Boggstown Cabaret opened in July of 1984, fulfilling the dream of seed farmer Carlos Gray, who wanted to share his love of Ragtime and Dixieland Jazz. Gray selected an old Civil War building across from a cornfield in his hometown of Boggstown, Indiana, a small town of 100 residents. “Half the town said I would be closed in two months,” said Gray in an interview with The Herald-Times in 1998, “the other half said six months.”
Forty years later, the Cabaret continues to offer its unique experience to audiences with a variety of shows and performers. Recent productions, such as Stumblewood, Christmas Is Magic, and LAW & DisORDER, prove Gray’s theory was correct, “if I build it, they will come.”
In 1998, producer, writer, and reluctant actor Brad Zumwalt and actor/singer Russell Moss purchased Boggstown Cabaret and have continued the traditions that have made Boggstown Cabaret a world-renowned destination, attracting visitors from every state and 25 countries.
About The Building
THE BUILDING
1873
The Beginning
The cabaret building was built in 1873, and housed the first “Red Man’s Lodge” in the State of Indiana. Situated next to the Seventh Day Adventist Home for Unwed Mothers, the building, believed to be haunted, overlooked the Cincinnati and Martinsville railroad. For many years, the commercial building was Boggstown’s General Store and Barber Shop.
The Cabaret
The building opened its doors as The Boggstown Inn and Cabaret in 1984. With a flapper girl logo this musical venue quickly became a must-see Hoosier destination, emphasizing the art of dual piano and banjo music. The cabaret provided musicians the opportunity to play their favorite tunes, tell stories and jokes, and provide ragtime music from the turn of the century through the year 1929. The 1920s theme soon provided the perfect backdrop for the Indiana Ragtime Society. Cloaked in informal burlap and picnic style seating, one could enjoy intimate, down-home style entertainment in an historic building, creating a very unique experience.
The Next Generation
The Boggstown Cabaret moved aggressively into the next century with new ownership in 1999. The burlap was removed and the plain brick backdrop replaced with a full set, reminiscent of the famed supper clubs of the 1920s and 30s. The logo was quickly changed to incorporate both a boy and a girl, and the Olde English lettering was changed to a more advanced style.
Appreciating the historic appeal while acknowledging the future a 15’ brightly lit Cabaret sign was erected representing a new identity for the building. Bright colors and extreme attention to detail have transformed the informal entertainment venue into a warm and cheerful environment.
Moving Forward
Now known as The Boggstown Cabaret BC Supper Club the building continues to entertain all ages offering a variety of original written shows with great food. Bringing music and comedy together in an intimate setting in a building that is over 150 years strong.
In Conclusion
Over 150 years ago this building was built as a meeting place, it is and always has been a destination for social gatherings. In 150 years many souls have passed through its doors, you may even say that some have never left. Whatever you believe, this building has had a history of joy and laughter. When you walk through the entrance to the building you will feel an energy. It will be up to you to decide what it is……