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Backstage at Black Cat - DC Tickets

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About Backstage at Black Cat - DC

Backstage at Black Cat is an intimate performance space housed within The Black Cat on the vibrant U Street Corridor in Washington, DC. Since moving the stage upstairs in 2018, the Backstage room has offered a flexible, close-up listening experience with a capacity historically around 200. The space often features standing areas with seating variations tailored to each show, making it a flexible and welcoming venue for a wide range of artists and fans.

Whether you’re catching emerging acts or established performers, secure your seats with us and plan a smooth night out in DC’s lively nightlife neighborhood. We’ve got you covered on what to expect, how to get there, where to stay, and where to dine nearby.

Address: 1811 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009. The Backstage room sits above The Black Cat and is known for its intimate atmosphere and proximity to the performers. Parking is available in street lots and near pay-to-park garages along the U Street corridor. For transit, the venue is three blocks from the U Street/Cardozo Metro Station (Green/Yellow lines), offering a convenient option for non-driving guests. Nearby hotels include the Hamilton Hotel, Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square, and Hotel Zena, all within short rides or walks for a comfortable stay after a night of live music. When planning your visit, consider our recommended hotels and dining partners for a seamless experience. We’re here to help you secure your tickets and plan a great night out in DC.

Notable past performances in the Backstage space include sold-out shows by COIN (2015) and Anamanaguchi (2011). The venue has also been featured in local coverage during the 2018 downsizing announcement, reflecting its ongoing role as a beloved, down-to-earth music spot in the District.

  • Seating: flexible layout per show; primarily standing with low seating or limited chairs depending on the event.
  • Capacity: historically around 200 in the Backstage room.
  • Parking: street parking and nearby pay lots along U Street.
  • Transit: 3 blocks from U Street/Cardozo Metro (Green/Yellow lines).
  • Nearby hotels: Hamilton Hotel, Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square, Hotel Zena.
  • Dining: recommended nearby options include casual and chef-driven spots within walking distance; affiliate partners available for booking and reservations.

Good to know

Seating, Parking & Venue Information

  • Capacity: historically about 200 (the Backstage room).
  • Address: 1811 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009.
  • Venue type: small, intimate performance space (Backstage) within The Black Cat; downsized/moved upstairs in 2018.
  • Seating: seating charts exist for events; Backstage is primarily a standing/low-seating room depending on the show.
  • Parking: street parking and pay lots available around the U Street corridor.
  • Transit: three blocks from U Street/Cardozo Metro Station (Green/Yellow lines).
  • Nearby hotels: Hamilton Hotel (1001 14th St NW), Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square (806 15th St NW), Hotel Zena (1155 14th St NW).
  • Notable events: hosted acts such as COIN (sold-out 2015 show) and Anamanaguchi (2011) in Backstage; space featured in local coverage when downsizing was announced.