All the world’s a stage...
Black Box Studios
at the Athenaeum Center in Chicago.
Are you looking for a Versatile and intimate performance Theatre space?
Chicago’s Premiere Storefront and Community Theater Venue
Our two incredible Black Box Studios have been used for theatre festivals, comedy shows, improv performances, workshops, summer camps, school showcases, films, dance recitals, and more. We are proud to be a part of the history and future of Chicago storefront theatre. Whether you are renting for one day or one month, we would be happy to help you find a home for your next artistic project.
Venue Detail
- Black Box A, third floor, seats 87
- Black Box B, second floor, seats 81
- All theaters are ADA accessible
- Both spaces include attached dressing rooms that included in the rental
All organizations must submit an application to be considered for a rental and recieve a rental estimate.
Spaces & Equipment
Seats in Studio A are non removable (pictured to the right). Seats in Studio B are removable, and can be adjusted to the renter’s preference. Therefore, house plots can be adapted to meet the renter’s needs.
Four-input analog sound consoles and ETC element light boards are available in the tech booths of each studio. All spaces are conventional lighting, but can have LEDs for additional charge and availability. For ground plans, light plots, and more detailed technical information please see our Studio A or Studio B tech rider.
Rehearsal space, green rooms, and storage options are also available and can be discussed during the proposal process.
Please note that any recording or live-streaming is subject to additional fees. For more info on crew staffing please talk to your event manager.
Audience Services
Audience Services is comprised of our Box Office and Front of House team. These departments provide a smooth and enjoyable event experience for you and your patrons. Our Box Office team will build your event from start to finish, which includes setting up a seating map, pricing, ticketing and marketing page on the Athenaeum Center website.
Additionally, renters will also receive post show reports and financials. Box Office services include online, phone, and walk-in orders during normal box office hours. Our Front of House team will assist patrons with all customer service questions, seating, ADA support, crowd management, and ticket scanning.
Audience Services packages vary in price depending on, but not limited to, your event details, schedule, and ticketing structure. Packages are not inclusive of ticketing handling fees, consignment fees, credit card charges or any fees associated with late requests or expedited service requests. Renters are required to use the Athenaeum Center Box Office for all ticketing sales.
