26-28 New Kent Road,
Elephant and Castle,
SE1 6TJ
0872 148 3159
Note: Calls cost 10p per min plus network extras.
The ViewLondon Review
The Coronet is a good example of successful regeneration in a forgotten-about area. Once it was a run down Elephant and Castle cinema with a big history, now The Coronet Theatre is a top venue with a big future.
The Venue
Right on the corner of the many Elephant and Castle roundabouts, The Coronet Theatre could easily be missed with so much else to going on and a busy bus stop right outside. Whilst the shiny exterior has become dull since its 2004 opening, the interior more than makes up for it.
There’s an ironically futuristic feel – the layout and red velvet curtains and chairs all conjure up images of the cinema’s past, yet the use of shiny metal and glass at the bar guides you to the present and beyond. There’s an outside smoking area, which is popular with the hardcore clubbers that congregate here at the weekend. The club is only open for specific events, so it’s worth calling beforehand to check dates.
The Atmosphere
The dance space at The Coronet Theatre is huge, and the stage is central to the crazy weekend vibes the DJs and MCs manage to masterly create. This ensures the clientele are die-hard ravers for the most part – although the venue also hosts concerts and comedy nights, which brings a different crowd into the mix.
As with most South London clubs, the bouncers can be burly and a bit rude – but their attention to detail is what will keep you safe. The earplug wearing bar staff may seem more like they’re on a night out, but they do their job, and lend added atmosphere to the club.
The Music
Drum and Bass nights are the main attraction at The Coronet Theatre, and with a newly installed sound-system this genre of music will no doubt continue to make this club as a winning venue.
The Drink
They keep it simple at The Coronet Theatre – a standard spirit, beer and wine selection served in plastic cups and costing standard prices (£5 for vodka and mixer, £3.50 for beer and wine).
The Last Word
The Coronet Theatre is an excellent place to rave it up into the early hours of the morning, just don’t go expecting cocktails and canapes – this is Elephant and Castle, after all.