Feature: Hippodrome Casino Murat “Mo” Salih, the Hippodrome’s director of live table gaming
The Art of Live Gaming Murat Salih’s journey at the Hippodrome Casino. By Peter White
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ondon’s iconic Hippodrome is no stranger to reinvention. Sited at the ‘busy corner’ of Leicester Square – in summer more than 250,000 pass its front door every single day – it has been something of an ever-evolving entertainment enfant terrible throughout its 125-year history. In its latest reinvention as the country’s most popular casino and entertainment venue, the Hippodrome Casino, nothing has changed. The Hippodrome started life in 1900 presenting circus and water spectacles, and gained a worldwide 8
reputation for its groundbreaking amusements for the next 100-plus years as one of London’s most iconic theaters. It pushed boundaries, redefined tastes and presented the next big thing. Since opening in 2012 as the Hippodrome Casino – London Mayor Boris Johnson spun the first wheel – it is famous for having set the standard for sector innovation. It is also widely recognised as a key player in what has become known as the “fun economy” – a sector where hospitality, entertainment and social experiences merge to attract a broader, more diverse audience. www.casinolifemagazine.com