“Embrace Me: A Comedy Show about Dating and Disability”

Dating is hard enough as it is, but as Jack Freeman has found, dating while living with a disability comes with its own setbacks. “Embrace Me” is a comedic one-man show about Jack, who was born with spina bifida, learn to love himself in the wake of a breakup.

Note: This play is recommended for audiences 16+ due to adult language, and discussions of self-harm.

“I, Ratburn”

Remember when Arthur the Aardvark’s teacher, Mr. Raturn, came out and married his husband in 2019?

Well, children in Alabama never saw that episode, because Alabama Public Television refused to broadcast it. “I, Ratburn” follows a former Shakespearean actor – playing the role of a lifetime as the famed rodent educator – to fill in all the gaps about Mr. Ratburn’s “special friend” to Alabama schoolchildren. The one-man play puts Southern politics, queer identity and censorship under the microscope.

“Tales of a Reluctant World Traveler”

The one-man play, from Boston-based writer and performer Randy Ross, takes you on the self-described homebody’s solo travels around the globe. The show is part theater and part travelog and recommended for bookworms, writers, travelers and introverts.

“The Art of Theatre” gospel stage play

A showcase of scenes from three Christian plays weaves gospel songs, Biblical teachings and modern issues and experiences to help audiences strengthen or create a connection to their faith. The play was created by Indianapolis native Royce Kelly, who founded the R. Ink Stage production company in 2022.

“History of the Women’s World Part 1”

You’ve heard of Mel Brooks’ 1981 film “History of the World Part 1.” Now, Betty Rage Productions revisits it with “History of the Women’s World Part 1.” Featuring actresses Meg MecLane, Kait Butch and Robin Kildall, the sketch comedy shares the stories and accomplishments of women from all walks of life.

“Murders at Maniac Manor: The Musical”

If you’re a fan of true crime, horror and musicals, “Murders at Maniac Manor” is the play for you. When a group of teenage friends accidentally bring an infamous murderer back to life during a seance, they have to work together to save themselves and send the ghost back to hell.

Note: This production is recommended for audiences 16+ and uses flashing lights and haze effects.

“The Indy Golden Girls: Ageless & Awesome”

Picture-It Players, which presents queer theater to Indianapolis audiences, performs a drag parody of the beloved sitcom “Golden Girls.” The play, which has five showings throughout the festival, is one of several productions offering pay-what-you-can tickets, a first for the festival.

“The Sleepover”

This coming-of-age story centers on five friends having a sleepover to celebrate their middle school graduation. Throughout the night, they address the tensions they feel among the group and within themselves as they’re getting older.

This production comes from the 2024 Div(X)Fest Fellowship Program, made up of Indianapolis women and non-binary creatives. Local artists Sam Hines, Emily Worrell, Wilhe Dreyer, Christine Gordon and Natalie Fischer took part in the creation of “The Sleepover.”

Note: This production is recommended for audience members 13 and older and contains flashing lights.

“Enjoy This EP”

Nightmare scenario: a music critic is assigned to review an album written by his ex-girlfriend, only to find all of the songs are about him. “Enjoy This EP” explores the hurdles we face in finding connection, what happens when we lose it, and how music plays a pivotal role in all our life experiences.

This production is presented by Working Class Socialite, created by Indianapolis-based artist Paige Scott. It is recommended for audiences 16 and up.

“Cruces/Intersections”

Using dance, “Cruces/Intersections” shares the stories of the political, social and lived experiences of those in the African Diaspora. Directed by Rosa Santiago, founder of the Seda Negra/Black Silk Dance Company in Indianapolis, the production is inspired by Elegua, a deity of roads, chance and uncertainty in Afro-American religions.