Metal Insider is getting into the Halloween spirit this year with something a little different. Throughout October, we’re sharing the history and eerie tales behind venues across the world. Check out our latest column, Halloween Countdown for more, and Enjoy!
Introduction
The famous Royal Albert Hall opened its doors in 1871 at the request of Queen Victoria in memory of Prince Albert. One of London’s finest, the elaborate venue remains historic and known as one of the most iconic concert venues. The massive structure, covering over 20,000 square feet, was designed by civil engineers Captain Francis Fowke and Major-General Henry Y.D. Scott, and was built by Lucas Brothers. The glass dome has a red-brick exterior, decked out in historical luxury while keeping it open to the community for more than 150 years’ worth of entertainment. Located in South Kensington beside Hyde Park, the venue now hosts over 400 events each year, with a capacity of 5,200.
Facts
Location: South Kensington, London, England
Venue Type: Concert hall / performance venue
Year Built (and key dates): Opened March 29, 1871; celebrated 150th anniversary in 2021
Status: Active, Grade I listed building (buildings that are of exceptional interest)
Capacity: Approximately 5,272 seats
Music Cred
While Cannibal Corpse may be too brutal for the Royal Theater, the venue has held countless events from all subgenres. Here are a few within rock/heavier music: The Who, Sex Pistols, feat. Frank Carter, Wardruna, The Raven Age, Apocalyptica, The Darkness, The Rolling Stones, Deep Purple, and Black Sabbath.
Reported Hauntings
Despite its longstanding reputation, London’s Royal Albert Hall has a long history of paranormal activity. According to the Independent, published back in 1996, the management at that time had to call in a paranormal investigator.
Henry Willis
Location: Near the Grand Organ and auditorium
The most well-known presence is from organ builder Henry Willis. Witnesses have described a stooped man in a dark skullcap near the organ, believed to be Willis returning to inspect the 150-year-old organ he once constructed.
Two Victorian Women
Location: Corridors and basement near the artists’ entrance
Another popular sighting traces back to the Victorian era. Two talkative and lively women are spotted walking through restricted areas before dissolving into nothingness. It’s been theorized that these women came from what was known as the Gore House, which existed before the venue was built. The house was allegedly the home to Count d’Orsay and Lady Blessington, and it was also rumored to be a brothel.
The Unknown
Location: Front row of the stalls
This sighting is the least popular, not fully confirmed. Still, there have been alleged reports of a figure resembling a pale-faced Victorian-era man, often seen drifting through walls during performances.
Visit Info:
Beyond concert tickets, there are tours available taking you behind the scenes of the venue. More information available here.
Interested in horror and the paranormal? Metal Insider is teaming up with the newly resurrected site Dizarranged, which is also running a haunted countdown to Halloween, featuring 31 haunted places from around the globe.
