Venue Description

We are a vibrant arts space in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, The Black Box was established in 2006 as an alternative, fringe-style theatre space. We are now one of the leading lights of the city’s arts and entertainment sector and over the last two decades, our dedication to accessibility, quality and innovation have made us one of the most beloved venues in town with audiences and artists alike. We are passionate about removing barriers to accessing great events and improving the ability for all to experience, enjoy and engage with the arts. We programme and present work across all platforms, from music, literature, and theatre, to film, comedy, live art, cabaret and talks. Most importantly, we provide a unique incubation space for emerging artists, curators and promoters to experiment and try out great new ideas, laying the groundwork for the future of our arts sector. As a not-for-profit arts venue, the Black Box works closely with community initiatives, as well as with many of Belfast’s highest profile festivals. Looking ahead to our third decade, we want to build our role a catalyst and greenhouse for Belfast’s most exciting creative talent, and to play a vital role in the city’s arts offer as a partner, programmer and home from home for artists and audiences.

Accessibility

We aim to provide a great time for everyone. Below are some things you may want to keep in mind if you require any further assistance when you arrive. The Black Box is an inclusive venue and we welcome D/deaf and disabled audiences and artists to the venue The Black Box has step-free access throughout the whole building from the street and has fitted accessible push button automatic doors We welcome any customers that may require to bring medication, food or drink, or medical equipment to manage a medical condition. We also have ear plugs available behind the bars in the venue for those who need them- just ask a member of staff when you are here We welcome assistance dogs into the venue. If you plan on bringing one with you, please do let us know in advance Occasionally some of our events would use strobe lighting. Events using strobe lighting will have this warning in the description online and warning signs would be put up around the venue. If you have any concerns, please let us know. Our dressing room for performers is located on ground level across from accessible toilet facilities. We also have a portable ramp that can be attached to the stage for any performers that require it. Please let us know ahead of your visit to the venue.

Accessibility Guide

Accessibility Guide Link: https://www.blackboxbelfast.com/accessibility-faq/

Accessible Performances

The Black Box offers PA tickets for events at no additional cost for customers who require support to attend the venue. Please get in touch if you would like to arrange a PA ticket for an upcoming show. We do not have a set viewing area, but if you have access requirement please get in touch before your visit and we can reserve a space for you. Upon your arrival, the manager on duty will be there to assist to find a place for you to position yourself for the show. We have a infra-read loop system in the Black Box and Audio Description is available (Advance Booking Required) We host our Black Moon night club once a month, this is a disabled led club for and by adults with learning disabilities - for more info https://www.facebook.com/Blackmoonblackbox/ Drop In - Express Yourself Social Cafe happens on a Tuesday afternoon from 2pm - 4pm and is a creative gathering of people who identify as having a learning disability and/or autism. Gig Buddies - A project for adults with learning disabilities and/or autism to attend gigs with their buddy and be part of the Gig Buddies Belfast community! For More info - https://www.blackboxbelfast.com/gig-buddies-projects/gig-buddies-belfast/

Awards List

We are a Bronze Charter accredited venue with Attitude is Everything

Toilets

We have two accessible toilets in the venue. One located in the main venue space, which can be found 14.6304 metres from the front of the stage. One in The Green Room Bar/performance space which can be found 7.62 meters from the entrance. We are working on developing a changing place toilet in the venue and but for now a changing place toilet can be found at Belfast City Hall. We can provide directions.

Staff

Our team are trained in Disability Equity training. Our outreach and projects are all disabled lead and we welcome all.

Assistance dog facilities

Assistance dog exercise facilities

We have no dedicated exercise facility however we have nearby public open areas.

Other assistance dog facilities

We welcome dogs and have water bowls available