Release Date: Aug. 12, 2025
CHARLESTOWN, Ind. – The City of Charlestown has been awarded an Arts Project Support grant through the Indiana Arts Commission to enhance the live music equipment at The Depot.
The $4,000 grant will go toward the city’s purchasing audio equipment for bands to utilize.
Since opening in 2024, The Depot, a teen-centered hangout area within the Family Activities Park in Charlestown, has held numerous musical performances. During that time, nearly 20 bands performed, mostly composed of high school and college-aged artists.
“Feedback from some of our younger bands was the lack of readily available stage equipment like microphones, monitors, and speakers,” said Charlestown Parks Director Carrie Basham. “Often the bands rented or loaned equipment while also setting it up themselves. On a Friday after school, there can be a time crunch to get set up, then perform.”
The goal of the APS grant program is to provide Indiana’s people and communities access to arts experiences, including live music. Items to purchase with the grant include a speaker/subwoofer system, monitors, amplifiers, microphones, cables, storage containers, drum riser, and a cart.
“We are incredibly grateful the city is receiving this arts grant,” said Amilia Benevidas, a Charlestown resident who has performed at The Depot with her bands Sweet Revenge and Amilia and Eli. “With this funding, the city will be able to upgrade their audio equipment, enhancing the quality of our productions and providing even more opportunities for aspiring artists in our community to explore their creative potential.”
In addition to the equipment, Charles Renne of Underproduction Multimedia agreed to volunteer his time to organize, set up and mentor band members and staff on the proper handling, storage, and use of the audio equipment.
“We’re excited about this project to provide opportunities for young musicians to perform for the community,” said Basham.
Bands interested in booking a performance at The Depot in 2026 can fill out an application form, contact Basham at parks@cityofcharlestown.com or call 812-256-3422 ext. 6.