Arts

Business

Events

What are the hire rates and minimum catering spend for the Barbican Centre Arts spaces?

Evening venue hire (17:30-00:00) costs £7,800+VAT for the Garden Room & Conservatory with a minimum catering spend of £3,000+VAT. Cinema 1 day hire (08:30-17:00) is £6,100+VAT and evening hire (17:30-23:00) is £5,100+VAT, both with £5,000+VAT minimum catering spend. The Frobisher Triple Room day hire (08:30-17:00) is £3,200+VAT with £1,500+VAT minimum catering spend.

What are the capacity limits for different event setups in the main Arts spaces?

Cinema 1 has a total capacity of 280 in raked auditorium style. The Garden Room & Conservatory accommodates 220 banquet, 180 dinner/dance, 450 reception, or 350 fork buffet. The Frobisher Triple Room holds 170 theatre style, 96 cabaret, 100 classroom, or 175 reception style.

What AV equipment is included with each space and what are the additional costs?

Cinema 1 includes a 34000lms 4K DLP cinema projector, screen, PA system, 3 cabled microphones, Wi-Fi, full house lighting system, and dedicated technician. Garden Room & Conservatory can add PA system & microphone for £111+VAT and 55" LCD screens for £175+VAT. Frobisher rooms include LCD projector (8000lms), screen, and Wi-Fi as standard.

Are there overnight hold fees and what do they cover?

Yes, the Frobisher Triple Room charges an overnight hold fee of £950+VAT. This allows you to keep your setup in place overnight between event days. Other spaces may have similar arrangements but specific fees weren't detailed in the available information.

What are the standard event timings and setup allowances?

Day hire typically runs 08:30-17:00 and evening hire 17:30-00:00 or 17:30-23:00 depending on the space. Tenancy times include setup and de-rig - they recommend 1.5 hours for setup and 30 minutes for de-rig. Additional hours beyond standard times can be arranged by speaking with your sales contact.

When must invoices be paid and contracts signed?

Invoices must be paid prior to the event going ahead - this is mandatory. Contracts must also be signed before the event can proceed. The venue will forward invoices to finance teams for payment and follow up on contract signing as part of their booking process.

How far in advance do I need to book and what if my preferred date is unavailable?

Popular dates book up well in advance - both Cinema 1 and Auditorium 1 (220 capacity spaces) can be fully booked months ahead. If your date is unavailable, the venue may suggest alternative dates or help find alternative venues. They specifically ask about date flexibility when initial preferences aren't available.

What makes the Conservatory unique and are there any special considerations?

The Conservatory is a tropical oasis in the heart of the city, home to exotic fish and over 1,500 species of tropical plants and trees. It currently hosts site-specific art installations which add to the unique atmosphere. The space can be themed and decorated according to your event requirements, with the banqueting team able to create original menus and tailored decor.

What catering arrangements are available and who provides the service?

Catering is provided by Searcys with various menu options available. All spaces have mandatory minimum catering spends that must be met. The banqueting team can create original menus and discuss theming options to bring your event ideas to life, making each event distinctive.

Are there any restrictions on bringing external suppliers or equipment?

While specific vendor restrictions weren't detailed in the available information, the venue works with Searcys for catering and has dedicated technical staff for AV. For large custom installations like LED screens or external equipment, early discussion with the venue is essential as setup times can take 5-6 hours and may require morning access.