Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
I often find myself thinking back to downtown Indy — those familiar streets, timeless landmarks, and treasured memories that have shaped so many of us. My earliest memory takes me to an Indianapolis childhood trip where I competed in the AAU State Championship as a young wrestler. Afterward, my mom and grandma took me “around the Circle,” soaking in the sights and energy of the city.
As the years went on, downtown became almost like an old friend. In college, I was at Market Square Arena for concerts and Pacers games, taken in by the buzz of it all. I still remember stopping by the L.S. Ayres clock — such an Indy icon — or catching a game at the Hoosier Dome when the city was crackling with excitement. Even with all the growth and change since those days, one building that continues to stand proudly is the Indiana Theatre — built in 1927 and home to the Indiana Repertory Theatre (IRT).
The IRT
The IRT first opened its doors back in 1972 and moved to its current Washington Street location in 1980. The building is stunning, housing three theatres. Two are the home of the IRT, while the third — the Cabaret — hosts everything from weddings to proms. The crown jewel is the OneAmerica Mainstage, seating around 600 guests beneath a gorgeous mezzanine. There’s also the Upperstage — a cozy 300-seat space where audiences surround the performance. I still remember one night when Katy and I found ourselves on the bleachers on the stage itself — part of the performance! It was one of those magical, only-in-live-theatre experiences.
Our connection to the IRT began with a phone call in the summer of 1992. A spur‑of‑the‑moment decision to buy season tickets turned out to be one of the best choices we’ve ever made. Newlyweds at the time, we were looking for something new to do together. We expected to enjoy a few plays — we didn’t expect to fall in love with the experience. From that first season, we were hooked.
The Early Years
In those early years, our seats were all the way up in the balcony — but honestly, there’s not a bad seat in the house. Back then, we were a young family with Sarah, Shannon, and Bruce keeping us busy, so those six shows a year became our little date nights. Although I admit, it was hard to stay awake for a 9 p.m. Saturday show after a long week — I may have nodded off during The Tempest! We eventually switched to the 5 p.m. performances, finding the perfect balance for busy family life.
These days, we’ve graduated to front‑row seats — center stage for opening nights at 7:30. Retirement brought more flexibility, and last season’s energy — especially Janet Allen’s farewell during the 50th anniversary celebration — inspired us to make the leap. Nearly 200 performances later, Katy and I still feel the same excitement every time the lights dim.
Theatre asks something of you — focus, imagination, emotion — and gives so much in return. Unlike a movie, a play invites you to fill in the world yourself, guided by words and performance. My all-time favorite remains Shirley Valentine, a one-woman show that completely captivated me. That production pulled me into the moment like a great glass of wine — the kind that lingers long after the last sip.
Over the decades
Over the decades, playwright James Still and so many others have reminded us how the IRT reflects and challenges our city’s spirit. I remember leaving a late-night showing of Fences in the 90s and stepping straight into the joy of Circle City Classic festivities on Washington Street — the contrast of worlds, both alive and vibrant. That’s what I love about IRT: it doesn’t just reflect diversity and inclusion; it lives it.
And of course, no IRT story is complete without A Christmas Carol. Since 1997, it’s been our family’s December tradition. It’s amazing how each year brings a new take on a familiar story — shorter these days, yes, but no less powerful. On the drive home, we always end up talking about what we noticed, what moved us, and why we’ll be back again next season.
Downtown Indy may keep evolving, but the heart of the city — its art, its people, and yes, its theatre — continues to connect generations. That’s something worth toasting to.
Tonight is the opening night of “Fannie.” A 90-minute play of the Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer. I can’t wait!
Leave a Reply