A black box theater is a theater with a simple, unadorned design that allows for a lot of flexibility. These theaters first appeared in the 1960s, most likely as practice spaces for major theater companies and universities with large theater programs. Today, there are numerous black box theaters around the world that present a variety of performances ranging from highly experimental theater to Shakespeare.
This type of theater is designed in the shape of a box, as the name suggests. Because black is a neutral color that will not clash with costumes, sets, or lighting, the theater room is usually square and painted black. The floor is flat and open, allowing people to seat themselves however they want, and many black box theaters can accommodate risers and platforms to create a raised stage if desired. Rigging is done on girders suspended from the ceiling, which can hold set pieces, lighting, curtains, and other items.
The beauty of a black box space is that it can be whatever anyone wants it to be. Other theater spaces can be altered, but their basic character remains unchanged. A black box theater can be configured in an infinite number of ways, allowing people to express their creativity. This is especially useful for experimental performances, which may require unusual seating and stage arrangements.
These spaces are also relatively inexpensive to build, which can be appealing, and some theater companies and schools have a black box theater in addition to a larger theater, allowing them to host two simultaneous productions. Rehearsals can also be held in black box spaces, freeing up larger stages for other uses. Many people, especially actors performing monologues and solo shows, prefer the classic black box theater because it allows them to connect with the audience.
Because a black box theater can be used in a variety of ways, the design focuses heavily on practical measures that will allow the space to be used as desired. The rigging grid, catwalk, or girders is typically designed to be extremely flexible to meet the needs of the theater’s users, and the acoustics are typically designed to be excellent so that the stage can be located anywhere. Because the stark space doesn’t leave much room for extra items, a large storage space is usually attached for seating, set pieces, and other miscellanea.