Rainbow Theatre
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The Rainbow Theatre
The Rainbow Theatre was one of London’s most iconic music venues during the golden age of rock and soul. Originally opened as the Finsbury Park Astoria in 1930, it transitioned from cinema to live concert venue in the 1960s and quickly became a stage where music history was made.
Jimi Hendrix famously set his guitar on fire here, and Bob Marley recorded Live! at the Rainbow during his legendary 1977 run. Though no longer hosting gigs, the building remains a listed landmark and a sacred site in the history of British live music.
What is the Rainbow Theatre’s capacity?
The historic venue seated around 3,000 guests during its peak as a music hall.
Who has performed at the Rainbow Theatre?
From the 1960s to the early 80s, the venue welcomed legends such as Jimi Hendrix, David Bowie, Bob Marley, Queen, The Who, and Pink Floyd.
Why is the Rainbow Theatre associated with Jimi Hendrix?
The venue is legendary for Jimi Hendrix’s fiery 1967 performance where he famously set his guitar alight on stage, cementing the Rainbow’s reputation as a rock ‘n’ roll landmark.
When did the Rainbow Theatre stop being a live music venue?
Live music events ceased in the early 1980s. The building was repurposed in 1988 and no longer operates as a public concert venue, though it remains a listed site.