Tease-O-Rama Burlesque Show 24.09.16, Velma Von Bon Bon (photo from Performers website)
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Black Box

4.6
·922 reviews·, United Kingdom

Belfast's vibrant arts hub for music, comedy, theatre, and more, offering intimate performances in a welcoming, historic setting.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wednesday evenings

Free shows & community vibe

CrowdMedium
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Tease-O-Rama Burlesque Show 24.09.16, Velma Von Bon Bon (photo from Performers website)

Black Box

Best Time

Wednesday evenings

Free shows & community vibe

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Belfast's vibrant arts hub for music, comedy, theatre, and more, offering intimate performances in a welcoming, historic setting.

4.6
(922 reviews)

"A vital institution of the Belfast creative scene, supporting diverse artists and offering a homely atmosphere."

Vertical photo
TIP

📅 Check Listings First

Events vary nightly. Always check the Black Box schedule to see what's on before you go!

🍻 Support the Bar

Enjoy a drink from the bar to support this vital arts institution. They offer table service sometimes.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Live Music Performances

Live Music Performances

Upstairs Venue

Experience a wide array of music genres, from punk to pop, in an intimate setting that echoes Belfast's vibrant music history.

Stand-Up Comedy Nights

Stand-Up Comedy Nights

Various Spaces

Catch local and touring comedians in a relaxed atmosphere, often featuring free shows in the downstairs bar.

The Green Room

The Green Room

Green Room

A versatile space perfect for more intimate shows, events, and exhibitions, offering a unique performance experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Check the Gig Schedule

Black Box hosts a diverse range of events, from intimate gigs to comedy nights. Always check their listings before visiting to ensure you catch the performances you're interested in. It's a hub for Belfast's creative scene.

Embrace the Vibe

This is an arts center where anything can happen! Expect a warm welcome and a casual, artistic atmosphere, especially in the front room bar. It's known for its intimate feel and support for local and touring artists.

Best Times

When
Wednesday evenings
Why
Free shows & community vibe
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend evenings
Why
Live music & comedy
Crowd
High
When
Saturday afternoons
Why
Quiet atmosphere, table service
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Retro Room Launch at the Black Box Nov 29th

📅 Check Listings First

Events vary nightly. Always check the Black Box schedule to see what's on before you go! Reddit

🍻 Support the Bar

Enjoy a drink from the bar to support this vital arts institution. They offer table service sometimes. Reddit

reddit.com

Belfast stand-up comedy, any suggestions for weekend venues?

reddit.com

I need to rent out a bar for a Saturday in Belfast and am unsure what the best venues are.

🎤 Open Mic & Free Shows

Look out for free performances and open mic nights, especially in the downstairs bar area. Reddit

🎶 Intimate Gig Experience

The venue offers a great, up-close experience with artists, making for memorable live music. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

📅 Check Listings First

Events vary nightly. Always check the Black Box schedule to see what's on before you go! Reddit

🍻 Support the Bar

Enjoy a drink from the bar to support this vital arts institution. They offer table service sometimes. Reddit

🎤 Open Mic & Free Shows

Look out for free performances and open mic nights, especially in the downstairs bar area. Reddit

🎶 Intimate Gig Experience

The venue offers a great, up-close experience with artists, making for memorable live music. Reddit

🚻 Unisex Toilets

Be aware that toilets are unisex, which some visitors may not prefer later in the evening. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(922 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Black Box is celebrated as a vital and welcoming arts center in Belfast, praised for its intimate atmosphere and diverse programming, from live music to comedy. Visitors appreciate the friendly staff and the opportunity to experience both established and emerging artists in a unique, homely setting. However, some guests have noted concerns regarding the unisex toilet facilities.

"Saw the Delines from Portland, Oregon play here last night - 26.9.25. Nice intimate space. Good bar and toilet facilities. The gig was fully seated. Highly recommend."

Paul McCabe

"Absolutely brilliant…. A free place to hear others speak about life’s challenges and fun!
Wednesday night once a month is an excellent opportunity to listen and gets you out of the house!!
Clean toilets, there’s a bar for those who want too indulge.
Highly recommend!"

P MC

"I happen to be a member here which I think I should declare. No matter about this as it makes absolutely no difference to the warmth of welcoming you will receive from Black Box Staff. This is an ARTS CENTRE so all types are welcome and you should be ready for anything to happen around you. World Artists, Musicians, Poets, Authors, Comics often put on a free show in the casual Artistic atmosphere of the front room bar downstairs. The larger venue upstairs is often the location for famous Pop, Rock , Alternative Music Artists past, present and future. I have seen friends,The Outcasts, Altered Images, Daddy Longlegs, my good mate Terri Hooley to name but a few. Great Homely atmosphere throughout helped by the old building retaining much of its Gentleman's Residence town house features. A Punk Gig by The Outcasts in the upstairs bedrooms like venue is as close as you will get to experiencing the Original Belfast Punk, "Good Vibrations" occasion as it was for us Original Crew back in the Day of late 70's - early 80's."

IPTF UNMIK

What People Like

Intimate venue feel
Diverse arts programming
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Unisex toilets

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Black Box is located in Belfast. Public transport options are available, and it's often accessible by taxi or ride-sharing services. Check local transport apps for the most up-to-date routes and schedules.

Parking availability can vary in the city center. It's advisable to check for nearby public car parks or consider public transport to avoid parking hassles.

The venue aims to be accessible. It's recommended to contact Black Box directly in advance to discuss specific accessibility needs for performances.

Many visitors opt for public transport or taxis to reach Black Box, especially for evening events, to avoid parking issues and enjoy the nightlife.

Depending on your starting point, Black Box is often within walking distance of Belfast's city center, making it a convenient option for many.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

For popular music acts and comedy shows, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended. Some events, especially in the downstairs bar, may be free or have a pay-on-the-door option. Reddit

Opening hours can vary depending on scheduled events. The bar is typically open during event times, and sometimes during quieter afternoons. Check their website for specific daily hours.

Yes, some visitors are members, which may offer benefits. Membership can be a way to support the arts center and potentially gain access to special events. Reddit

For some events, tickets might be available on the door, but it's not guaranteed, especially for high-demand performances. It's safer to book ahead if you have a specific show in mind.

Refund and exchange policies are typically set by the event promoter. It's best to check the terms and conditions at the time of purchase or contact the venue directly for clarification.

🎫 🎤 Onsite Experience

Black Box is a versatile arts center hosting music, theatre, comedy, film, visual art, circus, and cabaret. It's a hub for diverse creative expression. Reddit

The atmosphere is described as warm, welcoming, and artistic. It's known for its intimate feel and the potential for spontaneous performances in the bar area. Reddit

While some reviews mention table service, it's unclear if full food service is consistently offered. It's best to check with the venue directly or plan to dine elsewhere if you require a meal.

The venue has unisex toilets. Some visitors have noted that cleanliness can be an issue later in the evening. Reddit

Absolutely! The downstairs bar often hosts free events and has a relaxed vibe, making it perfect for a casual night out with friends. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary by event. Generally, flash photography is discouraged to avoid disturbing performers and other audience members. Check with venue staff or event organizers.

The intimate setting offers unique photo opportunities. The stage area during a performance, the bar with its artistic decor, and the historic features of the building can all make for great shots.

The upstairs venue is often set up for seated performances, which can provide clear sightlines. Consider the lighting conditions, which will depend on the specific show.

Professional photography or videography usually requires prior permission from the venue and event organizers. Always inquire beforehand to avoid issues.

A camera with good low-light performance is ideal, as many events take place in dimly lit environments. A versatile lens that can handle different focal lengths would also be beneficial.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Black Box is primarily an adult-oriented arts venue, certain events might be suitable for families. It's crucial to check the specific event listings for age recommendations. The venue's diverse programming means there could be family-friendly theatre, circus, or film screenings. The casual atmosphere of the downstairs bar might also be more relaxed for families during quieter times, though it's best to confirm event suitability beforehand. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Black Box is a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers. Many events, especially those in the downstairs bar, are free or have a very low cover charge. This allows visitors to experience Belfast's vibrant arts scene without breaking the bank. Checking the venue's schedule for 'free shows' or 'open mic nights' is a great strategy for an affordable and authentic experience. Reddit

🎶 Music Aficionados

For those passionate about live music, Black Box is a must-visit. The venue has a reputation for hosting a wide range of genres, from punk legends to emerging indie bands. The intimate setting ensures a close connection with the artists, making for a truly immersive experience. Keep an eye on their listings for upcoming gigs that align with your musical tastes. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Belfast's Creative Scene

Black Box is more than just a venue; it's a cornerstone of Belfast's artistic community. Described as a 'vital institution,' it fosters a welcoming environment for a wide spectrum of creative endeavors. From punk gigs that echo the city's rebellious past to contemporary theatre and comedy, the venue champions both established and emerging artists. The staff are consistently praised for making performers and attendees feel valued, with specific mentions of sound engineers going the extra mile. Reddit

This commitment to the arts is palpable in the building's atmosphere. The old townhouse retains its charm, creating a 'homely' and 'artistic' vibe, particularly in the downstairs bar. This casual space often hosts free shows, allowing artists to connect directly with the audience and fostering a sense of community. It's this blend of professional performance spaces and intimate, accessible areas that makes Black Box a unique and beloved spot in Belfast. Reddit

Experiencing Live Music and Comedy

For music lovers, Black Box offers an intimate concert experience. Whether it's a rock band or a more niche genre, the venue's setup ensures you're close to the action. Visitors have highlighted specific memorable gigs, noting the quality of sound and the overall atmosphere. The upstairs venue is particularly noted for hosting significant musical acts, providing a platform for both local talent and touring artists. Reddit

Comedy enthusiasts will also find a home at Black Box. The venue is known for hosting stand-up nights, often with a relaxed and engaging atmosphere. Redditors have inquired about comedy venues in Belfast, and Black Box frequently comes up as a spot for such events, especially during the week. The opportunity to catch comedians in a more intimate setting, sometimes even for free in the bar area, makes it an attractive option for a fun night out. Reddit

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