Madam Walker Legacy Center to open rooftop space INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Indianapolis leaders gathered Wednesday as the Madam Walker Legacy Center launched its final phase of construction on its rooftop expansion. Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said, “I have attended many, many groundbreaki ng ceremonies, but this just might be my first-ever ‘sky breaking’ ceremony. I think that, alone, says a lot about the Madam Walker Theatre.” The Democrat said it’s only fitting. Madam C.J. Walker, who lived from 1867–1919, was a pioneering African American entrepreneur, philanthropist, and activist who became the first female self-made millionaire in the United States. Envisioned by Walker, Indiana Avenue’s cultural district survived decades of hardship as a hub for business and entertainment. Hogsett said, “This institution is one that has never been shy about firsts.” The new space will open in May at the four-story flatiron building that once was the manufacturing plant for Walker. The rooftop bar with a capacity of 49 will have couches and tables where patrons can look toward the Indianapolis skyline. Chris Gahl, executive vice president for Visit Indy, said, “Each day, visitors are seeking out, they want to see performances inside, they want to learn about the art and architecture of the building, and this exists already as a key tourism driver, and now to have a sky event space for meeting planners to book makes this even more attractive as we look to sell and market Indianapolis.” Gahl said, “To be able to have a rooftop space overlooking our growing skyline and have it in such an iconic space helps continue the progress of our 5-year strategic plan towards 2027 when we will celebrate 100 years of this building standing in our community.” Kristian Stricklen, president and CEO for the Madam Walker Legacy Center, said, “It is a beautiful view of the sky and all of downtown right here from Indiana Avenue.” Wednesday’s ceremony followed an $8 million endowment to provide long-term support for operations, historic preservation, cultural programming and strategic initiatives. Madam Walker Legacy Center hosts ‘sky breaking’ for new rooftop space ...read more read less