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Rental FAQs

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Rental FAQ

With flexible configuration and spaces ranging in size from the Rooted Café (capacity 52) to the Mezzanine (capacity 100) to the Performance Hall (capacity 395), we can accommodate performances and events in a wide variety of sizes as well as styles.  We also book B5/The Lavender Room!

Check out our Events Calendar for information on upcoming performances.

After reviewing the FAQs, fill out the Booking Inquiry Form to get started.

Space Rental FAQs: 

How can I schedule an event at the Armory?

Interested in renting a space at the Armory? Read on for answers to some of the frequently-asked questions, complete the Event Contact Form, and email [email protected] with any questions. 

How much does it cost?

Rates vary according to many factors, including whether or not the event is a public or private event, time of year, technical requirements and more. Events run by non-profit groups do get a discount. Please contact [email protected] to determine pricing for your event.

What does the rental rate include?

The rate includes: use of the space, use of our plastic folding chairs, use of our tables, use of our sound/light/video systems, an event tech to run sound/light/video on the day, bar staff, and an event manager to coordinate everything on the facilities side.

Do you have a sound system?

Yes.  The Performance Hall has a professional-grade sound system, along with stage lights, projector and screen, mics (with stands and cables) and monitors, etc.  The Cafe has a smaller sound system with mixer, speakers, monitors, and a limited number of microphones/cables/etc. Mezzanine performances can use a smaller portable PA system.  (More details on any of the systems available on request.)

Is a sound tech provided?  Can we bring our own?

Performance Hall events require a technician to be present if our sound equipment or stage lights are being used. Staffing needs can be discussed during the booking process if your event does not have many technical elements. Renters are welcome to bring their own technicians, but an Arts at the Armory technician needs to be on-site during your rental period.

Do you have a set ticket price?

We do not have a set ticket price. It is up to you to provide the pricing guide. Please base ticket price on previous show pricing.

What is your policy on drinks at events?

Drinks need to be bought through us and are not included in the rental rate. (We can run an open bar, cash bar, or any combination. Open bar is charged on actual consumption plus a gratuity.) Please note that the Armory only has a beer & wine license. We cannot do a full liquor service. Events cannot bring in their own alcohol.

What is your policy on food?

You can bring in any professionally prepared food (from a caterer, restaurant, supermarket, deli etc. – but nothing homemade). There’s no fee or restricted list of caterers, but we would need to talk to your caterer in advance to make sure they can work within the constraints of the venue.

For public events, please note that a food permit is required by the City of Somerville.

What’s not included in the rental?

You would be responsible for catering, table or other equipment rentals, linens, glassware/silverware/plates (the bar serves in plastic cups otherwise), and any decorations.

How late can an event go?

Sun-Wed: events must end by 11:30 PM
Thurs-Sat: events must end by 1:00 AM

What do you do for promotion? 

The Armory provides online promotion through our website, social media outlets, and newsletter for all upcoming events. If you provide us with a flyer we would be happy to hang it up on our bulletin boards. However, promotion should be done primarily by the event organizer. 

What are my parking options?

For parking, we have 44 spaces (including two handicapped spaces) directly behind our building. We also have an overflow lot a few blocks away (75 Belmont St).

Where to get more details? 

Contact [email protected] — it will help us to know whether the event is free or ticketed, public or private, a charity fundraiser or for-profit, weekend or weekday, month of the year, daytime or evening, size of event (i.e., Hall, Mezz, or Cafe), etc.  If you know any of those details already, please include it so we can give you a better answer.

Other things to be aware of:

Due to our location in a residential area we need to be careful about noise levels when people are exiting the building.

 

Arts at the Armory Performance Hall

Upcoming Events

Songwriters in the Round

Songwriters in the Round

Wed. Mar. 20, 2024, 7:00 PM
The Bowery Presents: Lætitia Sadier

The Bowery Presents: Lætitia Sadier

Thu. Mar. 21, 2024, 7:00 PM
Get to the Gig Boston & MassConcerts Present: Loving

Get to the Gig Boston & MassConcerts Present: Loving

Fri. Mar. 22, 2024, 7:00 PM
The Center for the Arts at the Armory