Arts and Theater

Performances at the History Center

The Indiana Historical Society is involved in many collaborative ventures throughout the cultural community. Every year, the 290-seat Frank and Katrina Basile Theater hosts numerous concerts, plays, lectures and more, and proudly serves as the performance home for the following organizations:

• The Ensemble Music Society
• Indianapolis Early Music
• International Violin Competition of Indianapolis
• Storytelling Arts of Indiana

For a listing of upcoming events in the theater, visit our calendar.

Frank and Katrina Basile Theater – Seats up to 290

Our intimate 290-seat Frank and Katrina Basile Theater wows audiences as they walk in to take their seats. Classically designed, elegantly decorated and acoustically sound, it can accommodate many types of performances, presentations and seminars. Comfortable seats positioned in steep, wide rows allow for easy access and perfect visibility of the 40-foot by 22-foot stage.

The Basile Theater is equipped with a complete lighting and sound system operable from a projection booth with backstage communication. Other in-house equipment includes an on-stage 16’x12′ retractable screen, LCD projector, Blu-ray player and assisted listening devices. A podium a 9-foot Steinway grand piano are also available for use. Backstage amenities include a green room – with dressing rooms and rehearsal space.

Outside the Basile Theater, a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Canal creates an impressive entry to the theater. The lobby is used frequently before or after theater events for receptions, hospitality breaks or to position vendor or display tables. Convenient to the parking lot, it is adjacent to the Basile History Market and is convenient to the Stardust Terrace Cafe below.

For further information or to schedule a site visit, please email rentals@indianahistory.org or call (317) 234-0081 or (317) 234-7722.

Amenities

When you hold your event at the History Center, you can take advantage of its many amenities such as shopping the Basile History Market (during operating hours), offering a huge selection of Indiana and handmade products. The Stardust Terrace Café is operated by Jonathan Byrd’s Catering and is available for daytime dining or catering. You and your guests will also be able to visit the Indiana Experience. (Additional charges may apply.)

Make the History Center your performance home. For further information or to schedule a site visit, please email rentals@indianahistory.org or call (317) 234-0081 or (317) 234-7722.