Birmingham, Alabama. 1963.
A bomb goes off at the 16th Street Baptist Church, killing four young Black girls.
But that’s not where playwright Christina Ham’s play, Nina Simone: Four Women, begins.
Nina Simone, best known as the High Priestess of Soul, just wants to write a new song. But, with the 16th Street bombing clouding her thinking, Nina is joined by three other Black women – Sarah, Sephronia, and Sweet Thing. The women explore their unique experiences during one of the most pivotal and divisive times in history, exploring assigned identities, struggles to claim their places, and resilience in pursuit of liberation, all set to music performed, and some also written, by Nina Simone.
Visitors to the show can expect an immersive experience, with opportunities to learn, engage, interact, and enjoy their time at the Indiana Repertory Theatre, located at 140 West Washington Street in downtown Indianapolis. A former movie theatre built in 1927, the theatre’s historic beauty provides the perfect atmosphere to enjoy the show.
“The IRT welcomes all and is YOUR theatre!” shares Kerry Barmann, IRT’s Associate Director of Marketing. “We encourage folks to dress in what makes them comfortable at the Theatre. Arrive early to give yourself time to park, pick up your tickets if needed, order refreshments from our full bar, and enjoy the pre-show music and lobby displays.”
In addition to presenting captivating talent on stage, education is a vital component to IRT’s vision and role as a place of belonging, connection, and community.
“For each production, the IRT offers opportunities for audiences to engage with the show beyond the story they see on the stage – one of those ways is an Artist Conversation. On select days, the staff-led Artist Conversation takes place immediately after the performance and lasts for about 20 minutes,” says Kerry. “Patrons can learn more about the artistic process, gain insights into the production’s development, and connect with the actors, directors, and designers who bring our shows to life.”
The IRT also prepares a study guide for each production, offering a wealth of information for educators and patrons alike to better understand the inspiration, process, and history behind the show. The study guide for Nina Simone: Four Women delves into the history and people of the Civil Rights Movement, highlights the songs of Nina Simone, and presents discussion questions, writing prompts, and resources to extend the experience outside the theatre, creating a more vibrant and informed perspective for all.
Nina Simone: Four Women, by Christina Ham, directed by Austene Van, is on stage at the Indiana Repertory Theatre now through Mar. 2, 2025, with doors opening an hour before showtime. Buy tickets, view resources, and plan your visit at IRTlive.com.
Indy Maven members, don’t forget to check Circle for your discounted ticket code!
Natalie Derrickson is a writer based in Indianapolis.
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