FAQs

What is the Kan Kan anyway?

A movie theater AND/OR restaurant. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure novel come to life! The theater and the restaurant are two separate experiences: on any given night, you can swing by for a movie, a drink, dinner, or all of the above. We wanted a place where good conversation, food, and movies ran together. 

Why is it called the Kan Kan?

In his book Cat’s Cradle, Kurt Vonnegut wrote of a “karass:” a group of people linked in a cosmically significant way. The instrument that brings a person into his or her karass is called a “kan-kan.” We hope to be a place that brings people who are cosmically linked—by their Indianapolis addresses, their search for joy and meaning, their love of good food and movies—together

What exactly do you mean by “arthouse cinema”?

We screen all manner of films! We like to focus on the small-budget, big-idea-driven, endlessly-fun-to-talk-about movies. Something for everyone: narratives, old favorites, documentaries, classics, comedies, works from local filmmakers, you name it. And, we also curate a number of different film series and unique movie-going experiences.

Who’s picking these movies?

Our film program is curated by our Kan-Kan Cinema team led by Artistic Director Daniel Arthur Jacobson, Operations and Programming Manager Gabe Ellington, and Operations Director Abby Specht – movie lovers who hope to fill a void in the local cinema landscape while also choosing films that reflect the cultural sensibilities and address the social issues that affect Indianapolis.

Is it a dine-in theater?

Definitely not. There is a standalone restaurant that resides in the Kan-Kan. You don’t have to buy a movie ticket to eat (or drink) there. But you certainly can make a night of it by coming in for dinner and a movie (or a movie and dinner, as the case may be), or just drinks and conversation anytime. We have a concession stand for movie-goers and you can bring your beer or cocktail into the theatre.

So, there’s a restaurant there?

Yes! The restaurant is a full-service New American restaurant helmed by chef Michael Conley. There is a beer, wine and a cocktail program, too. Check out our full list of opening hours under the Restaurant Tab. Reservations are now available. Call 317.800.7099.

I’m a member. How do I “log in”?

Easy! If you are an existing member, when you’ve selected the movie you want to attend, click the Sign In/Register link at the top of the page. Be sure to use the same email address used to create your membership. Once signed in, the system will apply your membership benefits to your ticket purchase. If you have any trouble accessing your account (or can’t quite remember which email address you used – it happens) email Abby (abby@kankanindy.com) or show up to the theater!

I live nearby. Do I qualify for a neighbor membership?

While we very much believe that you’re our neighbor in a cosmic/Mr. Roger’s neighborhood sense, only residents of Windsor Park, Spades Park, and Springdale are eligible for a neighbor membership. To redeem a neighbor membership, swing by the theater with some ID and proof of address and we’ll get you signed up!

Parking?

Yes. We have a free parking lot and – when full – street parking, including both sides of the street along Spades Park across the street from us. Please be respectful of our neighbors!

I have tickets for a movie but can no longer attend – can I get an an exchange or refund?

All sales are final – make sure you are picking the right showtime when purchasing your tickets.
If you have questions, you can contact Britt Coundiff at britt@kankanindy.com.

COVID

We’re taking precautions to keep you safe! We follow the protocols of the CinemaSafe program and follow all local and state guidelines. Our staff is vaccinated and wear masks and we encourage you to wear a mask as well. All of our theaters have advanced bi-polar ionization filtration systems installed and there is room to spread out in each theatre.

Theater Rentals & Private Dining

We’re in. We have three theaters and two event rooms available for all sorts of occasions. For restaurant and event space rental, fill out the contact form on our Rentals page. For theater rental and special event info, email hello@kankanindy.com. We’ll get back to you ASAP.

Accessibility

We got you! Our theater and restaurant are ADA accessible & we have assistive devices for those with low hearing, low vision or are hearing impaired. When you arrive to the theater, let one of our employees know & we’ll get you set up. You can also let us know ahead of time that you’re coming. Drop us a line at hello@kankanindy.com.

Where can I get merch?

Best question yet. Merch is available at the Kan-Kan box office or at Stomping Ground Indy – a locally-owned business and our neighbor in the blue house next door!

I have more questions!

That’s a statement! But you can reach a real person at hello@kankanindy.com