Basement Theatre is an independent theatre and bar on Lower Greys Avenue in the Auckland CBD. It describes itself as the home of an artistic mixture of theatre makers, dancers, visual artists, poets, musicians and comedians. It has two spaces: the Theatre at the back of the bar, and the Studio upstairs. Many shows are "choose what you pay", and there is a free Bull Rush session every Friday at 10pm. Tempo Dance Festival runs from 13 to 18 October. The venue also has a restaurant, a wine experience and a room called The Loft, which can be booked.
The bar is open from 5:30pm until late, and until 2am at the latest, and it is open to anyone, not only ticket holders. Doors generally open ten minutes before a show, and a venue host makes an announcement. Guests can take drinks into the theatre, and sold-out shows have a waitlist. Access help is available from bar staff or venue hosts. Under-18s cannot be served in the bar. Our pick in the Auckland CBD for a night of experimental theatre and dance.