About Indianapolis
Indianapolis, the capital of Indiana and the most populous city in the state, is a vibrant and exciting city. There's plenty to do here, from exploring its many historical landmarks to attending events at one of its many theaters. In Indianapolis, theatergoers can experience all forms of theatrical performance - from movies to Broadway-style musicals.
The historic Old National Centre is great for music lovers, with its world-class acoustics and classic theater atmosphere. It hosts several music concerts throughout the year, as well as special comedy shows. Other notable theatres serve up delicious meals along with traditional Broadway favorites.
For film lovers, downtown Indianapolis boasts numerous cinemas and smaller independent theaters that show international films or Indy Film Fest showcasing local up-and-coming filmmakers' works. This fantastic variety ensures that no matter what kind of experience you're looking for in theater – Indianapolis has something to offer everyone!
Theater Options in Indianapolis
- Costumes
Costume houses in Indianapolis carry selections of ensembles for theatrical productions. Whether you are putting together a period piece or staging a contemporary piece; the city’s costume rental companies have you covered!
- Props
Props are an essential part of creating the set environment for a theatrical production. Props houses in Indianapolis have inventories of befitting items that can spruce up your theater set and assist with character transformations.
- Makeup Artists
Actors ace character transformations by donning the right costumes, delivering their lines with passion, and also with the help of some makeup. Several makeup artists in Indianapolis specialize in screen and stage makeovers with services including special effects makeup.
- Lighting
Stage lighting is a device used to set the tone for certain scenes and highlight the emotions of different characters. A lighting technician is a professional who sets up and operates stage lighting to achieve the desired effect.
- Videography
In the age of the internet, it is a great idea to record your theatrical performance to share on other platforms. A videographer can handle the task, and several can also help you live-stream your event.
Theater Vendors in Indianapolis
- Makeup by Melanie
If you're looking for a makeup artist who will make you look fabulous on your next red carpet appearance or at your next job interview, contact Makeup by Melanie. With years of experience working within the film and television industry, Melanie knows how to make all her clients look their absolute best. Whether you want a natural look for a premier event or something a little more dramatic for a theatrical performance, Melanie has the skills and passion to make it happen.
- Evans Audio-Visual
Evans Audio-Visual has been an integral part of making diverse events in Central Indiana a success for over 30 years. The majority of the time, they'll arrive with everything needed to give your occasion the right tone. If you are planning a performance and want some attractive lighting effects to go along with it, they provide professional video projection, monogrammed gobo lighting, screens, staging, drapery, event furniture, special effects such as fog machines, and more.
- Willow and Star Flowers
Willow and Star Flowers supplies bouquet subscriptions, mobile flower bars, and floral workshops for diverse occasions. The florists draw inspiration from diverse botanical spaces to curate the most gorgeous arrangements, and they use selections of seasonal flowers grown locally in Indiana.
Pros and Cons of Theater Spaces in Indianapolis
There are a few things to consider before renting theater space in Indianapolis. Below are some pros and cons to keep in mind when looking for a theater venue.
Advantages
- Indy exudes a big small-town charm, and hosting a theatrical production in the city helps amp up the vibe.
- Downtown Indianapolis is more or less the city’s center for performing arts. You’ll find a concentration of suitable theater spaces in the area.
- With four interstates passing through the city and a Skywalk system that links some of the major buildings; Indy is a fairly easy place to navigate.
Disadvantages
- The dreary winter weather makes movements a challenge, and it is best to settle for an easily accessible theater location that also addresses the freezing conditions.
- While public buses operate around the city, they are not as reliable. Handle the transport arrangements for your performers if you settle for a theater space that might be out of the way.
- The city’s 2.5 million residents are always on the move at certain points of the day, and the result is heavy traffic. Keep it in mind when searching for a theater venue.
Tips on How to Organize Theater Spaces in Indianapolis
Indy's theater community is booming, which means more opportunities are available for theater lovers to enjoy shows in various spaces around the city. However, knowing how to organize your theater space when starting can also be a bit challenging. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Start by measuring the width and length of your stage: This will give you an idea of how much space you have to work with and what kind of layout will best suit your needs.
- Decide what kind of seating you want: Will you have fixed rows of seats, or will you allow audiences to move around? How many seats do you want in each row?
- Consider your backstage area: You'll need a holding area, changing rooms, and space for costumes, props, and set pieces. Make sure there's plenty of room for actors to move around and get into character before they go on stage.
- Think about lighting and sound: It is crucial that the audience see and hear the action on stage. Pay attention to the placement of the light and how you can best amplify the sound of voices and music.
- Don't forget about access for people with disabilities: Make sure there's an accessible entrance and exit that provides a clear path for wheelchair users.
Famous Locations in Indianapolis
- Indiana Theatre
The Indiana Theatre is a magnificent performance space from the Roaring Twenties which features an intricate architectural design. It is six stories tall, made of concrete, and encased in white terra cotta. The original marquee still hangs over the entrance of the Theatre, which was constructed in 1922. At the front, a curved triangular arch adorned with ornamental framing greets visitors.
- Phoenix Theatre
For over 39 years, the Phoenix Theatre has been a popular performance venue in Indianapolis. It is recognized for its cutting-edge and one-of-a-kind performances that challenge the intellect, touch the heart and inspire the human spirit. A nonprofit organization that brings world premiere productions from Broadway and Off-Broadway shows to Indiana and the Midwest; the venue has also hosted 94 World Premieres.
- Clowes Memorial Hall
Clowes Memorial Hall is one of Indianapolis's most famous performance spaces. The hall has a long history dating back to 1963 when it was founded on the campus of Butler University. Today, it continues to be Indiana's most adaptable and professional performing space, hosting various concerts, orchestras, musicals, plays, and distinguished speakers. The university's largest and most prominent building, Clowes Memorial Hall, contains the school’s business and law schools.