1. Spirit & Place Festival—November 1–10

IU Indianapolis hosts 100-plus cultural and religious organizations, speakers, and artists across more than 30 events, including exhibits, performances, panel discussions, workshops, and more designed to inspire conversation and reflection centered around this year’s theme, gratitude.

2. The Taming of the Shrew—November 1–10

Bard Fest presents one of Shakespeare’s most popular plays, adapted by community theater leader and Shakespeare enthusiast Dana Lesh, at the Mud Creek Theatre.

3. World Food Championships—November 8–12

More than 300 competitive cooking teams from around the globe battle it out in 12 categories, including Bacon, Live Fire, and Vegetarian, for the coveted title of World Food Champion and a slice of the $450,000 prize purse at the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center.

4. Bands of America Grand Nationals—November 14–16

Music for All’s Bands of America Grand National Championships, America’s premier national marching band event, takes the stage at Lucas Oil Stadium.

5. Drumstick Dash—November 28

This annual run/walk raising proceeds for people experiencing homelessness kicks off Thanksgiving morning in Broad Ripple.

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“WE’VE WON the lottery!” mewls every shelter cat who steps out of a cage to roam the pristine, Scandi-chic Smitten Kitten. Well, that’s how owner Holly Moss and many of her guests put it, based on the felines’ pleasantly surprised expressions as they arrive. The cat cafe, serving Noble Coffee beverages and sweet treats from local bakers, takes reservations to hang out with a clowder in its spacious lounge, which is complete with a realistic—size and all—climbing tree (kitties only; sorry). On a recent Sunday, residents included a portly tabby comically fixated on a water bowl; a bouncy, sleek black kitten; and a supercilious tortie. The latter, when the petting petered out, fixed a gaze invoking Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada, as if to say, “By all means move at a glacial pace.” More than 80 percent are adopted in less than two weeks.

Moss was inspired to open the cafe by her cat-lover son, Collin, who is autistic. He helps out, with hopes of running things one day. Moss has only one cat at home (Rue graces a mural at the back of the cafe), though that is not for lack of Collin’s efforts to take in more. Aside from chilling with cats, visitors can also do yoga, paint, and craft with them. A calendar of events is online.

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8 Seconds Saloon
Once a bowling alley, this sprawling westside venue is the premier spot for country music. It’s a wide-open room good for line dancing and concerts. (Keith Urban played here.) Cowboy boots are optional but recommended. 111 N. Lynhurst Dr., 317-486-1569

Black Circle
Part of a repurposed warehouse, this is the go-to spot for music fans craving a hardcore soundtrack. With past shows featuring touring metal acts such as Amsterdam-based 16BL, Black Circle is wildly supportive of all things edgy. It’s also where your cut-up concert T-shirt fits right in. 2201 E. 46th St.

Burnside Inn
Escape the Mass Ave bar-hopping bustle inside this three-story “boutique bar” full of cozy nooks perfect for relaxed listening. Acoustic performers either take to the small stage or entertain on the piano while audience members sip on Burnside’s multiple variations of the mule cocktail. 314 Massachusetts Ave., 317-991-4150

Chatterbox
Downtown’s home for jazz for the past 40-plus years is an authentic dive bar with an intimate setting. No one is more than 40 feet from the stage, so the audience can hear the musicians communicate with sound and observe other subtle nuances of up-close live music. 435 Massachusetts Ave., 317-636-0584

Duke’s
A charmingly scruffy honky-tonk filled to its rafters with neon pronouncements and funky Americana, Duke’s opened in 2018, replacing southside institution Ice House. In addition to kitchen manager Derek Hurt’s fried chicken dinners and smashburgers, the bar serves up country and Western entertainment from local and touring musicians. Among Duke’s weekly themed nights is its no-cover Two-Step Tuesday featuring line dancing lessons, live music on the stage, and a reminder to #tipthedamnband. 2352 S. West St., 317-643-6403

Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael
Step into this club inside the Hotel Carmichael and you’re struck by its intimate 1920s speakeasy vibe. The music is likely to be Great American songbook standards, but it could be a tribute to Tina Turner too—to be enjoyed with dinner and drinks (try the sidecar). 1 Carmichael Square, Carmel, 317-688-1947

Golden Ace Inn
Surround yourself with Ireland—in pictures, drinks, and music—at this eastside pub USA Today once called “one of the nation’s 10 best places to party like you’re Irish on St. Patrick’s Day.” Wednesdays are music nights. Be prepared for sing-alongs with songs that’ll make you laugh or weep. 2533 E. Washington St., 317-632-0696

Healer
An edgy, all-ages venue that blurs the line between music and art, Healer itself feels like an installation piece. Located deep inside a southside strip mall, it is housed in a former medical billing office and still has the dropped ceilings and cubicles to show for it. The shows feature a range of hardcore genres, from punk to screamo. Founded in 2018 as an incubator for artists, it also hosts benefit shows and movie screenings. 3631 E. Raymond St.

Hi-Fi
Almost every night, the city’s best original-music club (capacity 400) brings in cool touring bands, and in warm weather, there’s a separate show in its outdoor annex, which is open to all ages. Be prepared to stand (or pay extra to sit) and to hear new music. 1043 Virginia Ave., 317-986-7101

Hoosier Dome  
This all-ages venue on the edge of Fountain Square promises an up-close and personal live music experience. It holds maybe 100 people—standing room only—who are there to see young rock, rap, and metal touring acts in a drug- and alcohol-free room with surprisingly good sound. 1627 Prospect St., 317-289-4293

Iozzo’s Garden of Italy
A distant highway hum provides a constant background track on the back patio, which is lined with decorative fountains and strung with twinkle lights. Acoustic musicians who set up on the tiny pedestal are in their element in downtown Indy’s version of a European back alley. 946 S. Meridian St., 317-974-1100

Irving Theater
Irvington’s movie theater-turned-multipurpose venue has a spartan feel. But the lack of decor is secondary to the music: a mix of road warriors, up-and-comers, and local talent, plus the prog-rock concert series put on by local promoter Mark Gasper. 5505 E. Washington St., 317-356-3355

Madam Walker Legacy Center
“The Apollo Theater of the Midwest”—to borrow a phrase from Geno Shelton, who’s promoted shows there for years—has an intimate 900-seat theater and a 250-capacity ballroom. The theater has great sightlines to see artists such as Babyface and Gladys Knight. When you go, dress to the nines, and you’ll be fine. 617 Indiana Ave., 317-236-2099

Melody Inn
Saturday is Punk Rock Night at “the CBGB of the Midwest,” so expect a welcoming and inclusive room where bands and attendees unleash their rebellious spirit. Patrons can get right up against the stage and rock out, or they can chill in the back PBR Lounge or outside in the Smoker’s Garden. 3826 N. Illinois St., 317-923-4707

Mike’s Speedway Lounge
On Thursday nights, this westside bar represents, with cover bands from that side of the city playing ’70s to ’90s classic rock hits. As one bartender put it: “Better Aerosmith than Aerosmith.” Mike’s is a good-time place to play pool or darts, have a bite, or just blow off steam. 3701 W. 16th St., 317-969-6710

Mousetrap
It’s a live music room, a pool room, a restaurant, and a bar. The Mousetrap, around since 1957, has several different vibes. Musically, it caters to jam bands, especially up-and-coming national acts, and it’s known for hosting post-concert parties when out-of-town bands visit. 5565 N. Keystone Ave., 317-255-3189

Photo by Tony Vasquez

Nickel Plate District Amphitheater
Get out your picnic baskets and blankets—or maybe your wine and charcuterie boards—and bring the family. Fishers’ outdoor venue, which books local and national acts, can hold crowds as big as 6,000 for concerts and festivals. 6 Municipal Dr., Fishers, 317-595-3150

Radio Radio
A large neon sign featuring an old-school microphone marks the location of David “Tufty” Clough’s spirited night spot. Himself a local music legend who embodied Fountain Square before Fountain Square was cool, Clough treats visiting performers (the likes of Eisley, Amy Ray, and Panic! at the Disco) to a battery of sound tech. Fans pack the room for the indie bands, dim vibes, and full bar. 1119 Prospect St., 317-955-0995

Sara’s Soirée
Sara Howe’s restaurant/club on Noblesville’s Courthouse Square is a place to dine and linger while (mostly) jazz plays. It’s an intimate room in which most of the instruments don’t need amplification, with exposed brick walls and a bit of a New Orleans feeling. 818 Logan St., Noblesville,  317-219-6565

Slippery Noodle Inn
Downtown’s legendary blues bar likes to celebrate national holidays: National Cheeseburger Day, National Drink Beer Day, National Taco Day. Couple that with Wednesday night jam sessions featuring local players or the occasional touring act, and you’ve got a fun place for those who observe. 372 S. Meridian St., 317-631-6974

State Street Pub
This friendly spot on the east side is a great place to hear energetic local bands perform experimental, electronic, punk, and rap. Anything musically left of center is welcome, and there’s enough open space for a dance floor or mosh pit. 243 N. State Ave., 317-384-1238

Square Cat Vinyl
One of the city’s best record stores occasionally doubles as a music venue. Bands play on a small stage in the back of the Fountain Square shop, and once they start playing, Square Cat becomes a club. It will get loud, and if stage diving is appropriate … there will be stage diving. 1054 Virginia Ave., 317-875-1314

That Place Bar and Grill
During the week, mozzarella sticks and Captain Morgan get top billing. On Friday and Saturday nights, the stage steals the spotlight. Expect party bands, cover songs, and plenty of folks dancing like nobody’s looking. 8810 S. Emerson Ave., 317-888-7100

The Cabaret
Remember supper clubs? This room is a faithful revival, a softly lit, chandelier-filled room that holds 180 people. No seat is more than five rows from the stage. Broadway is calling. 924 N. Pennsylvania St., 317-275-1169

The Jazz Kitchen
Order some étouffée and prepare to be within a mere few feet of national jazz acts and hot local cats. Offerings range from Monday jam sessions to Thursday Latin Dance Parties. 5377 N. College Ave., 317-253-4900

The Snug
Tuesdays are “trad” nights, a communal event where people come to hear and sing along with traditional Irish songs, in this cozy Irish pub in Irvington. You might hear sea shanties or the theme song from Cheers—a fitting anthem at this intimate neighborhood bar. 210 S. Audubon Rd., 317-308-8553

The Rathskeller
When there’s music in the history-rich outdoor biergarten, you’re in a crush of mostly 20-somethings. It’s like a college party where everyone shows up, but no one knows the host. The music is loud, the drinks are flowing, and everyone’s having a time they might not remember tomorrow. 401 E. Michigan St., 317-636-0396

The Vogue
You can feel the history inside Broad Ripple’s famed movie theater-turned-nightclub. Artists of all genres, generations, and career levels have graced the stage, including Johnny Cash (1995), Bo Diddley (1993), and Willie Nelson (2009). There are tables and chairs around the perimeter and in the balcony for early birds. 6259 N. College Ave., 317-259-7029

Turntable
As of this fall, this Vogue-adjacent Broad Ripple space is home to a cozy, speakeasy-style listening room and spacious concert venue for the 18+ crowd (and yes, they check IDs). General admission tickets are standing room only, but seating is available with an upgrade. 6281 N. College Ave., 317-259-7029

White Rabbit Cabaret
The Fountain Square venue describes its atmosphere as “intimate, romantic, and retro, with a touch of whimsy.” Although a small-scale space with roughly 100 seats, White Rabbit’s stage was intentionally built larger to accommodate multiple kinds of performing arts, including live music, comedy, dance, and theater. 1116 Prospect St., 317-686-9550

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1. Jim Gaffigan: Barely Alive Tour—October 3–6
   Clowes Memorial Hall welcomes fellow Hoosier and seven-time Grammy nominated comedian Jim Gaffigan. A recent co-headliner with Jerry Seinfeld, he’s beloved as a clean comic with relatable, everyday-life sets. 
2. Riley Festival—October 3–6
   They take the birthday of their native son, poet James Whitcomb Riley, pretty seriously in Greenfield. The theme of this year’s four-day party with parades and scores of exhibitors is the poem “A Barefoot Boy.”
3. Headless Horseman Festival—October 3–27
   Gather the family and hop on a hayride to come face-to-face with Washington Irving’s legendary phantom. Keep the fun going by dashing through a corn maze, playing midway-style games, taking in a magic show, and more at Conner Prairie.
4. Heartland International Film Festival—October 10–20
   Our own Heartland was named one of the 25 coolest film festivals in the world. It’s back for its 33rd year at Indianapolis-area theaters. Expect documentaries and narrative films, as well as red carpet events and parties with filmmakers.
5. No Ruff “Dog” Days—October 13
   Wine and dogs in disguise? We’ll see you at Daniel’s Vineyard in McCordsville for their pup costume contest. Enjoy live music and pet-related vendors. Ticket proceeds benefit the Humane Society for Hamilton County.

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• Book a private golf simulator bay with a 15-by-10-foot 4K HD screen.
• Renting an e-bike and hopping on the Cultural Trail a block away is an easy date night. (Get the picnic basket add-on.)
• You can even take a wood-burning or glass-painting class.
• Grabbing a drink and taking in the skyline from the patio is always an option.
• All craft cocktails have local ingredients, like the Indy Fashioned with Hotel Tango bourbon.
• Ask what the seasonal slushie is before you order, though. Peckish? Go for the Spare Tire Rolls.
• They host Colts away game parties. Make a reservation.

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[See image gallery at www.indianapolismonthly.com] Last weekend, photographer Ted Somerville and I traveled to the Windy City for Lollapalooza  to document the marquee Midwest music festival. Taking place August 1–4 in Chicago’s Grant Park, Lollapalooza 2024 featured some of the music industry’s biggest names, including Chappell Roan, Future and Metro Boomin, Megan Thee Stallion, SZA, and more.

After making our way to Chicago on Thursday, August 1 (with a pitstop for brunch at S&G Waffle Shack in Gary, Indiana), Ted and I arrived at Grant Park around 3 p.m. CST, just in time to catch a stunning set from South African R&B star Tyla. A 2024 Grammy award winner for Best African Music Performance, Tyla established the vibe for a two-day stretch at Lollapalooza dominated by dynamic female artists.

For the second half of Thursday, I experienced my favorite stretch of Lollapalooza 2024, beginning with a booty-shaking set from British group Jungle. With hits like “Back on 74,” “Casio,” and “I’ve Been in Love,” the band is a must-listen for all fans of ear-grabbing grooves.

I then made my way over to Lollapalooza’s T-Mobile stage to catch the tail end of Chappell Roan’s performance. Having become a regular atop the music charts in recent months, the Missouri-born pop star drew what might have been the largest crowd of the weekend, with a packed field of fans singing along to her songs. To close out the first day, I stayed put for a headlining performance by Megan Thee Stallion, who demanded every bit of the audience’s attention with her potent blend of song and dance.

Ted and I retreated to our friends’ house in Chicago’s Andersonville neighborhood for the evening, returning to Grant Park on Friday morning after grabbing some grub at old-school tavern Pizza Lobo. Following a solid set of indie pop from up-and-coming artist Blu DeTiger, I made my way to the T-Mobile stage once more, where I spent the rest of my Friday. I caught two more stellar R&B performances, first from Victoria Monét and then from SZA. The 2024 Grammy award winner for Best New Artist, Monét strutted her stuff while belting out standout songs like “On My Mama” and “We Might Even Be Falling in Love.” Later that evening, “Kill Bill” hitmaker SZA delivered an excellent performance of her own, treating fans to a career-spanning set highlighted by her clear sense of comfort in front of tens-of-thousands of fans.

Following another night of much-needed rest, Ted and I took one more trip to Grant Park for what would be our final day at the festival before heading back home to Indy. Saturday’s lineup was filled with a myriad of sounds, making for a fun day of exploration. To kick it off, I caught a standout set from Tennessee rocker-on-the-rise Briston Maroney, who reflected on his Lollapalooza appearance being a dream come true. From there, I enjoyed sets from electronic artist Nia Archives, indie singer-songwriter Ethel Cain, alt-rock mainstays Deftones, and esteemed rapper Killer Mike. To close out the day, I decided to check out Future and Metro Boomin, performing together as part of their We Trust You Tour. The rap duo showed up 30 minutes late and gave a rather uninspiring performance, but sometimes you just catch ’em on an off day.

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Photograph by Tony Valainis

OF THE MORE than 500 new board and card games introduced to the public at Gen Con 2024—the largest tabletop game convention in the U.S.—perhaps the one with the most interesting history is GHQ, aka Kurt Vonnegut’s lost board game.

At one time, few people were buying his novel Player Piano, and his breakthrough Cat’s Cradle was still in the drafting stage, so Vonnegut thought perhaps board game designing would be more lucrative than writing novels.

He envisioned and designed, on paper, a war game played on a chess board with artillery, infantry, and other units protecting an operations base (GHQ stands for general headquarters). It was 1956, just before the release of war game classics Risk and Diplomacy, and game companies just weren’t interested. (It wasn’t Vonnegut’s only failed business effort. Thankfully for American literature, his Saab dealership didn’t succeed, either).

I first got wind of Vonnegut’s game—or, more accurately, the plans for it—at an exhibit at IU’s Lilly Library back in 2007. At the time, I wrote in a column for the IBJ, “Come on entrepreneurial game geeks: There has to be at least a small market for this one.”

Apparently, game designer Geoff Engelstein, acclaimed creator of such games as The Fog of War and the racing-themed Pit Crew, had the same idea, plus the talent, means, and tenacity to make it happen. He not only acquired the rights from the Vonnegut estate, but he also sorted through six versions of the author’s rules to give the game playable balance.

The result: About 67 years after Vonnegut gave up on it, the game had a launch party at the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library the day before Gen Con officially began. It was appropriate since the game, set to go on sale to the public in October, will be exclusively sold at Barnes & Noble stores—with the exception of the KVML.

Anyone who has read Slaughterhouse-Five knows that Vonnegut, a WWII veteran who experienced the firebombing of Dresden as a POW, was famously anti-war. At the launch event, Engelstein noted the irony of this dove creating an unapologetic war game. In his brief PowerPoint presentation and Q&A session, Engelstein took attendees through the challenges of getting the right tone for the cover art, which turned out both retro and right, neither celebrating war nor denying what the game is about.

The box not only contains the board, playing pieces, and rulebook, but also a booklet with the history of the game, including the original designs and Vonnegut’s pitch letter containing his boast that it could “become the third popular checkerboard game.”

That’s unlikely.

But for players of chess, go, and other one-on-one games that rely on strategy and tactics rather than the luck of dice rolls and card draws, it should be of interest.

And, of course, for Vonnegut completists and the curious.

While the $35 game is not yet on sale, the KVML is taking pre-orders.

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(1) Indy Art & Soul Night at The Alley, August 2 Singer/songwriter Allison Victoria, Dexter Clardy of Shvdy Rollins, and spoken word artist Jus Will are the spotlighted artists. Attendees can access Gallery 924’s opening night after the show. thecabaret.org

(2) Indiana State Fair, August 2–18
The big summer event is themed “The Art & Nature of Fun” in partnership with Newfields. Don’t miss the Great American Duck Races, the walk-through lantern sculptures of Illuminate! Outdoors, or the street corn pizza. indianastatefair.com

(3) DCI World Championship Finals, August 8
Drum corps semifinalists beat a path to Lucas Oil Stadium to show off their precision and artistry in brass, percussion, and color guard sections in “Marching Music’s Major League.” dci.org/events

(4) IndyFringe Festival, August 15–25 Some 300 eclectic performances in the realms of theater, dance, music, comedy, and more are set to enliven the Cultural District and Fountain Square. indyfringe.org/festival

(5) Feast of Lanterns, August 24
This beloved near-eastside festival dates back to the late 1800s. Today, colorful lanterns light up Spades Park alongside local musicians, more than 80 artisan vendors, food trucks, and a beer and wine garden. indyfol.org

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