Crackers Comedy Downtown is closing its doors.
In a statement on its website and Facebook page, owner Ruth-Anne Herber said rising costs and staffing concerns primarily drove the decision.
The comedy club was founded in 1982 and grew into a beloved spot for original comedy.
“It is with deep sadness that I must announce that Crackers Comedy is closing its doors for the time being. It has been my pleasure and honor to have served you for the last four decades. We had a fabulous winter season, and there is nothing I’m more proud of than to have brought so many great comedians to Indianapolis,” Herber wrote in the statement.
The downtown location nearly closed in 2022, with the club citing construction and and the inability to come to an agreement on rent. A few days after the January 2022 announcement, Herber confirmed Crackers was able to reach a new agreement.
It was one of many obstacles the business has faced.
“I am proud that we have overcome many challenges over the years,” she wrote. “However, as many of you have experienced, it has been a difficult few years, and I can no longer financially support the $500,000 liquor license liability insurance, in addition to constantly being short-staffed, on my own.”
She said all tickets for Patti Vasquez will be refunded along with any unused gift certificates. Customers should allow 5-7 days for those refunds to show up in their accounts.
“As far as the future is concerned, I am not sure, however, I am looking forward to being able to spend more time with my family,” Herber wrote.
She encouraged customers to support Helium Comedy club and other open mic events around Indy because “comedians always need an audience.”
“Thank you to all the customers, friends, family and the Indianapolis community for your kindness and support over all these years.”
Crackers opened its first location in Broad Ripple in 1982. The downtown club was its last remaining one. It opened in 2016.
