Our Story

Founded by John Price nearly 30yrs ago, The Portico has been a lifetime ‘work-in-progress’ project, with a vision to build a local thriving creative community, inspired by the eastern concepts of Chi Vortex - bringing through a flow of good people and good energy.

Currently led by a collective team of future thinkers, The Portico aligns itself with the original beginnings of the building, as a space for community and local entertainment. Today the venue has established itself as a nurturing space that supports the growth of the community rooted in health, wellbeing, creativity and communication.

Intrinsically connected to the arts and local council, The Portico recently installed filming facilities - including studio and equipment for hire, encouraging local young creatives to explore their talents. Playing a key role in advocating and influencing cultural and political initiatives that have benefited the local community and surrounding independent businesses, The West Norwood Feast is a great example of the work we continue to pursue.

Dating back to 1885, the Victorian public hall on Knights Hill Road was originally built to provide popular entertainment for the citizens of Norwood, where music halls were a tradition rooted in the working class history of London. 

In the late 19th century, the Lambeth and Kennington area was a thriving scene for music hall entertainers, pulling in fresh-faced talents looking for their first taste of the stage, including a young Charlie Chaplin who reputedly once performed here. Born in the Lambeth area, and with both parents regularly working the music hall circuit, it’s likely he trod the boards of what is now Portico.