Experiencing King Lear: Indy Shakes in the Heart of Our Community

Shakespeare, Community, and a Summer Evening at Taggart Memorial

One of the things I appreciate most about our community is the opportunity to come together, experience something meaningful, and enjoy the wonderful spaces that exist right here in our own neighborhood. 

Our experience with Indy Shakes was especially meaningful because we were able to participate in more than one way. My family and I attended the production together, and I also had the privilege of volunteering on multiple nights. Experiencing King Lear from both perspectives gave me an even greater appreciation for the work that goes into bringing live theater to our community.

Indy Shakes is a wonderful organization that makes Shakespeare engaging, welcoming, and accessible. There is something special about seeing live theater outdoors, surrounded by neighbors, families, friends, and people from throughout Indianapolis. Whether someone is a longtime fan of Shakespeare or experiencing one of his plays for the first time, these productions offer an opportunity to enjoy the arts in a relaxed, inviting community setting.

Just as impressive is the location itself. Taggart Memorial Amphitheater is one of the great gathering spaces within Riverside Regional Park. It provides a beautiful setting where arts, culture, recreation, and community can come together. Seeing families gather on the lawn, volunteers welcome guests, and performers bring a classic story to life reminded me of the tremendous opportunities we have right here in our community.

Taggart Memorial is more than an amphitheater. It is a place where organizations, residents, families, artists, and visitors can connect. Events held there introduce people to our neighborhood while also giving those of us who live nearby another reason to enjoy and celebrate the community we call home.

My experience volunteering also reinforced how important community participation is to the success of organizations like Indy Shakes. Great community events do not happen through performances alone. They are made possible by the many people who contribute their time, talents, resources, and enthusiasm. Volunteering gave me an opportunity to support an organization I believe in while meeting people who share an appreciation for theater, the arts, and community.

I would strongly encourage our neighbors to experience an Indy Shakes production for themselves. Bring your family. Invite a friend or neighbor. Introduce a young person to live theater. Volunteer if the opportunity is available. Even if Shakespeare has never been something you thought you would enjoy, give it a try. You may be surprised by how entertaining and memorable the experience can be.

I also encourage everyone to keep an eye on the events happening at Taggart Memorial throughout the year. Supporting events at the amphitheater is another way we can support the continued growth and vibrancy of Riverside Regional Park and our surrounding neighborhoods.

Places like Taggart Memorial demonstrate what is possible when public spaces become gathering places for arts, culture, families, and community organizations. Indy Shakes demonstrates what is possible when talented artists and committed volunteers bring those spaces to life.

My family and I thoroughly enjoyed our experience with King Lear, and volunteering made the experience even more meaningful for me. I look forward to attending future Indy Shakes productions and seeing many more events bring people together at Taggart Memorial.

I hope to see many of our neighbors there as well.

Submitted by: Stephen Downing Jr.

Riverside Civic League President