Buskirk-Chumley Theater

The Buskirk-Chumley Theater (BCT) is a historic performing arts venue located in the heart of downtown Bloomington. Originally opened in 1922 as the Indiana Theatre, it began as a grand movie palace and vaudeville house, serving as a cultural centerpiece for the growing community. Over the decades, it hosted films, touring performers, and local talent before closing in 1995 amid the rise of suburban multiplex cinemas.

Saved through a community-led preservation effort, the theater was restored and reopened as a nonprofit performing arts center, eventually becoming the Buskirk-Chumley Theater. Today, BCT presents more than 175 events annually, including live concerts, film screenings, comedy, lectures, dance, and family programming. It collaborates with local organizations, schools, and Indiana University partners to create accessible, diverse cultural experiences.

In addition to presenting its own programming, BCT serves as a rental venue for community events, recitals, and private gatherings. With its historic architecture and central location, the theater remains a cornerstone of Bloomington’s arts scene — honoring its past while continuing to foster creativity, education, and connection for new generations.