The building on Highgate Road in Kentish Town has served multiple purposes throughout its existence.
Originally opening its doors in December 1934 as a cinema, the venue operated under the name The Forum before later becoming a bingo establishment and eventually transforming into a live music space.
Designed by architect J.
Stanley Beard for Herbert Yapp, a cinema entrepreneur, the structure featured Art Deco luxury combined with Italian Renaissance detailing.
The 2,175-seat venue included grand columns adorning its upper facade and housed a Compton Organ alongside a fully equipped stage designed for theatrical performances.
The building shared architectural similarities with comparable theatres located in Ealing and Fulham.
Upon its inauguration, the venue hosted Sydney Howard, an actor and comedian, who addressed assembled crowds during the opening celebration.
The initial programme featured a trumpet fanfare, the national anthem, a Pathe newsreel, and musical performances by Alfredo and his Orchestra.
In 1935, ownership transferred to Associated British Cinemas, and the establishment was rebranded as ABC Kentish Town in 1963.
The cinema operation concluded on July 18, 1970.
Subsequently, the premises functioned as a bingo hall before being converted into an Irish dance venue.
In 1985, extensive renovations facilitated its reopening as the Town & Country Club.
Under the management of Ollie Smith, the establishment cultivated a reputation as a prominent destination for independent and rock acts, welcoming performers throughout the 1980s and into the 1990s.
Mean Fiddler Music Group, led by Vince Power, acquired the property in 1993 and designated it as the London Forum.
Subsequent ownership, including periods under HMV Forum and O2 Forum management, maintained the venue’s standing as a destination for significant performances.
Several notable artists have appeared at the location.
Björk delivered her inaugural solo concert there in September 1993.
The Arctic Monkeys performed an unannounced show in 2006.
Additional performers have included Dave Grohl, Jack White, and KISS.
Upcoming scheduled appearances feature Graham Coxon, Supergrass, and The Pogues.
Renovation work undertaken in 2007 and subsequent years has enabled the venue to retain contemporary facilities while preserving its Grade II listed status as an example of cinematic architecture from Hollywood’s golden era.