Live Entertainment at Hippodrome Casino: Embracing Real-Time Gaming Experience
Hippodrome's Lively Journey: Mo Salih's Career in the Casino Game
By Peter Dash
Londontown's renowned Hippodrome Casino, stationed at the thriving Leicester Square intersection, has been a typhoon of transformation for 125 years. With a whopping 250,000 folks passing through its doors everyday in summer, it's no surprise this iconic venue, known as the "casino enfant terrible," never ceases to reinvent itself. Its latest reincarnation as the UK's most popular casino and a prime entertainment hub, the Hippodrome Casino, leaves no stone unturned.
The Hippodrome embarked on its journey in 1900, presenting spectacles of water and circus acts, and paved the way as one of London's most iconic theatres, pushing boundaries and redefining tastes. Ever since it opened its doors as the Hippodrome Casino in 2012 with London Mayor Boris Johnson spinning the first wheel, it has been unparalleled in leading innovation and becoming a critical player in the "fun economy" - an amalgamation of hospitality, entertainment, and social experiences that caters to an expansive audience.
Getting acquainted with the Hippodrome's director of live table gaming, Murat "Mo" Salih, reveals an enlightening tale of his 25-plus years in the industry. His evolving journey, delving into the challenges and innovations shaping the gaming landscape, and the Hippodrome remaining at the forefront of the ever-evolving industry comes to light in this heart-to-heart interview.
What ignited your passion for the leisure, entertainment, and gaming world, Mo?
Much like many in this thrilling and constantly evolving sector, I didn't initially aim for a career in casinos. However, I soon found the combination of fast-paced decision-making, customer interactions, and the strategic nature of the games captivating. My fascination with the industry didn't lie solely in gaming, but rather with the operation of casinos as entertainment venues, and the intricate workings of numerous departments collaborating to offer the finest customer experience. It’s become an exciting, people-focused environment where no two days are the same, and that's what has kept me hooked for 25 years. Working at a dynamic venue like the Hippodrome, which has paved the way for something new - a true participant in the nightlife - offers a unique energy. You're part of a bigger cultural landmark, welcoming everyone from casual visitors to committed Hippodrome regulars.
Personality traits essential for success in this field?
While there once was a distinct "type" in the industry, as it's matured and diversified, there are various paths to success. In terms of gaming, almost anyone can hone the skills needed to work at the gaming tables. However, certain traits help make an impact. Being approachable, adaptable, and quick-thinking is valuable. Patience, an eye for detail, and the ability to deliver professional service under pressure are crucial as well. Creating the best customer experience possible matters, as there are many other casinos to choose from. If you thrive in a fast-paced social setting, enjoy working as part of a team, and relish the opportunity to interact with diverse audiences, it could be a rewarding career.
The Hippodrome's approach to training and recruitment?
We're always on the hunt for enthusiastic people to join our team, especially as trainee croupiers. We offer a comprehensive training program, enabling people with no prior experience to learn croupier skills and become professional dealers. What sets us apart is our emphasis on technical skills as well as customer engagement. A croupier isn't merely a card dealer; they're a crucial part of the entertainment experience. Our goal is to develop individuals who can create a welcoming atmosphere while maintaining the precision and professionalism demanded by live gaming.
Describe your role, Mo, and your position within the Hippodrome.
As the director of live table gaming, I oversee all aspects of the live-gaming operation, ensuring efficient management, exceptional customer experiences, and commercial competitiveness. My responsibilities include managing a large team, implementing new game ideas, supervising training, and maintaining the highest standards of game integrity and customer safety. Maintaining a balance of operational leadership, strategic planning, and hands-on decision-making keeps things interesting. The Hippodrome's reputation for boundary-pushing in gaming and entertainment is well-known, and Simon Thomas, its owner and founder, is fast becoming a legend in the sector for reshaping the British casino. It's an exciting time to be a part of this cultural landmark.
What do you tell others when they ask what you do for a living?
I usually say, "I run the live-gaming operation at London's busiest casino." This usually sparks curiosity, and the follow-up questions start pouring in. Many people don't realize the sheer amount of work involved in operating a successful casino, from dealers to security, housekeeping, and marketing. It's more than playing cards - it's about providing an experience. The "Hippodrome experience." People visit us not just for the gaming, but for the entire package - from themed poker tournaments to world-class dining, award-winning cocktails, live performances, and rooftop parties. It's no wonder we're known as London's "biggest night out."
The evolution of electronic table games during the last 25 years.
ETGs have come a long way. When I started, they were basic and often met with skepticism. Now, they're an essential part of the modern casino floor, offering an immersive experience with advanced technology such as live dealer integration and multi-game functionality. ETGs cater to a range of players, from those seeking a lower-stakes environment to those looking for more autonomy. At the Hippodrome, they complement traditional tables by offering alternative ways to play and even “learn to play” new card games without leaving the machine, which is fantastic.
Key milestones in your career.
One of my most significant milestones is helping establish the Hippodrome as a market leader in live gaming. We've built a dedicated team that excels at delivering premier customer experiences and contributing to the industry's growth through initiatives like the UK and European Dealer Championships. Watching trainees I've personally supported advance into management roles is incredibly gratifying. Each decision we make to improve the player experience - whether through game innovation or customer service - feels like a significant milestone in its own right.
Your role in the UK and European Dealer Championships.
It's a privilege to serve as director of the UK event and a member of the organizing committee of the European Dealer Championships. These competitions showcase the best talent in the industry, celebrating skill and professionalism while fostering career growth. It's rewarding to witness the best croupiers compete on an international stage and realize that we play a role in elevating industry standards.
Advice for someone considering a career in the casino industry.
Take the first step! This is an industry where you can start with no experience and build a successful career, as long as you enjoy working with people, learning new skills, and thrive in a dynamic environment. Don't overthink it; the casino world offers countless opportunities - and the Hippodrome, as a pioneer in the British gaming scene, is a fantastic place to start your journey.
The impact of Gambling Act regulations on live gaming.
The upcoming changes to regulations will bring many positive changes. Being able to better meet customer demand for gaming machines, as well as introducing sports betting, will greatly improve our business. The combination of these changes is leading to a significant investment in the Hippodrome, creating a spectacular new sports arena and casino in Lola's underground. This will undoubtedly make us even more attractive to customers. And as other casinos invest likewise, the entire sector will benefit.
The Hippodrome and the 'fun economy': tell us more about that.
The ‘fun economy’ sector represents 14% of the world's GDP today, with sports, tourism, and entertainment at its core. The Hippodrome is right in the heart of it. Our integration of casino gaming, live shows, and dining experiences creates a versatile entertainment hub, appealing to diverse audiences. This broader approach reflects changing consumer preferences, as people increasingly seek immersive experiences. We're at the forefront of shaping the future of leisure in London, constantly evolving to meet that demand, whether through new game formats, innovative bars and restaurants, or unique entertainment offerings.
Aspects of your career that make you most proud.
The people, hands down. I relish mentoring staff, interacting with customers, and collaborating with industry peers. The human element makes this career fulfilling. I also enjoy the problem-solving aspect - figuring out how to enhance the gaming experience and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. At the end of the day, creating memorable experiences for our guests is what drives me.
On behalf of the Casino Life Magazine team, we'd like to express our gratitude to Murat Salih, Director of Table Games, and the Hippodrome's Public Relations team for their valuable assistance and cooperation in facilitating our interview earlier this year.
This exclusive, enlightening interview with Murat Salih, Director of Table Games, first appeared in the March 2025 edition of Casino Life Magazine, Issue 175.
- The Hippodrome Casino's journey began as a water and circus spectacle theatre in 1900, and it transformed into a lively casino in 2012, becoming the UK's most popular casino and a leading player in the "fun economy."
- In a heart-to-heart interview, the Hippodrome's director of live table gaming, Murat "Mo" Salih, spoke about his 25-year career in the industry, characterized by challenges, innovations, and the evolving gaming landscape.
- For Mo, the combination of fast-paced decision-making, customer interactions, and the strategic nature of games captivated him, and he found his passion in managing casinos as entertainment venues.
- To succeed in the sector, Mo emphasized the importance of being approachable, adaptable, quick-thinking, patient, detail-oriented, and delivering professional service under pressure.
- The Hippodrome offers a comprehensive training program to enable people with no prior experience to learn croupier skills and become professional dealers.
- In his role as the director of live table gaming at the Hippodrome Casino, Mo manages the entire operation, from managing a large team to implementing new game ideas, training, and maintaining high standards of integrity and safety.
- Encouraging responsible gambling, Mo sees a bright future for the sector, as changes to regulations will allow for better customer demand for gaming machines, sports betting, and meaningful investments in casino venues like the Hippodrome, redefining casino-and-gambling trends and fostering a responsible casino-culture.
