Athenaeum plans $1.2M makeover

The historic Athenaeum Theatre in Downtown Indianapolis will get a $1.2 million makeover and will be renamed in honor of local philanthropists and lead donors Frank and Katrina Basile.

This week, the Athenaeum Foundation announced a planned renovation of its building at 401 E. Michigan St., specifically to remodel the west wing lobby and theater.

The renovation of the theater, built in the late 1890s, will include restoring six large art glass windows, tuck pointing and cleaning the brickwork on the building's west wall, sound-proofing the east wall and updating light and sound systems. Lobby improvements will include the addition of a coffee and snack bar, Wi-Fi and new seating.

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City-County Council member Vop Osili, who attended Tuesday's announcement, said the German-American building "is a rich part of our community's culture and a reminder of our city's architectural heritage. The preservation of this precious landmark will provide opportunities for its enjoyment and appreciation for years to come."

The 94,000-square-foot building hosts approximately 750,000 visitors annually, who come to the YMCA, Young Actors Theatre, Indiana German Heritage Society and other cultural, business and nonprofit groups. The Athenaeum also is home to The Rathskeller, which stakes a claim as the city's oldest restaurant, in operation since 1894.

Renovations are expected to be completed by the end of year, according to Cassie Stockamp, Athenaeum president. To learn more about the capital campaign, visit www.athenaeumfoundation.org.

Call IndyStar reporter Maureen Gilmer at (317) 444-6879. Follow her on Twitter: @MaureenCGilmer.