ART & CULTURE

What can I expect from TOP collaborative community artwork?

Audiences can expect unbound creativity and a wide-range of abilities from ordinary and extraordinary Bloomington residents, IU students, and other Hoosiers making every effort to entertain their neighbors at ticket prices all Hoosiers can afford.

What does "audience-participation" mean to TOP?

TOP encourages all audiences to participate in TOP projects, performances, and special events by offering feedback when applicable.  TOP's Community Chalkboard program, in particular, offers audiences the opportunity to grade TOP projects (see ‘Audience Gradebook' for more information).

What should I wear?

Audiences are invited to wear anything that is appropriate for public display.  Some folks wear formal or casual business attire; others wear button-up clothing, khakis and sneakers; still others wear Hawaiian shirts, shorts, and flip-flops.  Respectful personal hygiene is appreciated.

Are concessions available?

TOP's Board of Directors provides homemade snacks, finger foods, and beverages beginning 30 minutes before each performance and during intermission for a minimal fee ($0.50 to $1.00 per item).  Audiences can bring all purchased items into the show.  No outside food or beverages are allowed.

What about intermission and bathroom breaks?

All TOP projects, performances, and special events provide a 10 to 15 minute intermission after no longer than 60 to 75 minutes of performance time depending on the production.  The House Manager will announce both the overall running time and when to expect an intermission during the house speech before each performance.  When visiting the John Waldron Arts Center, bathrooms are located in the building and are accessible either via stairs or elevator.

How much do tickets cost?

Ticket prices vary depending on project, performance, or special event.  Discounts for most TOP shows are available, and a sliding scale applies to ensure all willing audiences are able to attend.  See the Ticket tab for more information.

How do I get there and where do I park?

Most TOP projects, performances, and special events occur at the John Waldron Arts Center in Downtown Bloomington, Indiana (122 S. Walnut St.).  Parking at that venue is located across Fourth Street near North Walnut (click here for a Google map).  For other performance and special event venues/directions/parking, TOP will provide more information on this website.

Is there anywhere to eat before or after the show?

Bloomington and Monroe County, Indiana, have hundreds of restaurants, several of which are in walking distance of the John Waldron Arts Center.  TOP is working to highlight a few of these restaurants and will do so during Spring 2010.