How to Visit the Indiana Ballet Theatre

The Indiana Ballet Theatre is a cornerstone of performing arts in the Midwest, celebrated for its captivating performances, disciplined artistry, and deep community roots. Whether you’re a longtime ballet enthusiast or a first-time attendee, knowing how to visit the Indiana Ballet Theatre ensures a seamless, enriching cultural experience. Unlike generic entertainment venues, the Indiana Ballet Theatre offers a unique blend of classical tradition and contemporary innovation, making each performance not just a show, but a meaningful encounter with movement, music, and storytelling. Understanding the logistics, etiquette, and opportunities surrounding your visit elevates your experience from passive observation to active participation in the arts. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to planning, preparing for, and maximizing your visit to the Indiana Ballet Theatre—whether you’re attending a matinee, an evening premiere, or a special educational event.

Step-by-Step Guide

Planning a visit to the Indiana Ballet Theatre involves more than simply picking a date and showing up. It requires thoughtful preparation across multiple dimensions: research, ticket acquisition, transportation, attire, arrival timing, and post-performance engagement. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your experience is both smooth and memorable.

Step 1: Research Upcoming Performances

Begin by visiting the official Indiana Ballet Theatre website. Navigate to the “Season Schedule” or “Performances” section to review the current and upcoming repertoire. The theatre typically presents a mix of classical ballets—such as Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, and Giselle—alongside original contemporary works choreographed by resident and guest artists. Pay attention to performance dates, times, and venues. Some productions are held at the main theatre in Indianapolis, while others may take place in partner venues across central Indiana, including Fort Wayne, Bloomington, or Terre Haute.

Sign up for the theatre’s email newsletter during your research. This ensures you receive early access to ticket sales, behind-the-scenes content, and announcements about special events like post-show Q&As or dancer meet-and-greets. Many performances sell out quickly, especially during the holiday season or for premieres of new works.

Step 2: Choose Your Ticket Type and Seating

Indiana Ballet Theatre offers several ticket categories to suit different preferences and budgets:

• General Admission: Standard seating in the orchestra or mezzanine levels. Ideal for first-time visitors seeking a clear view of the stage.
• Premium Seating: Front orchestra or box seats with enhanced sightlines and proximity to the performers. These are recommended for those seeking the most immersive experience.
• Student and Youth Discounts: Available for full-time students and children under 18 with valid ID. Some performances offer reduced rates for groups of 10 or more.
• Pay-What-You-Can Nights: Occasionally offered for select performances to increase accessibility. These require advance registration and are subject to availability.

When selecting seats, use the interactive seating chart on the website. Look for seats centered in the orchestra section for the best balance of view and acoustics. Avoid the extreme side sections if you prefer a full frontal view of the choreography. Seats in the mezzanine offer a broader perspective and are excellent for appreciating the spatial dynamics of ensemble pieces.

Step 3: Purchase Tickets

Tickets can be purchased exclusively through the Indiana Ballet Theatre’s official website. Avoid third-party resellers, as they may charge inflated prices or sell invalid tickets. During checkout, you’ll be asked to provide contact information for digital ticket delivery. All tickets are now issued electronically via email as a PDF or mobile barcode. Print your ticket or save it to your smartphone’s wallet app for easy scanning at the venue.

If you prefer to purchase by phone, the theatre’s box office offers a direct line for assistance. Have your preferred performance, date, and seat preferences ready before calling. Phone orders are processed during business hours, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time.

Step 4: Plan Your Transportation and Parking

Most performances occur at the Indiana Ballet Theatre’s main venue, located at 1200 Cultural Center Drive, Indianapolis, IN. The venue is centrally situated near major highways, making it accessible by car. On-site parking is available in the adjacent parking garage, with rates typically ranging from $5 to $10 per vehicle. Valet service is offered for premium ticket holders and during opening nights.

For those using public transit, the IndyGo bus system serves the Cultural Center District with multiple routes. The 12, 15, and 20 lines stop within a five-minute walk of the theatre. Consider using the IndyGo app to track real-time bus arrivals. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also popular, with designated drop-off zones near the main entrance.

If you’re arriving from out of town, consider booking accommodations nearby. Hotels such as the Hyatt Regency Indianapolis or the Westin Indianapolis are within walking distance and often offer discounted packages when booked with a theatre ticket.

Step 5: Determine Appropriate Attire

While there is no strict dress code, the Indiana Ballet Theatre encourages patrons to dress in business casual or semi-formal attire. Many guests choose to wear dresses, suits, or elegant separates as a sign of respect for the performers and the art form. That said, comfort is equally important—especially if you plan to attend a longer performance or multiple acts.

Avoid overly casual clothing such as flip-flops, athletic wear, or graphic tees. Hats should be removed during the performance to ensure they don’t obstruct the view of others. If you’re attending a matinee performance in warmer months, light layers are advisable, as theatre air conditioning can be cool.

Step 6: Arrive Early

Plan to arrive at least 45 minutes before curtain time. This allows ample time to park, walk to the venue, use restrooms, and find your seat without rushing. The lobby opens 90 minutes prior to performances, offering opportunities to browse the gift shop, view exhibition displays of costume designs or historical photographs, and enjoy light refreshments.

Doors to the auditorium open 20 minutes before the show. Latecomers are seated at appropriate breaks in the performance, as dictated by the choreography and stage management protocols. To avoid disruption, plan your arrival accordingly.

Step 7: Understand Performance Etiquette

Ballet performances are silent, immersive experiences. To honor the artistry and concentration of the dancers and musicians:

• Turn off all mobile devices or switch them to airplane mode.
• Avoid talking, whispering, or using flash photography during the performance.
• Refrain from eating or drinking in the auditorium—concessions are available only in the lobby.
• Clap only at the end of each act or piece, unless the performance includes a solo or pas de deux where audience appreciation is traditionally expressed mid-piece.
• If you must exit during the performance, do so quietly and only during intermission or designated pauses.

These practices preserve the emotional arc of the performance and ensure all attendees can fully engage with the art.

Step 8: Enjoy Intermission and Post-Show Opportunities

Most evening performances include a 20-minute intermission. Use this time to stretch, visit the restrooms, and purchase a beverage or snack from the concession stand. The lobby often features rotating art installations or short documentaries about the company’s history and upcoming productions.

After the final curtain, consider staying for a post-performance talk. These sessions, typically held in the theatre’s rehearsal studio or main lobby, feature the choreographer, artistic director, or principal dancers answering questions from the audience. These events are free for ticket holders and provide invaluable insight into the creative process behind the performance.

Step 9: Explore Educational and Community Programs

The Indiana Ballet Theatre is deeply committed to arts education. If you’re visiting with children, students, or educators, inquire about their outreach initiatives. Programs such as “Ballet in the Classroom,” “Dance for All,” and “Young Artists Showcase” offer discounted or free tickets to school groups and community organizations. Some performances are specifically designed for younger audiences with shorter runtimes and narrated elements.

Volunteer opportunities are also available for those who wish to contribute to the theatre’s mission. Roles include ushering, front-of-house support, and assisting with fundraising events.

Step 10: Share Your Experience

After your visit, consider leaving a thoughtful review on the theatre’s website or on platforms like Google, Yelp, or TripAdvisor. Your feedback helps others plan their visits and supports the theatre’s continued growth. If you’re active on social media, share photos (taken before or after the show) with the official hashtag

IndianaBalletTheatre. The theatre often features fan content on its official channels.

Best Practices

Maximizing your visit to the Indiana Ballet Theatre isn’t just about logistics—it’s about cultivating a deeper appreciation for the art form. These best practices ensure your experience is respectful, memorable, and aligned with the values of the institution.

Practice Active Listening and Observation

Ballet is a non-verbal art. Unlike theater or film, there is no dialogue to guide your understanding. Instead, movement, facial expression, and musical phrasing convey narrative and emotion. Before attending, take five minutes to watch a short video of the production you’ll see—many are available on the theatre’s YouTube channel. This prepares your eye to recognize recurring motifs, character arcs, and choreographic signatures.

Engage with the Program Notes

Every ticket holder receives a printed program upon entry. These include synopses of the ballet, biographies of the choreographer and dancers, historical context, and musical credits. Reading the program before the performance enhances your ability to follow the story and appreciate the artistic choices. Many programs also feature quotes from the artistic director, offering personal insight into the production’s vision.

Support the Artisans Behind the Scenes

Ballet is a collaborative art. The costumes are hand-sewn by local tailors, the sets are built by regional artisans, and the music is performed by live orchestras often composed of Indiana-based musicians. Acknowledge their work by thanking staff, purchasing merchandise from the gift shop, or donating to the theatre’s “Behind the Scenes” fund. Your support sustains the ecosystem that makes live performance possible.

Bring a Companion for Deeper Reflection

Attending with a friend or family member invites dialogue after the performance. Discuss what moved you, what surprised you, or what you didn’t understand. These conversations deepen your connection to the art and often reveal nuances you might have missed alone. The Indiana Ballet Theatre even offers “Conversation Kits”—free downloadable guides with discussion prompts for post-show reflection.

Attend Multiple Performances of the Same Production

One of the most rewarding practices for ballet enthusiasts is seeing the same production multiple times. Dancers evolve in their roles from night to night. A principal dancer’s interpretation of Odette in Swan Lake may shift subtly based on mood, energy, or audience response. Watching a performance on a Tuesday versus a Saturday can yield entirely different emotional experiences.

Respect the Space and the People

The Indiana Ballet Theatre is not just a venue—it’s a home to hundreds of artists, staff, and students who train daily in its studios. Keep noise to a minimum in the lobby and hallways. Avoid blocking doorways or standing in front of signage. If you encounter dancers in the lobby before or after the show, offer quiet appreciation rather than intrusive requests for selfies or autographs. Respect their space and energy.

Consider Season Subscriptions

Patrons who attend multiple performances benefit from subscribing to the season. Subscribers receive priority seating, discounted rates, free ticket exchanges, and invitations to exclusive events such as dress rehearsals and artist dinners. Subscriptions are available for full seasons or select mini-series and are a cost-effective way to deepen your engagement with the company.

Learn the Basics of Ballet Terminology

While not required, understanding a few key terms enhances your appreciation. Familiarize yourself with words like plié (bend), pirouette (turn), grand jeté (large leap), and en pointe (on the tips of the toes). The theatre’s website includes a simple glossary for newcomers. You don’t need to be an expert—just curious.

Tools and Resources

Several digital and physical resources are available to enhance your visit to the Indiana Ballet Theatre. These tools provide practical support, educational enrichment, and community connection.

Official Website: indianaballettheatre.org

The primary hub for all information. Features include:

• Interactive calendar of performances
• Online ticketing system
• Virtual tour of the theatre
• Archived performance videos and interviews
• Downloadable educational materials for teachers and parents

Indiana Ballet Theatre Mobile App

Available for iOS and Android, the official app offers push notifications for last-minute changes, digital programs, seat maps, and a built-in map of the venue with restroom, exit, and concession locations. It also includes a “Meet the Dancers” feature with short video profiles of principal artists.

YouTube Channel: Indiana Ballet Theatre Official

Home to performance highlights, rehearsal footage, and educational shorts. Notable series include “Dance Decoded,” which breaks down choreography in 60-second segments, and “From Studio to Stage,” documenting the journey of a new ballet from creation to premiere.

Local Partnerships

The theatre partners with local institutions to enrich the visitor experience:

• Indianapolis Museum of Art: Offers combined tickets for ballet performances and rotating art exhibits.
• Indiana University Jacobs School of Music: Provides live orchestral accompaniment and student musician internships.
• Indianapolis Public Library: Hosts free pre-show lectures on ballet history and cultural context.

Podcasts and Audio Guides

The “Ballet Behind the Curtain” podcast, produced by the theatre, explores the lives of dancers, composers, and designers. Episodes are available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. A downloadable audio guide is also available for select performances, offering commentary during intermission and scene transitions.

Accessibility Resources

The Indiana Ballet Theatre is committed to inclusivity:

• Assistive listening devices are available at the coat check.
• Open captioning is provided for select performances.
• Audio description services are offered for patrons with visual impairments.
• Wheelchair-accessible seating and restrooms are available throughout the venue.
• Sensory-friendly performances are scheduled annually for guests with autism or sensory sensitivities, featuring adjusted lighting, reduced sound levels, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Community Bulletin Boards and Local Media

Keep an eye on local publications like The Indianapolis Star, Indy Week, and community Facebook groups for announcements about free public performances, outdoor dance events, or pop-up showcases in parks and libraries. These events often serve as gateways to the mainstage season.

Real Examples

Real-world examples illustrate how visitors have transformed their experience at the Indiana Ballet Theatre from a simple outing into a meaningful, life-enhancing event.

Example 1: The First-Time Attendee

Maya, a 24-year-old college student from Evansville, had never seen live ballet before. She attended a performance of Swan Lake on a whim after seeing a poster on campus. She purchased a student ticket, arrived early, and read the program notes. During intermission, she struck up a conversation with a retired dancer seated beside her, who explained the symbolism of the white swan versus the black swan. After the performance, Maya stayed for the Q&A and asked a question about the choreographer’s inspiration. She left moved, not just by the dancing, but by the depth of storytelling. Two months later, she enrolled in a beginner ballet class and became a season subscriber.

Example 2: The Family Tradition

The Henderson family has attended the Indiana Ballet Theatre’s annual Nutcracker performance for 18 years. Each December, they buy tickets as a family gift. Their children, now teenagers, have grown up watching the same dancers evolve from corps members to principals. The family keeps a scrapbook of programs, photos, and ticket stubs. Last year, their youngest daughter auditioned for the theatre’s youth program and was accepted as a junior apprentice. The performance is no longer just entertainment—it’s a rite of passage.

Example 3: The Out-of-Town Visitor

David, a software engineer from Seattle, was in Indianapolis for a conference and had a free evening. He checked the theatre’s schedule and bought a last-minute ticket to a contemporary piece titled Fractured Echoes. He arrived early and toured the lobby exhibit on Indiana’s dance history. He was so moved by the performance that he emailed the artistic director the next day to thank them. The director replied personally and invited him to a rehearsal the following week. David returned two months later for a weekend stay, attending two more performances and volunteering as an usher. He now returns annually.

Example 4: The Educator’s Field Trip

Ms. Rivera, a high school humanities teacher, organized a field trip for her AP Art History class to see Giselle. Before the trip, she assigned readings on Romantic-era ballet and had students analyze the costumes and set designs. After the performance, students wrote reflective essays connecting the ballet’s themes of love, loss, and redemption to literature they had studied. The theatre provided a curriculum guide for teachers, and Ms. Rivera’s class was later featured in the theatre’s educational newsletter.

Example 5: The Accessibility Success Story

At a sensory-friendly performance of The Little Mermaid, a 7-year-old boy with autism, who had previously been unable to sit through a movie, watched the entire ballet without distress. The dimmed lights, reduced sound levels, and relaxed seating rules allowed him to move and vocalize freely. His mother later shared a video on social media showing him reenacting the mermaid’s movements at home. The theatre received dozens of messages from families thanking them for creating an inclusive space. This performance is now sold out annually.

FAQs

Can I bring food or drinks into the theatre?

No, food and beverages are not permitted in the auditorium. Concessions, including water, soda, wine, and light snacks, are available for purchase in the lobby before the show and during intermission.

Are children allowed at performances?

Yes, children of all ages are welcome. However, children under the age of five are not recommended for evening performances due to length and volume. The theatre offers special “Family Matinees” with shorter runtimes and interactive elements designed for younger audiences.

What happens if I arrive late?

Latecomers are seated at the discretion of the stage manager, typically during a natural pause in the performance. To avoid disruption, please plan your arrival to allow ample time for parking and entry.

Is photography allowed during the performance?

No. Photography, video recording, and audio recording are strictly prohibited during performances to protect the rights of the artists and the integrity of the production. You may take photos in the lobby before or after the show.

Do I need to know anything about ballet to enjoy the performance?

No prior knowledge is required. The Indiana Ballet Theatre designs its programs to be accessible to all audiences. The program notes, lighting, music, and movement work together to convey the story. Curiosity is the only prerequisite.

Can I get a refund if I can’t attend?

Tickets are non-refundable but may be exchanged for another performance of the same production, subject to availability and a small exchange fee. Exchanges must be made at least 24 hours before the original performance time.

Are there discounts for seniors or military personnel?

Yes. Seniors aged 65 and older and active or veteran military personnel with valid ID are eligible for discounted tickets on select performances. Discounts are applied automatically during online checkout or at the box office.

How can I support the Indiana Ballet Theatre beyond attending shows?

You can support the theatre by donating, becoming a member, volunteering, sponsoring a dancer, or leaving a legacy gift. The theatre also accepts in-kind donations such as costumes, props, or art supplies. Visit the “Support Us” section of the website for more information.

Is the venue accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes. The Indiana Ballet Theatre is fully ADA-compliant. Wheelchair-accessible seating, ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms are available. Assistive listening devices, open captioning, and audio description services are provided upon request. Contact the box office in advance to arrange accommodations.

Can I bring my pet to the theatre?

Only certified service animals are permitted in the theatre. Emotional support animals and pets are not allowed for safety and hygiene reasons.

Conclusion

Visiting the Indiana Ballet Theatre is more than attending a performance—it’s stepping into a living tradition of discipline, emotion, and beauty. Every detail, from the lighting design to the rustle of a tutu, is intentional. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you honor not only the art but also the countless individuals who dedicate their lives to bringing it to life. Whether you come for the music, the movement, the mystery, or the moment, your presence matters. You are not just an audience member—you are a participant in the continuation of a centuries-old art form that finds new voice in the heart of Indiana.

As you plan your next visit, remember that ballet is not something you watch—it’s something you feel. Let the rhythm guide you. Let the silence speak. And when the curtain rises, know that you are not merely observing a performance. You are witnessing the quiet, powerful miracle of human expression made visible.