The Black Box in Ireland is a notable venue located primarily in the city of Belfast, Northern Ireland, rather than in the Republic of Ireland. Established in the mid-2000s in the Cathedral Quarter—a bustling cultural heart of Belfast—the Black Box quickly became a cornerstone for alternative nightlife and a diverse array of musical and artistic performances. Originally conceived as a multifunctional arts space rather than a traditional nightclub, the Black Box has garnered a strong reputation for its eclectic programming, ranging from live music, club nights, theatre, comedy, visual art installations, and community events.

Throughout its history, the Black Box has maintained a cultural significance within Belfast’s creative scene, fostering innovation and inclusivity, and catering to an open-minded, artistic crowd. The venue is widely regarded as a platform for both emerging local talent and established international acts, ensuring a dynamic blend of genres and artistic disciplines. While the Black Box itself has remained in its original premises on Hill Street since its founding, some minor renovations have taken place to improve acoustics, audience facilities, and accessibility.

Its commitment to showcasing new ideas and nurturing underrepresented voices has cemented its status as a cultural institution in Belfast, playing a pivotal role in the rejuvenation of the Cathedral Quarter and the city’s broader reputation as a vibrant destination for nightlife and the arts. Notable artists and acts that have graced the stage at the Black Box include global electronic music pioneer Andrew Weatherall, art rock band The Redneck Manifesto, world music sensations like Kíla, acclaimed singer-songwriter Duke Special, underground DJ and producer Helena Hauff, contemporary jazz artists such as Soweto Kinch, and many celebrated local musicians including Ciaran Lavery and Joshua Burnside. Additionally, the venue has played host to boundary-pushing club nights run by local promoters like Twitch Belfast, and internationally recognized acts as part of Belfast’s storied festivals such as the Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival and Belfast International Arts Festival.