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What is the capacity and what's included in the exclusive venue hire?

Athena accommodates up to 1,400 guests with exclusive hire including the cinema suite, foyer, balcony, deco lounges, and kitchen. The package includes dedicated event managers, round tables with black or white linen, Chiavari chairs, cutlery/crockery/glassware, setup and cleaning, plus 100 complimentary parking spaces with two stewards.

What audio-visual equipment is included in the venue hire?

The venue includes an in-house Ethos 1Pro-Logic sound system, in-house mood lighting system, two 10ft projector screens, live feed capabilities for speeches and entrances, USB connection for slideshows, a purpose-built stage with star cloth backdrop, and handheld microphones. Three Christie laser projectors and comprehensive lighting rig are also available.

What are the pricing structures for different event types?

Conference packages are priced at £71.94 per person (including VAT) for 800 people, which includes exclusive venue use, technical support, catering, and all AV equipment. Build days cost £1,800 plus VAT. Specific pricing varies by event type and guest count - contact the venue for detailed quotes based on your requirements.

Are there restrictions on bringing external suppliers or equipment?

The venue allows external AV suppliers to be brought in for events. There is no corkage charge on beers, wines, spirits, or soft drinks, suggesting you can bring your own alcohol. The venue has comprehensive in-house technical equipment, but external suppliers can be accommodated when needed.

What catering and refreshment services are available?

Catering includes arrival refreshments (tea, coffee, orange juice, pastries, fresh fruit), mid-morning and afternoon breaks with tea/coffee/biscuits, two-course hot fork or finger buffets for lunch, and three-course seated dinners. Evening service includes one glass of chilled prosecco per guest and table service for bar drinks.

What facilities are available for guest preparation and storage?

The venue provides three dressing rooms with two having ensuite bathrooms, perfect for wedding parties or performers. There's a staffed cloakroom service for delegate convenience, registration area in the main foyer, and storage space available for equipment or personal items.

What are the timing restrictions and setup requirements?

The venue offers flexible event timings and access times for setup and de-rig. Build days are available for complex events requiring advance setup. Events can run from early morning (8:00 AM) through to late evening, with some quotes showing events running until 23:59.

What technical specifications support live performances and presentations?

The venue features a 10m x 5m cinema screen, three Christie laser projectors, full RCF sound system, comprehensive lighting rig, purpose-built stage, data connection with live feed capabilities, and LED table centerpieces. Two 120-inch retractable projector screens provide flexible content display options.

What parking and accessibility features are available?

The venue provides 100 complimentary car parking spaces with two dedicated stewards to assist guests. Located in Leicester's cultural quarter, it's accessible by public transport and near major transport links, making it suitable for guests traveling from across the UK.

Does the venue provide accommodation or have partnerships with nearby hotels?

Athena does not provide accommodation as they are not a hotel. For events where guests are traveling from across the country, you'll need to arrange separate accommodation. The venue's central Leicester location provides access to various nearby hotel options.