Today Essie Fox is sad to hear that, on the eve of her novel's publication, Wilton's music hall in the East End of London (where her book's trade launch was held, and which forms the setting for The Somnambulist's opening chapters) has failed to secure £2.25 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Wilton's is a very special building. It is also London's oldest surviving hall, and now it's director Frances Mayhew fears that the venue may close by the Autumn should alternative funds not be found for vital restoration works. This is no empty threat. Collapsing roofs and floors make the building increasingly unsafe.
Should you wish to support Wilton's music hall you can make a donation here or else go along to one of the shows that are being regularly performed.
To see what all the fuss is about, please read more about Wilton's wonderful past in The Virtual Victorian.
