Black box theater did not become popular until the 1960s, but the experimental theater style developed much earlier. In 1921, Swiss designer Adolphe Appia introduced the concept of flexible staging. The first American version of black box theater was staged in 1924 in the living room of actor/manager Gilmor Brown. Because of the domestic decor, this early flexible staging was not a true black box theater. However, along with two later versions, this venue served as the Playbox Theatre, an experimental venue for Brown's Pasadena Playhouse located in Pasadena, California. The concept of flexible staging grew in popularity over the years. Black box theaters became widespread in the 1960s and 1970s.
The design of a black box theater is very simple. The space is square with neutral (usually black) walls and a flat floor. Seating is arranged to accommodate different productions. Common layouts include the thrust stage (the stage extends into the audience) and the arena stage (seats surround the stage). A raised stage can be added, but it is not a part of the standard black box theater. Some newer theaters also contain catwalks and tension girders. Experimental theaters use simple lighting, so the emphasis is on the production itself rather than technical elements.
Black box theaters are used for smaller productions that require little set decoration and simple lighting. The design lends itself to more intimate productions. This type of theater is very popular for fringe theater festivals because it can easily be reconfigured to accommodate a variety of staging needs. Many colleges also use black box theaters as rehearsal space.
Black box theaters are inexpensive to build and maintain. The stage and seating areas can easily be redesigned depending on the production needs. Black box theaters are usually secondary theaters for larger theater companies or colleges. This allows the companies to stage two different productions at the same time. A black box theater can also provide extra rehearsal space.
There are black box theaters located all over the United States. Many are located in major metropolitan areas and on college campuses. Black box theaters are also popular in Europe. There is a well-known one in Oslo, Norway. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe also makes use of many black box theaters for its annual festival.