LaKesha Lorene, CEO and founder of Naptown African American Theatre Collective, said the organization needed more funding support.
Author Archives: Mesgana Waiss
Alma mater: Ball State University
As Mirror Indy’s arts and culture reporter, I write stories and create reels highlighting the innovative and creative projects, performances and events that residents, artists, and organizations are bringing to life across Indianapolis.
I want to champion and affirm the essence of humanity. For two summers, I was an Indianapolis Press Club Foundation fellow, interning at Indiana Landmarks and the Indianapolis Recorder, where I focused on community stories that highlight and celebrate local voices and Black heritage.
Beyond bylines and storytelling, I love to watch playoff basketball, consume fashion content and nurture my knowledge of music history.
I joined Mirror Indy to help restore trust and integrity in journalism and address the local news desert crisis.
Posted inArts & Culture
Take a trip to Mexico while in Indianapolis
Folklore Mexicano Festival will feature a mariachi band, traditional Mexican folklore dancing and shop with Latino vendors and artists.
Posted inArts & Culture
When your friend group can’t decide where to eat for dinner
Two Indy residents created ForkYes, a Tinder-style restaurant app that will help you find the best match.
Posted inArts & Culture
46 things to do in July in Indianapolis
Check out a zine festival, cheap family movie nights and group workouts, a hot clown trinket swap and a $10 and under flea market.
Posted inArts & Culture
Artist finds intimacy and queerness in wrestling
This “Sopa de Letras” exhibit opens June 21 at the Indy Liberation Center.
Posted inArts & Culture
REVERB: Taylor Hall’s rock song catches the attention of SZA
In the latest episode of the GANGGANG video series, Mirror Indy’s Mesgana Waiss chats with singer-songwriter Taylor Hall.
Posted inArts & Culture
New ArtMix fellowship offers studio space to artists with disabilities
Applications for the Enroute ArtMix Studio Fellowship close on June 26.
Posted inArts & Culture
It’s not too late to perform at Chreece
3 ways artists can show off their talent — and even take the stage at the 2026 festival.
Posted inArts & Culture
Shop all sizes at this new secondhand clothing market
Poppin’ Buttons, a new event, aims to center plus-size bodies.
Posted inArts & Culture
These 5 floral designers will make your heart bloom
They let us into their one-of-a-kind arrangements, their least favorite flowers — and what they don’t tell you about working in the business.
