Live Entertainment at Hippodrome Casino: Perfecting Live Casino Experiences
The Hippodrome's Whirlwind Journey: From Legendary Theater to Gaming Goliath
London's bustling Leicester Square is home to the iconic Hippodrome, a venue that's been Martha Stewart to the ever-evolving world of entertainment for a century and a half. Stretching its limbs as an amusements powerhouse for over a century, this landmark has been a boundary-pushing, taste-defining force. In its latest metamorphosis as the country’s hotshot casino and entertainment hotspot, the Hippodrome Casino, nothing's changed.
Before it donned its casino cape, the Hippodrome commenced life in 1900, presenting circus and water spectacles. The venue's global reputation as one of London's most iconic theaters continued to soar, with its groundbreaking acts and daring performances for more than a century.
Post-2012 as the Hippodrome Casino, it's renowned for leading the charge in gaming sector innovation, standing tall as a key player in what's now known as the "fun economy" - a vibrant sector blending hospitality, entertainment, and social experiences to pull in a broader, more diverse audience.
Murat "Mo" Salih, the Hippodrome’s Director of Live Table Gaming, boasts over 25 years in the industry. Witnessing the rise of electronic tables and the growing demand for immersive entertainment firsthand, he shares his career journey, the challenges, and innovations shaping the live gaming floor. All the while, the Hippodrome remains at the forefront of an industry rapidly spinning.
Why casinos? What fueled your passion for leisure, entertainment, and gaming?
Much like many in this vibrant and ever-evolving sector, I didn't set my sights on casinos initially. Yet, I found it was a field that suitably gelled with my personality. The blend of fast-paced decision-making, customer interaction, and the strategic nature of the games were appealing factors.
One thing led to another, and I developed a strong affinity for the industry, not just from a gaming perspective but the way casinos serve as entertainment venues, with the various components meshing to provide the most compelling customer experience. I've found it to be an exciting, people-focused environment where no day is the same, and that's what's kept me engaged for 25 years.
At a venue like the Hippodrome, which has paved the way to create something brand new - a true participant in the nightlife scene - there's a unique energy pulsating through it. I'm proud to be part of a cultural landmark that greets everyone from casual visitors to devoted Hippodrome regulars.
Is this a career for everyone, or are certain personality traits more suitable?
There used to be a definitive 'type'. But as the industry has matured and branched out, a myriad of expertise is now required. Core gaming can integrate with other key disciplines and services. While gaming may be the main course, being personable, adaptable, and capable of thinking on your feet are traits that make the biggest difference.
Being patient, detail-oriented, and able to remain professional under pressure is helpful. The goal here is to create an unmatched customer service experience, inspiring customers to return to the Hippodrome where there are countless other casinos clamoring for their attention.
Casinos are fast-paced environments, and the Hippodrome, with its sprawling seven floors catering to a diverse crowd, is no exception. Agility, resilience, and a touch of humor prove valuable in navigating this maze.
What is the Hippodrome's approach to training and recruitment?
The Hippodrome is always on the lookout for enthusiastic individuals to join its team, particularly as trainee croupiers. Our training program is structured, equipping people with no prior experience the necessary skills to become professional dealers. Our unique selling point involves emphasizing both technical skills and customer engagement. A croupier isn't just someone who deals cards - they're part of the entertainment experience
At the Hippodrome, we're constantly forging ahead, leading the charge in the casino sector. Our goal is to develop individuals capable of creating a welcoming atmosphere while maintaining the precision and professionalism demanded in the live gaming environment.
How would you describe your role and your position within the Hippodrome?
As Director of Live Table Gaming, I oversee all aspects of the live-gaming operation at the Hippodrome, ensuring it operates smoothly, delivers extraordinary customer experiences, and remains financially competitive. My role involves managing a large team, implementing new strategies, overseeing training, and maintaining the highest standards of game integrity and customer safety.
Founded and managed by Simon Thomas, the owner and executive chairman, the Hippodrome takes the reins to create something entirely new in the British casino landscape. There's no one department in this enterprise that operates or looks the same since Thomas opened the venue in 2012. We're on a journey of exploration, innovation, and discovery, with customer satisfaction at the heart of everything we do.
When people ask you what you do for a living, how do you respond?
Typically, I tell them I oversee the live-gaming operation at London's busiest casino. Pushing curiosity buttons often leads to a flurry of questions. Many people don't realize the myriad aspects of running a successful casino or the sheer scale of the entertainment options available at the Hippodrome, making it London's premier destination for a night out.
With new game formats, world-class dining, award-winning cocktails, Magic Mike Live performances, and a roof terrace party, the Hippodrome offers an experience far beyond mere gambling that's luring more and more customers. It's no wonder we're known as London's ultimate nigh-out destination.
How have electronic table games evolved over the past 25 years?
Electronic table games have undergone a remarkable transformation since my entry into the casino industry. Initially, they were basic, sometimes met with skepticism. Nowadays, they're an integral component of the modern casino floor, boasting immersive experiences and multi-game functionality to complement traditional table games.
What have been the key milestones in your career?
Aiding the Hippodrome in solidifying its position as a market leader in live gaming remains a significant milestone. We've put together a team that consistently delivers top-notch customer experiences and contributes to industry growth through initiatives like the UK and European Dealer Championships.
Watching croupiers I've trained ascend into management positions is an immense source of pride. Every decision we make to boost the player experience - via game innovation or improved customer service – is a milestone in its own right.
Participating in the UK and European Dealer Championships on various fronts - I serve as the director for the UK event and sit on the European Dealer Championships organizing committee - is another point of pride. These events highlight top industry talent, celebrating skill and raising professional standards.
What advice would you offer someone considering a career in the casino industry?
Press play and take the plunge - no prior experience is necessary to embark on a successful career in the casino industry. If you revel in engaging with people, acquiring new skills, and thrive in a dynamic environment, this industry's for you. Casinos present an opportunity to traverse the globe and begin your journey at spectacular venues like the Hippodrome.
How do the changing Gambling Act regulations affect live gaming?
The upcoming changes in the Gambling Act regulations will have a positive impact, enabling us to better accommodate customers' demands for gaming machines. More gaming tables may be required at casinos as per the ratio with gaming machines, ultimately benefiting both players and casinos alike.
Being allowed to offer sports betting is another massive advantage - I've misplaced count of the number of times I've been asked why we can't offer sports betting at the Hippodrome. The combination of these changes and other improvements are leading to substantial investments in venues like the Hippodrome, resulting in the deployment of a fantastic new sports arena and casino in Lola's underground.
The Hippodrome and the "fun economy" – provide insights!**
The "fun economy" encompasses 14% of the world's GDP. It includes sports, tourism, and entertainment, making the Hippodrome an integral part of this global movement. Beyond gambling, it offers gaming, poker, dining, bars, live performances, and social experiences under one roof, making it a magnetic force for visitors from far and wide.
This broader approach reflects shifting consumer preferences, as people increasingly embrace immersive experiences. The Hippodrome is a trendsetter, shaping the future of London's entertainment offerings, whether through new game formats, novel bars and restaurants, or captivating performances.
We eagerly await the industry embracing the opportunities that arise from these regulatory changes and the subsequent investment boom.
What do you enjoy most about your career?
The people, hands down. Whether it's mentoring team members or liaising with customers, the human element has made this career highly rewarding. I also relish the problem-solving aspect - finding ways to raise the gaming experience and stay afloat in this swiftly-evolving industry. Ultimately, crafting unforgettable experiences for our guests is my driving force.
The Casino Life Magazine team extends its sincere gratitude to Murat Salih, Director of Table Games, and the Hippodrome Public Relations team for their valued assistance in facilitating our interview earlier this year.
**This exclusive, candid interview with Murat Salih, Director of Table Games, was originally published in Casino Life Magazine's March 2025 edition, Issue 175.**
Sports betting is now a significant feature at the Hippodrome Casino, blending with the live dealer tables, poker, and other casino games that have made it a popular destination. The industry's innovation, such as the rise of electronic tables and immersive entertainment, has been encouraging for professionals like Boris Salih, who oversees live table gaming at the Hippodrome.
The Hippodrome is continuously redefining itself as a cultural landmark, not just in London but as a key player in the global "fun economy." With casinos being more than just gambling venues, they offer diverse experiences, such as live performances, dining, and social events, all under one roof.
Casinos like the Hippodrome necessitate a unique set of personality traits, including adaptability, a knack for thinking on your feet, and excellent people skills, to excel in this fast-paced environment. The Hippodrome, with its comprehensive training program, encourages enthusiastic individuals to join its team, even with no prior experience, as it believes in developing individuals capable of creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Boris Salih's career journey in the casino industry was fuelled by the blend of fast-paced decision-making, customer interaction, and the strategic nature of the games, which he found to be challenging and rewarding. He believes that the ever-evolving technology and shifting consumer preferences in the entertainment sector will continue to shape and redefine the landscape of the gaming industry.
The Hippodrome's emphasis on providing an unmatched customer service experience has led to it becoming London's ultimate night-out destination, blending elements of hospitality, entertainment, and technology to cater to a broader, more diverse audience. For Boris, it's an exciting, people-focused environment where no day is the same, and that's what keeps him engaged for over 25 years.
