In central Indiana, the Emerson Theatre is a fully restored vintage movie house presenting local bands every weekend, and occasional performances on weeknights. While concessions are available, the venue doesn’t sell alcohol and only admits patrons over the age of 15. The seat-less space features much of its original architecture, a large dance floor, pool tables and a lounge area. Known for its high energy, the majority of the music is hard core, punk and metal. An eclectic list of national bands, such as Sugar Ray and L7, has sold out this 400-person venue.
The Emerson Theatre
4634 E. 10th St.
Inidianapolis, IN 46201
(317) 239-5151
emersontheater.com
Less than two miles away from downtown Indianapolis, Fountain Square Theatre is part of a multi-venue complex including three restaurants, duckpin bowling with vintage lanes and a hotel. The all-ages theatre is housed in a former vaudeville motion picture house that first opened in 1928. The space was then converted into a Woolworth shop, and later renovated into a cultural center for live music. The theatre has a distinctly retro vibe with furnishings from the 1950s and entertainment to match. Fridays feature Midwestern swing bands and dance lessons early in the night. Known for its friendly service and diverse entertainment, Fountain Square is a stop along the Indianapolis Cultural Trail.
Fountain Square Theatre
1105 Prospect St.
Indianapolis, IN 46203
(317) 686-6010
fountainsquareindy.com
Located in a strip mall in Bloomington, Rhino’s Youth Club is a venue started and operated by local teens for teens, with the guidance of a professional staff. The impressive list of local and touring bands that have played there ranges the spectrum of musical tastes from punk and rockabilly to funk and hip hop. Over 1,200 teens pass through Rhino’s every month, making this a popular place to perform, dance and socialize. Most of the shows are on weekends and have a cover of $5 to $10 as of 2010. Rhino’s offers a safe space free from alcohol, drugs and smoking.
Rhino’s Youth Center
331 South Walnut St.
Bloomington, IN 47401
(812) 333-3430
rhinosyouthcenter.org