THE BLACK BOX

This is my favorite gathering spot for eclectic performance and musical events. They have a nice friendly bar, a diverse clientele, both indoor and outdoor spaces, and are queer friendly.They have a couple of resident theater companies that perform in the space and their shows are always electric.

The place is basically isolated so parking isnt really an issue. There were a few issues with the tech not working properly and the guy not being able to fix it but this didnt impact the experience.Im so glad they accommodated letting us come on the last warm night of the season!

The musical was great but the Venue leaves a lot to be desired. 5 outhouses for the amount of guests is nasty. The play gets interrupted by trains right across the street. This venue needs to be abandoned and an inside theater needs to be utilized. There are a lot of venues that could support this show!

Super cute spot, karaoke night was so fun. The bartender was super friendly. Great atmosphere and space and will definitely keep coming back. Fun place to go in Kansas City to gather with large groups or small group.

Kansas City is lucky to have an Eclectic space that draws a consistently talented group of performers such as this. The Black Box never misses.

I took part in the Black Box Theaters No Sleep November event after many, many years away from the stage. It reminded me of everything I love about the theater.The people associated with this incredible venue are 100% dedicated to supporting artists in Kansas City, and they are all very cool, unique, and supportive individuals!This place vibes. Check it out.

Fun outdoor theater, feels like you are attending a show in a fenced off parking lot. Fantastic Rocky Horror Picture Show performance. The bring your own lawn chairs and set yourselves up in tidy, tight rows bit is a little tricky but it works. The 2 bars inside the perimeter are doable.

I saw Rocky Horror Picture Show here and it was great! It was my first time seeing this particular show and first time at the Black Box. Performers were awesome and it was a beautiful night for an outdoor show. Cameron Gunter was a PERFECT Rocky!

Absolutely Love this venue, I attended the Full Moon Festival with Mikal Shapiro, Julia Othmer and Jessica Paige. The sound was amazing, the staff was incredible (Katie Gilchrist you rock !!) Keep doing what youre doing because this place is Magical

Amazing talent & very entertaining show. Fantastic lighting. Great experience!

Queer Bar Takeover KC Mission: Reclaiming Space to make room for Queer Joy & uninhibited Queer Expression. We choose a traditionally straight bar and take it over on the second Saturday of each month; this month was The Black Box Theater in the West Bottoms. The space was huge and perfect for a warm summer night. The DJ had everyone on their feet and the staff were super excited to have us and make sure we felt welcome. Thank you Black Box Theater for working with us to create a more inclusive KC. #queerjoy #queerlove #queerexpression

These people always strive to foster art, and a community to create and enjoy it. Theyre personable, enthusiastic, and incredibly talented.

I’ve been going to the black box for about 4 months now. this is one of the most inclusive, welcoming and all around wonderful place that me and my friends how come to love. people like vanessa davis, bob, angela, denis, katie and so many other have made it feel like home and a family. even my mother loves coming to the black box because they make the drinks strong! as a queer person, i’m so glad i’ve found such an amazing place for all!

Great music and energy. If you enjoyed Stanger Things bonus, but not essential. Fun use of space & audience immersion.

I love this place and the people who work there. And the people that come there! They are all amazing people I always have the best time. Monday night is karaoke and its a blast.

Beautiful experience, great scenery background. If u love jamming out to ur favorite artist outside in a beautiful scene this place is it. Friendly owners. Just awesome all around

Awesome live theatre rendition of the Rocky Horror Picture Show. It was such a fun night!

Nice, cool intimate venue. Saw the 1994 project was a fun time and would come back again. Decent prices on drinks and nice people

What.A.Blast! Since attending Clue we constantly check the schedule to see whats next at The Black Box!You could tell how hard everyone works to make their performances top knotch all the way.Our party of four had a grand night and we hope to be back soon.

They did A LOT with such a small space! It feels like home and the entertainment is always great. Way to go BLACKBOX!

Amazing place for fun local theatre. I ordered the Hot Poot (hot cider + fireball) and it warmed my hands and belly on a chilly night

The Black Box production of THE GREAT COMET OF 1812 was astounding in every sense of the word! Producing Artistic Director Heidi Van put together a show with incredible talent and scope. The players took over the theatre, treating the audience to an up close and personal experience like I have never seen before making the audience part of the show.Great theatre!

Went there for improv asylum. Performance was commendable. Loved the creativity and improvisation. Place has a small bar. Options were decent for the beer and cocktails. Ticket was cheap. For anyone who is into improvised comedy, would certainly recommend it.

Padgett Productions always shows up. Stranger Sings was the best time. Truly immersive, amazing singers and a wonderful vibe. I plan to see again bringing friends.

We need to get this place moving in a lot more rapid and productive directionit could beif put enough effort intothe new premiere local and regional spot for live music of all genrescall the people there to get as many shows possible booked going in the 2024cause theyre already busy enough as it isbut the Hard Rock and Metal community in Kansas City Metro area definitely need to figure out a way to take over this place for future upcoming local shows.

We went to the Black Box several times in a couple of weeks for Fringe Festival shows. The service is friendly, quick and reasonably priced. The a/c was a bit too cool for some of us, despite the blistering weather outside.

The cast of Rocky Horror are absolutely fantastic. If i lived in KC i would definitely go there for shows. Check it out!

Excellent vibes! Very comforting atmosphere. Ethan and the other bartender (I didnt catch their name 😔) were awesome as well!

So good! I was able to attend a staged reading of Ghost last Sunday and it was hilarious to point of cheek fatigue. This is the place to find yourself. The quality of entertainment that Black Box cultivates is a vital part of KCs spirit. And a Living! Room... legacy to all their previous endeavors. Were fortunate to have the people who create in, facilitate and operate this unique space.

We went to their Rocky Horror Picture Show live performance. We had a blast. I was a little nervous being in the West Bottoms, it is so dark and empty, but it had a great time. The show was awesome, the venue had heat lights and tables. Will definitely come back!

This is a really great place to see a show. I saw two in August and enjoyed them both and the venue. Would recommend.

Very cool space.Very nice bar and drinks.

Amazing experience each and every time! SO. MUCH. TALENT!💯💯

Took my teen daughter for a youth Karaoke sing... Run by Heidi and Franci, it was a great afternoon of family friendly fun.Havent been there for any of their evening events.

Great theater for simple shows on a small stage. This was our 3rd show. All were amazing!!

Ive seen great local theater at this awesome little venue that makes its inclusive vibe loud and proud. The decor is on point and the bartenders are lovely.

Love the show and bartender was great too!

A hole in the wall venue that caters to the taboo and often misunderstood parts of art and performance. They are LBGY friendly and give you that old dark performance venue that other venues have unfortunately went away from. Overall all its exactly what I hoped it would be. Good times were had by all in attendence.

Great venue, always a good time.

Great performance of Milking Christmas! I cant wait to look into all their other shows! The performers were having so much fun!

We saw Rocky Horror Picture Show here outdoors. Great show. Trendy venue. Not many options for snacks and drinks overpriced yet fun and themed for the show.

Dueling pianos was a fun time. No food is served here just as a fyi. They have a bar with a guy named Brandon servicing the crowd. Theater seating and a stage. Seating was free range and the vibe was great. It is a hidden gem.

This is always an amazing experience. I saw the cabaret directed by Franci Talamentez-Witte. My little sister performed and she sung beautifully. You should support this theatre, its a great place to watch a show.

The Rocky Horror Live Show was outside, with vaccine confirmation of the whole cast and audience. The show was awesome! Novelty drinks, audience participation and a great show. Going again next year!!!@

Camry Ivory with Colorcature had an amazing performance at The Black Box. I will definitely check out other performances in this unique space.

I was so excited to celebrate with what I thought was a great lgbtq community but everyone but a few lovely women are extremely hypocritical and not friendly. Very clicky and fake. Met a few cool people the kJ and the bartender are great but a few of the regulars are super offensive and hypocritical of being lgbt friendly and a respective person. I do not know the names and don’t want to say names but as a lgbtq first timer I can honestly say I’m super disappointed and scared to return for my safety. I tried to get a ride home on my phone and it wasn’t working. So I asked if I could Venmo a lady I met through a regular and she was so rude. She said I’m not helping you yea right you will pay me back. I was nothing but nice to her all night and she returned with that. I don’t want to be in this environment but now am so scared of the hypocrisy of the people there. The KJ is very nice but may be new or something g she told me she has no idea what she’s doing and had the same people go up at least 3 times. It’s just poorly ran. I am sad to write this review but if you are not a known regular don’t expect to ever sing.

Wonderful shows and if youre into vegan food they have some pretty tasty sandwiches at the vegan food truck out back. Reminiscent of a couple rad places I visited in Austin quite some time ago.

Saw Spilled Milk, written and directed by Khalif J. Gillett, on opening night. I am still mulling the powerful ideas in this show. Phenomenonal acting and keen direction. Ends on Sunday March 13, see it if you can, you will not be disappointed.

It was cold, but the show must go on.Loved loved loved The Rocky Horror Picture Show!!!!

The year of the sluttery was amazing. It was my first time at this venue and I fell in love. Can’t wait to come back, thank you so much!

Enjoyed seeing this production of The Rocky Horror Show! Enjoyed this venue, too!😊👍

The quality of Shows for Days put on by Fishtank was VERY impressive. I’ve been less entertained on Broadway. Sitting 10 feet from the action for $20 was a steal. Walking into a nondescript building and meeting Heidi and Katie felt like being welcomed into a speakeasy!

Theres burlesque classes and shows coming to the black box with Wicked Pretties Burlesque! Cant wait! Its a beautiful venue!

Wonderful Atmosphere and amazing Talent. Im so happy there are shows again! The Rocky Horror Show is amazing!

Arrived a minute late. Show didnt start until a few minutes after. Still wasnt allowed to sit for a show because they dont seat late. Would have loved to be allowed some leeway specially since the place was mostly empty, we were the only ones trying to get in and we were barely late.

Great venue and people. Enjoyed the pop up event they hosted and would consider joining up for future events

Wide variety of arts and performers. This venue is 🔥. Its bohemian in nature, cool industrial setting in the West Bottoms. Come as you are atmosphere that welcomes the weird.

It is so great to be able to watch live entertainment again and at the Black box you can do just that. Bring your own chair and sit under the stars. Its better than going to the drive in and theres a bar. Aw some place. Ill be back!

This is the 2nd show I have seen there. Friends and I went to see American Idiot last night and the production crew running the theater were very professional. The show was well put together and the actors were spot on.

The most intimate, energy-charged theater in Kansas City. Ive been dozens of times - every show is memorable and engaging. Wonderful neighborhood. Heidi Van and company have created a gem.

The name of this venue has changed to Outburst lounge. Small comedy club and poetry Studio for the trendiest of trendy hipster and hippy folk. So grab your slouchy beanie, your 90s grunge cardigan, slouch your shoulders and head down to outburst lounge!

Amazing space. One of the best venues in town!

Great show, Green Days American Idiot the Musical! Fun outdoor stage during Covid. Awesome cast!!!

Guy at the front gate was a little skeptical of me since I only brought i blanket inside of a chair/stool but the younger guy let me in anyways but they also had strict mask and social distancing guidelines in place which they will get Excellent by the city but I hope 2021 will be a lot better and back to the norm with new shows but the Theater is a nice historical landmark in a rough part of the west bottoms especially at dark

Awesome West Bottoms venue to see live local musicians, performers & rising KC artists.

My great nephew had his 5th grade graduation there wasnt enough seats but it was ok

This is an amazing venue with superstar talent! I enjoyed every minute of the show and Shon Ruffin is to die for! Ill definitely return.

Great experimental theatre space. Very small, very intimate. Content ranges dramatically from Avant grade theatre to childrens plays to burlesque to improv.

We saw the Rocky horror picture show here and it was great.

Small Venue, Bring your own chairs. Chairs are available to rent if you need. I enjoyed the experience.

One of my favorite places in KC. Cheers to Heidi for creating such an awesome venue!

Great event space! Weve worked with Heidi at the Fishtank many times and will be back many more. Highly recommended!

Big fan of the outdoor concert experience! Rocky Horror was a win!

The crew running The Black Box is great. They were extremely organized for covid precautions for preformers and audience members in the outdoor setting.

One of the best venues in KC! So much fun

Saw Hair, a small place but served its purpose. Needs backs. Not benches. I will be stiff for awhile. Hair was 2 thumbs up !

Cool venue, it was cold and lawn chair placement was difficult. But a lot of fun.

Great venue! Super nice people! Bring a chair. Bathrooms are clean and the bar is nicely stocked.

Venue for music great. Drinks were expensive & under poured. Mgr was seemed slightly on edge all night.

Really enjoyed The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Watched the Rocky Horror Picture Show Live. Great show, minimalist venue.

Amazing venue with all imaginable social distancing/ pandemic precautions in place. Lots of outdoor heaters, as well. Highly recommended.

Great small concert venue with good drinks!

Love the new venue! Same great Rocky Horror Show!

Nice black box theatre! Plenty of free parking. It is tucked away so use google maps the first time.

Always a friendly covid safe staff. Its nice to go to a place where Im not the only queer person there.

First time going. It was pretty cool. Not enough seating area.

Saw Rocky Horror Picture show live, was great. So much talent!

Cute little theater in the West Bottoms. Nice venue for a show.

My Great Grandbaby had her first dance recital. I was very elated.

I cannot say enough about this amazing venue and staff.

Great music and drinks under the stars. It was a beautiful evening.

Rocky horror live was amazing.

Really great venue. I cant wait to go back again.

Such a fun venue! Mother Freaking Hood was amazing!

Great times after dusk, the Blue Drink makes you happy!

Relaxed artsy vibe. Lots of space to spread out and enjoy the West Bottoms ambiance.

What a great place to see a show, sing karaoke and see your friends. ✨🌟✨

Great venue great people great time

Super fun show,Hair. Very talented cast. Bravo!

One of my favorite little venues!

Good performance. Uncomfortable seats. Enjoyed having no intermission.

Cool venue, we got to watch the nightmare before Christmas outdoors

Fantastic venu very groovy people are amazing.

Saw Rocky Horror. Great actors amazing staff

Oh my goodness loved it so much!

I was only there for about 10 minutes but it is a neat space!

Great venue to perform at or see a show!

MULKING CHRISTMAS IS THE BEST ECER OFHSDJSBDNDJ

Dynamic theater space with high quality performances!

Great drinks and fun.

Very much enjoyed an evening out there.

Love this place so much and all the people in it!!!!

Sign on the door says proof of vaccination is required to enter.

Such a fine time!

Love this theater, very intimate and cool vibe

A very lovely place, with lots of lovely people.

Great show. Intimate setting

Such a cool place for a great time!

Great space for innovative live performance

Rocky horror show was so great

It was a great time

Nice little spot, Ill be back

Wonderful space & wonderful, friendly, helpful owners!

Great play!

Mesmerizing small venue.

Great intimate theater experience.

Great showing of RHPS

Good stuff

Fantastic event and space!!!

Super friendly staff!!

Fun and intimate theater

Great new place

Good location

Cool arrival