IndyFringe officially rebranded to “IF Theatre.”
The Indianapolis-based arts organization has provided year-round programming since 2015 and created the annual IndyFringe Festival to bring cultural and financial interest to the Mass Ave Cultural Arts District.
The rebrand signals a new opportunity for IF Theatre to continue growing and building resources in the community through teaching classes and investing in classical theater, campfire storytelling, new play development, interactive and immersive theatrical events, and arts projects dedicated to social justice and climate justice.
“Rebranding that year-round programming as IF Theatre ‘distinguishes IndyFringe from IndyFringe,’” CEO Paul Daily said in a statement. “IF Theatre is a clearly defined entity, one that operates year-round. The IndyFringe Festival is an amazing, 11-day theatre festival that happens once a year. IF Theatre helps make bold theatrical experiences possible. The IndyFringe Festival is one of those theatrical experiences.”
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IF Theatre plans to be Indy’s “third space,” curating an accessible and welcoming campus for artists and art lovers, hosting public art, social hours, community classes and a new Play-Lovers’ Club.
The Play-Lovers’ Club, which is free to join, acts like a book club and allows members to support local artists at other theater companies in Indy by independently viewing shows on a monthly basis and then convening at IF Theatre for snacks, beverages and conversation.
“It’s an economic engine for arts at the ground floor,” Director of Audience Engagement Max McCreary said in a statement. “Indianapolis could be known as the next great Midwestern arts city … but only if we invest in the belief that we WILL be. That’s what IF Theatre is all about.”
The Play-Lovers’ Club will begin with four productions for members to view and discuss, over a variety of genres and topics. Each show requires a ticket, usually $10-$45; however, club meetings at IF Theatre will be free to attend. For more information or to view a schedule of performances, visit indyfringe.org.
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.
