The MAC Theatre venue

The MAC Theatre

Belfast, Antrim

Address

10 Exchange St West, Belfast, Belfast BT1 2NJ

The MAC is Belfast’s multi-award-winning cultural hub, located in the vibrant Cathedral Quarter. Since opening in 2012, it has become a focal point for the arts in Northern Ireland, housed in a striking architectural landmark characterized by its soaring brickwork and glass-filled voids. The venue features two theatres (the 350-seat Downstairs Theatre and the 120-seat Upstairs Theatre), three major art galleries with rotating international exhibitions, and various "Imagination Stations" for families. It is famous for its eclectic programming—ranging from cutting-edge contemporary art to "boundary-pushing" drama and family festivals—and for its centerpiece permanent artwork, The Permanent Present, a stunning installation of 400 metal wires that refract light through the main foyer.

Accessibility

The MAC was designed from the ground up (opened in 2012) with world-class accessibility standards:

  • Physical Access: The building features level, step-free access at the main entrance and two large customer lifts that service all six floors.

  • Seating: * Downstairs Theatre: 6 dedicated wheelchair spaces (4 on the ground floor, 2 on the balcony).

    • Upstairs Theatre: Features unreserved seating, but the front row is step-free. Staff can reserve specific accessible seats if contacted in advance (+44 28 9023 5053).

  • Hearing Support: Induction loops are installed at the Box Office, the Café Bar, and in both theatres. Infrared headsets and necklaces (compatible with hearing aids on the 'T' setting) are available for all performances.

  • Visual/Sensory Support: The venue regularly hosts Audio Described, Captioned, BSL Signed, and Relaxed performances. A "Welcome to the MAC" access pack is available to download for those who wish to familiarise themselves with the building's layout before visiting.

  • Toilets: Accessible toilets are located on every floor.

Car Parking

The MAC does not have its own private car park, but it is located directly adjacent to a major public facility:

  • Saint Anne’s Square Car Park: This 24-hour multi-storey car park is located on Edward Street, right beside the MAC. It offers secure parking with direct access to the square.

  • Belfast Cathedral Car Park: Additional public parking is available nearby at the Belfast Cathedral (St. Anne's) car park.

  • On-Street Parking: Limited "Pay-and-Display" on-street parking is available on Academy Street and standard marked bays throughout the Cathedral Quarter. Parking is typically free after 6:00 pm and on Sundays (check local signage for modern updates).

  • Accessible Parking: While the venue doesn't have private bays, the Saint Anne's Square car park includes designated disabled spaces close to the elevators.

Café & Bar

  • The MAC Café Bar: Located on the ground floor, the award-winning Café Bar is open Tuesday – Sunday from 9:00 am (galleries open at 11:00 am). It serves locally sourced food, artisanal coffee, and a range of drinks. On performance nights, it remains open later to serve pre-show and interval refreshments.

  • Family Friendly: The café offers a dedicated children’s menu and is fully buggy-friendly, with high chairs and baby-changing facilities available.

  • Nearby Dining: The MAC is in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter, surrounded by top-tier restaurants. Coppi (contemporary Italian) is located right next door in St. Anne's Square, and other popular spots like The Waterman and The Duke of York are within a 2-minute walk.

Shows at this venue

No ballet shows currently listed for this venue.