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The Indianapolis Black Theatre Co. named Tijideen “TJ” Rowley as the organization’s interim artistic director on Sunday, weeks after the departure of its founding artistic director amid accusations of domestic violence.
Rowley, a graduate of Indiana University and Southport High School, has served as director of the District Theatre’s Mellon Foundation grant focused on fostering diverse artistic talent and expanding access to professional theater training.
The Indianapolis Black Theatre Co. was founded in 2023 as a resident organization within the District Theatre, 627 Massachusetts Ave.
Ben Rose, the founding artistic director of the Indianapolis Black Theatre Co., resigned earlier this month after a woman accused him of assaulting her during an argument.
Rose has a hearing scheduled for April 9 in Marion County Superior Court, where he faces a felony charge of strangulation and misdemeanor charges of domestic battery and battery resulting in bodily injury.
Following Rose’s resignation, the Indianapolis Black Theatre Co. terminated his consulting contracts with the group.
Stephen Farris, chair of the Indianapolis Black Theater Co., said Rowley is the right person to guide the organization toward growth.
“We are thrilled to have TJ Rowley step into this leadership role at such a pivotal moment for IBTC,” Farris said in a written statement. “His expertise in both theater and business, combined with his dedication to community-driven storytelling, will help IBTC navigate this transition and emerge stronger than ever.”
As part of the leadership transition, the Indianapolis Black Theatre Co. rescheduled a production of a comedic play titled “Ain’t No Mo’” from April to June 27-July 13.
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