Fort Wayne, Ind. (May 27, 2025) – The Embassy Theatre is proud to announce the acquisition of Audiences Unlimited, an agency with over 50 years of dedication to enriching the lives of individuals with limited access to the arts. This strategic merger unites two organizations with longstanding legacies and a shared mission: ensuring the transformative power of the arts is available and accessible to everyone, regardless of age, ability or circumstance.
Building on Rich Histories
The Embassy Theatre, a beloved Fort Wayne landmark and cornerstone of the performing arts, has long championed the role of the arts in connecting and uplifting the community, while for more than half a century, Audiences Unlimited has inspired the community to value a rich quality of life for all people through cultural experiences. By joining forces, these two organizations will leverage their combined strengths to create more vibrant, inclusive and engaging opportunities across the region.
A Shared Vision for the Future
“This merger is a natural fit,” said Kelly Updike, president & CEO of the Embassy Theatre. “Our missions align beautifully, and together, we are uniquely positioned to broaden the reach of the arts, foster deeper community engagement, and create inclusive experiences for audiences of all backgrounds.”
A New Chapter for Community Arts
Through the merger, the Embassy Theatre and Audiences Unlimited are positioned to expand their impact and continue serving countless individuals throughout northeast Indiana. The organizations express deep gratitude to their supporters and look forward to embarking on this exciting new chapter together. With community support, they are poised to continue—and grow—their mission of making a vibrant arts experience accessible to all.
For questions about this merger, please contact Kelly Updike, president & CEO, Embassy Theatre at kellyupdike@fwembassytheatre.org or Nancy Louraine, interim executive director, Audiences Unlimited at nancylouraine@audiencesunlimited.org.
About the Embassy Theatre
Built in 1928, the Embassy Theatre is Indiana’s largest self-sustaining historic theater. Originally known as the Emboyd, with the adjoining seven-story Indiana Hotel, the majestic movie palace and vaudeville theater introduced Indiana to the biggest stars of stage and screen. Today, the Embassy is listed on the National Register of Historic
Places. Combining the beauty of a bygone era with the energy and diversity of today’s performers, the Embassy is the showplace of Northern Indiana. Many choose to host events and weddings at the Embassy, as it offers flexibility and a unique event experience in an iconic piece of Fort Wayne history. Visit http://fwembassytheatre.org/ for more information.
About Audiences Unlimited
For over 50 years, Audiences Unlimited (AUI) has been enriching lives by providing often-forgotten audiences and creators with access to the arts. Through collaborative relationships with long-term care facilities, adult day academies, and community partners, AUI reaches over 10,000 individuals with diverse needs and abilities each year. To learn more, visit https://audiencesunlimited.org.