Eyes to the Front

An Immersive Experience Awaits in the IMAX Theater at the Indiana State Museum

Writer & Photographer / Michael Durr

3, 2, 1…BWWWWAAAAMMMMM!

Perhaps that doesn’t translate as well as if you were sitting in the IMAX Theater located in downtown Indianapolis at the Indiana State Museum. Rest assured, the phrase “big sound” is an understatement for what moviegoers experience at the theater.

At six stories tall and 84’ wide, The IMAX Theater is home to the largest movie screen in the state, and it is accompanied by 12,000 watts of digitally separated surround sound. What does that mean? In short, it’s a jaw-dropping experience that immerses watchers in each film.

“Beyond the size of the screen and the clarity of the sound, I think there is a lot of depth to it,” says Neale Johantgen, theater manager. “When you see a movie here, it is a memorable experience.”

As there is one extremely large screen at the IMAX Theater, the films slated to run are specifically designed for the format. Without getting too technical, there are few theaters in the country that compare to what you will find right here in Indy. In addition to the dual digital projection system, the theater is also home to one of the very few IMAX 15/70 millimeter film projectors in the country, and Johantgen says that is something very special.

“This was my theater of choice before I worked here and now I am looking for ways to make the experience even better,” Johantgen says.

Johantgen and his staff take pride in keeping the 357-seat theater clean and comfortable. He also loves to create special events around screenings, and works with a variety of local businesses to create an immersive experience before customers even enter the theater itself. It is important to him to truly be a part of the local community, and to provide a unique and unforgettable experience for anyone who visits.

Located in the beautiful White River State Park, the theater is easily accessible and offers free underground parking, validated with admission. Viewers have the option of walking along the canal, taking in amazing views of the Indianapolis skyline before or after the film. There is also a multitude of walkable options for dinner and drinks. However, don’t eat too much beforehand, because you know you will want a bucket of buttery popcorn or other snacks offered at the concession stand.

This month you can look forward to seeing the new release from Marvel Studios, “Thor: Love and Thunder,” premiering July 8, followed by Jordan Peele’s new film “Nope,” premiering July 22. In addition to these films, moviegoers can look forward to much more coming to the theater, including IMAX live events and special screenings.

The theater is located at 650 West Washington Street in downtown Indianapolis. You can purchase tickets from their website at imaxindy.com, and be sure to follow along on their Instagram page @imaxindy. Specific questions or requests can be directed to Johantgen at njohantgen@imax.com.