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TABLE OF CONTENTS DANCE ............................................................................................. 07 STAGE...............................................................................................13 VISUAL ARTS ................................................................................. 21
c i t y g u i d e s
MUSIC ............................................................................................... 31
arts guide
WORD............................................................................................... 41 FILM ................................................................................................... 47
PUBLISHER: Kevin McKinney (kmckinney@nuvo.net)
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS: Tom Aldridge, Josefa Beyer, Dan
ARTS 2011
Grossman, Rita Kohn, Laura McPhee, Scott Shoger, Susan Watt Grade,
Message from NUVO’s new A&E Editor, Matthew McClure
EDITOR: Laura McPhee (lmcphee@nuvo.net) MANAGING EDITOR: Jim Poyser (jpoyser@nuvo.net) NEWS EDITOR: Rebecca Townsend (rtownsend@nuvo.net) MUSIC EDITOR: Scott Shoger (sshoger@nuvo.net)
Sam Watermeier PHOTOGRAPHY: Submitted photos, except for: Mark Lee (5, 9), Stephen Simonetto (7),Laura McPhee (9) DESIGNER: Asha Patel (apatel@nuvo.net) PRODUCTION MANAGER: Melissa Carter (mcarter@nuvo.net) DISTRIBUTION MANAGER: Christa Phelps (cphelps@nuvo.net) MARKETING MANAGER: Lauren Guidotti (lguidotti@nuvo.net) DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING: Josh Schuler (jschuler@nuvo.net) BUSINESS MANAGER: Kathy Flahavin (kflahavin@nuvo.net)
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DINING GUIDE October 12, 2011 Got questions, comments or suggestions about this or other NUVO CityGuides? Send them to cityguides@nuvo.net EDITORIAL POLICY: NUVO Newsweekly covers news, public issues, arts and entertainment. We publish views from across the political and social spectra. They do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher.
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I’ve mo ved ar ound quite a bit o ver the y ears, but Indianapolis, more than any other place , has been home to my life’s most memorable and noteworthy events. I met the woman who became my wife in Indianapolis. Married her at F irst Meridian Heights Church. Began my work in publishing her e. A dopted my no w 14-y ear-old dog as a wee pup from the Indianapolis Humane Society. Bought my first and second homes her e, on B oulevard and B roadway, r espectively. And for the first time was given the opportunity write articles for a publication that I deeply admire NUVO! All of this took place o ver an eight-y ear stretch. A solid if staid editor ial job carr ied me to Chicago in 2006. B ut thanks to Kevin McKinney and Jim Poyser, I’m enthusiastically returning to Indianapolis, ready to cover an arts scene that’s grown by leaps and bounds during my time away. My job is made easy b y NUVO’s stellar collection of beat writers, who ar e not mer ely talented scr ibes but also experts in the arts with a wealth of contacts throughout the local creative community. Within this guide , a few of our top writers explore their specific disciplines and highlight what we have to look forward to in the months ahead. The flour ishing popular ity of the M ass A ve C ultural District and First Friday Art Tours. Another eclectic lineup of events on B utler’s cultur al calendar . A panoply of amazing artists at ORANJE. Ten days of pr ovocative performances at I ndyFringe. Venues new and old hosting music, theater and dance per formers fr om I ndiana and around the world. N ow is a thr illing time to be co vering the arts in Indianapolis, and I promise to do so with fresh eyes, constant curiosity and an open mind. So come on, I ndy! Get off y our butt and enjo y a play , an exhibit, a festiv al. The economy may be in the tank, but arts options abound and many of them are affordable and close to home. I look forward to seeing you out and about. Matthew McClure mmcclure@nuvo.net
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Dance Theatre of Harlem, Madame Walker Theatre Center, Nov. 10.
ORGANIZATIONS
DANCE Dance bursts into the 2011-12 season Sept. 10 with a potpourr i of resident companies and schools of dance showcasing their distinctive style at Penrod’s Dance Stage on the grounds of the IMA. F ree with admission to Penrod, rotating half-hour programs tempt us into attending all year-long to experience hometown talent in ballet, moder n, tap, folk, ethnic, contemporary, ballroom and Broadway show dance. Indianapolis City Ballet presents students from dance schools across central Indiana in a commissioned sixminute work in its Sept. 9 Young Stars of Ballet program preceding their Sept. 10 spectacular with soloists from U.S. and international dance companies bringing WOW to Murat Theatre. The Artsgarden stage continues free local company showcasing with a notto-miss Oct. 2 concert by Indianapolis School of Ballet, a program of Indianapolis Ballet Inc. Expect to be surprised by what’s possible in a small space by pre-professional dancers. Dance Kaleidoscope swirls us into a world of wonderment with The Four Elements (Redux) Oct. 6-9 at IRT’s Main Stage. Adding excitement to DK’s 40th season is APA winning pianist Spencer Meyer playing Chopin’s music for the Water segment followed by Air, Fire, Earth.
Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre brings their spirited My Gypsy Soul to The Tarkington Oct. 7-8. IU Ballet Theater’s Steps in Time features current trends in international dance Oct. 7-8. Butler students share original choreography Oct. 25-26 in Lilly Hall Studio Theatre 310. Spirit & Place, with The Body as its theme, Nov. 4-10 offers @Work @Rest @ Play, A Day of Wellness, The Inspiration of David Hochoy and Victoria Lyras, Circles and Swirls and Nov. 10 partners with along with Madame Walker to present the touring of Dance Theatre of Harlem Ensemble. Clowes continues introducing cutting edge and renowned dance companies Nov. 4 with Luna Negra Dance Theatre accompanied by two-time Grammy winning Turtle Island Quartet. The Tarkington and Palladium Dance Series offers exciting touring company repeats and introductions: Pilobolus Oct. 1, Compania Flamenca Jose Porcel Oct. 12, Bad Boys of Dance Nov. 3. Nutcrackers wr ap up the fall season throughout December. Butler Ballet and IU B allet Theater include live music, GHDT and Walker emphasiz e social issues, Central Indiana Dance Ensemble includes Scout badges. — RITA KOHN
Central Indiana Dance Ensemble Founded in 1999 by Suzann DeLay, this company provides an excellent environment for aspiring young dancers to perform in a variety of styles. In 2006, it r eceived Honor Company status in the Regional Dance America association. The company pr esents a repertory concert in mid-winter, showcasing the Senior and Apprentice dancers. It also presents a full-length spring production, which in the past have included such beloved works as Cinderella, Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland, and The Nutcracker. On top of that, it gives back to the community thr ough outreach programs and complimentary performances for children’s organizations. It will also perform Carmel’s new Tarkington Theater. 1142 Linden Lane, 844-7453, www.cidedance.org. Dance Kaleidoscope Dance Kaleidoscope is a contemporary company whose dancers ar e trained in classical ballet and Graham Technique. DK offers a diverse repertoire in various venues, with their mainstage performances presented at Indiana Repertory Theatre. The company performs in additional venues, though, such as the Athenaeum— and they continue their fruitful relationship with Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, Oregon while performing at other national festivals. Everything is top-notch, from costuming to lighting to choreography; check out Artistic Director David Hochoy’s blog on their website. DK is all about collaboration, performing to live music and spoken narrative, and presenting guest choreographers, such as Butler’s Cynthia Pratt. 4603 Clarendon Road, Rm. 32, 940-6555, www.dancekal.org. Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre This troupe offers a socially conscious form of pr ofessional modern dance dedicated to the presentation of thought-provoking issues through a diverse repertoire, perhaps best known for their alternative version of Nutcracker. The season line up often featur es immersions in world cultures illuminating cultural diversity through dance and costumes. This troupe doubles in size during the summer when dancers from professional companies, college programs and area schools work alongside veteran GHDT members as part of the theatre’s unique, pre-professional mentoring initiative. August 2011 marks GHDT’s final performance at in Pike Performing Arts Center. GHDT will begin their 2011-2012 Season in October as the
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Bad Boys of Dance, Center for the Performing Arts, Nov. 3. Resident Professional Dance Company at The Tarkington at The Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. 329 Gradle Drive, 846-2441, www. gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org. Indianapolis City Ballet A presenting organization, its first two seasons of gala fund-raising concerts featured soloists from other companies presenting their signature repertoire at the Old National Murat Centre. For its 2011 gala students from dance schools throughout greater Indianapolis have been recruited for a “Young Stars of Ballet” program preceding another “ballet extravaganza” again featuring dancers from around the U.S.A. ICB also offers master classes to supplement what ballet schools do on their own. P. O. Box 40567 11 W. 65th Street, 339-1413, www.indianapoliscityballet.org. Indianapolis School of Ballet With an emphasis on “keeping in step with the advancement of American dance in the 21st century” ISB of fers classical ballet and other dance forms to students of all ages and levels. Master classes have been offered since ISB’s founding in 2006. Graduates of ISB have entered prestigious university programs and these graduates now are performing in regional companies. ISB and Riolo Dance, offering ballroom dancing, reside in the transformed totally refurbished former Ballet Internationale studios. 502 N. Capitol Ave., 955-7525, www.indyballet.org. Kenyetta Dance Company The Kenyetta Dance Company — from Swahili meaning “beautiful flower” — is a pre-professional group specializing in contemporary dance. With a repertoire influenced by South African ballet, the music of the 1970s and Christian spirituality, the company’s programs reflect a commitment to (and celebration of) cultural diversity. Kenyetta Dance Company heightens the community’s understanding of contemporary dance, but also fosters a greater passion for the art in its students and the community. The company offers performances in partnership with other organizations as well as workshops, classes and demonstrations to students of all ages and levels of experience. P.O. Box 88934, 430-5063, www. kenyettadancecompany.com.
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Motus Dance Theatre Now operating out of its studio in Fountain Square, Motus Dance Theatre has built an enthusiastic following, performing dances by a variety of choreographers that run a gamut fr om the lyrical to the defiant, with a dash of fun usually thrown in for good measure. From a choreographic standpoint, Motus favors a collective approach, creating a platform for the members of its company, as well as opportunities for collaboration with other artists by offering exposure to fresh, unconventional dance, particularly by partnering with emerging, edgy music groups. Cultivate, Motus’ November Choreographers Showcase offers a stage for emerging talent nationwide. 1101 Hoyt Ave., 602-3920, www.motusdance.com. Susurrus One of the city’s longest running performance art collaboratives, Susurrus — under the artistic direction of Melli Hoppe — has presented pieces that blur the line between dance and theater, establishing a beachhead for site-specific performance in Indianapolis that subsequent performers have eagerly embraced. Susurrus performances have taken place in the catacombs under the City Market, in Crown Hill Cemetery, on Monument Circle and even inside the Vogue nightclub, to name just a few. 6001 Broadway, 257-6437, www.susurrus.net.
SEASON HIGHLIGHTS Bad Boys of Dance The athletic performance style of the Bad Boys of Dance is high-energy entertainment for every audience. Founded by superstar Rasta Thomas, this unique brand of dance mixes traditional roots with elements of martial arts and acrobatics. With a strong foundation in classical ballet, these dancers explor e a diverse assortment of genres, from jazz to musical theater and everything in between. Get set for an entertaining evening with this unique brand of acrobatic dance fusion. Thursday, Nov. 3, 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices vary. Center for the Performing Arts, 335 W. City Center Drive, Carmel, 660-3373, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.org.
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Ballet Memphis Ballet Memphis is the premiere preserver of the South’s cultural legacy of dance. This evening of dance includes the delightful “Being Here” set to Mozart’s Concerto in D Major, choreographed by Steve McMahon; “In Dreams,” set to the music of Roy Orbison love songs and choreographed by Trey McIntyre; Robert Battle’s solo work, “Takadame”; and Julie Adams’ “Curtain of Green” to the music of Phillip Glass. Friday, March 2, 8 p.m. Ticket prices vary. Center for the Performing Arts, 335 W. City Center Drive, Carmel, 660-3373, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.org. Butler Ballet: The Nutcracker Butler Ballet’s The Nutcracker is a holiday family tradition, featuring spectacular scenery and costumes, to accompany the enduring magic of this timeless of fering. Tchaikovsky’s beloved score will performed by the Butler Ballet Orchestra and the Indianapolis Children’s Choir under the direction of Richard Auldon Clark. Dec. 1-4, times and ticket prices vary. Clowes Memorial Hall, 4602 Sunset Ave., 940-9346, www.cloweshall.org. Chinese Acrobats This company of 35 performers takes off on its inaugural tour of the United States. From Beijing, China, this brilliant performance has captivated audiences worldwide with a blend of illusion, acrobatics, and Chinese martial arts. Center for the Performing Arts, 335 W. City Center Drive, Carmel, 660-3373, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.org. Compania Flemenco Enjoy the sensual stylings of flamenca dance with the inter nationally
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renowned Compania Flamenco. Founded in Madrid, Spain, the Compania Flamenco will arouse the senses with this irresistibly playful genre of dance. Expect a joyful, sensual experience. Wednesday, Oct. 12, 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices vary. Center for the Performing Arts, 335 W. City Center Drive, Carmel, 660-3373, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.org. Complexions Contemporary Ballet Complexions founded Desmond Richardson has been called “one of the great modern dancers of this time” by the New York Times. Richardson joins world-renowned choreographer Dwight Rhoden to present a skillful and intriguing evening of dance. Sunday. Sunday, Jan. 22, 7 p.m., Ticket prices vary. Center for the Performing Arts, 335 W. City Center Drive, Carmel, 660-3373, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.org. Dance Theatre of Harlem Dance Theatre of Harlem enjoys unprecedented global acclaim as a leading dance institution and arts education center. The company is committed to providing young people and adults with the opportunity to enrich their lives through the arts. Come enjoy an evening with the Dance Theatr e of Harlem’s performing ensemble and experience the tradition firsthand. Thursday, Nov. 10, 7:30 p.m. $25; $10 student. Madame Walker Theatre Center, 617 Indiana Ave., 236-2099, www.walkertheatre.com.
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An Evening of Kathakali Butler University Theater presents performance by Kunju Vasudevan Namboodiripad, 2011-2012 Christel DeHaan Visiting International Theatre Artist (VITA), with veteran actor
Compania Flemenco, Center for the Performing Arts, Oct. 12. 100% RECYCLED PAPER // NUVO // 2011 // arts guide
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Bhasi Puligara and musician Aneesh Chermuttathu Veedu, who are also in residence with the VITA. Classical dance/ drama from Kerala, India. Sept. 22-24, 8 p.m. Ticket prices vary. Butler University Theatre, 4600 Sunset Ave., 940-9659, www.butler.edu/theatre. Evening with the Stars A celebration of the finest artists performing their signature works, the performances include excerpts of the most exciting and celebrated classical, neoclassical and cutting-edge contemporary ballet works that have wowed sold-out audiences for two years. One of the art season’s most anticipated events. Saturday, Sept. 10, 8 p.m. T ickets $30-$70. Murat Theatre at Old National Centre, 502 N. New Jersey St., 231-0000. www. IndianapolisCityBallet.org Evidence Dance Evidence Dance is a fusion of traditional African dance and contemporary choreography. Hailing from Brooklyn, New York, the ensemble delights audiences with their virtuosic athleticism. In this performance, the company will set their talent to the timeless music of Stevie Wonder. Friday, Jan. 13, 8 p.m. Ticket prices vary. Center for the Performing Arts, 335 W. City Center Drive, Carmel, 660-3373, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.org.
For more information, call
(317) 278-3311. Please leave your name and a phone number at which you can easily be reached.
Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre: It’s All Greek to Me Gather your friends and book a table
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today for this up-close-and-personal cabaret experience. This year, GHDT visits Greece, performing classics such as “Greek Mythology,” “The Big Fat Greek Wedding Piece,” and “The Birth of the Gods.” Enjoy refreshments during the show in this casual setting. Limited seating, reservations are required and are not transferable. Feb. 10-26, Friday and Saturday 7 p.m., Sunday 3 p.m. $35. Academy of Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre, 329 Gradle Drive, Carmel, 844-2660, www. gregoryhancockdancetheatere.org. Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre: My Gypst Soul Embark on a journey that follows the Gypsies on their journey from India to Spain. Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre’s My Gypsy Soul features music from Romania, Russia, Bulgaria, Serbia, Greece, Africa, Spain, Portugal, Ireland, and India. Experience the artistry and color of GHDT with this eclectic concert. Friday 10/7, 8 p.m.; Saturday, Oct. 8, 8 p.m., $36; $31 students and seniors. Center for the Performing Arts, 335 W. City Center Drive, Carmel, 660-3373, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.org. Indiana University Ballet: Sleeping Beauty IU Ballet’s spring season offers a new production of one of the world’s most famous ballets: Tchaikovsky’s fairytale The Sleeping Beauty. Marius Pepita’s original choreography, supplanted with additional choreography by Michael Vernon, is featured along with set
Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Center for the Performing Arts, Jan. 22.
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Indianapoils City Ballet, Murat Theatre, Sept. 9-10. designs by IU’s C. David Higgins. Friday, March 23, 8 p.m.; Saturday, March 24, 2 p.m., Indiana University, 107 S. Indiana Ave., Bloomington, 812-8554848, music.indiana.edu/operaballet. Indianapolis School of Ballet: The Nutcracker A season favorite for everyone, this production features scenery of Indianapolis’ Victorian-era historic landmark MorrisButler house painted by Indiana University Opera Theatre’s renowned (and busy) scenic designer C. David Higgins. Professional guest artists, supported by pre-professional dancers, will present E.T. A. Hoffman’s beloved holiday staple. Dec. 16-18, Friday and Saturday 7:30 p.m., Sunday 3 p.m. $15-25. Scottish Rite Cathedral, 50 N. Meridian St., 262-3100, www.indyballet.org. Indianapolis School of Ballet: Russian Treasures: The Indianapolis School of Ballet’s spring production is Russian Treasures, a mixed repertoire program linked by the common thread of Russian music, performed in the spectacular confines of the Scottish Rite Cathedral. May 19-20, 3 p.m. $15-25. Scottish Rite Cathedral, 50 N. Meridian St., 955-7525, www.indyballet.org. Luna Negra Dance Theater with Turtle Island Quartet With a mission of creating and presenting contemporary dance by Latino choreographers, Luna Negra showcases dance that encompasses the emotional spectrum, from serious to funny, passionate to serene. Expect an adventurous night of exacting technique and adventurous artistry, presented on the sublime Clowes Hall stage. Friday, Nov. 4, 8 p.m. Ticket prices vary. Clowes Memorial Hall, 4602 Sunset Ave., 940-6444, www.clowesmemorialhall.org. Moscow Ballet Presents Great Russian Nutcracker Renowned artists Alexandra Elagina and Anatolie Ustimov make their Western Tour debut as Masha (aka Clara) and the Nutcracker Prince, supported by some 30 expert Russian dancers. The performance is major spectacle, with 3-D ef fects, nine hand-painted backdrops and 200 costumes. This is Moscow Ballet’s 19th annual Great Russian Nutcracker tour to 60+ cities across North America. Tchaikovsky himself might rise from the dead to catch this performance! Sunday,
Dec. 4, 5 p.m. $27.50 and up. Murat Theatre at Old National Centre, 502 N. New Jersey St., Indianapolis, 800-320-1733, www.nutcracker.com. Motus: In In is a full-length production by the exciting and innovative Indianapolis dance company, Motus, featuring new collaborations by Tommy Lewey and Georgeanna Smith (who collaborated on a stunning performance of 4:48 Psychosis last year). All this in the intimate and swanky setting of the White Rabbit Cabaret in Fountain Square. Come and be challenged and entertained. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 11-12, 8 p.m. $12 advance, $15 at the door (cash only). White Rabbit Cabaret, 1116 East Prospect St., 686-9550, www. whiterabbitcabaret.com. Spirit & Place Festival: The Inspiration of David Hochoy and Victoria Lyras For Spirit & Place’s emphasis on all-thingsbody-related, Indianapolis School of Ballet collaborates with Dance Kaleidoscope in a program that includes discussion, performance and photography. Local artist directors Hochoy and Lyras, inspired by their mentors and teachers, Martha Graham and George Balanchine, will seize this Spirit & Place opportunity to explor e classical ballet and modern dance, in a multiple-expression format. Sunday, Nov. 6, 3 p.m. Free. Indianapolis School of Ballet, 502 N. Capitol Ave., 955-7525, www.indyballet.org. Young Stars Ballet Young Stars of Ballet is a performance that gives local audiences a chance to see the emerging, stellar, young talent in the national and international ballet worlds alongside some of the art forms most accomplished stars. Friday, Sept. 9, 7:30 p.m., $30-70. Murat Theatre at Old National Centre, 502 N. New Jersey Street., Indianapolis, 231-0000, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.org.
Check our online calendar listings at www.nuvo.net for the latest information on dance performances in Central Indiana.
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‘Million Dollar Quartet,’ Murat Theatre, Dec. 13-18.
PERORMERS & PERFORMANCE SPACES
STAGE Fall spr ings eter nal. This time ever y year, I believe that I ndianapolis theater will wo w me . I t always does , if in fits and spur ts. F ollowing ar e my best bets for the spurts. God of C arnage (F eb. 28), Yasmina Reza’s Tony A ward-winning social satire, comes to I ndiana Repertory Theatre, piggybacking on the mo vie version ’s fall r elease. When two B rooklyn par ents meet to settle a playgr ound dispute betw een their sons , middle-class calm veers into Who’s Afr aid of Virginia Woolf? territory. The New York Times said of Carnage, “Never under estimate the pleasure of watching r eally good actors behaving terribly.” Not to be outdone b y char acters that register on the Richter scale , P hoenix Theater br ings us August: O sage County (Feb. 16), Tracy Lett’s darkly comic drama about an O klahoma family that comes together in a time of crisis to support and attack one another. August premiered at Chicago’s Steppenwolf Theatre and then catapulted to a blister ing N ew York r un and 2008 Pulitzer and Tony Awards. No season is complete without the classics. They r emind us of what gr eat dramatists can do and challenge us to do better. IRT stages Julius C aesar (O ct. 1), Shakespeare’s rich portrayal of political scheming that pr oves the bar d has a time machine and walks among us , and
the University of I ndianapolis pr oduces George B ernard S haw’s Arms and the Man (O ct. 21), about the futility of war , heroes and romance. But who am I kidding? We all know that Indianapolis is Amer ica’s musical theater capital, from Annie, which runs in perpetuity here, to Debbie Does Dallas (Theatre on the Squar e, D ec. 30), a version of the porn film that substitutes musical numbers for for nication. ( What does that say about why w e ar e the musical capital?). F or musicals that step out of the box-office safety z one, consider Spring Awakening (P hoenix, S ept. 22), about teen sexuality in 19th centur y Ger many; Working, based on S tuds Terkel’s book (TOTS, S ept. 30); and Company (C armel Community P layers, J an. 20), S tephen Sondheim’s look at long-ter m coupling (not just fornication). Now, for theater that bends the medium completely , I’ ll head to B utler University, the I ndyFringe Theatre and No Exit performances. The latter company is made up of Butler grads and friends who tr ansform black-bo x theaters and found locations into confounding theatrical exper iences with str ong visuals , movement and emotion. N ot surpr isingly, the seasons of all thr ee ar e as y et unannounced. Stay tuned. — JOSEFA BEYER
Actors Theatre of Indiana Since its birth in 2005, this company has been delivering wonderful theatrical entertainment to the communities of Hamilton County, Boone County,Marion County, and surrounding areas. It also provides creative opportunities for the leading artists of today and tomorrow whilegiving theater guidance and musical theater training to young artists in the pr ocess. Better yet, the company’s shows will be presented in Carmel’s brand spanking new Center for the Performing Arts. Past pr oductions include My Way: A Musical Tribute to Frank Sinatra, Frog and Toad, Stardust Memories, and The Andrews Brothers. 355 City Center Drive, Carmel, 843-3800, www.actorstheatreofindiana.org. The Artists’ Studio The Artists’ Studio was founded in 2001 as an independent, for-profit community theater in a r enovated nightclub. Understanding the important of arts to human development, the Studio offers classes in dancing, acting and singing. W ith a goal of providing a safe and nurturing envir onment for the artist to grow in his or her craft, the Artists’ Studio pr ovides different levels of instruction with a team of only highly qualified professional instructors. Their productions include selections from High School Musical 2, Aladdin, Hair, The King and I, The Sound of Music and more. 12810 Ford Drive, Fishers; 594-5070, www.artist-studio.com. Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre Dinner and a show is what B&B is best known for — as well as an outstanding gift shop. Located in College Park, the theatr e entertains more than 155,000 people annually. The buffet comes with the ticket. Food prepared by the in-house chef, a full-service bar and gourmet desserts are additional features to the main attraction: the stage. While classic hits and well-known favorites — primarily musicals — reign supreme here, year-round specially produced student matinees add to making this a theater the entir e family can enjoy. The theater operates year-round and nightly (except Mondays when special musical acts can be seen). 9301 Michigan Road, 872-9664, www.beefandboards.com.
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Ryan Artzbarger, ‘A Christmas Carol,’ IRT, Nov. 25 - Dec 24. Buck Creek Players This little theatre in the middle of nowhere can surprise you in amazing ways. Host to well-done and awar dwinner productions, the volunteer casts often boast some of Indy’s top-notch actors and director Scott Robinson is a significant local talent. W ith more than 35 years under their belt, the players moved around from church to church before settling in the Playhouse, an old tennis facility tur ned church, then turned theater. The performers can entertain a full house with up to 130 audience members. Buck Creek features classic productions like Frankenstein: A New Musical. 11150 Southeastern Ave., 862-2270, www.buckcreekplayers.com. Butler University Theatre Butler stands on the creative edge of the Indianapolis theater scene. Students in the Jordan College of Fine Arts Theatre Department are immersed in an ambitious, hands-on experiment of staging challenging new and classic works with a decidedly international reach. Butler regularly brings master artists from around the world to Indianapolis to engage with the community and make special presentations and performances. Graduates from this program can often be seen as part of the larger Indianapolis performance art community, acting, dancing, producing, lighting, designing, directing and forming their own productive production companies. Christel DeHaan Visiting International Theatre Artist this year is Kunju Vasudevan Namboodiripad. The expanded theatre complex under construction is expected to open September 2012 as a state-ofthe-art facility. 4600 Sunset Ave., 940-9952, www.butler.edu/theatre, www.cloweshall.org. Carmel Community Playhouse Founded in 1993, this theater is now located in Carmel’s Clay Terrace and therefore able to combine the enjoyment of shopping and dining with theater, art, and culture. (It even participates with surrounding restaurants for its Dinner & a Show package.) The theater’s upcoming shows include Almost, Maine,
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Six Degrees of Separation, and Company, to name just a few. In addition to providing great theatrical productions, it wants to make its new home available to other arts organizations, businesses, and community groups. The Playhouse is available for meetings and events for up to 120 people. 14299 Clay Terrace Blvd., Carmel, 815-9387, www.carmelplayers.org. Carmel Repertory Theatre This non-profit community arts collective is incredibly generous with the entertainment it provides. Its lineup of upcoming shows is every theater geek’s dream. The season includes Annie, A Christmas Carol, Little Shop of Horrors, Moonlight and Magnolias, and The Music Man. Are you freaking out yet? In addition, the company facilitates classes, lectures, and exhibits “in an ef fort to enrich the lives of all citizens of Carmel.” It is bringing all its gr eatness and glory to Carmel’s Center for the Performing Arts as well. It’s almost too good to be true! 484 E. Carmel Drive, Carmel, 767-3973, www.carmelrepertorytheatre.com. ComedySportz ComedySportz has been serving up great improv and comedy performances to Indianapolis audiences since 1993. Located along of Mass A ve, ComedySportz features family friendly contests between two teams of impr ov specialists, with plenty of interaction with the audience. In addition they present more adult-oriented shows, AKA their “Unscripted Series,” and the ComedySportz performers are some of the most talented — and quick-witted — actors imaginable. ComedySportz competes in regional and national contests, giving other, bigger cities a run for their money, and in summer 2011 hosted the ComedySportz World Championship; very prestigious! 721 Massachusetts Ave., 951-8499, www.indycomedysportz.com. Heartland Actors Repertory Theatre (HART) Established in 2006, Heartland Actors’ Repertory Theatre (HART) was founded by actors — for actors. Pr ofessional
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equity artists who bonded over performances at the IRT and Phoenix took charge of their careers by creating a platform for themselves. Dedicated to producing accessible theater, HART introduces audiences to both classic dramatic literature and new plays. They are most noted for their FREE Summer Shakespeare in White River State Park. However, this plucky theater group finds time to collaborate with other arts organizations like the Kurt Vonnegut Memorial Library, Butler University Theatre and the IndyFringe Festival. www.heartlandactors.com. Indiana Repertory Theatre The cream of the crop for Indianapolis theater, the IRT presents the gamut — from classics to new, speciallycommissioned works. The plays are staged on either the upper or lower stages, which give audiences varying degrees of intimacy, yet always outstanding, powerful performances. Productions have a welldeserved reputation for superb lighting and set design, plus top theater artists (actors, directors, etc.) are drawn from all over the country. Special performances are regularly scheduled for student groups through the Discovery Series, which is also open to general audiences. The IR T also offers theater classes for adults and children. 140 W. Washington St., 635-5252, www.irtlive.com. Indianapolis Civic Theatre Civic Theatre will open its 2011-2012 season in the exciting, 500-seat, state-of-
the-art Tarkington Theatre at The Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. All patrons who renew their season tickets or purchase a new subscription for the 2010-2011 season are guaranteed priority seating at the new facility. For more info about its upcoming season, see the Tarkington Theatre blurb. Note this is a home-coming of sorts for Civic, because the famed Indianapolis novelist and playwright, Booth Tarkington, was a founding force behind Civic; for Civic to move to Tarkington Theatre is a match made in history. 3 Center Green, Suite 200, Carmel, 923-4597, www.civictheatre.org. IndyFringe Every August, IndyFringe’s signature tenday Fringe Festival brings local, national and international theater artists together for one boggling of fun. Occupying multiple venues, including Mass Ave itself, IndyFringe presents compelling avantgarde theater, dance and comedy for audiences of all types. The r est of the year is no different, as the IndyFringe building is the location for local and touring groups, from kids-oriented productions to more adult-themed shows, to perform. Regular occupants like Jabberwocky, in partnership with Storytelling Arts of Indiana, bring storytellers together to tell their tales. DivaFest, launched in 2010 to bring forward formerly unheard dramatic voices, is gaining national attention. Volunteers are recruited year-round. 719 E St. Clair St., 721-9458, www.indyfringe.org.
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Know No Stranger This collective troupe of theater aficionados burst on the Indy theater scene in late 2009 with its playful, startling mix of interactive performance, puppetry and fantastical props and costuming. KNS performs throughout the city in various venues, and the content of their performances is light and playful. We’re tempted to call them guerilla theater, but that brings up connotations not confluent with their mission of making friends and facilitating community. They are creating a sense that Indianapolis is a place wher e young people should stay, make art and have fun. Fans can look forward to Optical Popsicle III this year to be announced this year. www.knownostranger.com.
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Artistic Director Bryan Fonseca, this award-winning Equity theater delivers a season each year that is exciting and interesting, full of plays and musicals that have just finished their Broadway or OffBroadway runs. The Phoenix is dedicated to selecting and presenting new works that challenge stereotypes and engage audiences with important social issues. There are two stages — an upper hall and the Basile Theater below that serves drinks. The Phoenix also offers great acting and playwriting classes. 749 N. Park Ave., 635-7529, www.phoenixtheatre.org.
Mud Creek Players It’s all about community at this little theater-in-a-barn up north. This close-knit, folding chair theater is fun and intimate. Just try getting a seat without r eservations — you’ll be in for quite a wait! Pr oductions here consist of tried and true audience favorites (such as A Christmas Carol and Lend Me a Tenor). But make no mistake; Mud Creek is more than a theater. It has been a volunteer organization and social group as well for 60 years! All members are welcome to its social holiday events, so join now! 9740 E. 86th St., 290-5343, www.mudcreekplayers.org.
ShadowApe One of Indy’s most adventurous and long-running independent theater companies, ShadowApe features top talent in acting, directing and scene, sound and lighting design. Their members read like a who’s who of the local theater community: Michael Brown, Jennifer Johansen, Rob Johansen, Robert Koharchik, Ryan Koharchik, Michael Lamirand and Constance Macy — all of whom are busy sharing their brilliance with other theater groups in town. Their impressive list of shows over the years includes Gorey Stories, Rope and Welcome to the Monkey House . Over twelve years of creating art for the stage, ShadowApe never disappoints, always beguiles. www.shadowape.com.
Phoenix Theatre Located in a converted church, the Phoenix is an Indianapolis treasure. Under
Theatre on the Square Bawdy comedy, racy themes and side-splitting laughter are just a few
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of the perks patrons get with a ticket to Theatre on the Square. The artistic home of Ron Spencer since 1988, TOTS brings mayhem to the Mass A ve theater district. Spencer, who directs most shows in the theater’s season, serves up spot-on comedic timing and cahones large enough to tackle any risqué issue, be it sexuality, religion or politics, with a wink and a chuckle. This communitybased theater also opens its doors to IndyFringe Festival theatre-goers each Summer. Check out TOTS when you are in the mood for a raucous evening of taboo-ridden theater. 627 Massachusetts Ave., 685-8687, www.tots.org. Theatre Non Nobis Formerly called Theater W ithin, Theatre Non Nobis, is an outreach program of The Church Within, a church that seeks to affirm people no matter what path their spiritual jour ney has chosen for them. The Theater W ithin tries to present challenging, quality productions that you won’t see anywhere else in town. They focus on presenting plays that will start conversations, inviting the audience to contemplate and discuss what they have seen and the production’s philosophical implications. Located in Fountain Square, The Theater Within is a great addition to the neighborhood and the city’s arts scene as a whole. 1125 Spruce St., 637-5683, www.thechurchwithin.org/ theaterwithin.
SEASON HIGHLIGHTS Arms and the Man Satirical master George Ber nard Shaw’s humorous and romantic tale remains one of the world’s most popular plays. A mercenary officer abandons the battlefield and lands in the bedr oom of the enemy general’s idealistic daughter, Raina. The story’s hero, affectionately called the “chocolate-cream soldier” by Raina, is at the center of this hilarious play. Set in the 1885 Serbo-Bulgarian War, the story masterfully explores the themes of love, war and her oism. Oct. 21-23, times vary. $10; $8 students and seniors. Oct. 21, University of Indianapolis, 1400 East Hanna Ave, 788-3251, www.uindy.edu.
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August: Osage County A Pulitzer and Tony-award winner concerning the Oklahoma-based Weston clan, who have gathered to commiserate, backstab and, occasionally, provide support following the death of the family’s patriarch. The Indiana premiere of a piece the New York Times described as “flat-out, no asterisks and without qualifications, the most exciting new American play Broadway has seen in years.” Feb. 16 - Mar. 11. Times and ticket prices vary. Phoenix Theatre, 749 N. Park Ave., 635-7529, www.phoenixtheatre.org. Beauty and the Beast Disney’s romantic Broadway musical for all generations is coming to Indianapolis. Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature film, Beauty and the Beast tells the story of Belle, a young woman in a small town, and her love interest, the Beast, a prince upon whom a spell has been cast by an enchantress. The production features lavish sets and costumes, along with dazzling production numbers. Oct. 11-16, times and ticket prices vary. Clowes Memorial Hall, 4602 Sunset Ave., 940-6444, www. BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com. A Beef and Boards Christmas Beef & Boards celebrates its 19th year with a yuletide celebration that featur es music and dancing, glittering costumes and sonorous voices. Enjoy the holiday season with this family-friendly original production. Beef and Boards Dinner Theater, 9301 Michigan Road, 872-9664, www.beefandboards.com. The Body Within Eve Ensler, the brilliant author of The Vagina Monologues, turns her attention to the rest of the female form. She explores how women of all cultur es and backgrounds feel compelled to change their appearance, be it through clothing or more extreme measures such as Botox injections, to avoid feeling out of place. Oct. 7-22, Friday and Satur days, 8 p.m. Ticket prices vary. The Church Within, 1125 Spruce St., 373-9143, www.thechurchwithin.org. A Christmas Carol An IRT tradition, perfect for families. Scrooge confronts the spirits of Christmas past, present, future and
‘Year with Frog and Toad,’ Pike Performing Arts Center, Dec. 16-18.
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arts guide // 2011 // NUVO // 100% RECYCLED PAPER
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‘Beauty and the Beast,’ Clowes Memorial Hall, Oct. 11-16. alternate-universe (no, wait; there are only three), and Tiny Tim pulls on your heartstrings with his wee little crutches and big ol’ heart. Nov. 25 Dec. 24, times and ticket prices vary. Indiana Repertory Theatre, 140 W. Washington St., 635-5252, www.irtlive.com. Don’t Hug Me This fun production has been described as Fargo meets The Music Man, minus the blood and trombones. Set in the fictional town of Bunyan Bay, MN, hilarity and music ensue soon after a slick karaoke salesman arrives at a rustic bear and turns everyone’s life upsidedown. Enjoy original medleys like “I’m a Walleye Woman in a Crappie Town” and “The Bunyan Yodel.” Through Sept. 11, Friday and Saturday 7:30 pm, Sunday 2:30 p.m. $15. Westfield Playhouse, 1836 S.R. 32, www. westfieldplayhouse.org. Dracula Steven Dietz’s new, purportedly-faithful adaptation of Bram Stoker’s horror story sees the Count living in London and Professor van Helsing struggling, as always, to warn the populace about the eminent dangers of the undead. The IR T’s kickoff show stars Wade McCollum as Dracula and Tom McElroy as Van Helsing, with Peter Amster directing. 7 - Oct. 1, times and ticket prices vary. Indiana Repertory Theatre, 140 W. Washington St., 635-5252, www.irtlive.com. The Eight Reindeer Monologues If you’ve grown tired of A Christmas Carol and The Gift of the Magi , this
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may be the show for you. Eight r eindeer dish about the real Santa, addressing the rumors you have heard about jolly St. Nick and the elves, Rudolph’s little secret and Vixen’s story that was leaked to the press. The re ey hold nothing back! An adult-oriented, highly irreverent comedy for the holiday season. Theatre Non Nobis, 1125 Spruce St., 637-5683, www. thechurchwithin.org/theaterwithin. Extremities A fiercely gripping drama exploring rape and its aftermath, with the victim turning the tables on her attacker. The story moves steadily toward a climax of fever-pitch suspense. Oct. 7-22, times and ticket prices vary. Theatre Non Nobis, 1125 Spruce St., 6375683, www.thechurchwithin.org/ theaterwithin. Forbidden Broadway This long-running Off-Broadway musical revue lampoons anything and everything Broadway has to offer, albeit with much love and appreciation. Forbidden Broadway is a collection of hilarious parodies making up a time capsule of the American Theatre. Oct. 28 - Nov. 20, times and ticket prices vary, Center for the Performing Arts, 335 W. City Center Drive, Carmel, 660-3373, www. actorstheatreofindiana.org. Glenngarry Glen Ross David Mamet’s classic play-turnedHollywood-film gets a unique take from the Spotlight Players. The story recounts two days in the lives of four
arts guide // 2011 // NUVO // 100% RECYCLED PAPER
struggling, foulmouthed Chicago real estate agents. The unscrupulous agents are willing to do anything — lie, flatter , bribe, threaten, and steal — in or der to get the sale in this Pulitzer Prize-winning drama. Oct. 7-23, Friday and Satur day 8 p.m. $12; $10 students. Spotlight Players, 524 Main St., Beech Gr ove, www.facebook.com/SpotlightFans. God of Carnage Yasmina Reza’s farce, translated from the original French, concerns two sets of parents who meet to discuss a fight between their respective children in a public park. Things start off civilized but hardly end up that way, with characters spouting all manner of racism, homophobia and misogyny. The third longest-running Broadway play of the last decade. Feb. 28-Mar ch 24, times and ticket prices vary. Indiana Repertory Theatre, 140 W. Washington St., 635-5252, www.irtlive.com. Going Solo Festival This festival of three intimate oneactor plays returns for its third year of audience acclaim. Lost: A Memoir (Sept. 20-Oct. 15): Constance Macy plays Cathy, who hasn’t heard this year from her brother, David, who usually calls home on his birthday. After months without communication, Cathy tells her parents that David must be lost at sea, then sets out on sear ch to find out what became of him. Nobody Don’t Like Yogi (Sept. 23-Oct. 23): Famous for his malapropisms, Yogi Berra has lived a long life in baseball — first as a catcher; then as a coach, most notably
for a few hapless Mets teams; and even now, in his 80s, as an of ficial consultant to the Yankees hanging around the diamond during spring training. Mark Goetzinger plays Berra in a show that focuses on his relationship with Yankees owner George Steinbrenner. I Love to Eat (Sept. 27-Oct. 23): James Still re-incarnates James Beard, the tall, gregarious chef, writer, TV host and Francophile whose work, which slightly pre-dates that of Julia Child, helped to define what it means to be a gourmand in America — or foodie, if you like. Performance times and ticket prices vary. Indiana Repertory Theatre, 140 W. Washington St., 635-5252, www.irtlive.com. Henson Alternative’s: Stuffed and Unstrung Who doesn’t love Jim Henson and marvelous creatures he created? His company has continued his great works, and “Stuffed and Unstrung” is a live, outrageously funny variety show for adults only. Let us repeat: For adults only! Six talented puppeteers will improvise songs and sketches — based on your suggestions, so come to the show ready to be creative. Did we mention this show is not made for children? Friday, Sept. 30, 8 p.m. $35. Clowes Memorial Hall, 4602 Sunset Ave., 940-6444, www. clowesmemorialhall.org. Jericho A new play by Jack Canfora explor es our national grieving process through the experience of Beth, an NYC r esident whose husband died in the W orld Trade
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Center collapse. Beth has begun dating for the first time since the accident, but she still talks daily to her husband, who takes the form of her female Korean therapist. Part of a r olling world premiere. Oct. 27 - Nov. 20, times and ticket prices vary. Phoenix Theatre, 749 N. Park Ave., 635-7529, www.phoenixtheatre.org. Julius Caesar You know the story — Caesar fails to beware the Ides of March, finds himself asking “et tu Brute” and then all goes to hell in a civil war . This staging by Janet Allen promises to bring out contemporary resonances; of course, those aren’t hard to find in Shakespeare, who shaped our notion of what it means to be human if you ask Harold Bloom. Oct. 21 Nov. 5, times and ticket prices vary. Indiana Repertory Theatre, 140 W. Washington St., 635-5252, www.irtlive.com. Know No Stranger Presents Optical Popsicle 3 The third year for this low-budget, highly-entertaining show, Optical Popsicle 3 will dazzle you with its brilliant array of pieces that range acr oss the performance art spectrum. Expect optical illusions, of course, involving shadows, puppetry, video, dance and live music, and prepare to be sore from all the laughter. Know No Stranger is a city treasure, a ragtag group of creatives who love to entertain and pr ovoke. Oct. 14-15. Earth House Collective, 237 N. East St., 636-4060, www. KnowNoStranger.com. Million Dollar Quartet On December 4, 1956, Sam Philips, the Father of Rock ‘n” Roll, gather together Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley at Sun Records in Memphis. The purpose? To create one of the greatest jam sessions of all time. As an audience member, you’re the proverbial fly on the wall as the Million Dollar Quartet brings this extraordinary jam session to life. Dec. 13-18, times and ticket prices vary. Murat Theatre at Old National Centre, 502 N. New Jersey St., 231-0000, www. BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com. The Miracle Worker William Gibson’s play based upon Helen Keller’s The Story of My Life grew out of a 75-minute TV drama br oadcast in 1957 to become a theatrical staple, offering strong roles for those playing Keller and her gover ness Anne Sullivan, who works tirelessly to break through her deaf and mute ward. April 17-May 20, times and ticket prices vary. Indiana Repertory Theatre, 140 W. Washington St., 635-5252, www.irtlive.com. Night of the Living Dead Part 1 Run for your life! Based on the original film of the same name, Night of the Living Dead Part 1 is a non-stop, actionpacked zombie drama. Survivors seek shelter in a church as the zombies stalk their virgin flesh. Sounds like a perfect complement to the Halloween season. Expect gunfire, blood, evil and of course, terrifying zombies. Oct.
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19-22, times vary. $10; $8 students. IndyFringe, 719 E. St. Clair St., 721-9458, www.indyfringe.org. Radio Golf August Wilson finished Radio Golf, the final installment in his 10-part, centuryspanning play cycle The Pittsburgh Cycle, just months before his death in 1995. The playwright has been a favorite of the IRT, which staged his Pulitzer Prize-winning The Piano Lesson (fourth in the cycle) last season. Radio Golf, which takes place in the ‘90s, concerns an African-American real estate developer and mayoral candidate challenged by moral quandaries while working on a massive re-development project. Jan. 10-29, times and ticket prices vary. Indiana Repertory Theatre, 140 W. Washington St., 635-5252, www.irtlive.com. Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka This holiday treat features Willy Wonka and his band of singing Oompa Loompas as they lead Charlie Bucket and his golden-ticketed cohorts on a tour of the fantastical candy-making factory. Expect to hear such songs as “The Candy Man,” “I Want It Now!” and “Pure Imagination.” Music and lyrics by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley, adapted for the stage by Leslie Bricusse and Tim McDonald. Dec. 16 – Jan. 7, times and ticket prices vary . Tarkington Theater, Center for the Performing Arts, 335 W. City Center Drive, Carmel, 923-4597, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.com. Wonderful Life Based on the Frank Capra classic film, this musical adaptation, Wonderful Life, by Doug E. Holmes, is yet one more way you can enjoy this timeless tale of George Bailey immersed in an alternative universe. It should prove to be a relevant work, given our ongoing banking crises, along with the enduring, existential questions we all have regarding our luck, love and family. Oct. 13 – Nov. 20, times and ticket prices vary. Beef and Boards Dinner Theater, 9301 Michigan Road, 872-9664, www.beefandboards.com. Year with Frog and Toad The beloved characters conceived by Arnold Lobel, Frog and Toad, are brought to the stage in a show called A Year With Frog and Toad. See the best friends — the cheerful, indefatigable Frog and the grumpy Toad — work out their issues over the course of four adventurous season. Perfect for the kids, of course, but Lobel’s characters are charming, universal types, making it fun for grown-ups as well. Dec. 16-18, times and ticket prices vary. Pike Performing Arts Center, 6701 Zionsville Road, 216-5455, www.actorstheatreofindiana.org.
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Check our online calendar listings at www.nuvo.net for the latest information on theater performances in Central Indiana.
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Jonathan McAfee, “Girl with Hipster Glasses,” Earth House, through September.
VISUAL ARTS Even if y ou’re not a H erron student or pr ofessor getting back into the gr oove, it ’s a good bet y ou’ll find something to like in the H erron Alumni Association’s juried exhibition Coming Home. The opening r eception will be on Thursday, S ept. 8 in the Herron School of Art & Design’s Marsh Gallery. Among the featur ed ar tists will be locally -based Carla Knopp and Ginny Taylor Rosner. Don’t miss William D enton R ay’s show at the H arrison G allery in the Harrison C enter for the Ar ts opening Oct. 7. Ray’s paintings of mutant cr eatures pr esent a somewhat less bleak — and mor e color ful — vision of the future than, say , the films Terminator or Soylent Green. If you like to stare up at the clouds like me, then y ou’ll lo ve Involving the S ky, an installation at the I ndianapolis Ar t Center b y Charles G ick. I n G ick’s mixed media wor k — involving video and painting and just about ever ything else under the sun — y ou’ll see clouds. You’ll see caged clouds , clouds with people blowing them, and clouds with people poking their fingers into them (if G ick’s own w ebsite is any guide). This sho w opens O ct. 7. B ut why not see it dur ing the IAC’s Day of the Dead celebration on Saturday, Oct. 29, and make the day of it?
ABOUT F ACE, Peculiar P ortraits, in Carmel’s G arvey|Simon G allery, is a must-see! The photogr aphic wor k of the eleven ar tists in this sho w dates from the 1940s to the present. Included will be iconic imager y by Chuck Close as w ell as the self-por traiture of J en Davis, an obese woman who confronts the cultural norms of body image with her work. The show opens Oct. 20. It seems like ther e’s been a sudden explosion of contempor ary figur ative painting here in Indy. But whole shows dedicated to this genr e of ar t have been pretty rare in the past few y ears. STUTZARTSPACE helped change that situation with its August 2011 showing of Travis Little’s paintings , and it goes further down this road with Unclothed: Exposing the Art Nude. The First Friday opening reception is Friday, Nov. 4. Last but not least is Primary Colours’ annual holiday event Toys, opening Dec. 2, wher e emer ging ar tists ar e invited to submit wor k loosely based on the theme of to ys. This will be the first Toys to take place in P rimary Colours’ new digs — P rimary G allery — in F ountain Squar e’s M urphy Ar t Center. — DAN GROSSMAN
GALLERIES AND GROUPS Amaco/Brent Contemporary Clay Gallery The AMACO/ Brent Contemporary Clay Gallery’s mission is to provide a gallery dedicated to exhibiting the diverse and evolving world of clay work. They allow r enowned artists from the region and beyond to showcase their work. The gallery featur es nationally and internationally known clay artists and several of clay styles including functional and sculptural works. All art is displayed along with a historical collection of Art Deco pottery fr om “Amaco Pottery,” which is from the early 1930s. They ar e also a major manufacturer of clay, ceramic supplies and equipment and offer non-toxic and lead free glaze. 6060 Guion Road, 224-6871, www.amaco.com.
ARTBOX ARTBOX just opened a new space near the Omni Severin hotel, but the one worth checking out on First Friday (see IDADA) is the space in the Stutz II building. The interior is a beautiful, high-ceilinged exhibition space with a polished cement floor wher e you’ll find a mixture of sculpture and painting. Sometimes you’ll even find an installation. Other times, you’ll walk in and find yourself in the middle of a show/fundraiser for a worthy cause. The quality of the artwork here—a mixture of work from local and nationallyrecognized artists—is uniformly high and the curation top-notch. 217 W 10th St., 955-2450, www.artboxindy.com.
Art Bank A combined gallery/studio showing the work of the local artists who rent space here. It’s a bit more chaotic — in a good way — than your typical gallery, with paintings hanging salon-style on every available wall space. The enthusiasm of the artists is contagious, and their “Rob the Bank” events, involving a r eal bank vault, are worth checking out. While the quality of work here might strike you as being a bit uneven at times, you can find some shining gems here. You can also find artwork in the Art Bank that won’t push you over your cr edit limit. 811 Mass Ave., 624-1010, www.artbankgallery.com.
Arts Council of Indianapolis This not-for-profit art organization takes a multi-faceted appr oach to making Indy an engaging cultural and arts destination. This
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involves advocacy, monetary support and partnering with likeminded organizations. The ACI not only provides grants to individual artists — such as the Creative Renewal Arts Fellowship — and to arts organizations, but it provides gallery venues for locally-based artists in the form of the Artsgarden and Gallery 924. The ACI also finds creative ways to involve local artists in the beautification of the city. One of its most recent ventures in this regard is the “46 for XLVI” citywide murals program in which it partnered with the city of Indianapolis, 924 N. Pennsylvania St., 631-3301, www.indyarts.org.
Big Car Gallery
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 9 am-6 pm (317) 229-6202 www.goldpointcr.com
Dr. Richard Saini with Goldpoint Clinical Research is conducting a research study for adults with Bipolar Disorder who are experiencing depression. To learn more about this research study, call our office. As always, health insurance is not necessary and there is never an over night stay.
Located in the Murphy Arts Center, Big Car gallery is a beloved destination for those adventurous art and music enthusiasts who enjoy a mélange of art forms: visual arts, music and performance — often all at the same time. Big Car was a 2010 honor ee in NUVO’s Cultural Vision Awards for its genre-bending, collaborative approach and its proven ability to attract a diverse, multi-generational audience in partnership with the IMA and other organizations. Big Car has also had a hand in kick-starting an economic revival in the Fountain Squar e neighborhood and the Service Center at 3919 Lafayette Rd. 1043 Virginia Ave. #215, 339-0911, www.bigcar.org.
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Aiming to buy a house and look at beautiful artwork in between hunting for one? Well, then, this is the place for you. In addition to displaying pieces that highlight local urban neighborhoods, this art gallery will put prospective homebuyers and leasers on the right path to buying a home in one of the areas depicted in its artwork. You will leave with a greater appreciation for art — and all the information you need to make an informed purchasing decision regarding a new home (including info about financial assistance programs and low interest mortgages). How about that? The Harrison Center 1505 N. Delaware St., 396-3886, www.citygalleryindy.org.
Dean Johnson Gallery “Instead of pictures for the drawing room, electric gadgets for the kitchen,” declared Bruno Munari back in 1966
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in an influential essay entitled “Design as Art.” No gallery in Indy encapsulates that vision better than the Dean Johnson Gallery but the contemporary house-wares and furniture on display in this gallery are not always entirely functional. You might see a fur niture maker, say, cross the line into the r ealm of conceptualism in pieces with no obvious practical use. Then again, you might see items where the conceptual and the practical are pristinely merged, as in a previous show that featured Morgen Bosler’s three-sided funeral urns. 646 Massachusetts Ave., 634-8020, www.deanjohnson.com.
Domont Studio Gallery Serving as both a studio for artist John Domont and a gallery for contemporary artists, Domont Studio Gallery is among the city’s more refined spaces for exhibiting art. The architecture of the renovated East Street building is as polished as the art hanging on its walls. The exhibits include the highly developed aesthetic of Domont, who paints meticulous, ethereal landscapes in vivid, fantastical colors and is equally known for his ongoing series of begging bowls and florals. Domont Studio Gallery is open Thursday thr ough Saturday (11 a.m.-5 p.m.) as well as by appointment. 545 South East St., 685-9634, www.domontgallery.com.
Evan Lurie Gallery The anchor gallery in the Carmel Arts & Design District. A typical opening here features a mixture of realistic and abstract painting by locally and/ or internationally known artists, as well as fine sculpture. The gallery just recently held its first photography show. Evan Lurie has a penchant for realistic painting with some sort of “twist.” That is, some kind of weir d thing in an otherwise realistic painting that makes you stand back and think. When you step into this gallery, you get a taste of what’s current in the major art centers around the globe. 30 West Main St., Carmel, 844-8400, www. evanluriegallery.com.
Gallery 924 The best thing about the Arts Council of Indianapolis’ showcase gallery is that it doesn’t limit itself to one genr e or style of art. The art str etches from the serene nature photography of Brad
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Ryan Collier, Food Con II, Harrison Center, through September.
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Travis S. Little, “Sarah’s Reflection,” StutzArtSpace. Ford Bell to the visual sparks of this August’s juried group show entitled “Transcendence” that addresses issues of body and soul with the work of more than 20 central Indiana artists. The venue itself is spacious and cleanly lit. Often you can see a video her e showcasing the featured artists and their art, and the gallery’s usually wellstocked with pamphlets inviting the casual visitor to become more deeply involved in the Indy arts scene. 924 N. Pennsylvania St., 631-3301, www.indyarts.org.
Garvey|Simon Art Access The key word in the name of the newest gallery in the Carmel Arts & Design District is “access.” Elizabeth Garvey wants to meet people wher e they’re at, both in terms of price and palette. While you might see artwork here that can push the conceptual boundaries, such as the fine art prints of Ingrid Calame featuring tracings of oil stains, you won’t see anything particularly shocking here. And the price range — many works ar e available for under five grand —is r easonable considering the caliber of the works being offered and what prices would be affixed to them elsewhere. 27 E. Main St., Carmel, 796-2146, www.garveysimon-art-access.com.
The Harrison Center for the Arts Transformed from a largely abandoned church to a thriving cultural milieu, the Harrison Center is home to Redeemer Presbyterian Church, artist studios and the Harrison Art Gallery. The gallery has become a significant destination, with rotating exhibitions held throughout
the year that usually emanate fr om a theme, lending curatorial cohesiveness and art viewing on a high, yet accessible, intellectual level. A quartet of smaller Harrison Center galleries complement the main venue, including the newly-opened City Gallery that celebrates the unique neighborhoods of urban Indy. Overall, the center is one of the most family-friendly — i.e. all ages — places in all of Indianapolis. Visit their new City Gallery space (see elsewhere in this section). 1505 N. Delaware St., 396-3886, www.harrisoncenter.org.
Herron School of Art and Design Easily one of the premier arts institutions in the city, this school exhibits rotating shows of cuttingedge contemporary art alongside its exhibitions of faculty and student work. Part of IUPUI, the Herron art gallery has persevered in bringing compelling work to the community, long before such a notion was considered a progressive and essential part of the mix. Its unique outdoor sculptures (like the James W ille Faust piece) make Herron a artistic destination as the school continues to do its part to educate Indianapolis about contemporary art and its impact on our culture. IUPUI’s Eskenazi Hall, 735 W. New York Street, 278-9400, www.herron.iupui.edu.
iMOCA-Indianapolis Museum of Contemporary Art It might call itself a museum, but iMOCA is so much more. It is really a source of energy, bringing work by contemporary artists from across the country to Indianapolis for showings in a variety
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Brian James Priest, ‘Animalcules,’ iMOCA. of venues — including its downtown gallery space, which presents shows on a regular basis. Located inside the Murphy Art Center in the glorious Fountain Square arts district, iMOCA is open Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. With extraordinary exhibitions such as Frank Warren’s PostSecret work and Malcolm Mobutu Smith’s graffitiinspired ceramics, this is one cool place to be.1043 Virginia Ave., 634-6622, www.indymoca.org.
Indianapolis Art Center The IAC is one of the largest freestanding community art centers in the Midwest, offering classes, community events and exhibitions that represent a broad range of contemporary artistic expression. The building itself was designed by worldrenowned architect — and Indianapolis native — Michael Graves. The IAC is also known for its AR TSPARK sculpture garden and performance space, plus its high quality art classes ranging fr om glass blowing to oil painting to metal sculpture. Its exhibitions are equally broad in scope — offering a rich complement to the bustle of activity taking place there on a continuing basis. 820 E. 67th St., 255-2464, www.indplsartcenter.org.
Indy Indie Artist Colony This venue, located on the first floor of a beautiful and historic downtown building, has quickly become a mustsee on the First Friday map. Its website describes it as “the hippest artist community and gallery in the city,” and this just may be right. Don’ t be surprised to see surrealist, fantastic, and graffiti-inspired art on display on the walls of this gallery, but this doesn’t begin to encapsulate the variety of work available here. And there are
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often theme-based shows for First Friday events. The gallery director, Phil Campbell, is a fixture in the Indy arts scene, having founded the Murphy Art Center, the Hot House Art Gallery, and the Masterpiece in a Day art competition. 26 E. 14th St., 919-8725, www.indyindieartist.com.
Mt Comfort/Primary Gallery This space is operated jointly as a partnership between Casey Roberts (the Mt. Comfort curator) and the nonpr ofit arts organization Primary Colours. That is, Primary Colours and Mt. Comfort hold art shows here on a rotating basis. The work that Primary exhibits is progressive and contemporary with an emphasis on local artists. Roberts also likes the cutting edge, and is not adverse to inviting out-of-state artists (particularly Chicago-based artists) to show their work at Mt. Comfort. Whoever’s in charge, you’ll likely find a happy medium in this gallery space on the line where the accessible and the cutting edge meet. 1043 Virginia Ave., mtcomfort.blogspot.com; primarygallery.tumblr.com.
SpaceCamp MicroGallery SpaceCamp is the mystery meat of the First Friday art scene. Sometimes it’s sirloin, sometimes it’s Spam, but it’s always worth a visit to this tiny gallery to eat up the plentiful portions of conceptual art offered up here. The best openings at SpaceCamp happen when the curators and the artists (it seems like there are as many curators as artists here) keep their tongues firmly in cheek. A recent opening featured a video entitled “Biofeedback Loop,” showing the facial reactions of volunteers who observed live sex. During another opening there were jars of fruit jam available—to cleanse the palate, as it
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were — free for the taking. The jam was, incidentally, quite delicious. 1043 Virginia Ave., www.facebook.com/ SpaceCampGallery.
STUTZARTSPACE Resident Stutz artist Andy Chen became the director of STUTZARTSPACE this past January. Since then, the house gallery of the Stutz Artists’ Association has wholeheartedly embraced the new decade with offerings like March’s “Social Currency.” The art in this show, not all of it from Stutz artists — in many different mediums — revolved around the subject of social connection in the Internet age. But this gallery also has a penchant for classical r ealism. The August 2011 show entitled “Bodies of Work” featured the contemporary figurative paintings of Stutz-based Travis Little. 212 W. 10th St., 503-6420, www.stutzartists.com.
Voir Art This gallery is both a moveable feast in terms of the art it serves up and in terms of its frequent changes of locations since its first show in a house in the Fountain Square neighborhood, in January, 2011. Co-founded by graphic designer and aerosol artist Andrew Severns, this urban contemporary gallery moved in June to its new location at Served Café/Bistro where it has openings on first Satur days. (It also hosts one night events at various downtown locales on First Friday). The art ranges from graffiti-inspired painting to serious contemporary photography. 4638 E. 10th St., 750-7743, www. voirartdefletcher.com.
wUG LAKU’s STUDIO & gARAGE Just walking into the colorful W ug Laku’s Studio & Garage is an elegant, exciting surprise! Located in an urban industrial warehouse in Circle City’s Industrial Complex, WLS&G presents innovative and thought-provoking crafts and contemporary fine art on a monthly basis as part of the IDADA First Friday Gallery Tour. Featuring two galleries and a working artists’ space in
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the garage area, this delightful venue is sure to please. WLS&G is open on First Fridays from 6-9 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 12-4 p.m. Adjust your weekend plans accordingly. 1125 Brookside Ave. C7, 270-8258, www.wlsandg.com.
SPECIAL EVENTS Art vs. Art Art vs. Art involves: art cr eated in a day, audience voting on whether to destr oy that art, chainsaws (and other cr eatively destructive implements) and a hefty cash prize for the winner. As if that isn’t enough fun, there’s rock music and it’s emceed by Mike W iltrout. One of the most exciting arts events of the year, poking fun at more traditional, blacktie events. Friday, Sept. 30, 8 p.m. $12 advance; $15 day of show. The Vogue, 6259 N. College Ave., 259-7029, www.artvsart.com.
Broad Ripple Fall Gallery Tour Hosted by the Broad Ripple Village Association, the streets and doors of this exciting neighborhood open for the annual Gallery Tour. Strolling Broad Ripple’s pedestrian-friendly streets is a pleasure most any time, but this tour provides the organizing principle that enables you to look at art and design while quaffing designer beer and enjoying treats from some of Indy’s best independent restaurants. Galleries and shops feature special exhibitions and complementary refreshments. The tour includes everything from handmade jewelry and clothing to paintings, sculptures, glass and ceramics — with opportunities to meet the artists themselves. 251-2782, www. discoverbroadripplevillage.com.
INTRODUCING PARTNER/CHEF CHARLES MEREDAY AND HIS NEW CONCEPT
FARM TO TABLE MENU
IDADA First Fridays The Indianapolis Downtown Artists and Dealers Association (IDADA) is a gr oup of studio artists, art galleries, and artsrelated businesses downtown. On the first Friday of every month, members showcase their wares starting at 6 p.m. Roam to your heart’s content – check IDADA’s website for participants and a
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full sensory experience of temperature, aromas, sound and movement which somehow all find their way into the final visual form. Through Sept. 30, consult web site for gallery hours. Fr ee. Gallery 924 at the Arts Council, 924 N. Pennsylvania St., www.indyarts. org/gallery924.
Mass Ave. Fall Gallery Walk
Bodies of Water
Mass Ave was once the city’s queen bee when it came to art galleries. Now the spirit of the Mass A ve scene has expanded into other neighborhoods since then — as have its considerable charms, including independent restaurants, live music, theater and an array of cool shops. The Mass A ve galleries and businesses, joined by the Merchants Association, shows off the Cultural District with exhibitions of original artwork by local and nationally known artists. Come experience gallery openings, eclectic shopping, unique restaurants and trendy nightclubs at the annual Mass Ave Fall Gallery Walk. www.discovermassave.com.
A group show in conjunction with the Nov. 12 appearance of filmmaker John Waters as part of the Spirit & Place festival, with pop-surrealist artists exhibiting work based on John W aters’ characters from his movies. Opening reception Nov. 4, 6 - 11 p.m. Fr ee. Big Car Gallery, 1043 Virginia Ave. #215, 339-0911, www.bigcar.org.
About Face: Peculiar Portraits Visit Peculiar Portraits and you’ll face many faces, of both people and animals. Curated by Lee Marks, the show features 11 artists and their portraiture pieces. 15 pieces of photobased media will portray faces in a variety of ways. Oct. 20 - Nov. 26. Free. Exhibition open during gallery hours, Garvey|Simon Art Access, 27 E. Main St., Carmel, 917-796-2146, www. garvey-simon-art-access.com.
Amy Falstrom: Nature Perceived This new series reflects the felt experience of a place and time, such as the quality of light, the weather and the
Rogelio Manzo, “Al Attaud,” ARTBOX.
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complete map – and you’re sure to find something inspiring. And if you r oam long enough – say, until 9 p.m. when some of the galleries start to close – you’ll be fortunate enough to find the First Friday after party, at a different venue every month. Free. First Fridays, www.idada.org.
SEASON HIGHLIGHTS
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Behind the Mask: Salvador Jimenez Flores In this series of works, Flores pays tribute to several immigrants who died pursuing the dream of migrating to the United States in search of a better life. Instead of using traditional Day of the Dead altars, Flores creates each of their altars as a personalized portrait using the same basic mask outline. Through Nov. 27, consult website for gallery hours. Free. Indianapolis Art Center, 820 E. 67th St., 255-2464, www.indplsartcenter.com.
The Elements and Expression Paintings and sculptures of Valerie Eickmeier, Dean of the Herron School of Art and Design at IUPUI. Sept. 8 Oct. 14, consult web site for gallery hours. Free. Kuaba Art Gallery, 1 N. Meridian St. Ste. 200, 955-8405, www.kuaba.com.
Herron School of Art & Design: Student Exhibit This free IUPUI student exhibit featur es work in a wide variety of media. The exhibit is jurored by Indianapolisbased graphic designer and owner of Commercial Artisan, James Sholly and
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OUT AND ABOUT Oct 2, 4:00 pm Mixed repertoire program. Indianapolis Artsgarden. FREE Nov 6, 3:00 PM Spirit & Place event The Inspiration of David Hochoy and Victoria Lyras ISB Studios. Reservations required. FREE Apr 22, 4:00 pm Mixed repertoire program. Indianapolis Artsgarden. FREE MAIN STAGE Scottish Rite Cathedral Theater 650 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis
Dec 16–18 The Nutcracker Fri & Sat at 7:30 pm; Sat at 2:00 pm; Sun at 3:00 pm Tickets: $15–$25 May 19–20 Russian Treasures Sat & Sun 3:00 pm Tickets: $15–$25 More at www.indyballet.org or 317-955-7525
Aaron Scamihorn, “Oppenheimer,” Big Car Gallery, through September. assistant professor of art at DePauw University in Indiana, Meredith Brickell. Dec. 7 - 22, fr ee. Herron School of Art and Design, 735 W . New York St., 278-9400, www.herron.iupui.edu.
Penrod Arts Fair The official start (along with Start W ith Art) of your 2011-2012 art season. Spend a late-summer day soaking up a lifeaffirming blend of eclectic art, live music, fresh food and (typically) glorious weather at this must-attend arts extravaganza — now in its 45th year. Approximately 150 artists, an extensive children’s area, five music stages and one culinary stage, along with a couple dozen local food and drink vendors, make Penrod one of the nation’s largest — and best — single-day art fairs. Indianapolis Museum of Art, 4000 Michigan Rd., 920-2660, www. penrod.org.
Masterpiece In A Day In this annual festival, artists compete to create a work of art over the course of one day in hopes to win prize money. The Fountain Square cultural district event has changed over the years to include other art forms besides visual arts, including music and writing. Guests can watch the art come together, hear live music and eat lunch—all for free. Saturday, Sept. 17, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Big Car Gallery, 1043 Virginia Ave., 450-6630, www.bigcar.org.
Some Girls: Jonathan McAfee Local artist Jonathan McAfee’s new series of paintings are featured in this free Earth House Collective exhibit. McAfee, known for his paintings of people gleaned from still photographs, has been featured in galleries around Indianapolis since earning a degree from the Herron School of Art and Design in 2006. In McAfee’s latest series, women are reimagined through a loose and distorted lens. Sept. 2 - 30, Earth House Collective, 237 N. East St., 636-4060, www.earthhousecollective.org.
Stacey Holloway: Efrymson Contemporary Arts Fellow Indianapolis-based artist Stacey Holloway uses sculpture and installation to communicate her interpretation of what home, memory and identity mean in this free exhibit. Holloway’s Efroymson Contemporary Arts Fellowship exhibit explores Outsider Art and Midwester n roadside attractions that have inspired her in studio practice. Dec. 6 - Jan. 6, Gallery 924 at the Arts Council, 924 N. Pennsylvania St., www.indyarts.org/gallery924.
Talking to Tecumseh: Danielle Riede and Alberto Baraya Drawings of plants and artifacts fr om Indiana and other parts of the world are spotlighted in this fr ee exhibit at iMOCA. Colombian artist Alberto Baraya and Herron School of Art and Design professor Danielle Riede created the exhibit inspired by global trends and mass production. Oct. 7 -Nov. 19, Indianapolis Museum of Contemporary Art, 1043 V irginia Ave., 634-6622, www.indymoca.org.
VINTAGE ELECTRONIC MUSICAL INSTRUMENT
Toys This free annual exhibit by Primary Colours, a non-profit organization comprised of artists and art enthusiasts, focuses on toys. The exhibits rings in the holiday season and features works by more than a dozen different artists, who interpreted the theme in their own way. Dec. 2 - 31, Murphy Art Center, 1043 Virginia Ave., primarycolours.org.
Check our online calendar listings at www.nuvo.net for the latest information on visual arts events in Central Indiana.
RESTORATIONS & REPAIR Moog • ARP • Roland • Rhodes Wurlitzer • Farfisa • Clavinet Hammond, etc. Check Us Out on Facebook! soundandcircuit@hotmail.com www.soundandcircuit.webs.com
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MUSEUMS
Brian McCutcheon, ‘Out of this World,’ IMA, Sept. 9 - March 4. Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art Since opening in 1989, this institution’s mission has been to inspire an appreciation for the art, history and cultures of the American West and the indigenous peoples of North America. “Telling America’s Story” is carried out through permanent and constantly changing exhibitions, interactive educational programs, cultural exchanges and special events. Eiteljorg is an evergrowing locus helping to keep Native American culture alive. 500 W. Washington St., 636-9378, www. eiteljorg.org. Indianapolis Museum of Art Housed on meandering bucolic grounds with meticulously manicured gardens, this beautiful museum offers a visual experience that extends beyond the traditional confines of art viewing. It holds a collection of 42,000 works that span the range and scope of art history. Japanese, African, Native American art, the list goes on. The 100-acre Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park, featuring numerous sculptures behind the IMA, has put Indianapolis on a larger cultural map. 4000 Michigan Rd., 920-2660, www.imamuseum.org. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is considered the largest children’s museum in the world and is home to a number of innovative permanent exhibitions including “The Power of One” showing how one child can
make a significant difference for the good of the larger community and the newly installed “National Geographic Treasures of the Earth” involving visitors in scientific sleuthing to bring “lost” objects to light. Rotating exhibits provide something fresh and new for all ages. 3000 N. Meridian St., 334-3322, www. childrensmuseum.org. Indiana State Museum Features hands-on, interactive, familyoriented permanent and changing exhibits on the arts, sciences and culture from the Ice Age to the present. The structure and grounds alongside Central Canal is itself an exhibit, featuring a steam clock that marks the hours with Back Home Again in Indiana played on eight brass whistles, the English, Banter, Mitchell Foundation fountain and the Watanabe Family Gardens. The Grand Lobby features daily storytelling and sing-along programs and houses Faces of Indiana, Indiana’s Treasure. If that’s not enough, an IMAX Theater is on the Canal Level and a story and visual about each county is imbedded around the exterior—walk around the building to find all ninety-two. 650 W. Washington St., 233-4629, www. indianamuseum.org.
SEASON HIGHLIGHTS The Adventures of Mr. Potato Head Everyone’s favorite spud, Mr. Potato Head, leads visitors on a series
Indianapolis museum exhibition highlights extend from watersheds to John Waters. Kudos to I ndianapolis Museum of Ar t (IMA) for kicking off their ar ts season S ept. 9 with a major solo exhibition b y a first-rate Indianapolis-based ar tist: Brian McCutcheon: Out of this World. McCutcheon’s sculptures, video and photogr aphs will tell a stor y addressing the cultur e of boyhood and space explor ation in what is sur e to be an ex quisitely conceived and constr ucted presentation. At IMA and its 100 A cres: The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park, don’t miss Mary Miss’ FLOW: Can You See the Riv er? The highly anticipated site-specific, inter active installation will include stopping points b y the canal and for six miles along White River. Mary Miss, inter nationally acclaimed, seeks to connect and infor m our community about its watershed of interactive explorations in the jungle, deep undersea, in outer space and on an archaeological dig. The exhibit’s content targets developmental milestones set by the National Association for the Education of Young Children and national academic standards. Free with museum admission. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, 3000 N. Meridian St., 334-3322, www. childrensmuseum.org. Brian McCutcheon: Out of this World Composed wholly of new works commissioned by the IMA, Brian McCutcheon: Out of this World tells a wondrous story that unfolds from the moment you enter the museum. The exhibition mimics a children’s book narrative as it explores the Mercury and Apollo space programs in relation to contemporary culture. The base of a flight path sculptur e sits in the IMA’s Pulliam Family Great Hall, greeting visitors as they begin their tour. The sculpture features a curvilinear metal track outlining the imagined trajectory of a toy r ocket. The launch pad is positioned on the IMA’s second floor, with the sculpture soaring three stories before landing in the McCormack Forefront Galleries. Within the galleries, Out of this W orld continues to evolve as an engaging narrative, including the launch, space travel and lunar landing, before arriving at the theme of the splash down — the return to reality at the conclusion of the exhibition. Sept. 9 – March 4. Free with museum admission. Indianapolis Museum
through the installation spots plus activities wher e visitors , for instance, may use cell phones to find places to observe turtles. The focus is on live frogs starting S ept. 17 at The Childr en’s Museum of I ndianapolis. Tree frogs, bullfr ogs and hor ned frogs all will be par t of the educational and color ful, Frogs: A Chorus of Colors. In O ctober, I ndiana S tate Museum presents, The Endurance: Shackleton’s Legendar y A ntarctic Expedition. The exhibition ’s photographs only exist because the sinking ship’s photographer, Frank Hurley, dove into icy waters to grab his glass plate negatives in 1915. Finally, spr ing at the E iteljorg brings Steel P onies. M otorcycle enthusiasts, “gear up” for this exhibition investigating how choppers embody the people and cultur es of the Amer ican West and N ative America. — SUSAN WATT GRADE
of Art, 4000 Michigan Road, 9202660, www.imamuseum.org. The Endurance: Shackleton’s Legendary Antarctic Expedition Discover the epic story of Sir Er nest Shackleton’s 1914 Endurance expedition — its astonishing panoramas, doomed ship, extreme hardships and miraculous climax. The exhibit features expedition photographs, diary entries and vintage film footage, recounting one of the most awesome managainst-nature stories of the 20th century. The more than 150 photographs on display, taken by the ship’s photographer, Frank Hurley, document the expedition’s ordeal. Hurley actually dove into frigid waters to retrieve his glass plate negatives from the sinking Endurance. Oct. 15 – Feb. 19. $3+ museum admission. Indiana State Museum, 650 W. Washington St., 233-4629, www. indianamuseum.org. Steel Ponies Steel Ponies explores the history and culture of motorcycles, examining how they have come to embody the American West and Native America in ways both real and imagined. Check out the finest examples of steel ponies, from early production models to the latest custom-built choppers. Free with museum admission. Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, 500 W. Washington St., 636-9378, www. eiteljorg.org.
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Esperanza Spalding, Clowes Memorial Hall, Oct. 8.
ORGANIZATIONS
MUSIC I started picking what I thought were the coming season’s best pr ograms/performers, and . . . quite b y accident, ended up with a sur feit of fiddlers . The violin liter ature is r ich with well-known masterworks, and 2011-2012 offers a plethora of them. From the IV CI Laur eate Chamber Series, I pick A ugustin Hadelich, the finest gold medalist (2006) emer ging fr om the eight quadr ennial competitions since their 1982 launching. Hadelich will appear in this season ’s first pr ogram on Oct. 9 at the E ugene and M arilyn G lick Indiana History Center. But also, in an I ndianapolis Chamber Orchestra/IVCI Laur eate co-sponsor ship, w e’ll get to hear 2010 IV CI silver medalist S oyoung Yoon r eturning here M ay 12, the first time since her last S eptember’s 2nd-place competition finish, to per form the P rokofiev Violin Concerto N o. 2 at the I ndiana H istory Center. I considered this S. Korean easily the best of the six 2010 finalists . On O ct. 21, as par t of the P alladium Classics Series, we once again get to hear 32-year-old, American-born Hilary Hahn, the world’s finest violinist of this generation to have performed locally — three times with the ISO . With a piano accompanist, H ahn will, of course , appear at the redoubtable Carmel Palladium of the Center for the Performing Arts.
Of the five chamber gr oups the Ensemble Music Series is hosting this season — y es, once again at the IHC — the Artemis String Quartet wins hands down. Appearing this season on M ay 2, this was the r ichest, most pr ecise, most balanced foursome in its pr evious Ensemble appearance in 2008 of any in many a year. Indianapolis Opera this season is featuring two r epertoire standards and two new, intimate oper as. I’ ll go with an unusual middle gr ound: Opera G oes to the M ovies, M arch 9 and 11 with live movie music accompanying pr ojected Hollywood blockbuster mo vie ex cerpts at Clo wes M emorial H all, with the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra. Last but not least, my pick for the Indianapolis S ymphony Or chestra would be either or both of the final two S ymphonic H its pr ograms of A pril 20-21 and May 18-19 at the Hilbert Circle Theatre. The first featur es the ex cellent guest conductor J un Mär kl doing the first per formance in y ears of D ebussy’s “Iberia” fr om his Images for O rchestra — one of his finest wor ks. The second pick has the ISO’ s new music dir ector Kr zysztof U rbanski featur ing the Shostakovich 10th S ymphony, one of six pr ograms he ’ll conduct this season. — TOM ALDRIDGE
American Pianists Association American Pianists Association is a national organization headquartered on the Butler University campus since 1982 when it relocated here from New York City, then as the Beethoven Foundation. Its mission is to discover, promote and advance young American classical and jazz pianists, ages 18-30, who are preparing for a professional career. APA offers winners of its rigor ous competition equal fellowships and provides ongoing support for its Fellows, including management of careers along with cash awar ds and a roster of recitals and concerts nationwide. 4603 Clarendon Rd., 940-9945, www.americanpianists.org. Carmel Symphony Orchestra This musical tour de force is celebrating its 35th anniversary and its first as the resident orchestra of the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts. This 85-member or chestra performs musical works for classical aficionados and family audiences alike. T icketholders will have access to mor e perks than ever before during the group’s first full season at the Palladium. W ith a new pre-concert conversation program called Music Matters, patrons will be able to take early advantage of the Palladium’s beautiful Robert Adam Room, bar service, and other hall amenities. 355 City Center Drive, Carmel, 843-3800, www.carmelsymphony.org. Circle City Chamber Group Known as the “rose of Indianapolis,” this organization brings together the best music, visual art and food the city has to offer. It’s an all-inclusive experience! Event tickets can be as little as $20, which is quite the steal considering what the events include: gourmet food, top shelf drinks, the chance to mingle with gr eat artists, and more. And for you business owners out there, there are plenty of sponsorship opportunities available if you want in on all the action this great group has to offer. 1075 Broad Ripple Ave., 586-2224, www.circlecitychambergroup.org. Encore Vocal Arts Encore Vocal Arts (formerly Indianapolis Arts Chorale) is an auditioned, volunteer chamber choir founded in 1972. The
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Madama Butterfly September 23 & 25 Clowes Memorial Hall
New York Voices, Center for the Performing Arts, Dec. 3.
BON APPETIT! & A WATER BIRD TALK Six performances November 4 -13. Basile Opera Center
OPERA GOES TO THE MOVIES March 9 & 11, 2012 Clowes Memorial Hall
Faust May 4 & 6, 2012
Clowes Memorial Hall
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48-member choir performs a wideranging four-concert season, appears with other arts organization throughout Indiana and engages in educational outreach through a variety of activities. The chorale continues to perform in several venues, including Zionsville High School and St. Joan of Ar c Catholic Church. It kicks off its 39th season in September with an assortment of unique, intriguing and entertaining performances, including taking the stage with the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra. Their website will have mor e info soon. P.O. Box 30963, 576-7676, www.encorevocalarts.org. Ensemble Music Society This organization has gained a reputation for presenting chamber music by the finest world touring groups, playing repertoire from Haydn to the latest in contemporary music. The genres presented include string quartets, piano trios, wind ensembles and works using other diverse performers. Ensemble Music was founded in 1943 by amateur violinist Leonard Strauss (who also helped found the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra). Sprightly program notes and pre-concert lectures add to the experience. The society hosts groups at its home venue, the Indiana History Center, but the concerts occasionally r elocate as circumstance determines. 450 W. Ohio St., 818-1288, www. ensemblemusic.org. Indiana Wind Symphony Almost 13 years old, this symphony is an impressive and electrifying ensemble of winds and per cussion. How’s that for a ringing endorsement? The ensemble is made up of seventy members and includes professional musicians, music educators and serious vocational musicians. Their repertoire includes band and wind ensemble music of all styles and eras for a six-main-concert
season performed in six dif ferent high school auditoriums across greater Indianapolis. It will now perform in Carmel’s Center for the Performing Arts. 844-4341, www. indianawindsymphony.org. Indianapolis Baroque Orchestra This orchestra draws its repertoire primarily from the 17th and 18th centuries — the times of Bach, Handel and Vivaldi in the late Baroque — back to Montever di in the early Baroque. Its members represent a collaboration of musicians from Indiana’s top professional and academic institutions that perform on original instruments or recently made replicas. Its concert season includes working with other performing arts organizations, including Ensemble Voltaire, Indianapolis Children’s Choir, Christ Church Cathedral’s Choir of Men and Boys, Indianapolis Baroque Singers and soloists Steven Stolen and Steven Rickards. 401 E. Michigan St., 808-BACH (2224), www.indybaroque.org. Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra The orchestra of 35 professional musicians provides accompaniment to local arts, educational and religious organizations, including Indianapolis Opera, Indianapolis Symphonic Choir, American Pianists Association and Butler University Ballet. It also pr esents seven or eight of its own concerts a season, drawing from the gamut of symphonic repertoire (including a recent performance of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony). For over 20 years, Kirk Trevor has been its music dir ector and maestro. Teachers, listen up…you can book the ICO to perform at your school. 4603 Clarendon Road, 940-9607, www.icomusic.org. Indianapolis Children’s Choir Even with an inter national reputation and touring schedule, the Indianapolis Children’s Choir remains at its core a music performance and education
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program for children and youth. The ICC’s annual concert series is augmented by performances at civic and cultural events throughout greater Indianapolis. In 2003, ICC expanded its vast repertoire of classical, folk, ethnic, sacred and secular choral music with the world pr emiere of an opera for young singers. If your child loves to sing and wishes to join this highly respected choir, auditions are held on a competitive basis in January, May and August until the choirs ar e filled. 4600 Sunset Ave., 940-9640, www.icchoir.org. Indianapolis Opera For each opera, the company performs in its original language with English surtitles projected above the stage. Renowned touring singers ar e featured, along with the IO Chorus and either the Indianapolis Symphony or the Indianapolis Chamber Or chestra — both conducted by long-term IO artistic director James Caraher. Clowes Memorial Hall (4600 Sunset Ave.), with its 2200 seats, hosts IO’s full-scale productions while the Basile Opera Center (4011 N. Pennsylvania St.) is the venue for small, intimate opera presentations. A proactive audience development component begins with IO’s acclaimed Music!Words!Opera! education program in cooperation with ar ea schools. This program involves the study and creation of works in opera. 4011 N. Pennsylvania St., 283-3531, www.indyopera.org. Indianapolis Symphonic Choir Indianapolis Symphonic Choir is dedicated to performing choral masterworks, commissioning new works and to providing education and outreach. Over one hundred volunteer singers perform regularly with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra. ISC’s concert season is performed in venues across the city and includes the beloved annual December tradition of the Festival of Car ols. The Choir performs both regionally and nationwide with prestigious programs such as the annual Cincinnati May Festival and has appeared at Carnegie
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Hall and the Kennedy Center. 4600 Sunset Ave., 940-9057, www. indychoir.org. Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra Indiana’s largest performing arts organization, with an annual operating budget of $25 million, is about to begin its fall season. For 2011-2012, newly appointed ISO music director Krzysztof Urbanski assumes his role for 6 of the 20 classical concerts. The ISO is one of only 17 full-time (i.e. year r ound) U.S. orchestras, with a fully diversified repertoire appealing to a large demographic complement. From the just concluding Symphony-on-the-Prairie series to the upcoming classical, pops, family and Yuletide-series season, with some Happy Hour programs thrown in for the younger demographic, we move inside the ISO’s home at the Hilbert Circle Theatre. The ISO annually performs about 200 concerts to audiences exceeding 400,000. 32 E. Washington St., 262-1100, www.indianapolissymphony.org. International Violin Competition of Indianapolis For 17 days every four years (next one in 2014) Indianapolis becomes an arts destination, not only for the U.S. but for the world. Held every four years, last year’s was the Eighth Quadrennial International Violin Competition of Indianapolis, having launched in 1982. It now vies with the Brussels Queen Elisabeth Competition and Finland’s Sibelius Competition as the world’s top three for the violin. Prizes and awar ds are valued at over $250,000. Annually, the IVCI also sponsors the Laur eate Chamber Series to feature present and former laureates in concert with local performers. 32 E. Washington St., 637-4574, www.violin.org. Philharmonic Orchestra of Indianapolis The Philharmonic is a volunteer group performing classical and pops concerts at affordable prices in venues throughout greater Indianapolis. In addition to hosting a summer camp, called Strings & Jazzy Things, the Philharmonic offers Listen & Lear n,
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a pre-concert program. Mentorship activities include assisting younger players. Open to all who play an instrument, the Philharmonic continues to attract a roster of volunteer musicians and loyal audiences. It’s been around since 1947 — and it’s definitely here to stay. In its 60 some years, it has had over 1200 members. 32 E. Washington St., 229-2367, www.philharmonicindy.org. Ronen Chamber Ensemble Ronen Chamber Ensemble performs a four-concert season focused on “rar ely heard works and new commissions for small wind and string ensembles.” Their past performances have included the legendary giants of classical music ¾ Beethoven, Brahms, and the like ¾ as well as talented contemporary composers. The four evenings of Ronen Chamber programs are featured in the Hilbert Cir cle Theatre Wood Room, which allows for an intimate experience for both listening to and watching these talented musicians perform. Performances are followed by a r eception, so the audience can meet the musicians, composers and soloists. 9351 N. Delaware St., 846-9334, www.ronenchamber.org.
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Andrey Baranov IVCI laureate Andrey Baranov returns to Indy to join harpist Agnes Clement and pianist Miki Aoki. The r ecital will feature Saint-Saens Fantaisie for Violin and Harp in A major, Op. 124, among other works. Tuesday Nov. 8, 7:30 p.m. $25; $10 students. Indiana History Center, 450 W. Ohio St., 232-1882, www.violin.org. Angels and Demons Good and evil battle on the stage as trumpet virtuoso James Stokes brings William Harbison’s Concerto for Trumpet and Winds to life. Accompanied by the IWS, it is sur e to be a highlight of the season. Saturday, May 26, 7:30 p.m. $15-30. Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts, 355 City Center Drive, Carmel, 843-3800, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.org. Augustin Hadelich Gold medalist Augustin Hadelich joins the Indiana University String Academy Chamber Orchestra to open the International Violin Competition of Indianapolis 2011-2012 season. The program will include Haydn’s Concerto in C major for Violin and Orchestra, Ravel’s Tzigane, Beethoven’s Sonata No. 6 in A major for V iolin and Piano and a work by Atar Arad. Sunday, Oct. 9, 3 p.m. $25; $10 students. Indiana History Center, 450 W. Ohio St., 232-1882, www.violin.org. Bach Project IV Acclaimed oboist John Abberger of the Canadian Baroque orchestra Tafelmusick will lead the IBO in the sixth edition of “Bach Pr oject” in the spacious Christel DeHaan Fine Arts Center. This year’s program features
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two cantatas based on the chorale How Brightly Shines the Morning Star , one by J.S. Bach and the other by Bach’s St. Thomas Church predecessor Johann Kuhnau. Monday Oct. 10, 7:30 p.m. $20; $10 students. Christel DeHaan Fine Arts Center, 1400 E. Hanna Ave., 788-3253, www.indybaroque.org. BANG! Over the past five years, Str eet Drum Corps, the performers presenting BANG!, have become known for high-energy, exciting shows. Their presentation adds up to nothing short of sensory overload, taking elements from almost every genre and mixing them into a visuallystimulating show full of color and dance. Friday, Jan. 20, 8 p.m., ticket prices vary. Clowes Memorial Hall, 4602 Sunset Ave., 940-6444, www. clowesmemorialhall.org. Boston Brass Since forming nearly 25 years ago, Boston Brass has performed around the country, including media appearances on The CBS Early Show and National Public Radio’s Performance Today. Performing original pieces, classical arrangements and jazz standards, Boston Brass creates a fun and lively show for audiences of all ages. Saturday, Dec. 17, 8 p.m., ticket prices vary. Center for the Performing Arts, 335 W. City Center Drive, Carmel, 660-3373, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.org. The Emerson Quartet The members of the nine-time Grammy winning Emerson String Quartet have more than 30 recordings to their name. The ensemble is known for melding classical and contemporary sounds together with precision and skill to cr eate a show unlike any other. Saturday, Sept. 17, 8 p.m., ticket prices vary, Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts, 355 City Center Drive, Carmel, 843-8300, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.org. Ensemble Music Society: Cuareto Casals Since its birth in 1997, Cuarteto Casals has become known one of Europe’s best young string quartets. Named for legendary cellist and conductor Pablo Casals, this Spanish quartet is quickly gaining praise for their sense of bold character, evoking mood during a performance and their dynamic interaction. Enjoy the Cuarteto Casals perform Luigi Boccherini’s String Quartet in G Minor , Dimitri Shostakovich’s String Quartet No. 9 in E-flat Major and Franz Schubert’s String Quartet No. 13 in A Minor, “Rosamunde.” Wednesday, Oct. 26, 7:30 p.m. $35. Indiana History Center, 450 W. Ohio St., www.ensemblemusic.org. Ensemble Music Society: Harlem String Quartet The Harlem String Quartet made its acclaimed Carnegie Hall debut in 2006 and has only been gr owing since. Last year, the quartet played
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A Buff A Buffet of Entertainment, Food & Fun!
Family Dinner Theatre, Banquet and Entertainment Center
Got Talent? Talent Search! Musicians, comics, magicians and singers come to Presley Presents Thursdays from 6:30p.m to 9:30p.m. The winner will be awarded a contract to perform live at Presley Presents and audition for the USO Roadshow. For information, go to www.presleypresents.com and click on talent search.
All events clean and family friendly. Children 10 and under 1/2 price. 3855 E. 96th St. Indianapolis, IN. 46240 (just east of 96th & Keystone) Call 317-216-3761 or visit www.presleypresents.com Hilary Hahn, Center for the Performing Arts, Oct. 21. for the President and the First Lady as guests in the White House and made an appearance Christmas morning on the Today Show. With each member having experience as a solo artist, the quartet brings a fr esh yet distinguished flair to classical music, one that is intelligent, talented and refreshing. Wednesday, March 14, 7:30 p.m. $35. Indiana History Center, 450 W. Ohio St., www.ensemblemusic.org. Ensemble Music Society: Shuffle.Play.Listen Pianist Christopher O’Riley and cellist Matt Haimovitz’s centuryspanning music collage Shuffle.Play. Listen combines the sounds of Bach and Stravinsky with Piazzolla and Radiohead. The genre-surfing O’Riley — who’s also known for his work as a public radio host (the kid-centric From the Top) — is working in familiar territory here: he’s already recorded an album’s worth of Radiohead tunes. Haimovitz is comfortable playing classical music just about anywher e: concert halls, coffeeshops, dive bars. Thursday, Feb. 16, 7:30 p.m., $35. Toby Theatre at the IMA, 4000 N. Michigan Road, 920-2660, www.ensemblemusic.org. Ensemble Voltaire: Couperin Family & Friends Join as members and friends of the Couperin family perform in celebration of the 350th anniversary of Louis Couperin’s death. Hailing from
France, the Couperin family boasts an illustrious lineage of r oyal court musicians. Though Louis was the first to gain fame, his nephew Francois “the Great” went on to become one of the most heralded composers of the Baroque era. Friday, Sept. 23, 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices vary. Trinity Episcopal Church, 3243 N. Meridian St., www.indybaroquemusic.org. Esperanza Spalding A few months after her surprise win as Best New Artist at the Grammys, the bassist-vocalist Esperanza Spalding drops by Indy in the company of her backing band, the Chamber Music Society. A figure straddling the jazz and classical world, Spalding pulled herself up by her bootstraps all the way to Julliar d, where, at age 20, she became one of the youngest professors in the school’s history. Sunday, Oct. 8, 8 p.m., $25-40. Clowes Memorial Hall, 4602 Sunset Ave., 940-6444, www.clowesmemorialhall.org. Five Continents A musical journey across five continents presented by University of Indianapolis faculty and guests, fr om the North African stylings of American Richard Carrick to Australian composer Barry Cockcroft. Monday, April 2, 7:30 p.m., Free. Christel DeHaan Fine Arts Center, 1400 E. Hanna Ave., 788-3255, www.arts.uindy.edu.
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Gettysburg Ghosts and Glories Presented by the Indiana W ind Symphony in commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Civil W ar, Gettysburg Ghosts and Glories will feature familiar melodies and Aaron Copland’s Lincoln Portrait. The concert, which will also include the second-ever performance of James Bar nes’ new Seventh Symphony, will be narrated by WISH-TV anchor Eric Halvorson. Sunday, Sept. 25, 2 p.m., ticket prices vary. Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts, 355 City Center Drive, Carmel, 843-3800, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.org Hilary Hahn In the dozen years that violinist Hilary Hahn has been performing and recording, she has won two Grammy Awards and released twelve feature albums. The classical artist has appeared with some of the world’s best orchestras in Spain, Israel, Germany and France. During the 2010-11 season, Hahn will perform in 56 cities in four continents, including a show in Carmel. Friday, Oct. 21, 8 p.m., ticket prices vary, Center for the Performing Arts, 335 W. City Center Drive, Carmel, 660-3373, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.org. Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra: Jana Bouskova Internationally-acclaimed harpist Jana Bouskova will join the ICO to perform Saint-Sans’ Morceau de Concert and Ginastera’s Concerto for Harp. Honored as one of the ten most distinguished women in the Czech Republic, Bouskova’s mastery of the harp is surely something to see. The program also includes Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 in C Minor . Saturday, Oct. 29, 8 p.m. $25; $10 students. Indiana History Center, 450 W. Ohio St., 232-1882, www.icomusic.org. Indianapolis Jazz Orchestra Comprised of world-class jazz performers with the shared goal of saving the sound of big band music, the Indianapolis Jazz Orchestra has been performing since 2001. The fr ee concert will feature arrangements of
Indianapolis Children’s Choir.
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selections from the Great American Songbook. Saturday, Sept. 24, 5:30 p.m., free, Garfield Park Conservatory and Gardens, 2505 Conservatory Drive, 327-7275, www.indyparks.org. Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra: Krzystof Urbanski debuts Written in 1937, people today still question what Dmitri Shostakovich was trying to say with his her oic Fifth Symphony. Did the piece celebrate the power and authoritative action of Stalin’s regime, or did it quietly and subtly (and perhaps more safely) preach of message of rebellion against it? In his debut as the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s seventh Music Director, Krzysztof Urbanski, the youngest conductor of a major symphony orchestra, brings his own subtle artistry and power to Dmitri Shostakovich’s most beloved and remembered symphony. Friday and Saturday, Sept. 16-17, 8 p.m. T icket prices vary. Hilbert Circle Theatre, 45 Monument Circle, 262-4908, www. indianapolissymphony.org. Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra: Beethoven, Biss and Bartok In the brutal, unrelenting story of the Miraculous Mandarin, a young girl dances in an open window in or der to lure men to their violent ends at the hands of her less than r eputable associates. The Mandarin himself survives three of these murderous onslaughts, only to collapse when he’s finally able to embrace the young dancing girl. Containing both quiet and subtle playing as well as a shocking and raucous culmination, Bartók’s extraordinary music depicts and shocking and emotional portrayal of desire, violence and death. Oct. 13-15, times and ticket prices vary. Hilbert Circle Theatre, 45 Monument Circle, 262-4908, www. indianapolissymphony.org. Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra: Mendelssohn’s ‘Scottish’ Symphony In wonder of Scotland’s sweeping beauty, Mendelssohn began sketches for his popular Third
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Stomp, IU Auditorium, Jan. 27-28. Symphony in 1829. Thirteen years later, Mendelssohn completed the symphony and dedicated it to Queen Victoria. A true wonder to behold, Mendelssohn’s “Scottish” Symphony blends broad yet ethereal lyricism with the traditional folk music of another country’s culture. With the help of conductor Christoph Campestrini, the ISO will tap into the composer’s emotional and personal reflection of the charming countryside. Nov. 17-19, times and ticket prices vary. Hilbert Circle Theatre, 45 Monument Circle, 262-4908, www. indianapolissymphony.org. Indy Jazz Fest Indy Jazz Fest is once again a weeklong event this year, with evening shows throughout the week at venues around town leading up to a Satur day outdoor concert at Broad Ripple’s OptiPark (adjacent to the Indianapolis Arts Center). Weekday performers include American Pianists Association Cole Porter Fellow Aaron Diehl (Sept. 12, The Jazz Kitchen), pioneering jazz-funk band The Headhunters (Sept 13, The Jazz Kitchen) and vocalist Freda Payne, in a tribute to Ella Fitzgerald (Sept. 16, Madame Walker Theatre). Headliners for Saturday’s concert include George Benson and Trombone Shorty. Sept. 12-17, times and ticket prices vary. 966-7854, www.indyjazzfest.net. Lotus World Music and Arts Festival Our favorite way to close out the summer, Bloomington’s Lotus Festival offers an exemplary mix of music for both dance and contemplation in a variety of venues ranging fr om outdoor tents to church sanctuaries.
Obviously the tents are for dancing, with beats provided by, depending on the year, Balkan dance bands, American old-school funk acts or Afro-beat ensembles. And seated audiences can (say) catch an ecstatic Iraqi acoustic act just befor e a solo Armenian singer, followed by a Corsican a cappella quartet. Sept. 22-25, times and ticket prices vary. 812-336-6599, lotusfest.org. Munich Symphony Orchestra Pianist and conductor Philippe Entremont joins the inter nationally distinguished Munich Symphony Orchestra in one of the most anticipated U.S. tours of the season. Joined by the Gloriae Dei Cantor es choir of Cape Cod, the pr ogram will cover a plethora of styles, fr om Gregorian chant to 21st-century classical. Friday, Oct. 28, 8 p.m., Ticket prices vary. Center for the Performing Arts, 335 W. City Center Drive, Carmel, 660-3373, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.org. Phamily Gathering: Away from Home Orcenith Smith conducts the Philharmonic Orchestra of Indianapolis in this Phamily Gathering: A way from Home. The Gathering will include a diverse assortment of classics, including Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9, Dvorak’s Fanfare and Polonaise from “Rusalka,” Smetana’s The Peasant Women, Smetana’s The Fisherman, and Janacek’s “Saw Dance” from Six Lachian Dances. Sunday, Nov. 13, 3 p.m. T icket prices vary. The Athenaeum Theatre, 401 E. Michigan St., 655-2755, www. philharmonicindy.org.
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Cosi Fan Tutte IU Opera kicks off its season with a new production of Mozart’s Cosi Fan Tutte, presented by the tag team of stage director Tomer Zvulun and designer C. David Higgins, who have together been responsible for two hits for the opera in as many years. For more info, visit http:// music.indiana.edu/operaballet. Sept. 23-Oct. 1, times and ticket prices vary. Indiana University, 107 S. Indiana Ave., Bloomington, 812-855-4848, www.music.indiana. edu/operaballet. Madama Butterfly Puccini’s opera about said Madama Butterfly’s doomed love for American sailor B. F. Pinkerton has been a wellloved fixture on American stages for over a century. Performed in Italian with English super-titles. Check out the Indy Opera’s website for a suggested reading list; Guterson’s Snow Falling on Cedars tops the list as the opera’s Book Club selection. Sept. 23-25, times and ticket prices vary. Clowes Memorial Hall, 4602 Sunset Ave., 940-6444, www. indyopera.org.
Pink Martini, Hilbert Circle Theatre, April 13-14. Pink Martini Join the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra at the Hilbert Cir cle Theatre for the boisterous, multi-lingual and radical musical adventure known as Pink Martini. After their searing live performances with the ISO in 2010, this proficient and seasoned 12-piece musical ensemble returns to the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra with its intoxicating mix of complimenting musical styles. Pink Martini consistently refuses to be constrained by the boundaries of only one musical genr e, and along with the talent and variety of their live performances, they r efuse to be ignored. Friday and Saturday, April 13-14, 8 p.m., times and icket prices vary. Hilbert Circle Theatre, 45 Monument Circle, 262-4908, www.indianapolissymphony.org. Pipe Up In 1892, Indianapolis organ builders Thomas Sanborn & Son built a pipe organ to serve the parishioners of the Romanesque Revival-style church on 12th and Central. Non-functional for over a hundred years, the organ has now been restored by Goulding & Wood and has found a new home at the Indiana Landmarks Center. Featuring artist Charles Webb, Pipe Up will celebrate the organ’s unveiling, and will feature artists such as Charles Webb, Martin Ellis and June Edison. Sunday, Sept. 18, 3 p.m., fr ee. Indiana Landmarks Center, 1201 Central Ave., 639-4534, www. indianalandmarks.org. Playing for Change You’ve probably seen the video on YouTube: It depicts 35 musicians, filmed in different parts of the globe, singing a single song: Ben E. King’s “Stand by Me.” And it all began when the crew behind Playing for Change
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— described on the organization’s Website as “a multimedia movement created to inspire, connect and bring peace to the world thr ough music” — heard a street musician singing the song on a Santa Monica, Ca., street. The multimedia movement eventually launched a band, which will stop by Clowes Hall in February; it features musicians from the DRC Congo, Northern Ghana and the United States. Friday, Feb. 24, 8 p.m., $35. Clowes Memorial Hall, 4602 Sunset Ave., 940-6444, www. clowesmemorialhall.org.
Stomp The off-Broadway phenomenon STOMP is back and r efreshed to provide audiences with fresh sounds. Using brooms, pounds of sand, bananas and water, the cast makes instruments out of the or dinary to create a percussive-heavy production. The show became a sensation since taking off as a street show in the U.K. in 1991. Jan. 27 – 28, 7:30 p.m., ticket prices vary, IU Auditorium, 1211 E. Seventh St., Bloomington, 812-855-1103, www.iuauditorium.com.
Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Since forming in 1946, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra has been hailed as one the U.K.’s most respected and talented orchestras. The orchestra is known for showcasing a diverse and exciting repertoire, including contemporary work. Thursday, Jan. 19, 7:30 p.m., ticket prices vary, Center for the Performing Arts, 335 W. City Center Drive, Carmel, 660-3373, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.org
Yo-Yo Ma and Kathryn Stott with The Assad Brothers A night of Latin American music, presented by cellist Yo-Yo Ma, British pianist and long-time Ma collaborator Kathryn Stott and Brazilian classical guitar duo The Assad Br others. Ma isn’t one to be satisfied by music created by just one continent or during one time period; although he made his name as a classical musician, he’s stretched his wings to r e-work North American folk music, among many other genres. Monday, April 30, 8 p.m., ticket prices vary. The Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts, 355 City Center Drive, Carmel, 660-3373, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.com.
SFJAZZ Collective: The Music of Stevie W onder Created as a sort-of house band for the world-renowned SFJAZZ Festival, SFJAZZ Collection tackles the work of a different contemporary jazz or popular music artist each year, including, in the past, Or nette Coleman, John Coltrane, Herbie Hancock and Thelonious Monk. This year, the eight-piece ensemble is taking on the oeuvre of Stevie Wonder. Thursday, Oct. 20, 7:30 p.m., ticket prices vary. The Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts, 355 City Center Drive, Carmel, 660-3373, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.com.
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VOCAL - OPERA Angela Brown The Indianapolis-born soprano presents Opera…from a Sistah’s Point of View, a stage show of her own devising that draws fr om both Italian opera and African-American art song. Sept. 22, 7:30 p.m. $25; $10 students. Madame Walker Theatre Center, 617 Indiana Ave., 236-2099, www.walkertheatre.com.
VOCAL CONTEMPORARY Bernadette Peters and Michael Feinstein For those with even a passing inter est in musical theater, no resumes need be quoted here, though we’ll mention some accomplishments. Critics have described Peters’ work (specifically, Ben Brantley of the New York Times of her role in Gypsy); she’s received seven Tony award nominations, winning two. Feinstein, the artistic director at the Center for the Performing Arts, has done an admirable job bringing the best of NYC to Carmel. W ednesday, Feb. 15, 7:30 p.m. T icket prices vary. Center for the Performing Arts, 335 W. City Center Drive, Carmel, 660-3373, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.org. The Chieftans The Chieftans came up fr om the grassroots in the ‘60s as a collective comprised of top Irish folk musicians, and they’ve largely kept things true to their country’s musical traditions, while collaborating along the way with folks like Roger Waters. The lineup has tur ned over with the years, but founder Paddy Maloney still plays the pipes and whistles at every gig. Tuesday, March 6, 7:30 p.m., T icket prices vary. Center for the Performing Arts, 335 W. City Center Drive, Carmel, 317.660.3373, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.org. Christine Ebersole Vocalist and actress Christine Ebersole gets work across the spectrum: In the film world, as Little Edie Beale in Grey Gardens; on TV spots, in guest spots on many a prime-time network show; and as a singer, whose most recent album was a collection of songs by
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Noel Coward. She’ll be featured in one of the more intimate spaces at the Center for the Performing Arts, the Studio Theatre. Saturday, Jan. 21, 7:30 and 10 p.m., T icket prices vary. Center for the Performing Arts, 335 W. City Center Drive, Carmel, 317.660.3373, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.org. DePue Brothers Band ISO concertmaster Zachary DePue has been in town for a few years, but he never contrived to book his br others for a gig before this year. DePue and three brothers — classically-trained violinists all — have been performing as a group since their youth, playing a virtuosic flavor of bluegrass. Sunday, Oct. 30, 3 p.m. $30; $10
students. Indiana Landmarks Center, 1201 Central Ave., 800-450-4534, www.violin.org. Handel’s Messiah The Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra return to Tabernacle Presbyterian Church to present their annual rendition of the Messiah, with, naturally, help from a few vocalists, including soprano Emily Albrink, mezzo-soprano Angela Young Smucker and the sanctuary choirs of Tabernacle and Fairview Presbyterian churches. Saturday and Sunday Dec.10-11, times vary. $25; $10 students. Tabernacle Presbyterian Church, 418 East 34th Str eet, Indianapolis, www.icomusic.org.
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Indianapolis Childrens’s Choir: Celebrate the Season A holiday concert featuring the regional, beginning and intermediate choirs of the Indianapolis Childr en’s Orchestra, as well as the Columbus Children’s Choir. Saturday, Dec 17, 12:30 p.m. $12 advance; $13 door. St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 100 West 86th Street, www.icchoir.org. Vocalese with Manhattan Transfer and New York Voices Vocalese, for those not hip, is the technique of writing lyrics for jazz solos originally played on instruments. And this is pr obably the ideal vocalese concert, bringing together to contemporary groups
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who have mastered the technique (Manhattan Transfer and New York Voices) with special guest star Joe Hendricks, who started out the whole thing. Saturday, Dec. 3, 8 p.m., Center for the Performing Arts, 335 W. City Center Drive, Carmel, 317.660.3373, www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.org.
Check our online calendar listings at www.nuvo.net for the latest information on musical performances in Central Indiana.
Playing for Change, Clowes Memorial Hall, Feb. 24.
CONTEMPORARY CHOICES Music b y contempor ary composers is wher e y ou find it: sometimes tucked into concerts b y our city’ s established ensembles; more often in our universities; occasionally , for the tenacious listener , a short dr ive away (Cincinnati’ s orchestra has a P hilip G lass premiere this y ear, for instance). Here are my picks. First up is Ensemble M usic, which will pr esent at least one must-see sho w: C ellist Matt H aimovitz and pianist Christopher O’Riley’ s century-spanning sound collage Shuffle.Play.Listen (F eb. 16 at The T oby), which includes
work b y B ach, R adiohead, Piazzolla and Stravinsky. Because it wor ks fr om a repertoire including student work and 20th-centur y classics, any concer t b y B utler new music ensemble the JCFA Composer’s Orchestra has the potential to be either ex cellent or unbear able, usually the for mer; the first one falls Sept. 22. Also at B utler: An Oct. 18 r ecital by adventurous violinist Davis Brooks and the Midwest pr emiere of Ask the Earth and the S ky, a cantata about the Chinese C ultural Revolution (Oct. 2). The ISO will pr esent one warhorse of the contemporary canon (Pär t’s spectr al Fratres, April 27-28) dur ing their classical season; of mor e sus-
tained interest are their Happy Hour sho ws (four thr oughout the y ear, the first falling O ct. 20), whose pr ograms offer a smattering of new wor k fr om both the classical and r ock worlds (including r eworkings of songs b y, for instance , indie r ock band The F iery Furnaces). The P alladium has SFJAZZ Collective’s Stevie Wonder tribute (O ct. 20) and Yo-Yo M a’s Latin-American pr oject (A pril 30), while Clo wes w elcomes bassist Esper anza S palding’s jazz-classical hybrid Chamber Music Society (Oct. 8) and the extraordinary globe-spanning multimedia mo vement Playing for Change (Feb. 24). Now for those with wheels: Neo-classical composer Er ic
Ewazen is the featur ed ar tist at I ndiana S tate U niversity’s 45th annual C ontemporary Music F est, which caps off with an O ct. 28 concert b y the I ndianapolis Chamber Or chestra. The IU-Bloomington N ew M usic Ensemble performs throughout the school y ear; an Oct. 20 pr ogram celebr ating the 50th anniversar y of the school ’s Latin Amer ican Music C enter b y the ensemble seems the most pr omising. And the exemplar y Lotus Festival (Sept. 22-25 in Bloomington) featur es concert and dance music fr om beyond the Western tr adition. — SCOTT SHOGER
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ORGANIZATIONS AND RESOURCES
WORD Indianapolis has a r ich and r ewarding liter ary tr adition that dates back to the earliest par t of the last centur y and a r oster of local names like B ooth Tarkington, Gene S tratton P orter, James Whitcomb Riley and M eredith Nicholson dominating best-seller lists before the two World Wars and next generation writers like Kurt Vonnegut, Ernie Pyle, and Janet Flanner coming to fame for their writings about those wars. If none of those names sound familiar to y ou, or y ou just like old books and the company of witty libr arians, head do wn to C entral Libr ary and up to the S pecial C ollections r oom on the top floor to check out the Published! S he Wrote exhibit going on through D ec. 31 focused on sever al of I ndianapolis’ least-kno wn most famous wr iters, including the afor ementioned Janet Flanner. You don ’t have to go back into the archives to find local liter ature. These days, I ndiana wr iters ar e still making headlines. Take for example Frank Bill, the S outhern I ndiana wr iter whose first book Crimes in Southern I ndiana is due to be published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux this month. Playboy magazine published the first thr ee from the collection in adv ance of the book ’s release and no w the buzz has become
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a r oar. C atch B ill at U niversity of Indianapolis on A pril 5 as par t of the Kellogg Writers Series. The Visiting Writers S eries at B utler University once again promises to bring a steady str eam of talented and inspir ing wr iters to the city to speak of their work and the wor k of wr iting. Don ’t miss Richar d P rice, wr iter of one our favorite novels, Lush Life, as w ell as the screewriter behind Sea of Love, Ransom and The Color of M oney, in N ovember. Poet R obert H aas visits in S eptember; one of the most widely -read contemporary poets of our time , H aas is also an excellent public speaker who br ings his poetry to life thr ough spoken wor d as well as he does on the page . And when it ’s all about staying home with a good book, seek out the beautiful books Chr istopher N ewgent is selling through Vouched B ooks on his w ebsite and at his pop-up guerr illa bookstor es at ar t events ar ound the city . F or the more tr aditional but equally r ewarding bookshop , head on o ver and see Liz B arden at B ig H at B ooks in B road Ripple. — LAURA MCPHEE
Big Hat Books It’s hard to find an independent book stor e in Indianapolis these days. Thankfully Broad Ripple’s Big Hat Books remains open, local and fully-stocked with carefully selected books that will make even the casual reader impressed. Stop in to browse, but, more importantly, stay plugged in via the web site or social media channels for the schedule of book signings, lectur es and other special events throughout the year. 6510 Cornell Ave., 202-0203, www.bighatbooks.com. BookMamas Irvington’s flagship independent boo shop continues the neighborhood’s literary and arts traditions with a host of special events, workshops, classes and book signings in one of the friendliest environments in town. Special emphasis on local writers and local subjects ar e a mainstay and with both new and used books, there are plenty of genre and price options for shoppers. A great place to plug in with the local community of writers, poets and other artsy types per ennially plaguing Indy’s spoken word scene. 9 Johnson Ave., 375-3715, www.bookmamas.com. Central Library While all 22 of the Indianapolis Marion County Public Libraries are an important part of the arts in the city , the most impressive is the newly r enovated Central Library. The original Central Library building was completed in 1917, and was considered one of the most outstanding ar chitectural library structures in the US. W ith an exterior of that classic Indiana limestone built on a base of V ermont marble, the building has always been celebrated as a truly special place, yet an expansion was imminent due to the quickly gr owing Indianapolis community. The Library Board finally opening the new six-story glass structure behind the original library in 2007. Offering gorgeous views of the Indianapolis skyline, the look of the library alone could draw people in so that we can incr ease the likelihood of Hoosiers to “Read, Indiana, Read!” 40 E. St. Clair St., 275-4100, www.imcpl.org.
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SAT SEP 17 8pm
Umi Garrett, piano plays Mozart
Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center
intimate
SAT OCT 29 8pm
Jana Bouskova, harp plays Ginastera
Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center
SAT NOV 12 8pm
Cathy Morris & Jennie DeVoe
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Electric violinist and singer/songwriter team up for unique cabaret-style performance Athenaeum Theatre
DEC 10 & 11 Sat 7:30pm & Sun 3pm
Handel’s Messiah
with Tabernacle and Fairview Presbyterian Sanctuary Choirs Tabernacle Presbyterian Church
SAT FEB 11 8pm
Leanna Booze, oboe plays Strauss
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Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center
FRI APR 20 7:30pm
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Center for Ray Bradbury Studies A home to the father of science fiction and fantasy, this center, located on the IUPUI campus, is the first ever dedicated to the study of author Ray Bradbury. Promoting collaborative research, the center’s outreach initiatives include online bibliographical references, links with related Bradbury research sites, establishment of an electronic list serve community, and sponsored lectures. In addition, it will publish a yearly jour nal, The New Ray Bradbury Review, with contributions from Bradbury himself and info about the center’s upcoming events. 902 W. New York St., IUPUI School of Education and Social Work, Room 0010, 274-0081, www.iupui.edu/~crbs. Indiana Historical Society Press For more than a century, the Indiana Historical Society has preserved Indiana history and fostered Indiana culture by publishing a wide range of books devoted to all aspects of Hoosier life, cultur e and history. Most recently, these include And Know This Place: Poetr y of Indiana, featuring more than 100 Indiana poets writing on this place they call home—the first major anthology of Indiana poets published since 1900. Another favorite of our is the beautiful book of photographs by Harold Lee Miller Fair Culture. We love the fair, and this new book is one of the most beautiful testaments to an Indiana icon that we have seen. www. indianahistory.org. IU Press While this academic publisher does not limit itself to local authors or subject matter, they do produce one of the most consistent and quality publication schedules dealing with Indiana and the Midwest. With everything from wildflower field guides to biographies of local jazz musicians, not to mention several impressive railroad-themed books, IU Press is a treasure trove for Indiana bibliophiles looking for beautiful and bountiful choices. www.iupress.indiana.iu. Kurt Vonnegut Memorial Library Beloved writer Kurt Vonnegut once said, “If I ever severed myself from Indianapolis, I would be out of business.” Thanks to the city’s support, his work — and spirit — is alive and well in the Kurt V onnegut
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Vouched Guerrilla book store, event promoter and kick-ass web site, Vouched is the latest in indie Indy bookstores in the business of putting beautifully designed, beautifully bound and beautifully written small press books into the hands of those who appreciate such craft. The brilliant endeavor of local writer Christopher Newgent, you’ll find Vouched set up at art fairs and festivals thr oughout the year – most regularly during First Friday events at Big Car Gallery in Fountain Square. www.vouchedbooks.com and https://facebook.com/vouchedbooks. Writers’ Center of Indiana Want to be a writer? Then why nattering on and on about it? Do something! This nonprofit organization, located in the Indianapolis Art Center’s Cultural Complex in Broad Ripple, offers classes taught by some of Indiana’s best writers; it also offers outreach programs in schools, community organizations and correctional institutions — as well as a variety of literary events (such as their annual fall festival). All of WCI’s programs give voice and confidence to people who are rarely heard. The Center has been offering these opportunities since 1979, surviving a number of challenges to remain our city’s literary mainstay. 812 E. 67th St., 255-0710, www.indianawriters.org.
SEASON HIGHLIGHTS Ann Katz Festival of Books Three weeks of book and book-themed events highlight the community
Silent film with live orchestra Douglas Fairbanks in The Mark of Zorro IMA Tobias Theater
SAT MAY 12 8pm
Soyoung Yoon, violin plays Prokofiev
Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center
Tune into WFYI 90.1 FM every Monday at 10PM to hear Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra Broadcasts
For tickets, visit www.icomusic.org or call 317.940.9607
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Memorial Library. Open daily, except Wednesdays, from noon to 5 p.m., the library serves as a cultural and educational resource facility, museum, art gallery and reading room — all of which ar e imbued with the essence of the late, gr eat writer. Keep an eye out for the library’s writing workshops and outreach activities with local arts organizations and/or join the monthly Vonnegut Book Club. Located in the historic Emelie Building downtown. 340 N. Senate Ave., 437-7867, www. vonnegutlibrary.org.
ICO GOES SILENT
ALLEN WHITEHILL CLOWES CHARITABLE FOUNDATION
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Frank Bill, Kellogg Writers Series, April 5.
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Natasha Trethewey, Butler University Visiting Writers Series, Oct. 26. offerings at the Indianapolis Jewish Community Center for 13th annual Ann Katz Festival of Books. Readings and book signings are the mainstay, but films, panel discussions and even book art classes are also on the schedule. This year’s festival runs Oct. 22 No. 19, most events are free or $5 and take place in the Laikin Auditorium of the JCC. Consult the web site for mor e comprehensive details as the festival approaches. Arthur M. Glick JCC, 6701 Hoover Road, 215-9467, www. jccindy.org.
Series Highlights Butler University Visiting Writers Series We’re lucky to have Butler’s Vivian S. Delbrook Visiting Writers Series, one of the most impressive such activities in the Midwest, in our city. Each year, an impressive lineup of literary greats provide us all an opportunity to hear them share and illuminate their own texts. Visitors have included Nobel Prize winners from around the world, eminent American literati and talented up-andcomers. See “Season Highlights” for a preview of the 2011-2012 scheduled authors. www.butler.edu. *John Green Writing smart, witty and relevant books for young adults, John Green is the New York Times bestselling author of Looking for Alaska, An Abundance of Katherines and Paper Towns. He is also the coauthor, with David Levithan, of Will Grayson, Will Grayson. Green is also one of the founds of “Nerdfighters” a loose community of creative geeks working to make the world a better place thr ough intellectualism and activism. Lear n more at www.johngreen.com. Tuesday, Nov.1, 7:30 p.m. Clowes Memorial Hall. www.butler.edu. *Robert Hass Former U.S. poet laureate Robert Hass is one of contemporary poetry’s most celebrated and widely read voices. His first collection, Field Guide, won the Yale Series of Younger Poets Award and established him as an important American poet. He confirmed his ability
with Praise, which won the W illiam Carlos Williams Award. In 1984, Hass published Twentieth Century Pleasures: Prose on Poetry, a collection of previously published essays and reviews. Wednesday, Sept. 21, 7:30 p.m., Atherton Union Reilly Room. www. butler.edu. *Karen McElmurray Author of the novels The Motel of the Stars and Strange Birds in the Tree of Heaven, and the memoir Surrendered Child: A Birth Mother’s Journey, McElmurry is also the creative nonfiction editor for Arts and Letters, Georgia Colle’s literary journal. Tuesday, Sept. 27, 7:30 p.m. Eidson-Duckwall Recital Hall. www.butler.edu. *Richard Price Richard Price’s novels include Freedomland, Clockers Samaritan and Lush Life. His fiction, articles and essays have appeared in Best American Essays 2002, The New York Times, the New York Times Book Review, The New Yorker, Esquire, The Village Voice and Rolling Stone. He has also written numerous screenplays, including Sea of Love, Ransom and The Color of Money Tuesday, Nov. 8, 7:30 p.m., Atherton Union Reilly Room. www.butler.edu. *Richard Rodriquez Richard Rodriguez told his family’s story in Hunger of Memory: The Education of Richard Rodriguez, his well-received autobiography. This first book placed him in the national spotlight, winning an Anisfield-Wolf Book Award and a Christopher Award. In 1992, he published Days of Obligation: An Argument with My Mexican Father , another collection of autobiographical essays. His 2002 collection of essays entitled Brown: The Last Discover y of America was a finalist for the National Book Critics Award. Monday, Oct. 24, 7:30 p.m. Atherton Union Reilly Room. www.butler.edu. *Natasha Trethewey Poet Natasha Trethewey is the author of three collections of poetry: Domestic Work (2000), Bellocq’s Ophelia (2002) and Native Guard (Houghton Mifflin, 2006), for which she was awar ded the 2007 Pulitzer Prize. She is also the
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Join author Lloyd Hunter as he shar es the behind the scenes experiences of exploring Stott’s diary to write his book For Duty and Destiny. Saturday, Sept. 10, noon. Free. Indiana History Center, 450 W. Ohio St., 232-1882, www.indianahistory.org.
Gathering of Writers Hosted by the Writers Center of Indiana, this full day of classes, workshops and discussions features some of Indiana’s best fiction and memoir writers, poets, and screenwriters collaborating with participants. Highlights include keynote speaker Lee Martin. Classes and panel discussions on the writing craft, including sessions on fiction, poetry, screenwriting, and publishing. Taught by award-winning, published authors from around the who share their expertise and discuss their experiences as working writers. Saturday, Nov. 12, Indiana Landmarks Center, 1201 Central Ave., 800-450-4534, www. indianawriters.org.
Indy Underground The Writer’s Center of Indiana presents the Indy Underground Reading Series, featuring Frank Bill and V ictoria Barrett. Come hear contemporary these voices read from their latest work. Books will be available for purchase and signing. Beer will be available with ID. For mor e info, visit www.indianawriters.org. Thursday, Sept. 29, 7:30 p.m., Irving Theatre, 5505 East Washington St., 356-3355, www.indianawriters.org.
Indiana Historical Society: For Duty and Destiny The story of Franklin College is the story of W.T. Stott. Stott, an inspirational and intellectual force in the Indiana Baptist community, was a champion of small denominational colleges and of higher education in general, in Indiana.
Intersitial Indy Salon Are you interstitial? Do you write, create, or perform material that falls in between or outside of traditional genre categories? Are you interested in collaborating across genres and artistic disciplines? Do you enjoy broadening your horizons while meeting writers and artists of all types doing exciting cross-disciplinary work? If so, come to the Interstitial Arts Foundation monthly salon, on the last Sunday of each month. Call 927-7166 or email interstitialindy@gmail.com for more information. Last Sunday of every month, 7-9 p.m., Writers’ Center of Indiana, 812 E. 67th St., 255-0710, www.interstitialarts.org/wordpress. Metric Mondays Indy Poetry Slam and Locals Only team up to bring you a weekly variety show including music, comedy and poetry. For more information, contact Erin Livingston at indypoetryslam@gmail. com. $5 cover. Locals Only, 2449 East 56th St., 255-4013, www. localsonlyindy.com. Published! She Wrote Take time to visit Central Library between now and the end of the year to learn more about women writers
Harold Lee Miller, Indiana Historical Society Press.
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author of a book of cr eative non-fiction, Beyond Katrina: A Meditation on the Mississippi Gulf Coast (2010). Her fourth collection of poetry, Thrall, is scheduled for release in fall 2012. Wednesday, Oct. 26, 7:30 p.m. Atherton Union Reilly Room. www.butler.edu.
Good vs. Evil: Anthony Bour dain and Eric Rupert Bad boy chef and Travel Channel tv personality Anthony Bourdain brings his insolence and expertise to Bloomington in Feburatury where he pairs up with French chef extraordinaire Eric Ripert to share the stories behind their lives, books and travels. The tour stop in Indy in early 2011, and those who attended found an endless supply of humor, personality and insight into the evolution food trends. Thursday, Feb. 16, 8 p.m. $33-$53 general public, $18-$48 IU Bloomington students. IU Auditorium, 1211 E. Seventh St., Bloomington, 855-1103, www. iuauditorium.com.
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Anthony Bourdain, IU Auditorium, Feb. 16. with an Indianapolis connection, including sci fi writer C. L. Moor e, fantasy fiction writer Evangeline Walton, poets Mari Evans and Ruth Stone, journalist Janet Flanner, and children’s author Kathryn Lasky. Nina Mason Pulliam Indianapolis Special Collections Room. Central Library, 40 E. St. Clair St., 275-4100, www . imcpl.org/central/index.html. So, do it! Writers Center of Indiana pr esents a great opportunity for aspiring writers to join a workshop twice a month and stop the pr ocrastination that plagues far to many wor dsmiths and smithettes. Writing prompts, coffee, and lots of sharp pencils will be on handy for those who need the inspiration, fuel and tools to get them over the humps. No pr e-registration required. Non-members pay at the door. First and Third Sunday of every month, 1-4 p.m.; fr ee for IWC members; $10 non-members. Marion Hall, Room #222,Marian University, 3200 Cold Spring Road, 955-6000, www.indianawriters.org.
Series Highlights UIndy Kellogg Writers Series Hosted by University of Indianapolis, the annual Kellogg Writers Series presents a line-up of authors, many local, discussing their most recent works and the approach they take to their respective crafts. Poetry, fiction, memoir and history each get attention this year, as do writers from Indiana. All events associated with the series are free. Check university web site for specific room locations and more details as date of appearance approaches. University of Indianapolis, 1400 East Hanna Ave, Indianapolis, 788-3373, www. uindy.edu. *Frank Bill The current “next big thing” to emerge from Indiana, Frank Bill’s collection of short stories Crimes in Southern Indiana is being released this September to great fanfare, including three of
the stories being published in the August 2011 issue of Playboy, which gives you plenty of time to “r ead the articles” before his appearance in Indy. Bill describes his published work as dark, rural literary noir in the tradition of Cormac McCarthy or Donald Ray Pollock. Thursday, April 5, 7:30 p.m. *Teresa Middleton Recipient of the 2010 Kenneth and Geraldine Gell Poetry Prize for her collection Junk DNA: A Collection of Sonnets, Middleton is a UIndy grad who teaches English at Ben Davis University High School in Indianapolis and is currently working on her third collection of poetry. Thursday, Oct. 27, 7:30 p.m. *Brian Turner The award-winning solider-poet whose debut collection Here, Bullet reflect the experiences of war with lyric power and unflinching eloquence. Turner speaks to both the compassion and the violence associated with being a solider in his work. Tuesday, Feb. 21, 7:30 p.m. *Mark Turcotte Poet Mark Turcotte is author of four collections including The Feathered Heart and Exploding Chippewas. His poetry and short fiction have appear ed in many literary jour nals, and he was a writer-in-residence for the National Book Foundation’s American Voices Project. Thursday, Oct. 6, 7:30 p.m. Write On (The Poetry Spot) This dedicated poetry venue will host a feature poet every Friday night, with an open mic in between sets. Hosted by Sleepy P and Mathew Davis. Friday, 10 p.m., Write On (The Poetry Spot), 3326 Clifton St., www. writeonthepoetryspot.com.
Check our online calendar listings at www.nuvo.net for the latest information on spoken word events in Central Indiana.
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SCREEN Heartland Film Festival This annual fall film festival – October 13-22 - is a ten-day event full of independent films from around the world, fun activities for film enthusiast and classy award ceremonies. Emphasizing films about the strength of the human spirit, the Heartland Film Festival featur es truly moving pictures and the best in independent filmmaking. Heartland presents more than $100,000 in prizes and Crystal Heart A wards to its top-judged submissions. Selected student films r eceive Jimmy Stewart Memorial Crystal Heart Awards and cash prizes. In addition to the festival, they occasionally they pr emiere new films, complete with visits from famous film actors and dir ectors. 2135 Hoffman Rd., 464-9405, www.trulymovingpictures.org. Indiana Film Society Since 1988, this group has championed obscure films — the ones that gather dust on the back shelves of old mom-and-pop video stores. Every year, it focuses its film series on the forgotten films of a specific genre or era. This fall’s film series, its theme curr ently undecided, will feature one film each month (first Tuesday 7 - 9 p.m.). The spring series will include two films each month. Admission is free! The films will screen at a brand new venue, the Indianapolis Senior Center. Indianapolis Senior Center 708 E. Michigan St., 263-6272, www.indianafilmsociety.org. Indianapolis International Film Festival Since 2004, this annual festival has exhibited films fr om nearly every state in the country and more than 50 countries around the globe. It features the best in independent and innovative film fr om both awardwinning professionals and emerging filmmakers. It has included such popular, critically acclaimed films as (500) Days of Summer, Sita Sings the Blues, Another Earth and Natural Selection. Films screen at the Indianapolis Museum of Art; the after parties happen all over town. A key aspect of the IIFF is the close pr oximity of filmmakers to audiences. See the films, hang around and then go get a drink with your favorite director, writer, production designer or actor. And check out their Roving Cinema series, in which Indianapolis locations ar e matched with films (e.g. Field of Dreams at Victory Field). Indianapolis Museum of Art, 4000 Michigan Rd., 560-4433, www.indyfilmfest.org
John Waters, various events in November, including Spirit & Place F estival.
FILM There may not be much to expect from Hollywood until O scar season, but ther e are plenty of big film events r olling out on the local level in the months to come . First up is the fifth annual B M ovie Celebration (Sept. 23-25) in Franklin. Fans and filmmakers will gather throughout the town for screenings and discussions , aiming to revive interest in wonderfully offbeat films sadly gather ing dust on the shelves of mom-and-pop video stores. Among the celebration’s many guests ar e the Chiodo Brothers, the makers of the outlandish cult classic, Killer Klo wns fr om O uter S pace. The br others ar e also kno wn for designing the puppets in Team A merica: World Police and collabor ating with Tim B urton on his debut shor t film Vincent. For more information about the festiv al’s guests , events, locations and tickets , visit www . bmoviecelebration.com. If y ou’re looking for something a little more mainstream, but equally inter esting, look no further than the B uskirk-Chumley Theater’s O ct. 2 scr eening of Breaking Away, the O scar-winning 1979 classic about a triumphant underdog team in IU’s annual Little 500 bike r ace. The event will feature a bike tour of the mo vie’s locations in Bloomington. And local filmmakers can
enter their o wn productions into the mix. To find out mor e: (812) 323-3020, or at www.buskirkchumley.org. The H eartland F ilm F estival is just around the cor ner fr om ther e — O ct. 13-22. P resenting independent and international films as w ell as mor e than $125,000 in cash pr izes, this is always an inspiring event. Shortly after that is the L GBT F ilm Festival, N ov. 11-13 at the IMA and the IUPUI C ampus C enter. The call for entries is still open, but y ou better act fast as it closes on Aug. 31. The First Place juried pr ize winner will r eceive $1,000. There will also be audience awar ds for Best F eature, S hort F ilm, Documentar y, Actor and Actress. In the middle of all this ex citement is the N ov. 12 appear ance of famed cult filmmaker J ohn Waters ( Hairspray, Pink F lamingos) at the S pirit and P lace Festival. H e’ll per form his v audeville act, “This F ilthy World,” at the M adame Walker Theatre. In conjunction, on N ov. 4, Big Car Gallery is presenting the exhibit Bodies of Waters, a group show of work based on char acters fr om Waters’ films . — SAM WATERMEIER
Keystone Arts Cinema These days, Indianapolis can be lacking of what you might call “art house” film venues. The Keystone Arts Cinema, located in the Fashion Mall, fills a r eal void; it’s a place where you can enjoy top indie films, foreign films, documentaries… you name it, it’s the cream of the celluloid crop. Plus, the Cinema’s hotdogs, gourmet popcorn and Indie Lounge, the attached bar wher e you can purchase your choice of beer and take it into your movie, ar e all delicious. The environs are comfortable, and the film-going experience is elegant, especially if you tur n off that cellphone! 8702 Keystone Crossing, 579-3009, ww.landmarktheatres. com/market/Indianapolis/keystoneartcinemab. LGBT Film Festival Three days of fun, films and parties all focusing on the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) community. In an era where the queer community can be synonymous with har dships, this festival’s films offer catharsis through their more hopeful nature. Fortunately, that catharsis extends beyond the films with the festival’s parties and concerts. This year’s festival occurs Nov. 11-13 at both the IMA and IUPUI Campus Center . For more information about the lineup of films, parties and the many other events, visit the festival’s website. IMA, 4000 Michigan Rd.; IUPUI Campus Center, 420 University Blvd., www.indylgbtfilmfest.com. The Tobias Theatre Dubbed “The Toby,” this state of the art and envir onmentally-friendly venue housed in the Indianapolis Museum of Art is a gr eat venue for cinema and lectures on the power of film. Past guest speakers have included legendary filmmaker Peter Bogdanovich, actor Crispin Glover, director Chris Paine (Who Killed the Electric Car?) and musician/ composer Sufjan Stevens. Live music performances ar e acoustically sublime. The Toby is also home to the Indianapolis Inter national Film Festival. 4000 Michigan Rd., 920-2660, www.imamuseum.org. Check our online calendar listings at www.nuvo.net for the latest information on film events in Central Indiana.
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