Phoenix Theatre founder dies
INDIANAPOLIS (Inside INdiana Business) – The founder of the Phoenix Theatre in Indianapolis has died. Bryan Fonseca, who led the theatre for 35 years before leaving to establish the Fonseca Theatre Co. in 2018, passed away due to complications from COVID-19.
“Bryan’s legacy as a cultural icon and his vision to give voice to and celebrate the minority communities of Indianapolis through the prism of purposeful theater and civic engagement will live on through the Fonseca Theatre,” said Frank Basile, founding donor and board member of the Fonseca Theatre.
Before leading the Phoenix Theatre, Fonseca started a storefront theater in his hometown of Gary and directed shows at the Broad Ripple Playhouse.
Bryan directed for the MFA Playwrights Workshop at the Kennedy Center, The Human Race Theatre in Ohio and at Indiana University, among others.
“Bryan’s influence and contributions extend well beyond Indianapolis theatre circles,” said board president Patricia Castañeda, He was truly a friend to all, and a national treasure. The board is committed to the continuation of the Fonseca Theatre Co. and will be following Bryan’s decision to take a break in our production through Spring 2021.”
The theatre is on hiatus but says it plans to return.