The Emerson Theater

The Emerson Theater, located off 10th street in Indianapolis has a reputation for featuring the toughest, loudest and the most edgy of musical acts in the Midwest. And unlike many other live performance venues, the Emerson Theater welcomes audiences of all ages.

With a capacity of 400, this building was originally a theater. With some serious refurbishment and the loss of the seating arrangement, this venue, according to many aficionados of the Indie music scene, still claim the Emerson Theater to be the finest place to hear a band. It features an in house PA system, a concession stand and an elevated stage with an ample lighting set-up.

It might not be pretty with its dark and gritty interior, but the atmosphere certainly is the best in town as exhilarated audiences regularly line up for the live musical acts on offer.

A big supporter of the Indiana music scene, the Emerson features nationally touring acts during the week, while only local original acts are given the stage during the weekends. The Emerson regularly presents their “Battle of the Bands” competition, plus a series of concert tours. So committed are they in their support of original local music, the Emerson Theater offers local bands the chance to play gigs out-of-state, by trading gig spots with bands from other states.

All kinds of cult and hardcore music bands have been featured within these hallowed walls, including death metal bands, punk, emo, ska, rap, grunge, and hard rock. The Emerson does not feature cover bands, jazz acts, country, folk or pop groups. Over the years, famed acts have included My Chemical Romance, Skunk Anansie, Dishwalla and Sugar Ray.

HelloIndianapolis Tip: All tickets are sold at the door only unless otherwise stated. Doors open at 6:30 pm unless otherwise stated. Alcohol is not allowed on the premises.

- by Jim Brown , Indianapolis Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)