I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: Beef & Boards is one of the best theater venues in Indianapolis. The food is always delicious (Chef Larry Stoops never disappoints), the staff treats you like family, and the seating makes every spot in the house feel like the best seat. Whether you’re there for a date night, girls’ night, or a special outing, Beef & Boards is one of my very favorite places in the city.
And right now, they’ve got something brand new on stage: Tootsie the Musical at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre is the perfect pick. This Tony Award-winning comedy, based on the beloved 1982 film, brings all the laughter, heart, and high heels you could hope for, wrapped up in an evening of great food and top-notch entertainment.
About the Show
Tootsie follows Michael Dorsey, a talented but out-of-work actor who disguises himself as an actress, Dorothy Michaels, to land a role. His double life leads to plenty of laughs, romance, and heartfelt moments, a perfect recipe for a lighthearted date night.
The Cast
Making his Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre debut, Jonathan Cobrda steps into the spotlight as Michael Dorsey. The production also welcomes back several fan favorites: Renee Jackson (Ghost, A Beef & Boards Christmas) as Julie Nichols, Michael’s onstage love interest; Payton Reilly (Jersey Boys) as his quirky ex-girlfriend, Sandy Lester; and Don Farrell (A Christmas Story, Beautiful, It’s A Wonderful Life) as the demanding director, Ron Carlisle. Rounding out the talented cast are newcomers Tyler Belo as Michael’s witty roommate, Jeff Slater, and Matthew Rella as the charmingly self-absorbed actor, Max Van Horn.
Is Tootsie Good for Kids?
This is one show I’d call more of a date night pick. It’s rated R for adult themes, language, and mature content
We have a great list of tips for taking your kids to live theater shows, especially dinner theater, but we recommend you wait for another show.
The Buffet
Let’s be honest, half the fun of going to Beef & Boards is the buffet. The Slow-Roasted Beef is always a star, but the themed sides are the perfect match for this show. And don’t forget about the salad bar, it’s huge and always fresh.
Every show also comes with a themed cocktail. You can grab it with or without alcohol, depending on your mood for the evening. And I can’t forget to tell you about the dessert…the flourless chocolate cake is my favorite.
Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre
Beef & Boards is tucked just off Michigan Road near I-465, behind the Pyramids. The address is 9301 Michigan Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268.
Tickets for Tootsie range from $57–$85 and include your full buffet dinner, salad bar, and select beverages. Discounts are available for groups of 20 or more, so grab your friends and make it a night out.
Performance Schedule
Tootsie is on the Beef & Boards stage now through November 23, 2025. Showtimes include:
Evening shows: Tuesday, Thursday & select Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m.; Friday & Saturday at 8:00 p.m.; Sunday at 7:00 p.m.
Matinees: Wednesdays, Sundays & select Thursdays/Saturdays at 1:00 p.m.
For tickets and the full schedule, visit beefandboards.com or call the box office at (317) 872-9664.
Photo courtesy of Beef & Boards Dinner Theater.
Next up is A Beef & Boards Christmas and A Christmas Carol
