Clowes Memorial Hall to undergo $9 million grant-funded renovations

Clowes Memorial Hall is getting some much-needed upgrades in 2025 thanks to a $9 million grant from The Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation. Butler University President James ‘Jim’ Danko announced the grant-funded plans for the multi-phased renovations of Clowes Memorial Hall and construction of The Allen Whitehill Clowes Ballroom during a press conference on Dec. 18. The renovations are expected to begin in June 2025 and roll out in four phases, kickstarting the $100 Million Midtown Arts District. “Clowes Hall led the uplifting and renewal of the city,” Danko said. “Butler would likely not have achieved its national reputation for the arts, academically or as an entertainment destination had it not been for the construction of Clowes Memorial Hall in 1963.” Butler University’s $9 million gift marks the second largest gift ever awarded by the AW Clowes Charitable Foundation, which pays tribute to its namesake Allen Whitehill Clowes who helped make the $3.5 million construction possible through major donations, Danko said. Originally housing the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Clowes Memorial Hall currently seats 2,148 patrons, making it a growing destination venue for Broadway shows, concerts and comedians, according to Aaron Hurt, VP of arts, events and enterprise. “We’re truly like the...