Opened October 18, 1963, it hosts numerous significant concerts, orchestras, musicals, plays, and guest speakers.

The performing hall is notable for its exposed concrete slabs, which are typical of the Brutalist architecture style.

[3] In 2021, a six-person panel of American Institute of Architects (AIA) Indianapolis members identified the venue among the ten most "architecturally significant" buildings completed in the city since World War II.

[5] Clowes, a former director of biochemical research for Eli Lilly and Company, maintained a lifetime love of the arts.

With the help of his wife and Butler University, the Clowes Fund was created to help build the performing arts facility.