The hall was named in honor of Dr. George Henry Alexander Clowes, a research director for Eli Lilly and Company and a prominent arts patron.
The venue's initial dedication took place in 1963 with a performance by the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.
The interior lobby features a prominent mural by artist George Rickey.
The building's acoustics were specifically designed by Bolt, Beranek and Newman, the same firm responsible for the sound design of the Lincoln Center's Philharmonic Hall.
It is one of the few university-owned venues in the United States that regularly hosts high-profile professional touring Broadway series.
Clowes Memorial Hall is a primary performing arts venue located on the campus of Butler University in Indianapolis. Designed by architect Evans Woollen, the building features a distinctive mid-century modern architectural style with a cantilevered concrete facade. It serves as the home for the Butler Arts & Events Center and hosts a variety of touring Broadway productions, symphony concerts, and dance performances. The main auditorium, known as Howard L. Schrott Hall, utilizes a horseshoe-shaped configuration designed to optimize acoustic performance. The facility underwent major renovations in 1997 and 2008 to update its stage rigging, seating, and lobby amenities. It is a major anchor for the Indianapolis cultural scene, frequently hosting performances by the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and the Butler Ballet.
The elevated plaza directly in front of the main entrance, capturing the cantilevered architectural lines against the sky.
Use the drop-off lane directly in front of the main entrance to avoid long walks from the perimeter parking lots.
Check the digital signage in the lobby for seat-specific entry points, as the venue is split into multiple levels with distinct staircases.
Pre-order beverages via the venue's mobile app if available to bypass intermission lines.
Attempting to park in restricted university residential lots; use designated event parking garages to avoid fines.
Programming is heaviest during the university academic year; summer schedule may be limited to occasional touring acts or special events.
Business casual is standard for evening performances; avoid flash photography during live shows.
