INDIANAPOLIS – Butler University announced major renovation and expansion plans for its event hall.

The university received a $9 million grant from the Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation on Wednesday to support a multi-phase renovation and expansion of Clowes Memorial Hall.

The grant will be used to build a new multi-purpose venue next to Clowes Hall. The new venue will hold between 1,200 and 1,450 people and will be used as a music hall and reception/private event space.

“The renovation of Clowes Memorial Hall will significantly improve the visitor experience and also allow us to bring more Broadway, musical and comedy performances to the theater,” said Butler University President James Danko. “The impact that the Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation has had on arts and humanities initiatives in Indianapolis over the years cannot be overstated, and Butler University is extremely grateful for this gift, which will provide the venue, the legacy and the Bears honoring Mr. Clowes will greatly improve his name.”

Renovations will begin in June 2025. The renovations will include four phases.

The first phase will focus on upgrading seating on the theater’s three balcony terraces, including the addition of open-air suites for a more “luxurious” experience. Restrooms will also be renovated and expanded, with 13 gender-neutral facilities being added.

The second phase will see two loading docks installed to support major events.

The third phase will focus on modernizing the stage, including the addition of rigging points and reinforced flooring.

Finally, the fourth phase will introduce the Allen Whitehill Clowes Ballroom in the East Lobby. This is a new event space that will open in spring 2027.

Future plans for Clowes Hall include a multi-purpose convention center located between Clowes Hall and the Sunset Avenue parking garage. This would coincide with the Curio Hotel, which is expected to open on campus in 2027.

There are also plans to create an outdoor plaza south of Clowes Hall where visitors can wait before entering the venue.

Clowes Hall is expected to be closed from June to October 2025 to carry out the first three phases of renovation.

The newly remodeled Clowes Hall will serve as the “centerpiece” for the $100 million Midtown Arts District on campus, officials said.

The Midtown Arts District is part of the university’s Gateway Project, which embodies Danko’s vision to “create a vibrant, connected community between Butler University and Midtown Indianapolis.”.”