The Black-E Liverpool

Reviews

1. Tara M ★★☆☆☆

   Used to hire the hall a few years ago now. Staff where rude but I put it down to they must be volunteers. Long story short stopped hiring over the summer but had booked for the September 3 months in advance advertised and everything. Turned up and the miserable staff member rudely said someone else was using the hall who had booked. The other staff member who secured the booking no longer worked there and the booking information had conveniently disappeared. I had evidence but they did not take it into consideration so I moved on to another space. It’s a great building with lots of history but at the time there was just to many people not running it properly. Not sure what it’s like now but I was put off going back after that experience.

   almost 8 months ago
2. Karen Gamez ★★★★★

   Very nice place. I like it.

   almost 10 months ago
3. Yarys ★★★★★

   The Black-E (originally called The Blackie) is a really interesting and historic cultural venue in Liverpool. It’s located at the corner of Great George Street and Nelson Street, right near the city's Chinatown. History: The building was originally the Great George Street Congregational Church, completed in 1841. It’s a striking piece of architecture — a mix of neo-classical and Greek revival styles, with massive pillars and grand steps. Transformation: In the 1960s, as the congregation dwindled, the building was repurposed. It was taken over by a group of artists and activists led by Wendy and Bill Harpe. They transformed it into a pioneering community arts centre — one of the first of its kind in the UK. Philosophy: The Black-E was built on the idea that everyone is creative — that art, performance, and play shouldn't be just for an elite. It mixed professional artists with community members, children, and underrepresented groups, offering workshops, exhibitions, circus training, music, dance, and theatre. Name: The name "The Blackie" came from local kids who referred to it that way because of the building’s soot-darkened stone exterior. Although the name was informal at first, it stuck, and later they adapted it to the more formal The Black-E (for "Black–Experience"). Today: It’s still an active venue, though its role has shifted slightly over the years. It continues to host arts, community projects, cultural events, and training activities, staying true to its roots in creativity and inclusion.

   1 year ago

1. Elaine Benson ★★★★★

   Never been before - loved it. It is also accessible which was great for me. I'm not sure if there's a ramp somewhere but I could manage a few steps to get in and then I had access to a lift. Staff helpful and lovely.

   1 year ago
2. john Williams ★★★★★

   The BlackE is a very special place. one of the last bastions of community focused art projects in this part of the city. we have hired the main hall many times and have other spaces available. get in touch and go have a look for yourself

   almost 3 years ago
3. Ruth Beechey ★★★★☆

   Unusual and quirky building but perfect for a wedding reception

   almost 3 years ago

1. Catherine Nye-Pennington ★★★★★

   Beautiful building. Really good venue for Thai boxing.

   almost 3 years ago
2. Daniel Northover ★★★★☆

   A great venue that needs more publicity. People around the city need to be more aware of what it does.

   almost 3 years ago
3. val smith ★★★★☆

   Only ever been to The Blackie for the top Zumba classes,but went last night to see the Christmas panto Beauty and the Beast with family.Thoroughly enjoyed it, very funny and well acted.This is the first time I'm told the Blackie has hosted a production like this.Hope lots more theatre in the future.It worked very well with the audience seated on all four sides of the room and the acting taking place on the ground much better interaction than rows facing a stage.Only problem was at the interval,drinks and snacks were served at the ground floor entrance which was cramped with no seating and door wide open,but can't really complain for a first production! The staff were really nice and friendly also which made for a pleasant evening.

   more 8 years ago

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