School is coming to an end and porch parties are in full swing. It must be May!
The Recorder compiled a list of some free and low-cost things to do as the city comes together to celebrate the arts and Asian American Pacific Islander Month, the Kentucky Derby, Mother’s Day and the Indy 500.
Friday, May 2
“Roots & Traditions” — FREE
The Full Circle Nine Gallery (FC9) is hosting Latino artist José Luís Cabrera in “Roots & Traditions” from 6-9 p.m. as part of the First Friday art tour.
“Murder Me Thrice” — $23-$27
The Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site’s Candlelight Theatre presents three classic thrillers performed in different rooms — a tradition dating back to Benjamin and Caroline Harrison in the late 1800s. Guests can enjoy Agatha Christie’s “The Rats,” Lucille Fletcher’s “Sorry, Wrong Number” or Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s “The Adventure of the Tolling Bell.”
benjaminharrisonpresidentialsi.ticketspice.com/murder-me-thrice
Saturday, May 3
“Dreamfire” — $15-$20
Presented by Prep4Life and the Asante Art Institute of Indianapolis, “Dreamfire” is an original stage production inspired by a world filled with dreams and imagination — weaving a story of hope, resilience and the unbreakable bonds of family and community.
Free Comic Book Day — FREE
All branches of the Indianapolis Public Library will be handing out free comic books from their selection for all ages while supplies last
attend.indypl.org/event/13489062
Kentucky Derby Party — $24-$38
Community members are invited to celebrate and watch the Kentucky Derby with food, drinks, a silent auction and more pre-race activities at The Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library from 4-8 p.m.
secure.qgiv.com/for/kentuckyderbyparty/event/kentuckyderbyparty/
Masterclass with David Hochoy – Martha Graham Technique with Live Music — $20
Crossroads Dance Indy is partnering with renowned choreographer and soloist David Hochoy for a masterclass exploring the foundations of the Martha Graham technique. The two-hour class is open to intermediate and advanced dancers.
Sunday, May 4
AANHPI Community Market — FREE
The Stutz is hosting Indy’s first AANHPI Community market this month, celebrating Asian American Small Business owners in the community. The market is free and open to all.
thestutz.com/events/aanhpi-community-market
READ MORE: Levitt VIBE Indianapolis Music Series returns to the Tube Factory this spring
Thursday, May 8
Screening: “I Define Me,” by Leah Darden — FREE
Beginning at 6 p.m., Herron School of Art & Design senior Leah Darden will host a viewing of her short film, “I Define Me.” The film showcases Darden’s personal journey into young adulthood, highlighting Black excellence.
auroraphoto.org/events/i-define-me-screeening
Saturday, May 10
Mom’s Night Out Dance Party — $20
Curated especially for busy, working moms, Mom’s Night Out Dance Party at Turntable in Broad Ripple offers Hoosier moms a fun-filled night out featuring themed drinks, a live DJ and a photobooth, all before 10 p.m.
“West Side Story” — 39-$92
The Indianapolis Opera is presenting “West Side Story” at the Indianapolis Zoo with an original onsite design inspired by the Bicentennial Pavilion. Seating is first come, first served beginning at 6 p.m., and food and refreshments will be available.
Friday, May 16
Legally Blonde(r) — $30-$40
Indy Drag Theatre is bringing back its debut drag parody production with “Legally Blonde(r).” Two years later, the show aims to be more legal, more blonde and more drag-tastic.
Loudmouth Books presents Chasten Buttigieg in conversation with John Green — $32
Celebrating the debut of Chasten Buttigieg’s picture book “Papa’s Coming Home,” Loudmouth Books is hosting a discussion with Chasten and Hoosier author John Green. Tickets include a hard copy of Chasten’s book with a signing following the conversation.
Saturday, May 17
Poetry Workshop with Chantel Massey — FREE
Local poet, author and teaching artist Chantel Massy is partnering with the Indiana Author Awards to host a poetry workshop. Throughout the workshop, attendees will explore Audre Lorde’s poetry and essay, alongside the works of Jericho Brown, Danez Smith, Lucille Clifton and Franny Choi.
Sunday, May 18
Book-to-Film Club at Kan-Kan Cinema: “The Hunger Games” — $12
Following a screening of “The Hunger Games” at Kan-Kan Cinema & Brasserie, Indy Reads will host a free book club and discussion of the novel by Suzanne Collins.
Dawning — $16
The Indianapolis Children’s Choir high school division will perform movements from three major works featuring the texts of 2,000-year-old texts set to modernized music styles.
Jazz with Friends – a Benefit Concert — $15
Enjoy an afternoon of live jazz music supporting the Indianapolis First Friends church and community outreach ministries, featuring the Eric Baker Jazz combo.
Sunday, May 25
Bike to 500 — $25-$30
Join in on a 5-mile community bike ride to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in honor of the Indy 500. Rides depart with a police escort from the AMP at 16 Tech at 7:30 a.m. or 9:30 a.m.
Friday, May 30
Indy Reads Lit Stage Open Mic — FREE
Each last Wednesday of the month, Indy Reads hosts a free, family-friendly open mic. Performers of all ages, art forms and languages are welcome to share their talent with the community. Performances must not exceed five minutes.
Please note: Admission and ticket prices listed are general and before taxes/fees.
Contact Arts & Culture Reporter Chloe McGowan at 317-762-7848. Follow her on X @chloe_mcgowanxx.
Chloe McGowan is the Arts & Culture Reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper. Originally from Columbus, OH, Chloe graduated with a degree in journalism from The Ohio State University. She is a former IndyStar Pulliam Fellow, and her previous work includes freelancing for Indy Maven, Assistant Arts & Life Editor for The Lantern, and editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Chloe enjoys covering all things arts and culture — from local music, visual art, dance, theater and film, as well as minority-owned businesses. In her free time, Chloe enjoys reading, cooking and keeping her plants alive.
