Over the past few years New Albany has gradually been revitalizing its downtown district to include many new restaurants, bars, and boutiques to make it more of a destination location. In the midst of this revitalization Southern Indiana recently gained a new concert venue called Dillinger’s in the heart of New Albany, IN at 203 E Main St. Dillinger’s is the newest addition to the city located in what was previously known as The Parthenon Building next to the popular bar, The Irish Exit. This historic building served as a bank established in 1837 and is registered on the National Register of Historic Places as part of the New Albany Downtown Historic District. The venue’s name is fitting considering its history. A number of alterations, including steel reinforcement under the dome, were constructed to the building when it still served as a bank to help protect it from robbery by the infamous bank-robber John Dillinger and his gang. Don’t know who I am talking about? Check out Johnny Depp’s 2009 movie ‘Public Enemies’ for a profile on Dillinger. Dillinger’s will now serve as a music venue and event hall presenting local, regional, and occasional national acts.
The New Vintage, managed by Hunter Embry along with partners, DeadBird Studios and Ryan Thompson, is the promotion/programming entity that will book shows at Dillinger’s. Embry discussed his thinking behind opening a venue in New Albany, “Dillinger’s is designed to cater to New Albany’s fast-growing nightlife scene. It will be a full-fledged music venue, much like the ones we’ve worked with in Louisville. There’s been a solid music scene growing in Southern Indiana for quite some time now and the town deserves its own venue. Like Zazoo’s, Dillinger’s will have a top-notch PA with sound engineers to match. Bands will enjoy the comfort of green rooms and hospitality.” The New Vintage also books entertainment at Zazoo’s and occasionally at Zanzabar and Headliners. Dillinger’s Grand Opening was held on Saturday, November 24th with a soft opening on November 21st. Along with hosting concerts; Dillinger’s is also available for private events and parties.
The next show is this Saturday, December 1st at 9 p.m. Local bands Discount Guns, Jet Black Orchid (formerly The Cigarettes), and Ranger will be on the bill. There is a $5 cover to get in.
DILLINGER’S
203 E. Main Street
New Albany, IN 47150
Doors open both nights at 8 p.m., with music at 9 p.m.
Days open and hours of operation depend on scheduled events.
Photos: courtesy of Hunter Embry
