The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra (ISO) has received a $1.2 million grant from the Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation, Inc., supporting an expanded artistic partnership with Indianapolis Ballet and Butler Arts & Events Center.
This transformational investment will fund five full-scale professional ballet productions accompanied by live orchestral music over the next two years at Clowes Memorial Hall.
The upcoming productions build on the success of the ISO’s recent collaborations with Indianapolis Ballet at Clowes Memorial Hall, including performances of Romeo and Juliet in 2024 and Swan Lake in 2025. Together, the three organizations are committed to creating world-class artistic experiences that enhance cultural vibrancy in central Indiana.
Don Steffy, Executive Director of Indianapolis Ballet, celebrated the continued collaboration between the organizations.
“With every musical note played and dance step taken, this remarkable collaboration deeply enriches the artists, the audience and our wonderful community at large,” Steffy said.
Aaron Hurt, Vice President of Arts, Events, and Enterprise Management at Butler University, echoed that enthusiasm, emphasizing the importance of Clowes Memorial Hall as a cultural hub for the city.
“We at Butler are excited to see our partnership with both the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and the Indianapolis Ballet continue to grow,” Hurt said. “Clowes Memorial Hall was built to be the art center for Indianapolis and the home to major productions for the city. Through this gift from the Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation, we’re able to continue to fulfill that mission and bring art of the highest quality to the Midtown Arts Cultural District.”
Designed to significantly expand access to professional performing arts, this collaboration combines the expertise, resources, and reach of all three institutions. The initiative aims to:
- Increase the availability of locally produced full-scale professional ballet productions
- Offer accessible performances for diverse audiences, including young adults and young families
- Strengthen Central Indiana’s creative ecosystem and reinforce Indianapolis as a premier arts destination
“The impact of these productions extends far beyond the stage,” ISO CEO James Johnson said. “This work helps cultivate a thriving arts community, fosters the next generation of audiences, and showcases the exceptional talent that exists right here in Indianapolis.”
The first two productions supported by this grant will include:
For more information about upcoming performances or ISO collaborations, please visit indianapolissymphony.org.