Olympic Games culture boss Keith Khan is the new man in charge at Hackney Empire

The man in charge of culture at the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games has been unveiled as the new boss of the Hackney Empire.

Keith Khan said the building, which hosts comedy, theatre, music and dance, was “at the heart of London”.

Opened in 1901 as a music hall, the venue on Mare Street in east London has seen performances by stars from Charlie Chaplin to Julie Andrews.

In the 1980s, it was at the heart of the alternative comedy boom hosting stand-up acts from Ben Elton to French and Saunders.

Khan, an artist and film director who worked on The Queen's Commonwealth celebration for Her Jubilee and was head of culture for the London Olympic and Paralympic Games, will become the Empire’s creative director in September when Yamin Choudury leaves.

He said: “I am super excited to be joining the team at Hackney Empire. It is in one of the best areas in London…the heart of many of my passions, such as design, fashion, and all sorts of creative people.

“It is a type of diversity that I hope to reflect in this amazing building. I love it, as it has such a reputation as a venue, not tied to a particular art form or community. Some recall it as a big bingo hall, others think about its comedy and music programme.

“But overall it is at the heart of London, and its focus appeals to multiple audiences. That is what I find thrilling about this opportunity.”