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Black Box

18-22 Hill Street, Belfast, BT1 2LA

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Access Guide

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Overview

  • About View
  • Parking and Public Transport View
  • Getting In and Around View
    • There is step-free access via slope at the most accessible entrance.
    • There is step-free level access throughout the majority of areas.
    • The following areas have step-free access via ramps or slopes: within the main entrance.
    • Access throughout may include manual doors and automatic doors.
  • Getting Help and Assistance View
    • There is seating available.
    • There is a fixed hearing assistance system.
    • You can borrow or hire the following equipment: a manual wheelchair.
    • Documents are available in the following formats: audio (on request).
    • Please note: The Black Box is a host venue for many events programmed by independent festivals and promoters. Access requirements for events programmed by external partners would be via the event organiser/promoter. You can find out who to contact by clicking on the event/ticket link on their website.
    • There is a water bowl available for assistance dogs.
    • There is not a designated assistance dog spending area.
    • Additional facilities/services include: Wi-Fi.
  • Related Access Guides View
    • 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 as 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. 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 as 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.

Regular Accessible Events

  • Black Moon night club - Held once a month, this is a disabled-led club for, and by, adults with learning disabilities - for more information please visithttps://www.facebook.com/Blackmoonblackbox
  • Drop-in - Express Yourself Social Cafe happens on a Tuesday afternoon from 14:00 - 16:00 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 buddies and be part of the Gig Buddies Belfast community For More information, please visithttps://www.blackboxbelfast.com/gig-buddies-projects/gig-buddies-belfast
  • For further information, please click here to visit Black Box's access guide video.

Toilet and Changing Facilities

  • Toilet Facilities View
    • There are 2 toilets with adaptations.
    • Toilets with adaptations are located within the Green Room and out the back of the Theatre/Black Box Bar area.
    • The toilets with adaptations have a transfer space on both sides.
    • The shared toilet facilities are located within the Green Room.
    • The male and female toilet facilities are located out the back of the Theatre/Black Box Bar area.
  • Changing Places and Changing Facilities View
    • Parent and baby changing facilities are located within the Green Room toilet with adaptations and the female toilets.

Parking

  • Drop-off Point View
    • There is not a designated drop-off point available.
  • Public Car Parks View
    • There is a public car park located on Edward Street.
    • The name of the car park is St. Anne's Square Car Park.
    • Designated Blue Badge parking bays are available in the car park.

Entrance (Main)

  • This entrance is located at the front of the building, on Skipper Street.
  • The approach to the entrance has uneven surfaces.
  • The entrance area is clearly signed.
  • There is a canopy or recess which provides weather protection at the entrance.
  • There is step-free level access at the entrance.
  • There are double automatic doors at this entrance.
  • The doors open away from you.
  • There is a push pad at a height of 73cm.
  • The width of the opening is 140cm.
  • There is a small lip on the threshold of the opening.
  • The doors have a high visual contrast.
  • There is a push pad or push button to exit at a height of 95cm.
  • There is a second set of double automatic doors.
  • The second set of doors open towards you.
  • The push pad for the automatic doors is at a height of 94cm.
  • The width of the opening is 148cm.
  • There is a small lip on the threshold of the opening.
  • The second set of doors have a high visual contrast.
  • There is a push pad or push button to exit at a height of 88cm.
  • There is step-free level access as you enter.

Getting Around

  • There is step-free level access throughout the majority of areas.
  • The following areas have step-free access via ramps or slopes: after the main entrance doors, leading to the Green Room and Black Box/Theatre entrances.
  • Access throughout may include automatic doors and manual doors.
  • There is a high visual contrast between the walls and floor in all areas.
  • There is background noise in this area which varies depending on the function/event.
  • Wayfinding signage is provided.
  • The colour, design and typeface of signs is not consistent throughout.
  • Seating available in the walkways includes: benches.
  • Lighting levels vary due to the size of the space.
  • Lighting levels are adjustable in some areas.

Eating and Drinking (The Green Room)

  • Location and Service View
    • The Green Room Bar is located to the right inside the main entrance.
    • The most accessible route has a very easy slope and automatic doors.
    • This area has a bar where drinks can be ordered and numerous seating options.
    • Full table service is available on request only.
    • The following are available: drinking straws and takeaway cups.
    • There is a fixed hearing assistance system which is not clearly signed.
    • The hearing assistance system could not be tested at the time of the survey.
  • Order and Payment View
    • The bar was surveyed.
    • The counter is located at the front of the bar.
    • There is step-free level access to the counter.
    • The height of the counter is 100cm.
    • There is not a lowered section at the counter.
  • Seating Area View
    • There is step-free level access throughout the seating area.
    • There is some room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre (150cm x 150cm).
    • There is space for an assistance dog to rest.
    • Some flooring is shiny.
    • The walls and floor have a high visual contrast.
    • Seating available in this area includes: chairs without armrests and sofas.
    • Furniture available in this area includes: tables and coffee tables.
    • The surface height of the tables is suitable for wheelchair users.
    • The clear height under the tables is suitable for wheelchair users.
    • There is background noise in this area which varies depending on the function/event .
    • Lighting levels were low at the time of the survey.
    • Lighting levels are adjustable.

Toilet with Adaptations (Green Room - Left Hand Transfer)

  • Location and Access View
    • The toilet surveyed is located in the Green Room Bar.
    • The distance from the main entrance is 10m.
    • The most accessible route to the toilet has step-free level access.
    • There is step-free level access into the facility.
    • There is tactile, pictorial and written text signage on or near the door.
    • The door opens outwards and has a high visual contrast.
    • The width of the door opening is 85cm.
    • The door has a locking handle.
    • Internally the door has a high visual contrast.
    • There is not a grab rail on the internal door.
  • Dimensions and Features View
    • The dimensions of the cubicle are 156cm (width) x 216cm (depth) and there is room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre (150cm x 150cm).
    • There is a lateral transfer space to the left as you face the toilet.
    • The lateral transfer space is 85cm (from the side of the toilet pan).
    • There is a push button flush on the wall above the cistern.
    • There is a horizontal grab rail on the non-transfer side.
    • The horizontal grab rail has a high visual contrast.
    • There is a vertical grab rail on the transfer side.
    • The vertical grab rail has a high visual contrast.
    • There is a dropdown rail on the transfer side.
    • The dropdown rail has a high visual contrast.
    • The toilet seat is 46cm from the floor.
    • The toilet seat has a low visual contrast.
    • There is a wall mounted toilet roll holder which cannot be reached when seated on the toilet.
    • The toilet roll holder has a high visual contrast.
    • The toilet roll holder is 70cm from the floor.
    • The wash basin and taps can be reached when seated on the toilet.
    • The wash basin is 73cm from the floor.
    • The wash basin has a lever mixer tap.
    • The vertical grab rails are on both sides of the wash basin.
    • The wash basin grab rails have a high visual contrast.
    • There is a wall mounted soap dispenser which cannot be reached when seated on the toilet.
    • The soap dispenser has a high visual contrast.
    • The soap dispenser is 109cm from the floor.
    • There is not a towel dispenser.
    • There is a wall mounted hand dryer.
    • The hand dryer has a medium visual contrast.
    • The hand dryer is 88cm from the floor.
    • There is a pull cord emergency alarm, however it is not within 10cm from the floor.
    • There is a mirror.
    • There is no shelf.
    • The cubicle has a sanitary bin and a pedal bin.
    • There is one coat hook.
    • The coat hook is 124cm from the floor.
    • The height of the baby change facility when in use is 77cm.
    • The walls and floor have a high visual contrast.
    • Lighting levels were even at the time of the survey.
    • The wall mounted toilet roll holder and soap dispenser were not in use at the time of surveying.
      There was a toilet paper roll and hand dispensed soap bottle situated within reach of the toilet seat.

Eating and Drinking (Bar - Black Box)

  • Location and Service View
    • The bar is located within the Theatre, straight up the slope from the main entrance, through the doors ahead, and to the right.
    • The most accessible route has a very easy slope and automatic doors.
    • This area has a bar where drinks can be ordered, staff who can provide assistance with ordering and numerous seating options.
    • The following are available: drinking straws and takeaway cups.
    • There is a fixed hearing assistance system which is not clearly signed.
    • The hearing assistance system could not be tested at the time of the survey.
  • Order and Payment View
    • The bar was surveyed.
    • The counter is located to the right of the bar/theatre entrance.
    • There is step-free level access to the counter.
    • The height of the counter is 114cm.
    • There is a lowered section at the counter.
    • The height of the lowered section is 75cm.
  • Seating Area View
    • There is step-free level access throughout the seating area.
    • There is room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre (150cm x 150cm).
    • There is space for an assistance dog to rest.
    • The walls and floor have a high visual contrast.
    • Seating available in this area includes: chairs without armrests.
    • Furniture available in this area includes: coffee tables and high tables.
    • The surface height of the tables is not suitable for wheelchair users.
    • The clear height under the tables is not suitable for wheelchair users.
    • There is background noise in this area which varies depending on the function/event .
    • Lighting levels vary due to the size of the space.
    • Lighting levels are adjustable.

Theatre

  • There are not designated spaces for wheelchair users.
  • Wheelchairs are left with you.
  • A companion may sit with you.
  • Companions sit anywhere, as other seating can be moved around to accomodate.
  • There is a hearing assistance loop which is not signed.
  • A deposit is not required for the hearing assistance system.
  • The cinema offers Audio Description, concessions, relaxed or autism friendly performances and signed performances.
  • Assistance dogs are allowed in the auditorium.
  • Comments View
    • Seating is fully movable and can be accommodated easily for wheelchair users. If you have access requirements, please contact the venue before your visit and they can reserve a space for you. Upon your arrival, the manager on duty will be there to assist you in finding a place for you to position yourself for the show.
    • PA/Carer Tickets - Free (Please contact the venue for further information)
    • Please note that booking is required for Audio Description/BSL/ISL and accessible formats.

Toilet with Adaptations (Right Hand Transfer)

  • Location and Access View
    • The toilet surveyed is located through the back doors of the Theatre/Black Box Bar.
    • The distance from the Theatre/Black Box Bar area is 20m.
    • The most accessible route to the toilet has step-free level access and manual doors.
    • There is step-free level access into the facility.
    • There is Braille, pictorial and written text signage on or near the door.
    • The door opens outwards and has a medium visual contrast.
    • The width of the door opening is 87cm.
    • The door has a locking handle.
    • Internally the door has a high visual contrast.
    • There is a grab rail on the internal door with a high visual contrast.
  • Dimensions and Features View
    • The dimensions of the cubicle are 148cm (width) x 283cm (depth) and there is not room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre (150cm x 150cm).
    • There is a lateral transfer space to the right as you face the toilet, however it is obstructed.
    • The lateral transfer space is 80cm (from the side of the toilet pan).
    • There is a push button flush on top of the cistern.
    • There is a horizontal grab rail on the non-transfer side.
    • The horizontal grab rail has a high visual contrast.
    • There is no vertical grab rail for the toilet.
    • There is a dropdown rail on the transfer side.
    • The dropdown rail has a high visual contrast.
    • The toilet seat is 46cm from the floor.
    • The toilet seat has a low visual contrast.
    • There is a wall mounted toilet roll holder which can be reached when seated on the toilet.
    • The toilet roll holder has a high visual contrast.
    • The toilet roll holder is 80cm from the floor.
    • The wash basin and taps can be reached when seated on the toilet.
    • The wash basin is 74cm from the floor.
    • The wash basin has a lever mixer tap.
    • The vertical grab rail is on the right as you face the wash basin.
    • The wash basin grab rail has a high visual contrast.
    • There is a wall mounted soap dispenser which cannot be reached when seated on the toilet.
    • The soap dispenser has a high visual contrast.
    • The soap dispenser is 123cm from the floor.
    • There is not a towel dispenser.
    • There is a wall mounted hand dryer.
    • The hand dryer is 100cm from the floor.
    • There is a pull cord emergency alarm, however it is not within 10cm from the floor.
    • There is a mirror.
    • There is no shelf.
    • The cubicle has a sanitary bin.
    • There are no coat hooks.
    • The walls and floor have a high visual contrast.
    • Lighting levels were even at the time of the survey.
    • There is a hand soap bottle within reach.