Artists now have a new haven to unleash their creativity. On 8 September 2022, the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) opened the doors of the new Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez, also known as CCP Black Box. The new theater is inaugurated just in time as the CCP Main Building will be closed for rehabilitation.

Representing CCP's "leap into the future," the new building takes its name from entrepreneur Ignacio Gimenez who was a scholar of National Artist for Theater Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero. He donated the building in honor of his mentor, to encourage more individuals to engage in Philippine theater.

The logo for the CCP Black Box drew inspiration from shapes and colors from Philippine indigenous weaves, representing "the bold new works that will take place at the venue—progressive, experimental, fluid, contemporary," according to logo designer B + C.

Located on the corner of Jalandoni and Sotto Streets, the new building has a high-ceiling carpentry area and a well-equipped performance space. It has at least four flexible stage and seating configurations, a removable trap door, a portable dance floor, and a high-end sound and light technology system. It also has a catwalk, orchestra and choral risers, and aluminum trusses for stage rigging. The Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez is also compliant with the Magna Carta for the Disabled.

The first performance season at the new venue, entitled Unboxed!, will run until the end of the year. Performances will include CCP Special Concert Series, Tanghalang Pilipino’s Anak Datu, CCP Triple Threats Series, Ang Dakilang Teatro ng Daigdig, Carousel and Ternocon III.

Watch the previous CCP Special Concert Series here: