History
Walker began the development of the Walker Building and Theatre prior to her death in 1919. The project was subsequently completed by her daughter A'Lelia Walker and opened to the public in December 1927.
The Walker Building, located in the heart of the Indiana Avenue Cultural District, was the center of entertainment, business and pride for the City’s African American community from the 1920s to the 1950s. During the mid-50s, the building and its surrounding neighborhood began a gradual decline.
By the late 1970s, the Walker Building stood nearly abandoned (Walker Manufacturing Company remained housed in the building) and faced certain demolition. However, a group of committed African American citizens recognized the structure’s rich history and dedicated themselves to preserving the building. After becoming incorporated as the Madame Walker Building Urban Life Center in 1979, the group purchased the ailing building from the Walker Manufacturing Company and began planning for its restoration.
In 1982, the organization’s articles of incorporation were amended to reflect the organization’s new name of Madame Walker Urban Life Center. The not-for-profit organization was committed to reestablishing the facility as a steward for cultural expression and economic enterprise. Because the site was seen as the heart of a downtown neighborhood that had to be revitalized, the community worked hard to make that dream a reality.
In 1983, the first phase of the restoration, which housed offices and the Grand Casino Ballroom, was completed. A $2.5 million capital campaign raised funds to restore the famous 944-seat (now 935) Walker Theatre. The influence of African art forms in the vision of Madam Walker and her daughter for the design concept is apparent throughout the theatre. In 1988, the City of Indianapolis celebrated the gala opening of the fully restored Madame C.J. Walker Building. The site is now a National Historic Landmark, and it is registered on both the State and National Registers of Historic Places.
In 1996, the Madame Walker Urban Life Center became the Madame Walker Theatre Center to more fully reflect the organization’s vision and mission. Two office structures along Indiana Avenue—Walker Plaza, built in 1989 and 500 Place, completed in 1992—as two partners essential to the continued growth of the Madame Walker Theatre Center. As a result of these two ventures, the Walker Building once again stands as an economic anchor for the historic Indiana Avenue Cultural District.
Through the vibrancy of dramatic dance, the smooth, cool sounds of jazz and the evocative spirit of the theatre, the Walker Building builds bridges between artists and patrons.
Read more about this topic: Madame Walker Theatre Center
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