ABOUT THE BELFAST EMPIRE MUSIC HALL
The Belfast Empire Music Hall, located at the junction of Cameron Street and Botanic Avenue, has a fascinating history that dates back to its origins as a church.
The original building was constructed in 1895 as the "Second Presbyterian Church" of Belfast. It was designed by the renowned architect William J. Barre, who was responsible for many iconic buildings in the city, including the Ulster Hall and the Albert Memorial Clock.
The church was designed in the Gothic Revival style, with a striking red brick exterior and a tall spire. The interior featured ornate woodwork, stained glass windows, and a large pipe organ.
The Second Presbyterian Church served its congregation for over 70 years, but by the late 1960s, attendance had dwindled, and the building was sold. It was then converted into a cinema and later a bingo hall before eventually becoming the Belfast Empire Music Hall in 1987.
The conversion into a music venue involved significant renovations to the interior, including the removal of pews and the installation of a stage and sound system. However, the exterior of the building was largely preserved, retaining its original Gothic Revival character and charm.
One unique feature of the building is the "Crying Room," a small enclosed area at the back of the hall where mothers could take their babies if they became disruptive during services. This room is still present in the music hall and is often used as a VIP area.
The Belfast Empire Music Hall quickly became a popular venue for live music, attracting both local and international acts. Its unique atmosphere, combining historic architecture with modern amenities, has made it a beloved institution in the city's cultural scene.
The original building was constructed in 1895 as the "Second Presbyterian Church" of Belfast. It was designed by the renowned architect William J. Barre, who was responsible for many iconic buildings in the city, including the Ulster Hall and the Albert Memorial Clock.
The church was designed in the Gothic Revival style, with a striking red brick exterior and a tall spire. The interior featured ornate woodwork, stained glass windows, and a large pipe organ.
The Second Presbyterian Church served its congregation for over 70 years, but by the late 1960s, attendance had dwindled, and the building was sold. It was then converted into a cinema and later a bingo hall before eventually becoming the Belfast Empire Music Hall in 1987.
The conversion into a music venue involved significant renovations to the interior, including the removal of pews and the installation of a stage and sound system. However, the exterior of the building was largely preserved, retaining its original Gothic Revival character and charm.
One unique feature of the building is the "Crying Room," a small enclosed area at the back of the hall where mothers could take their babies if they became disruptive during services. This room is still present in the music hall and is often used as a VIP area.
The Belfast Empire Music Hall quickly became a popular venue for live music, attracting both local and international acts. Its unique atmosphere, combining historic architecture with modern amenities, has made it a beloved institution in the city's cultural scene.
ABOUT THE BELFAST EMPIRE MUSIC HALL