The Lantern is a renowned nightclub and music venue located in Bristol, United Kingdom. Housed within the celebrated Colston Hall complex (recently rebranded as Bristol Beacon), The Lantern has played a pivotal role in the city's vibrant nightlife and music scene for decades. Originally serving as the hall's secondary concert room, The Lantern emerged in the late 20th century as an intimate space known for its diverse musical programming and unique ambience, which distinguished it from the main auditorium.
The venue's reputation is built upon its eclectic selection of events, ranging from jazz, folk, indie, and electronic music to spoken word and international performances, earning it a revered status among both musicians and music lovers. Over the years, The Lantern has been praised for fostering a sense of community, championing local talent, and providing a platform for emerging and experimental acts, while also attracting internationally acclaimed artists. Its significance in Bristol's cultural landscape is underlined by its role in hosting events that celebrate the city's multicultural spirit and its notable contribution to the live music heritage of southwest England.
The venue has witnessed several changes in structure as part of wider renovations to Colston Hall/Bristol Beacon, particularly a major redevelopment project completed in the early 2020s, which improved accessibility, acoustics, and overall visitor experience. Despite these modernizations, The Lantern has retained its historic character and continues to serve as a vital hub for creative expression, maintaining its legacy as a cornerstone of live entertainment in Bristol. Notable artists who have performed at The Lantern include jazz legend Courtney Pine, Mercury Prize nominees Portico Quartet, Afrobeat collective Antibalas, pioneering electronic artist Jon Hopkins, experimental folk singer Shirley Collins, indie band The Wave Pictures, Bristol’s own electronic group Massive Attack (in special appearances), neo-soul singer Andrew Ashong, the critically acclaimed This Is The Kit, and spoken word artist Kate Tempest, among many others.
The capacity of The Lantern is 300.
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