I think there are those organizations that feel like they are part of the cultural tapestry of Indianapolis. Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra is definitely one of those organizations. It's hard to imagine that anyone doesn't know ISO, though I'll confess that even I don't go to their concerts often enough. Every time I do, I'm overjoyed. So, the basics. ISO is Indiana's largest nonprofit performing arts organization with over 200,000 people attending their concerts and educational programs annually. A 12-month season includes around 150 concerts, though they're far from limited to their Monument Circle home (they are based out of Hilbert Circle Theatre, though they're likely just as known for their Conner Prairie shows and their educational programs like Metropolitan Youth Orchestra, Teddy Bear Series, Discovery concerts (kids grade 3-6), and others. ISO was founded in 1930 and is getting psyched up to celebrate its 100th anniversary. They have central values of Inspiration, Unity, Integrity, and Stewardship. If you've ever been to Circle Theatre, or any of their concerts really, you know they emphasize accessibility to music and to their shows (I will admit I have had a couple concerns with the Conner Prairie shows and accessibility). The musicians are not just immensely talented, but it's often quite the joy seeing them interact with audiences - and I love watching educational programs. From stunning classical music to pop culture integration (like the Star Wars shows), I love the creativity and just plain fun of these concerts. Truly, truly truly...ISO is one of Indy's true treasured non-profits. read more

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra - One of many great concerts by ISO. - Performing Arts Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Something is very wrong with the management here in 2025. Been volunteering as an usher here for over 20 years and was informed recently my services were no longer needed without explanation. I inquired into this and was ignored. I volunteer usher at over a dozen venues all very happy with me. I am on time, do my job, am friendly with the patrons & tidy up the venue after shows. Please do not patronize a company that treats others like this. read more

I love a little cultural experience now and then, then the ISO proves that you don't have to go all the way to Chicago for legitimate exposure to the arts. My family and I have been going to the symphony event at Conner Prairie on the Fourth of July since the 1990s, and in the last couple of years, my fiancé and I have gotten our moms tickets to various events at Hilbert Circle Theater as a Christmas gift. Therein lies my gripe. The facility is beautiful, the acoustics are excellent, and the drink prices aren't completely out of control. However, I don't know what kind of training the volunteers receive, but I've never seen a fussier group of old folks in my life. My fiancé's mom requires mobility aids, including a wheelchair, so we always get seats in the handicapped accessible area. The section is walled off at the back and has a door from which to enter and exit, which really seem to agitate the people acting as ushers. They REALLY don't like having that door open and will hover as people with wheelchairs or walkers try to make their way in. They immediately want to take possession of the mobility aids and move them into the lobby, which I understand, but the manner in which they go about it always makes people feel rushed. This most recent time, you would have thought we were bringing her in with a team of sled dogs rather than a collapsible wheelchair. So much fussing and dithering and hand-wringing, all to herd us into the seats we paid for. Last year, my fiancé and I found someone to take our picture in the lobby just as the lights were dimming to signal that intermission was ending. One of the volunteers, a tall, thin lady with dyed red hair, literally shrieked as we were finishing up the photo: "OKAY!! GET IN THERE NOW!" and clapped her hands at us. It was disproportionate, rude, and unnecessary. It's somewhat comical to see these people get so worked up about the job that no one is paying them money to do, but there's got to be a better way to address patrons. These folks have all the charm of a bouncer at closing time. Doesn't so much fit the vibe at the ISO. read more

This was my first time in the ISO, and I love it! We get fancy coming here and listening to the Orchestra We were not allowed to take pictures or videos which I understand but it's a great unique place in the heart of downtown Indy There's no parking, so you'll have to valet or find your own street parking People were very nice although the seat are very small and so close to each other we didn't like that but overall a great place read more

We are so fortunate to have this Orchestra in Indianapolis! This is such an amazing group of musicians! They perform in the beautiful Hilbert Circle Theater and out at Conner Prairie for a lighter fare. Their Strauss Concert last night was remarkable! An amazing Soloist Carolin Widmann, and Also Sprach Zarathustra! So excited that they named Jun Markl as their new Maestro, he is such a brilliant mind and musician. If you haven't seen a movie in Hilbert with the ISO performing the soundtrack, you are missing out! Come check out Star Wars this Spring!! And all families should put their Yuletide Celebration on their calendars during the holidays. read more

My favorite places to see them are at the Hilbert Theatre on the Circle and at the Conner Prairie symphonies on the prairie. They're always fun, talented and warrant big crowds. I love how modern and creative they always are. For example, they currently have a movie series where they show movies like Harry Potter and Star Wars and they play the classical music live during it. Seriously, how cool?! They also have mini lunch time concerts, happy hour concerts after work with local food samples, kid events and sooo much more. read more

On Friday night I had the opportunity to experience ISO (Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra) with my family. My son and I usually have a monthly date night so this was a new spot for the both of us since we are still fairly new to the area. My mother joined us and we had a nice night. The performance was Dabussey's La Mer. It was absolutely perfect! We enjoyed it. I think my favorite was the first song, Allegramente (the strings brought me to tears) and my sons favorite was Dialogue of Wind and the Sea. I think it was because the music reminded him of music from Jurassic World or the Jaws movie. Hilbert Circle Theatre is beautiful. It reminded me of the old Fox Theatre in Detroit. The staff was friendly and very helpful seating us. The overall program had nice touches and I loved the testimonial of Roger Roe, the Oboe player. I can totally relate to how music is a language of its own! We will definitely be back and I would encourage anyone who's reading this review to support the arts! Take your family especially your children. Expose them to all facets of music. Although we didn't see anyone that looked like us in the orchestra my son loved seeing the diversity of instruments played. Job well done. Music matters! read more

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One of our many cultural treasures in the Circle City. From Happy Hour shows with upbeat collaborations to lunchtime hour shows for a discount, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra offers something for everyone. I've really enjoyed the shows over the past few years that have featured the screening and live music of folks. One of my favorites was the Rogers & Hammerstein clips and music. Recently, they've offered a Star Wars and ET versions. If you find yourself strolling around Monument Circle, you can't help but notice the Hilbert Circle Theatre in all her beauty on the southeast quadrant. I love that student discounts and lunch showings offer a more budget friendly option for those looking to connect with the Symphony. With Christmas around the corner, you'll find several holiday offerings like Handel's Messiah and the annual Yuletide Celebration. read more

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra - Symphony on the Prairie - Performing Arts Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Had a fun night watching the Friday performance of Claude Debussy Le Mer. One of my favorite composers of the early 20th century. I enjoyed seeing famous French pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet perform marvelous pieces relating to Debussy and other composers pieces. It was incredible seeing how fast he played the piano and the different sounds or waves he produced. I could see how that night's pieces created a vibrant colors of music and sound. I really enjoyed it and helped me relax after a long week. It was the perfect end to my stressful week and relaxing weekend. I enjoyed the opportunity to attend the Symphony. I enjoy the most the happy hour events. I will be visiting soon for Beethoven's pieces, especially in the Spring. Definitely recommend this place and their holiday specials. They also have student discounts. read more

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I love the Symphony and the Hilbert Circle Theater. Such a great place and great music. The entrance off the Circle still has that elegance of a bygone era. The lobby is even classy. The walls and ceiling are covered with amazingly detailed reliefs in soft colors. The theater itself isn't small but is configured so that every seat has a good view. Even the bar is nice. Instead of a table or something they wheel in and out, there is a separate room with comfortable seats and a view of the Circle. read more

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You MUST (I repeat: MUST) get yourself to see IPL's Yuletide Celebration each December. This year was the 30th anniversary and I'm sorry to report it was only my first time going. Why have I been missing out on this classic Indy holiday tradition for so long?? The lobby is festive with a monumental (#puns) Christmas tree and organist playing tunes, as well as Christmas mascots roaming about taking selfies with kids. You can pet a reindeer outside Hilbert Circle Theatre before showtime, too! From start to finish, this was an incredible production. It wasn't too long (a little over two hours with intermission) and had a nice variety of Broadway pizzazz and slower songs. Each performer is high caliber and can sing, dance, and act with ease. Oh, and those costumes! Where can I get one?? Sandi Patty is an energetic host, accompanied by the ISO and Jack Everly. Expect traditional renditions of songs like O Holy Night but some newer arrangements (Jingle Bells) to add some spice to the performance. This year's highlights for me were Yuletide Jukebox, the Frozen medley, and of course the one and only tap-dancing Santas! My toes were tapping the whole time and I left in awe of the divine musical talent of this cast. What a treat it was to spend an evening at the ISO and get in the holiday spirit! read more

Attended Hocus Pocus with symphony. It was excellent! This is a good way to introduce my granddaughter to the symphony read more

Went to the Yule tide show with my daughter and wife. Excellent show excellent seats. The entire staff from volunteers for seats, to concessions. To security, to the valet service was excellent. Good show! read more

Beautiful place to hear live orchestra music. The conductor and musicians make the experience that much more! A must do! read more

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra - Performing Arts Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

I have been going to the symphony for a while now at the Hilbert Circle Theatre and it never gets boring. It is a beautiful historical space. They do series of themed symphonies which makes things different and interesting. I like the happy hours especially when time for three is performing. It feels good supporting home grown talent, plus they are really good. The MASHUPALOOZA last year was awesome! Never thought I would hear Stravinsky/Daft Punk/Kanye West or Shostakovich/Muse/Chance the Rapper all blend together in happy harmony. If you decide to go during happy hour, get there as soon as the doors open. It gets crowded fast, plus the tickets are general admission so the seats are first come first serve. The theatre offers discount tickets to students as long as your student ID is presented when picking up the tickets at the will call booth. There is Express Park garage right next to the theatre which is very convenient since one just has to go through the covered alley to get in through the theatre's back door. The garage charges a flat fee when there is an event at the theatre for those going to the event. The symphony is not for everyone, but I would encourage people to atleast try it once, especially when they have special/themed events. read more

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The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra is a great place to go when you just need to relax and enjoy some beautiful music in a beautiful setting. Inside the venue was absolutely gorgeous. The music resonated well, no matter where you sat. The musicians really do enjoy their craft and the sound and the enthusiasm they play really shows. If you have younger family members or friends, then the Pop series would be a perfect way to introduce them to the wonders of the Symphony. Symphony on the Prairie is also another avenue to introduce those not familiar with the sounds and beauty of the symphony. I introduced the symphony to my children through there Black History program in February. A great free program, the Black History program offers up great sounds in not only the Symphony but in Opera and gospel Choir. It has shone light on an area of music often considered elite. read more

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra - Performing Arts Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Another Indianapolis gem! The symphony is a wonderful opportunity to expand your horizons. I truly don't think there is a bad seat in the Hilbert Circle Theater. If you're driving, consider parking at the garage off of Pennsylvania Ave. There is a door in the alley that opens right up to a box office and the theater. A wonderful treat and my only regret is that I don't attend more performances! read more

I am so happy Indianapolis has a good variety of arts and entertainment. The ISO not only offers concerts at HilbeRt circle but also at Conner Prarie during the summer. This is the second time I've been able to see Leslie Odom JR. I've not been disappointed yet. read more

OH MY WORD!!! What a fabulous night. This was my very first visit at the ISO. After being greeted at the entrance by Bumble, a penguin and a reindeer, I knew I was in for a great night. The host this year, Frankie Moreno, brought the house down in his Frankie's Christmas party segment. From the dancing Santa's to the "Twas the night before Christmas" each performance was so magical. Thank you ISO for making my Christmas night so wonderful. read more

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra - The lobby of the ISO - Performing Arts Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra was amazing! I felt like I had my own Motzart In the Jungle experience right in downtown Indy. I attended as apart of the 33rd Annual Black History Month Celebration and they did not disappoint. The skill that the artists displayed was incredible. My favorite instrument has to be the string instruments, particularly the violin . They played with such passion I could feel the emotion. My favorite song of the night was "Sometimes I feel like a motherless child"! The Conductor, Chelsea Tipton, was live and animated. The soloist, Maria Sanderson, was incredible on the violin. She even performed on her birthday and let me just tell you it was the audience who got the gift. And IMPD officer and vocalist Christopher Wilburn was phenomenal! I mean the man protects and serves the community during the day and slays singing opera in Italian at night!!! The performances were flawless and you should at all times take an opportunity to listen to the perfected sounds of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra! read more

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I'm a "Big Sister" through Big Brothers Big Sisters and my Little and I were gifted two tickets to see Mozart's Magic Flute on June 10th. What a cool experience. Neither of us had ever been to the symphony and were met with a better than expected performance. We were entertained the whole time. It was such a fun event and we really enjoyed ourselves. We'll be back for sure! read more

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Had the great opportunity of seeing the ISO perform the music of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone while the movie played. Talk about surround sound! This will remain one of my favorite memories of living in the city. read more

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra - Just awesome! - Performing Arts Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

I was not ready for the complete and total experience this evening had in store for me but I am certainly glad that I was in attendance. I always love coming to concerts at the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. Such a wonderful line up of music and soloist. Being here transported me back to the moment I performed on this very stage with the ISO, it never gets old. Seeing all of the awesome ushers who are always so helpful was an added bonus as well. Until next time ISO, I cant wait. read more

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra - Pre concert - Performing Arts Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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This can be a review for the symphony as a whole, but also for the Yuletide celebration specifically. The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra puts on many incredible events throughout the year. They have Happy Hours with Time For Three that are awesome and fun, and always changing. They have their classical shows that are beautiful. They have their newer movie nights where the symphony plays the soundtrack to the music during the movie, pretty sweet. But my favorite event that they host is the Yuletide Celebration! We have gone to this event since I was a little kid and it never disappoints. It is always similar, but never dull. The hosts sometimes change, and a new wrinkle will get added in here and there, but it is always good no matter what. This event is truly one that will get you in the Christmas spirit! Give it a chance and take the kids. read more

Hard to believe that NO ONE has reviewed the ISO? I guess since it's not a restaurant... Went to the Saturday performance of the Russian Midwinter Festival, and the place was packed. I did not see many empty seats. It is great that the ISO thought to include Yelp in their social media campaign, we are a very sophisticated group eh? So this concert was billed as Scheherazade and yes that was the crowning achievement of the night. I thought the Russian Overture was not to be overlooked. A little quirky but if you read about it's history it makes sense. Theater is fantastic and well maintained and with great parking in the Express parking garage, full bar for intermission, a great evening. read more

LOVE the ISO! I appreciate the parking in the Express Parking Garage. I adore their happy hour events and wish they would do more. I am so thankful for their student prices, which makes attending the symphony so much more affordable. They offer such a great selection of music and have events that should appeal to everyone like sci-fi nights and movie soundtracks. The ISO is a such an asset to our community and I've enjoyed every concert here. read more

So fun to watch a great movie and hear the symphony! Enjoyed meeting star wars cast and conductor Jack Everly on his way inside. read more

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Over the Indy bar scene and looking for a more sophisticated night out? This is your answer. I've attended many of the Classical Pops series concerts and most recently, attended the Happy Hour at the Symphony featuring Time for Three, an amazing violin, viola, bass trio, accompanied by the ISO (which is what I'll review here). Kids, this Happy Hour is seriously fantastic. Tickets are $25 a piece (1/2 price for Forte members) and include a variety of appetizers/desserts (served by local restaurants such as Adobo Grill and Harry and Izzy's), cocktail samples, and 4oz. beer pours of four varieties featured by Stella Artois. Audience is primarily young professionals, dressed semi dressy/business causal given Happy Hour starts immediately after work at 5pm. The venue is like I'd never seen it before- super vibrant, energetic, nearly club-like (wait a sec, this is the ISO, right??)... But really. The performance - amazing. This particular Happy Hour was a 55-minute mix of classical music interlaced with hits from today and generations past - Stand By Me, Sam Smith's I'm Not the Only One, Stairway to Heaven, etc. Overall, awesome event and definitely one that young professionals in Indy should check out. (Great date night idea, fellas. Score some points. You're welcome.) read more

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra - Happy Hour at the Symphony - Performing Arts Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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Was fortunate enough to attend the 2015-2016 preview concert and was reminded of why I like the ISO so much! First of all, just walking into the Circle Hilbert Theater can be an event in itself. The architecture and artistry of the of the building is worth seeing alone. The range from classical pieces to movie themes performed by the symphony provides a strong variety for all tastes in music. Throw in a libation available from the lobby bar, and we've got ourselves a very entertaining and enjoyable evening. Come on, support the arts! read more

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra - Orchestra - Performing Arts Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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The ISO is an Indy gem. My husband and I love to come for their coffee hours, where they serve free coffee and pastries before a performance. We've seen André Watts here (three times) and Yo Yo Ma, as well as a couple other shows. Each time we're blown away and looking forward to coming back. One event I haven't been to yet but am really hoping to come to is when the symphony plays along to a movie. I think this month they're doing a couple of the original Star Wars films. What I'm saying is - the ISO is a great place to go to diversify your Indy experience! read more

Brittany sent me a heads up about free tickets to see the ISO preview of the upcoming 2015-2016 season. We tried out a few seats but settled on the center upper balcony. Beautiful venue for the best symphony around. It was nice to look down on them to view the entire group. So many times we are on blankets just looking at the string players in the first row. It looks to be a good season and we may go see the tribute to our planets which features 2001 space odyssey. read more

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra - The atmosphere inside is spectacular. - Performing Arts Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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Another amazing year for the 2018 Yuletide celebration!!!! Loved the addition of Expressenz and Troupe Vertigo. Angela Brown's last dress change into the Rose Gold dress was breathtaking!!!!!! It was absolutely beautiful. Bravo to all the performers, hosts, orchestra!!!! read more

Very impressive! I wasn't expecting much and was pleasantly surprised. In fact, at the Christmas special I was blown away. They had gingerbread and sugar cookies, hot chocolate, hot apple cider and wine for purchase. The ISO even gave us free tickets to the event! We tweeted, won a contest and got to enjoy the evening for free! Our seats were mid-to-rear in the left section and the view was great! In fact, I don't know if there's a bad seat in the house. read more

This is a world-class symphony orchestra set in a beautiful and historic theater that you can really enjoy all the wonderful sounds and nuances of the music due to the impeccable acoustics. Had the opportunity to see the orchestra perform with legendary composer, John Williams, and I honestly have never heard the symphony sound better. I also love attending the Stella Artois happy hours with Time for Three--wonderful mix on beautiful music and a fun social outing with cocktails and networking--and a great discount is available for being a Forte member!! Music and the arts are such an important part of the culture in Indianapolis and you should take in the symphony any time you get the opportunity! read more

My man took me to see Goblet of Fire played live by the ISO and I was moved to tears! They never skipped a beat. I wondered how they were going to play through the whole movie, but there was a perfectly placed intermission. We took advantage of our night out and dressed according to our house colors! He's a Ravenclaw and I'm a Slytherin. Will definitely return! read more

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra - Performing Arts Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

I usually only go to the ISO for their Happy Hour events and they are amazing! For $30 ($15 if you're a student), you get to sample from the best restaurants and beverage providers in town. Their title sponsor is Stella Artois. They provide a range of beers and sometimes cider. They have had Char Blue and Girodanos sponsor food as well. If you get there right at 5:30, you don't have to worry about dinner because there is plenty of food to fill you up before the performance. Time for Three is a string band that always performs in some capacity. They team up with the orchestra for fresh sounds blended with classical music. The band is super energetic and really friendly. The last event was a mashup of various artists from Beyonce to Daft Punk with the orchestra and it was an amazing performance. It is a nice way for someone who is into contemporary music to enjoy classical music. read more

This was our first trip to the Indianapolis Symphony, and we were very impressed. We saw a few empty seats, but overall the place was very full on a Saturday evening. We came to see Tchaikovsky's Fifth featuring Han-Na Chang and Vadym Kholodenko. Our hope is that cultural experiences like this will resonate with our 12-year-old son, who is a very good piano player. After having listed to this performance, he came home and played all night. read more

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra - Awesome seats. - Performing Arts Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

I have been to the symphony a few times now and I always enjoy myself. They offer such a special experience and are truly as professional orchestra, I just love it! I've attended happy hour at the symphony's few times and those are a blast! They really cater to a younger crowd with booze and snacks and exciting music. I've also attended one of the Harry Potter movies where they play the music live and that was such a great time as well. Going to the symphony isn't what it used to be, that's for sure! They try to keep it fun and exciting and spread the net wide for new crowds, love it! read more

MAGICAL. I don't care who you are or where your social opinion on orchestras lie, but the ISO is a must- dare I even say early tradition for everyone! Even if you arn't a huge fan of sitting in a theater watching people play musical instruments, the ISO will make you a fan. The most wonderful time of the year aka "Christmas" cannot be fully celebrated without a trip to Yuletide. Traditional hymens, sparkling dancers, brilliant singers, it will turn even the biggest scrooge into a little kid again. Even if you arn't interested in the holiday spirit- they show movies while playing the music live, like Indiana Jones and Harry Potter, or you can stick with the classic orchestra setting. Regardless of where you sit, the music will reach your soul. read more

In my youth I was a bit intimidated by wine and by orchestra music. One must be very knowledgeable to attend a symphony or a wine tasting, I thought. Oh, how wrong I was. Sure, a little knowledge is a good thing, but the best way to learn about wine or music is to dive in and sample it, preferably together in my book. Enter Symphony on the Prairie - a lovely way to relax with close friends, share a picnic (go all out, or bring in a pizza) and listen to Indy's classy Symphony Orchestra while sipping your adult beverage of choice. Picnicking not your thing? The symphony offers lots of other fun events: Yuletide Celebration is a Christmas extravaganza with music, song, dancing and other performances. Save room for a Christmas cookie and a glass of bubbly at intermission. Or try the summer lunch series. At $5.00 a ticket it is an inexpensive way to hear great music on your lunch break. And yes, you can pack a lunch and eat it during the performance. Lastly, the Happy Hour series is just plain fun. I highly recommend it for youngish professionals....it is not your grandmas symphony for sure! read more