For many Indianapolis residents, the mention of Indiana Avenue brings about a host of memories and evokes many emotions.
“The Avenue,” as many affectionately refer to it, served as home base for a multitude of Black entrepreneurs and professionals, urban socialites and some of the world’s best musicians. Time, politics and gentrification under the guise of development changed the landscape of the city and wiped away what was left of The Avenue long ago.
Today, just one remnant remains, and soon the famed Indiana Avenue will once again be filled with the sounds of music, fun and fellowship.
On Aug. 26, all are invited to attend the Madame Walker Theatre Center’s Street of Dreams Music Fest. The festival, which is free to attend, is being billed as the Walker’s “thank you to the community.”
“Over the years, we have been getting great support from the community for our programs, such as Jazz on the Avenue, Art on the Avenue and Kamp Kuumba. The music fest is our way of giving back,” said Anita Harden, the Walker’s interim director. “The music fest will not only be a fun-filled event, but we are also providing a showcase for aspiring artists and entrepreneurs.”
The event will feature live music from local artists such as Native Sun, Mr. Kinetik, EJAAZ and Alaina Renae; food trucks; a kids zone and more.
“We are the last anchoring entity on Indiana Avenue, especially from yesteryear,” said Sherrell Robinson, program director at the Walker. “As much as it’s a privilege, it’s also a challenge and a responsibility. Having this event outside, one of the biggest things it allows us to do is continue in Madam’s legacy by helping to bring people together, as well as the legacy of the Walker, which is a mission to celebrate the arts and culture.”
In addition to the musicians on the main stage, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a line-dancing demonstration, purchase wares from local vendors and visit the booths of various community organizations.
“The arts help in so many ways,” said Robinson. “Bringing community partners, friends, family and people that wouldn’t normally attend events or aren’t aware of the gem that is the Walker, this gives us an opportunity to open our doors, well… our parking lot, to invite them to fellowship with us and enjoy the arts with us.”
The Street of Dreams Music Fest will be held from 5–10 p.m. in the parking lot of the Madame Walker Theatre Center, located at 617 Indiana Ave. This event is sponsored by the Lilly Endowment, Central Indiana Community Foundation, Sigma Theta Tau International, Recorder Media Group, Sun King Brewery, Brooklyn Audio Productions, Arts Council of Indianapolis, Monarch and the Indiana Arts Commission.
