The HI-FI in Fountain Square is set to embark on an exciting journey of transformation. With a vision to enhance the patrons' experience, they have announced plans to upgrade their space. This move comes as a significant step in the evolution of the local entertainment scene.

Elevating Entertainment in Fountain Square

Upgrading the HI-FI Space

The HI-FI in Fountain Square made a momentous announcement on Monday. They are dedicated to improving the overall experience for their patrons. The owners of HI-FI and local promoter MOKB Presents have revealed the construction of a brand new indoor venue at the Murphy Arts Center, located at 1043 Virginia Ave. This 1,200-capacity space is set to open in early 2026 and will serve as a permanent home for the HI-FI Annex. Currently, the HI-FI Annex operates as a temporary, tentatively named outdoor venue on the same site. It was born during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic when traditional performance venues were closed. However, it has managed to thrive even after the restrictions were lifted. Josh Baker, the partner and CEO of HI-FI & MOKB Presents, expressed in a written statement, "When we opened our first venue, we didn't have a detailed plan, but we did have a vision. It's been a humbling journey filled with unexpected challenges, adaptation, and getting really lucky. With each expansion and renovation, we've moved closer to realizing our dream of creating a multifaceted entertainment and arts facility."HI-FI consists of three remarkable venues: HI-FI, LO-FI Lounge, and the HI-FI Annex. In the past 10 years, these venues have welcomed an astonishing number of over 500,000 visitors. It's clear that they have made a significant impact on the local entertainment landscape.

The New Indoor Venue

The new indoor venue is set to double the capacity of the HI-FI Annex's current outdoor space. It will feature an "underground, speakeasy-style room" that is perfect for intimate gatherings and pre- and post-show events. This addition will enhance the overall entertainment experience and offer a unique space for patrons to enjoy.Fountain Square has a rich history in Indianapolis' arts and entertainment scene. It was once home to multiple 1,000+ seat theaters. The new venue will be built on the site of the former Granada Theater, now known as the Murphy Arts Center. The 1,400-seat Granada opened in Fountain Square in the spring of 1928 and was the city's second Universal Pictures theater. At that time, admission was 25 cents for adults and 10 cents for children. It was also the first theater in the city to screen an international film with sound - "Tierra Madre" in 1932. However, the Granada was shuttered in 1951, and the adjacent G.C. Murphy department store expanded into its previous space.

Recent Openings and the Neighborhood's Rebirth

Another recent opening in the area is Turntable, a new venue in Broad Ripple that gives off a cozy grandma's basement vibe - in a good way. Baker emphasized in a written statement, "This neighborhood was built on entertainment. After being separated from the city by the creation of the I-65 interstate (in the late '60s and early '70s), it lost much of its audience and regular traffic. HI-FI, along with our fellow Fountain Square businesses, has been working hard to recreate the elements that once defined this area."Construction on the new indoor space is expected to take place throughout the HI-FI Annex's final season, which runs from April to October of next year. Although a full schedule has not been announced yet, shows currently announced include Ninja Sex Party and TWRP, Leprous and Nicotine Dolls. This gives a glimpse of the exciting entertainment that awaits patrons in the near future.Looking for things to do? Our newsletter has the best concerts, art, shows and more - and the stories behind them. Contact IndyStar pop culture reporter Holly Hays at holly.hays@indystar.com. Follow her on X/Twitter: @hollyvhays.