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Stageright Sites > StageRight Performance > Blog > Audience Seating > The Benefits of Having a Black Box Theatre
The Benefits of Having a Black Box Theatre
October 30, 2019
Now that we’ve successfully established what a black box theatre is and touched on why facilities are using them more and more, we’re going to dig further into the specifics of why they’re beneficial. What are the true benefits of having a black box theatre?
Smaller Productions
Not every production makes sense for the main area in a facility and a black box theatre makes it possible to have smaller productions that aren’t right for that space. One example of this could be the local theatre troupe. If a show isn’t going to fill the main theatre area, it’s probably a better fit to host in the black box space. In addition to allowing for community and experimental theater events that aren’t practical for the main stage space, the black box theatre will be able to host a great number of events during the year which leads us into our next point.
Consistent Use of the Facility
At the end of the day, facilities need to pay their bills to stay in business and there usually aren’t enough large-scale productions to fill the main space every day of the week. Opening your facility to these smaller performances will allow you to open your doors more often which equates to an increase in revenue.
Flexible Layouts
Some performances require alternative layouts and this can be accommodated through a black box theatre if it’s outfitted with portable risers, seating, and staging. Some of these alternative layouts can be as simple as needing a different sized stage or more complex like rearranging both the staging and seating to create a theatre in the round like in the image below.
Whatever type of layouts you’ll be using, make sure you consult with an expert to make sure you’re getting the right equipment for what you’ll be doing. For example, if you won’t be rearranging your seating risers, you can use telescopic seating which are easier to set-up and will help you to save storage space.
More Community Support
Having the ability to host smaller events means that you’ll inevitably be hosting more local events. This is great because having more community support and word of mouth means that more people will be aware of your larger events that aren’t necessarily being put on by community members. This should result in more people from the community attending those shows as well.
Easy Scene Flexibility
Black box theatres are generally painted black which points the focus on the performance. Since these productions are done with limited props, the dark room helps to give the aura of anyplace. It’s easy to transport the audience somewhere else even with the limited use of effects.
Conclusion
There are many benefits that a facility can gain by having a black box theatre. Since every production won’t work in the main room, facilities are missing out on hosting events these smaller, more unique events. To maximize revenue and gain more community support, consider building a black box theatre in your facility.
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Posted in Audience Seating, Blog, Stages & Risers|Leave a comment
As an expert in the field of performing arts spaces and theatre design, I've had extensive experience working with various types of theatres, including black box theatres. My expertise stems from hands-on involvement in designing, implementing, and optimizing performance spaces for a diverse range of productions. I have collaborated with professionals in the field, and my insights are grounded in a deep understanding of the technical, logistical, and artistic aspects of theatre design.
Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the article "The Benefits of Having a Black Box Theatre" to provide a comprehensive understanding:
Black Box Theatre Overview:
Definition and Purpose:
A black box theatre is a versatile performance space characterized by its simple, unadorned design. The space is typically small, with black walls and a flat floor, providing flexibility for various staging configurations.
Benefits of Having a Black Box Theatre:
1. Smaller Productions:
- Not all productions are suited for a large main stage. Black box theatres offer an ideal space for smaller productions, such as community theatre events or experimental performances.
- Local theatre troupes can benefit from the intimate setting, allowing for more engaging and tailored performances.
2. Consistent Use of the Facility:
- Facilities face the challenge of maintaining a steady stream of events to cover operational costs. Black box theatres facilitate a consistent use of the space by accommodating a variety of smaller performances.
- This consistent use contributes to increased revenue for the facility.
3. Flexible Layouts:
- Black box theatres can be equipped with portable risers, seating, and staging, enabling flexible layouts to meet the specific requirements of different performances.
- Alternative layouts, such as theatre in the round, can be easily achieved, enhancing the adaptability of the space.
4. More Community Support:
- Hosting smaller events fosters community engagement and support. The accessibility of the black box theatre for local events creates a stronger connection with the community.
- Increased community support generates word of mouth, raising awareness of larger events held in the main theatre space.
5. Easy Scene Flexibility:
- The black box theatre's dark, unobtrusive environment allows for easy scene flexibility. The focus remains on the performance, and the limited use of props enhances the immersive experience.
- Transporting the audience to different settings becomes seamless, even with minimal special effects.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the advantages of having a black box theatre are multifaceted. From accommodating smaller productions to fostering community support and providing scene flexibility, these spaces contribute significantly to the overall success and sustainability of performing arts facilities. For those looking to maximize revenue and community engagement, integrating a black box theatre is a strategic decision that pays off in the long run.
