Kiln Theatre | Kilburn, London

Kiln Theatre in Kilburn hosts theatre productions, films, art exhibitions and more. The complex also includes a cinema, plus a café and bar where you can unwind between events.

This vibrant arts venue presents work that reflects the cultural diversity of Brent, giving minority voices a platform and inviting the local community to get involved through a wide range of educational activities. It also runs an active programme of community workshops, offering residents the chance to explore performance, storytelling and creative expression.

What's on at Kiln Theatre

Look forward to an exciting mix of world and UK premieres, revivals and community productions, all celebrating individuality. The on‑site cinema screens independent and arthouse films, adding to the venue’s creative atmosphere.

Highlighted conversations include How to Overcome Trauma with psychotherapist Dr Gwen Adshead, and Starchild, a space‑themed talk by BAFTA‑nominated broadcaster Dame Maggie Aderin‑Pocock.

You can also catch multi-award-winning theatre as Manic Street Creature returns to the stage, or explore Please Please Me by Tom Wright, which delves into the hidden struggles of Brian Epstein, manager of The Beatles from 1961 to 1967. Another standout is Driftwood, a moving story of self‑determination and belonging set in 1950s colonial Trinidad.

Kiln Theatre history

Kiln Theatre, originally known as the Tricycle Theatre, opened in 1980 in a converted Victorian community hall on Kilburn High Road. Over the years, it has built a strong reputation for innovative, socially engaged work, often giving a platform to stories and artists underrepresented on major stages.

In 2018, following a major refurbishment, the venue relaunched as Kiln Theatre. The redevelopment modernised the auditorium, improved accessibility, and expanded the foyer and cinema, while maintaining the intimate atmosphere. Today, Kiln Theatre continues to showcase diverse voices, new writing, and emerging artists as well as offering workshops to the local community and remaining a courageous and respected Off‑West End venue at the heart of Kilburn’s cultural scene.

Why you should go

• See socially relevant productions: Kiln Theatre shines a light on stories rooted in real people and communities.
• Enjoy diverse storytelling: Experience work that celebrates global cultures and shared humanity.
• Support cultural change: The theatre’s mission is to break down barriers and bring people together.

Kiln Theatre seating plan

The Kiln Theatre has 292 seats in the main auditorium which is a two-level space made up of the stalls and the circle, and the cinema auditorium has 291 seats.

How do I get to Kiln Theatre in Kilburn?

The Kiln Theatre is located on Kilburn High Street in Kilburn.

How to get there:

• Underground – The nearest Tube station is Kilburn (Jubilee line), just a seven-minute walk from the venue.
• Overground – The nearest Overground station is Brondesbury (Mildway line), just a three-minute walk from the venue.
• Bus – The following buses stop nearby on Kilburn High Street 16, 32, 98, 316, 328, 332, N16, N98.

Visit London tip

Kiln Theatre is an intimate venue that brings audiences closer to innovative performances and supports emerging artists and the local community, creating a strong sense of connection with each production.