geometric composition of intersecting curves in a shape with broad segmental top, tapering centre and curved base. The design is accentuated through the use of dark wood inlay and a diamond shape in the centre is picked out in glass or mirror. Although 1920s in inspiration, it is characteristic of the 1950s fashion for reviving the Deco aesthetic that had been unwillingly abandoned with the onset of WWII.
The foyer leads directly into the ballroom, a large auditorium with a shallow barrel-vaulted ceiling, complete with raised viewing dais, stage, proscenium, fixed banquettes and a sprung maple dance floor. The decorative scheme is kitsch and flamboyant, the effect created through red velour padded walls with gilt picture-frame style panels and decorated pilasters, scallop-shaped lights, a red velour pelmet, French chandeliers and Chinese lanterns.
Either side of the ballroom are two bars, running the length of the hall, one dating 1958 and the other of 1960. The right hand bar of 1958 features booths and tables with leather upholstery arranged similar to a railway-carriage. The bar at the end of the room has a tiled front of Arabesque interlaced patterns. Lighting is provided by exotic saucer-shaped lamps decorated with a mixture of Georgian and oriental patterns. The panelling motif established in the foyer is continued on various doors, to the ladies powder room and the gentleman's cloakroom for example, and there is also signage throughout the building some of which, to the 'Buffet' for example, appears to be contemporary with the late 1950s refurbishment.
There is a second function room, dating from the late twentieth century, with a neo-classical decorative scheme with gilded Corinthian capitals, a modillion cornice and Adam-esque garlands along the beams which support a ceiling adorned with photographs of Old Master paintings; this room is not of special interest. [4]
It has found favour with pop video producers and style shoots[5] - Tina Turner's "Private Dancer" video was shot there and rock band Oasis, pop group S Club 7, singer Charlotte Church, fashion model Kate Moss are some glitterati to make use of the venue for shoots. It is probably most famously remembered for its use in the 1983 Elton John video for the song "I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues".
Live music plays a part at the Rivoli regularly. Indie rock band The White Stripes played a gig there on 12 June 2007. Florence + the Machine played a live show there on 7 July 2009, which appears on the DVD packaged with the special edition box set of Lungs, and returned there on 8 November 2012 for a Radio 2 Live In Concert broadcast. On 30 April 2014, Damon Albarn performed with his touring band The Heavy Seas, with a guest appearance by Kano. It is, however, more usual to find jive, rock and roll and swing bands making use of the ballroom.
Television host Justin Lee Collins also filmed his chat-show series Good Times there in March 2010. On 27 October 2010, Kings Of Leon performed a set for BBC Radio 1. The music video released for Lana Del Rey's promotional single, "Burning Desire", was filmed at the Rivoli Ballroom by Ridley Scott in 2013. [6]
In 2014, the ballroom was used for a flashback sequence shot in the 1940s for the superhero film Avengers: Age of Ultron. [7]
In March 2015, Noel Gallagher played a 'secret gig' for Absolute Radio, promoting his second solo album Chasing Yesterday. [8]
On 21 December 2007, the building was granted Grade II-listed status by English Heritage in response to press concern about a possible sale, which might have led to its closure and demolition. [9]
The venue was listed for the following reasons:
Special architectural interest: for the highly-unusual interior of 1958, the total effect of which is luxuriant, exotic and deeply theatrical.
Special historic interest: as an eloquent and unusual witness to the era of American jive and swing bands, lindy hop, jitterbug and rock 'n' roll, alongside the continued popularity of traditional strict tempo ballroom.
A rare surviving example of a once common conversion of an early 20th-century cinema to a ballroom.
In conclusion it was noted: "The Rivoli Ballroom is a highly unusual building which is of special architectural interest for its flamboyant interior and special historic interest for its rarity as a surviving 1950s dance hall in a former cinema. "
The ballroom is located on Brockley Road, opposite Crofton Park National Rail station.
London Buses Stop CV Hazeldon Road 122, 171, 172, N171
Crofton Park Station 122, 171, 172, N171
National Rail Crofton Park
London Overground Brockley or Honor Oak
Reviews
Join us at the Rivoli Ballroom for our magical Christmas Cinema, where we will be screening Christmas Classics such as Home Alone, Elf these are family friendly so bring the kids along. For the adults we will be showing Love Actually and Die Hard, because nothing is more Christmassy than a good ole film, some mulled wine and a mince pie.
Tickets are flying fast, so don't leave it too late to book ! For early birds we have comfy chairs and a couple of sofas, even a Santa's Sl...ay. So watch a classic in one of the oldest ballrooms left in London, which itself has featured in many Films.
Screening dates- Thursday 13th December - Home Alone @5pm Love Actually @ 8pm Friday 14th December - Elf @5pm Die Hard @8pm www.croftonparkpictures.com
See More
Join us at the Rivoli Ballroom for our magical Christmas Cinema, where we will be screening Christmas Classics such as Home Alone, Elf these are family friendly so bring the kids along. For the adults we will be showing Love Actually and Die Hard, because nothing is more Christmassy than a good ole film, some mulled wine and a mince pie.
Tickets are flying fast, so don't leave it too late to book ! For early birds we have comfy chairs and a couple of sofas. Plus christmas s...lays, obviously the best way to watch a festive film.
Screening dates- Thursday 13th December - Home Alone @5pm Love Actually @ 8pm
Friday 14th December - Elf @5pm Die Hard @8pm
www.croftonparkpictures.com
See More
Join us for the time of your life, expect non stop 70's & 80's Disco and funk from Prince, Wham, Aretha Franklin, David Bowie, Freddie Mercury, ah the list is too much to mention!
Hosted in the iconic Rivoli Ballroom, a remarkable Grade II listed building is one of the most intriguing hidden gems in London. We have two classic Bars one dating from the 1950's and other the 60's. It has appeared in videos for Elton John, Tina Turner and Oasis, and is possibly the only venue in... the world ever to have played host to a gig by The Kings Of Leon and a pensioners’ tea dance in the same week.
Once we have sold out, we've sold out ! Big groups we advise book early so no one misses out. Dress up its a fun night. Featured in the Daily Telegraph top 30 retro nights, Timeout, & South london press
See More
HALLOWEEN DISCO, Join us at the Rivoli Ballroom for this retro fest of a Fright night! Expect non stop 70's & 80's Disco and funk from Prince, Wham, Aretha Franklin, David Bowie, Freddie Mercury, ah the list is too much to mention!
Hosted in the iconic Rivoli Ballroom, a remarkable Grade II listed building is one of the most intriguing hidden gems in London. We have two classic Bars one dating from the 1950's and other the 60's. It has appeared in videos for Elton John, Tina... Turner and Oasis, and is possibly the only venue in the world ever to have played host to a gig by The Kings Of Leon and a pensioners’ tea dance in the same week.
Once we have sold out, we've sold out ! Big groups we advise book early so no one misses out. Dress up its a fun night. Featured in the Daily Telegraph top 30 retro nights, Timeout, & South london press.
See More
Join us for the time of your life, expect non stop 70's & 80's Disco and funk from Prince, Wham, Aretha Franklin, David Bowie, Freddie Mercury, ah the list is too much to mention!
Mid- evening we will have the talented Symone. Trained by Marawa the Amazing, and works closely with The Majorettes, Chivaree Circus, Gypsy Disco. Currently she holds a Guinness World Record with The Majorettes for 'most hoops spun simultaneously as a group', she can spin 40 hoops on her body at once! Hosted in the iconic Rivoli Ballroom, a remarkable Grade II listed building is one of the most intriguing hidden gems in London. We have two classic Bars one dating from the 1950's and other the 60's.
Join us for the time of your life, expect non stop 70's & 80's Disco and funk from Prince, Wham, Aretha Franklin, David Bowie, Freddie Mercury, ah the list is too much to mention!
Mid evening we have a fab performance from the ABBA girls, dancing queens for sure, having performed all over the world, over 4500 gigs! Something to look forward too !
Hosted in the iconic Rivoli Ballroom, a remarkable Grade II listed building is one of the most intriguing hidden gems in London. We have two classic Bars one dating from the 1950's and other the 60's.
Join us for the time of your life, expect non stop 70's & 80's Disco and funk from Prince, Wham, Aretha Franklin, David Bowie, Freddie Mercury, ah the list is too much to mention!
Mid- evening we will have the talented Symone. Trained by Marawa the Amazing, and works closely with The Majorettes, Chivaree Circus, Gypsy Disco. Currently she holds a Guinness World Record with The Majorettes for 'most hoops spun simultaneously as a group', she can spin 40 hoops on her body at once!
Hosted in the iconic Rivoli Ballroom, a remarkable Grade II listed building is one of the most intriguing hidden gems in London. We have two classic Bars one dating from the 1950's and other the 60's.
Join us for New Years Eve- Monday 31st December 2018
As you know, we love a party at the Rivoli and what better opportunity to have one than on New Year's Eve in one of the oldest Ballroom's in London.
All our nights are usually adult only, 21 years plus but we consider ourselves to be a family place, so we're making New Years Eve a family event. We are inviting adults and children over 6 years old (as long as the children are supervised!). Its a night for the whole family.... The DJ will set the party atmosphere with a mix of Rivoli specials, jive, ballroom, all mixed together with pop, upbeat festive tracks and party classics to say bye bye to 2018 and bring in the new year celebrations. We want you to have a great time!
We are the oldest intact ballroom in London! Come and have a look and enjoy the New Year celebrations! We will have two bars open serving Champagne, Wine, Prosecco, Draft Beer, British Ciders, and Soft Drinks. We will have a cloakroom on the night. Dress code is smart, expect party hats, party poppers, streamers...Bring on the Ball ! Tickets can be purchased on www.rivoliballroom.com
See More
What do you get when you mix one part action movie with one part holiday flick and add in a dash of sweaty tank top? Die Hard, John McTiernan’s genre-bending Christmas action masterpiece for the ages, which sees a badass NYPD cop take on a skyscraper full of bad guys in the midst of an office holiday party. ANNNND, we are showing this as part of our Christmas pop up, we will also have some family friendly films & later screenings for the adults.
Thursday 13th December - Home... Alone (Doors open 5pm) Love Actually (Doors open 8pm)
Friday 14th December- Elf (Doors open 5pm) Die Hard (Doors open 8pm)
Tickets & info www.croftonparkpictures.com
See More
Join us for our Cult Classic month where we will be showing 90's classic The Big Lebowski, staring John Goodman, Jeff Bridges and Julianne Moore.Our pop-up film night is set in an iconic London gem The Rivoli Ballroom which has featured in many films its self such as Tom Hardy's Legend, The Avengers Age of Ultron, The Muppets, Brad Pitt's Spy Game. The Rivoli is steeped in history and original features. Doors open 8pm, We will have two bars open serving British Ale, Ciders, Draft beer, Wines, as well as serving Hot Dogs, pop corn, and Ice cream.
Doors open 8pm
Film begins 8.30pm
We’ve added more films to our Christmas line up 🎄🎥. Join us at the Rivoli for all the festivities 🥳 We will have a bar open, as well as our pop up Cocktail & Dreams stall not to mention we will also be serving all the sweet and savoury cinema favourites from pop corn, hot dogs and ice cream.
Doors open 8pm, and the film begins 8.30pm Tickets & Info www.croftonparkpictures.com.
... Screening dates- Thursday 13th December - Home Alone @5pm Love Actually @ 8pm
Friday 14th December - Elf @5pm Die Hard @8pm
See More
We have been very busy this year with sold out discos, and high energy nights, thank you to all who support us throughout the year. Next year is looking to be as energetic and Funky as ever.
Join us on Saturday 26th January with DJ Kobayashi, and Soul Sister Symoné. Tickets are selling fast, so don't leave it too late as we have sold over half already ! www.rouges.co.uk
Whats your plans for NYE ? As you know, we love a party at the Rivoli and what better opportunity to have one than on New Year's Eve in one of the oldest Ballroom's in London. All our nights are usually adult only, 21 years plus but we consider ourselves to be a family place, so we're making New Years Eve a family event. We are inviting adults and children over 6 years old (as long as the children are supervised!). Its a night for the whole family. The DJ will set the party a...tmosphere with a mix of Rivoli specials, jive, ballroom, all mixed together with pop, upbeat festive tracks and party classics to say bye bye to 2018 and bring in the new year celebrations. We want you to have a great time! We are the oldest intact ballroom in London! Come and have a look and enjoy the New Year celebrations! We will have two bars open serving Champagne, Wine, Prosecco, Draft Beer, British Ciders, and Soft Drinks. We will have a cloakroom on the night. Dress code is smart, expect party hats, party poppers, streamers...Bring on the Ball ! Tickets can be purchased on www.rivoliballroom.com
See More
Lets go back to 1988 with this action packed thriller, it wouldn't be christmas without it. NYPD cop John McClane (Bruce Willis) goes on a Christmas vacation to visit his wife Holly in Los Angeles where she works for the Nakatomi Corporation. While they are at the Nakatomi headquarters for a Christmas party, a group of robbers led by Hans Gruber take control of the building and hold everyone hostage, with the exception of John.
We will be showing this at the Rivoli Ballroom, ...which has featured in many films itself such as Tom Hardy's Legend, The Avengers, The Muppets and Brad Pitt's Spy Game.
We will have a bar open, as well as our pop up Cocktail & Dreams stall not to mention we will also be serving all the sweet and savoury cinema favourites from pop corn, hot dogs and ice cream.
Doors open 8pm, and the film begins 8.30pm
See More
Join us at Crofton Park Pictures showing Christmas Classic Elf. We will be screening it in The Rivoli Ballroom. Which has featured in many films its self such as Tom Hardy's Legend, The Avengers Age of Ultron, & The Muppets just to name a few.
Perfect in the run up to Christmas so bring the whole family.
... Doors open 5pm,
We will have a food stall open serving all the sweet and savoury cinema favourites as well as a bar open for the adults. The Film begins at 5.30pm sharp
See More
As you know, we love a party at the Rivoli and what better opportunity to have one than on New Year's Eve in one of the oldest Ballroom's in London.
All our nights are usually adult only, 21 years plus but we consider ourselves to be a family place, so we're making New Years Eve a family event. We are inviting adults and children over 6 years old (as long as the children are supervised!). Its a night for the whole family.
The DJ will set the party atmosphere with a mix of Riv...oli specials, jive, ballroom, all mixed together with pop, upbeat festive tracks and party classics to say bye bye to 2018 and bring in the new year celebrations.
We want you to have a great time!
We are the oldest intact ballroom in London! Come and have a look and enjoy the New Year celebrations!
We will have two bars open serving Champagne, Wine, Prosecco, Draft Beer, British Ciders, and Soft Drinks.
We will have a cloakroom on the night.
Dress code is smart, expect party hats, party poppers, streamers...Bring on the Ball !
Tickets can be purchased on www.rivoliballroom.com
See More
Loved it! Lovely room setting, cosy seating and décor. The film sound and image was good, the bar was open with drinks, ice cream and popcorn. It felt like seeing a movie in the 60s!
Last month was fabulous, truly a great night out, step through the glitterball time warp and have the time of your life, one thing Rivoli, you must get those glitter balls working we keep saying it’s the only thing missing �can’t wait to get my Halloween Disco Diva unleashed for this month �
Had a fantastic night with friends here, I'll be going back for more. Fantastic venue.
Had a fantastic night with friends here last Saturday Halloween night! Loved the effort everyone put into dressing up!! Definitely be going back for more. Fantastic venue.
Great venue! First visit tonight, phoned to book tickets and there was no queue, had to pay cash but avoided booking fee . Beautiful dance hall, comfortable bars that were quiet enough for a chat. Enjoyed the 70s and 80s night tonight very much. Great DJ, atmosphere, friendly interestingly dressed guests made the evening a real joy. Especially pleased to have mugs of tea available at the cash bar. Parked easily in a local side street, but next time will get the train from Bromley South. Comfortable powder room and cloakroom. Great selection of music, I was on my feet all night. Thank you, we'll be back.
Great Venue, Great Music, Great Atmosphere ... We Danced ourselves dizzy to the 70s and 80s music ... wish we had found this place years ago <3 <3
Fabulous 50th party last night, with Abba tribute band. What a spectacular setting.
Everyone treated the same ...? All equal just like cheers
Absolutely loved it. The music. ..the artists and the decor.
Absolutely amazing venue !
More about Rivoli Ballroom
Similar Listings
