What Is Phoenix Arts Club?

Updated

Phoenix Arts Club is an independent cabaret and variety venue in Soho, London, created by entertainers for entertainers. It hosts nightly multi-line-up shows spanning cabaret, variety, drag, musical theatre, burlesque, aerial and comedy, then transforms into a late-night cocktail bar after the performances. If you want a theatrical night out in central London with the option to just buy a ticket rather than commit to membership, this is the key thing to know: non-members can purchase tickets to a show and receive temporary membership for the night.

What happens at Phoenix Arts Club

The venue describes itself as London's legendary theatrical hangout, now celebrating 35+ years. Its programme is built around nightly multi-line-up cabaret shows, with performers drawn from cabaret and variety — drag, musical theatre, burlesque, aerial, comedy and more. Because the line-ups change, the specific acts on any given night are not fixed; the club notes that "you never know who might take to the stage."

After the show, the space becomes a late-night cocktail bar and hangout. It welcomes West End theatre workers, actors, writers, painters and film-makers through its art deco doors, and it stays open from 9pm 'til late for showtunes singalong.

Who it's for

  • Cabaret and variety fans who want a multi-act show rather than a single headliner.
  • Theatre industry people and night owls looking for a late bar in Soho after a show.
  • Visitors to London who want a Soho night out with a theatrical edge.
  • Non-members — you do not need to join to attend a show.

Tickets, membership and prices

Option What you get Price (as stated by the venue)
Show ticket (non-member) Entry to a show plus temporary membership for the night From £15
Yearly membership Annual membership; all monies raised are reinvested back into the Club From £150

The club states that prices start from just £15 for show tickets, and that yearly membership starts at £150. It also says all monies raised are reinvested back into the Club's fabric and frame. Advanced booking is essential, so plan ahead rather than turning up on the night.

Practical things to know before you go

  • Location: Soho, London — in the heart of the West End theatre district.
  • Timing: Shows are nightly; the venue is open 9pm 'til late for showtunes singalong.
  • Booking: Advanced booking is essential.
  • Accessibility stance: The club says it believes the arts should be accessible, which is reflected in the from-£15 ticket pricing.
  • Reputation: It reports 1,000+ 5-star reviews across Google, TripAdvisor and Facebook, and has been recognised by The Handbook as "best bar for a touch of theatrics" and by Time Out as a "most loved late night venue." Secret London describes its artistic programme as one of the most diverse in London, bringing new and emerging artists to the West End.

How to decide if it's right for you

Choose Phoenix Arts Club if you want a Soho night that combines a multi-act cabaret or variety show with a late bar, and you prefer buying a single ticket over committing to membership. It suits people who enjoy variety line-ups and a theatrical crowd. If you want a fixed headline act, a quiet early evening, or a venue outside Soho, this is less likely to fit. To stay updated on line-ups and dates, the site offers a "Stay in the loop" sign-up.