New Artistic Space in Downtown Evansville Offers Innovative Opportunities for the Art and Theater Community

Growing up, I was passionate about my arts classes—whether it was theater, choir, or art, they were always the highlight of my school day. In 8th grade, I was cast as Isabelle in the College View Middle School production of Scrooge, and that was when I truly fell in love with drama. By high school, I was involved in every Drama and Choir production, sharing the experience with some of my closest friends. Those moments remain a vital part of who I am today.

After high school, I didn’t stay involved in theater much, but the skills I learned have come in handy in various jobs. Still, without practice, those skills can fade, and there hasn’t been a dedicated space for adults to keep up with their craft—until now.

Gem Rock in Downtown Evansville

Otto Mullins saw that gap in the community and decided to do something about it. This past Monday, he opened Gem Rock, a versatile theater space in Downtown Evansville. I had the chance to sit down with Otto and hear the story behind how Gem Rock came to be.

Originally, I just needed a space for private lessons. And then I got more people involved and told them my dreams of having a space to make art more accessible financially while increasing the quality of the local performers and artists with workshops and classes. I wanted to form my own little artist collective so people could get together and talk about what they loved.

I quickly had a little group and we put on our first show in July and used the proceeds to secure and renovate our space. I decided to open it because of their support and belief but on a larger scale because there isn't a lot of continuing growth center focused on adults in the arts. We want to make it accessible and possible for everyone to get involved or showcase their work.

Located next to Main St. Food Haul on Sycamore, Gem Rock has a straightforward setup with an open area, bathroom, and office. Inside, you'll find a small stage, a sound area, and seating. Right now, they host adult classes in acting, public speaking, and dance, with plans to expand its offerings. Many of the classes are already sold out for the 8-week semester but Gem Rock also offers drop-in classes.

Otto mentioned that he plans to use Gem Rock as an art gallery, allowing artists to hold exhibitions without any upfront costs and offer poetry nights. The space also serves as a venue for theater productions and can be rented for personal events.

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Aids Resource Group to Host Songs for a New World

Otto also made it clear that the board wants to use Gem Rock to help local organizations. November 14-16 Aids Resource Group will be hosting the musical Songs for a New World as a fundraiser. The premise of the production is finding the strength to do something new. The event will include a silent auction, muralist, and vendors. ARG provides support for HIV/HCV counseling, testing, education, and community outreach to enhance community wellness.

You can purchase tickets at gemrockentertainment.com/songs.

Puppies and Performances – A Fun-Filled Fundraiser for It Takes A Village

Gem Rock has teamed up with ITV for their inaugural puppies and performances event. Event highlights include live performances, a vendor fair, a silent auction, and donation incentives. The event is taking place on November 9th from 11 - 3 PM.

If you'd like to inquire about utilizing Gem Rock for artistic purposes or a personal event, contact Otto at otto@gemrockentertainment.com or call 812-480-7293.