Third Coast Daily’s 2013-14 Performing Arts Guide

The beginning of summer may mark the conclusion to one performing arts season, but the secret is that ending is really just the beginning, as companies take the summer to ready themselves for another year of music, dance and theater.

We’re getting ready too, and, as always, we’ve started things off with our 2013-14 Performing Arts Season Preview: our comprehensive guide to everything Milwaukee has to offer this year. Of course, this guide (the fruits of a great deal of labor by Hannah McCarthy, Ben Gucciardi, and managing editor Matthew Reddin) is only as comprehensive as it can possibly be this early in the game, and there’s a bunch of companies that have only released part of their schedule, or haven’t announced it at all. That’s no problem; we’ll be updating this guide throughout the year as listings come in and dates change. So keep this bookmarked for a handy reference.

And, as always, keep your eye on TCD for more detailed advance coverage of the coming season, from all these groups and any new ones hoping to join their ranks in the year to come.

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Third Coast Digest’s 2013-2014 Performing Arts Season Preview

(In alphabetical order by company name)

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ACACIA THEATRE COMPANY

Founded in 1980 by local stage artists who wanted to integrate art and faith through theatre “that would express the experiences and positive moral values important to members of the Christian faith.”

• Malcolm and Teresa: Oct. 18-27
• Advent of Redemption: Dec. 7
• Searching for David’s Heart: Feb. 28 – March 9
• Jane Austen’s Persuasion: July 11-20

Location: Concordia University, at the Todd Wehr Auditorium
(414) 744-5995
acaciatheatre.com

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ALCHEMIST THEATRE
This cozy stage and adjacent lounge offers a unique environment to see top-notch local, independent artists, as well as a venue for its own productions.

• King Lear: July 12-27
• Closing Night: Oct. 3 – Nov. 2

Hosted Shows

• The Burden of Being: Aug. 15-31 

Location: 2569 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Bay View, WI 53207
(414) 426-4169
alchemisttheatre.com

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ALVERNO PRESENTS
The series’ vision is to cultivate artists “whose work exemplifies excellence, innovation and profound accomplishment.” The season kicks off with a grand outdoor World Music event, and continues with an eclectic and arty mix on the Alverno campus.

• Nora Chipaumire: Miriam: July 13
• Global Union: Sept. 21
• Altos: Earth: Oct. 4
• The Hinterlands: The Circuit: Oct. 18-19
• Nick Sanborn: Lend Me Your Voice: Nov. 8-9
• Lionel Popkin: Ruth Doesn’t Live Here Anymore: Nov. 16
• Dr. Lonnie Smith: Feb. 6
• Unlooped Presents: Marvin Gaye: March 1
• LeeSaar the Company: Grass and Jackals: March 15
• Solo Flight: April 14-19

Location: Various locations; primarily Alverno College, at the Pitman Theater
(414) 382-6044
alvernopresents.alverno.edu

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AMERICAN PLAYERS THEATRE
APT is ranked among the most popular outdoor classical theaters in the United States, playing to more than 100,000 patrons each season. Its mission is “to bring the classics to life by making great plays accessible through skilled and reverent presentation.” They just added an indoor stage in recent years, leaving room for late and off-season stagings. APT traditionally runs from June to October.

(At Up the Hill)

• The Two Gentlemen of Verona: June 8 – Oct. 6
• Too Many Husbands: June 14 – Sept. 14
• Hamlet: June 21 – Oct. 4
• Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead: Aug. 2 – Oct. 5
• All My Sons: Aug. 9 – Sept. 28

(at the Touchstone Theatre)

• Molly Sweeney: June 8 – Sept. 21
• Dickens in America: June 26 – Oct. 19
• Antony and Cleopatra: Aug. 11 – Oct. 20

Location: American Players Theatre in Spring Green, WI
(608) 588-2361
playinthewoods.org

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BAY PLAYERS
A fixture of Whitefish Bay for over 50 years, this company is a community theater open to anyone 18 years or older, offering volunteer opportunities on- or off-stage.

• The Odd Couple: Sept. 20, 21, 27, 28
• The Butler Did It, Again: Jan. 17, 18, 24, 25
• Beau Jest: April 4, 5, 11, 12

Location: Whitefish Bay High School Auditorium
(414) 299-9040
thebayplayers.com

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BEL CANTO CHORUS
Bel Canto Chorus is Milwaukee’s oldest continually performing arts organization, composed of approximately 100 chorale voices.

• Requiem/Gloria: Oct. 26
• Christmas in the Basilica: Dec. 14-15
• Seven Last Words from the Cross/Lux Aeterna: March 9
• Carmina Burana: May 21

Location: various

(414) 481-8807
belcanto.org

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BOULEVARD THEATRE
The Boulevard Ensemble is an established, professional theatre company that stages an eclectic range of theatrical literature, including classic plays, modern iconic stagings and a wild mix of alternative genres in a “cozy” black box studio setting in Bay View.

• Tigers Be Still: July 31 – Aug. 18
• Jerker: Sept. 18-22
• The Old Garde: November 2013
• Shooting Star: Feb. 2-23

Remainder of season TBA.

Location: Boulevard Theatre, 2252 S. Kinnickinnic Ave.
(414) 744-5757
boulevardtheatre.com

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CARDINAL STRITCH UNIVERSITY THEATRE
The Fine Arts department presents four student shows a year, which traditionally range from the classics to musicals.

• Rabbit Hole: Oct. 4-13
• Shakespeare’s Women: Nov. 15-24
• The Shoemaker and the Elves: Feb. 9-16
• The Spitfire Grill: Apr. 4-13

Location: Nancy Kendall Theater/Studio Theater, 6801 N. Yates Rd.
(414) 410-4171
theatre.stritch.edu
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CARROLL PLAYERS
The oldest active student theater organization in Wisconsin, founded in 1896. The group endeavors to further artistic, academic and educational concerns of the theatre arts program, recognize alumni members in the field, and encourages fellowship and growth among its members.

• Stop Kiss: Oct. 25 – Nov. 2
• Spring Awakening: Nov. 22-23
• Sondheim Review: Live.Laugh.Love.Listen.: March 28-29
• Minchin’s: April 25-26 

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CONCORD CHAMBER ORCHESTRA
Founded in 1975 to offer performance opportunities to young and aspiring musicians.

• Clubs: Oct. 26
• Hearts: Dec. 7
• Jokers Wild: A Collection of Chamber Music: Jan. 26
• Spades: March 22
• Diamonds: May 2

Location: Basilica of St. Josaphat, St. Mathew’s Evangelical Lutheran Church
(414) 347-0881
concordorchestra.org

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DANCEWORKS PERFORMANCE COMPANY
Contributing to the vitality of Milwaukee’s cultural life by training artists and building the audiences of the future.

• DanceLAB: Ignite: A Hip-Hop Experience: July 19-20
• DanceLAB: Art to Art 2013: Aug. 2-4
• DanceLAB: Danceworks on Tap: Joyful Noise: Aug. 16-18 
• Intersect: Nov. 15-24
• Valentine Romance: Feb. 14-16 (with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra)
• Temptation’s Snare: March 6-9
• Plugged In: April 24 – May 10

Location: Danceworks Studio Theatre and Milwaukee Youth Arts Center
(414) 277-8480
danceworksmke.org

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EARLY MUSIC NOW
Early Music brings important artists from the historical music movement to Milwaukee from all over the world.

• Heinavanker: Oct. 12
• Pallade Musica: Nov. 16
• Waverly Consort: Dec. 7 & 8
• Orlando Consort: Feb. 15
• East of the River: March 15
• Four Nations: April 12

(414) 225-3113
www.earlymusicnow.org

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FALLS PATIO PLAYERS
A community theatre company serving Southeastern Wisconsin for over 40 years.

• Leading Ladies: Oct. 4-13
• Honk, Jr.: Oct. 19-20
• Christmas Carol: Dec. 6-8
• The Dixie Swim Club: Feb. 7-15
• Seven Brides for Seven Brothers: April 25 – May 4

Location: North Junior High School Auditorium, Menomonee Falls
(262) 255-8372
fallspatioplayers.com

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FESTIVAL CITY SYMPHONY
FSC makes classical music accessible to everyone with casual, family-friendly classical music concerts.

• London Bridges: Oct. 6
• Halloween Spooktacular Pajama Jamboree: Oct. 23
• Holiday Frosty & Friends Pajama Jamboree: Dec. 11
• A Celebration of Spirit: Jan. 26
• Timeless Romance: March 16
• Magnificent Moods: May 4
• Spring is in the Air Pajama Jamboree: May 21

Location: Pabst Theater, Bradley Pavilion at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts
(414) 963-9067
festivalcitysymphony.org
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FIRESIDE DINNER THEATRE
One of the Midwest‘s most popular professional theatres. Wed.-Sun. performances weekly.

• Little Shop of Horrors: June 13 – July 14
• Run For Your Wife: July 25 – Sept. 1
• Once Upon a Mattress: Sept. 5 – Oct. 27
• A Fireside Christmas: Oct. 31 – Dec. 22
• Solid Gold ’60s: Jan. 9 – Feb. 23
• Mary Poppins: Feb. 27 – April 20
• Fiddler on the Roof:  April 24 – June 8
• Driving Miss Daisy: June 12 – July 20, 2014

Location: Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin
(800) 477-9505
firesidetheatre.com
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FIRST STAGE
Nationally-acclaimed children’s theater and the second largest company in Milwaukee offering professional performances for families, a renowned theater training school and dynamic in-school educational programming.

• Shrek the Musical: Oct. 11 – Nov. 17
• The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: Nov. 29 – Dec. 29
• A Midnight Cry: Jan. 10 – Feb. 9
• Anatole: Feb. 21 – March 16
• Crash: March 28 – April 13
• Nancy Drew and Her Biggest Case Ever: May 2 – June 1

Young Company

• Maul of the Dead: Dec. 6-8
• Romeo and Juliet: May 16-17

First Steps

• The Cat in the Hat: Jan. 25 – March 2

Location: Marcus Center’s Todd Wehr Theater
(414) 267-2961
firststage.org

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FLORENTINE OPERA
As one of the nation’s oldest opera companies, the Florentine Opera’s productions reflect the highest musical and theatrical standards, while supporting community and educational programs. The company recently won two Grammys for their recording of 2010’s Elmer Gantry.

• La Traviata: Nov. 8 & 10
• Fiesta Florentina: Feb. 14-16
• Julius Caesar: March 28 & 30
• La Boheme: May 9 & 11

Location: Marcus Center for the Performing Arts and various venues
(414) 291-5700
florentineopera.org

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FORWARD THEATER COMPANY in Madison
This not-for-profit theater group formed out of the ashes after the Madison Rep went under. It hopes to be a home base for various Wisconsin stage vets, and the season typically runs the gamut from nostalgia with loads of character to progressive and even a bit dangerous.

• Sons of the Prophet: Nov. 7-24
• Red: Jan. 16 – Feb. 2
• Or,: March 27 – April 13

Location: the Overture Center Playhouse in Madison, Wisconsin
www.forwardtheater.com

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FRANKLY MUSIC

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GREENDALE COMMUNITY THEATER

Greendale Community Theater strives to provide an outlet for cast, crew, and patrons to build a strong community through involvement and activism. 

• Les Miserables: July 25-28, 31, Aug. 1-3
• The Full Monty: Jan. 9-18

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HANSBERRY-SANDS THEATRE COMPANY
Hansberry-Sands Theatre Company was established in July, 1981 in the response to a need for quality professional black theatre in Milwaukee. The company provides quality theatrical art forms that entertain, educate and develop individual talent and preserve our historical culture.

Season TBA

Location: Marcus Center’s Vogel Hall

(414) 616-7529
hansberrysands.org

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IMAGINATION THEATRE OF GERMANTOWN

• Anything Goes: Aug. 2-11
• Run For Your Wife: Spring 2014
• Into the Woods: Summer 2014

Location: Lutheran Church of the Living Christ, W156 N10660 Pilgrim Rd, Germantown 53022
262-957-0399
itogonline.org
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IN TANDEM THEATRE
In Tandem is committed to producing exciting, innovative comedy, drama, musicals, classics and original works.

• Burying the Bones: Oct. 4-27
• A Cudahy Caroler Christmas: Nov. 29 – Jan. 5
• Chesapeake: Feb. 21 – March 16
• 1959 Pink Thunderbird: Laundry and Bourbon/Lone Star: April 25 – May 18 

Location: Tenth Street Theatre at 628 N. 10th St., Milwaukee
(414) 271-1371
intandemtheatre.org
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JOHN MICHAEL KOHLER ARTS CENTER
Dance and music from internationally renowned artists in two intimate performance spaces.

•  The Intergalactic Nemesis: Oct. 14 & 15
• Flamenco Viva Carlota Santana: Nov. 12 & 14
• Taikoproject: Feb. 18 & 20
• Lucky Plush Productions Dance: March 11 & 13
• Fatoumata Diawara: April 8 & 10

Location: Sheboygan, WI
(920) 458-6144
jmkac.org
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KO-THI DANCE COMPANY
A dynamic, internationally celebrated African dance company dedicated to bridging gaps between cultures.

Season TBA

Location: often UW-Milwaukee, and various

(414) 273-0676
ko-thi.org

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LATINO ARTS INC.

Dedicated to providing and promoting Hispanic programming in the arts both in our community and beyond.

• Las Cafeterias: Nov. 1
• Ñawi: Equatorial: Dec. 6

Remainder of season TBA

Location: Latino Arts Inc. Auditorium and Gallery, 1028 S. 9th Street, Milwaukee
(414) 381-3400
latinoartsinc.org
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MARCUS CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
One of the state’s foremost performing arts venues and home to many talented performing artists and events, now with multiple events lineups.

Broadway Across America

• Jersey Boys: Oct. 16-27
• White Christmas:  Nov. 26 – Dec. 1
• War Horse: Jan. 7-12
• Evita: Feb. 4-9
• Flashdance: March 4-9
• Phantom of the Opera: July 23 – Aug. 3

Marcus Center Presents

• Beyond Glory: Nov. 11

Remainder of Season TBA

Off-Broadway Series

• Power Balladz: Sept. 20-21
• The Intergalactic Nemesis Live-Action Graphic Novel: Oct. 18-19
• The Second City’s Nut-Cracking Holiday Revue: Dec. 5-15

Hosted Events

•  Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus: June 27

Location: Marcus Center’s Uihlein Hall, downtown Milwaukee

(414) 273-7206
Marcuscenter.org

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MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY THEATRE

The student theatre group at Marquette University. The Department of Performing Arts performs four adult and one children’s mainstage shows per school year.

• Dirty Rotten Scoundrels: Sept. 26 – Oct. 6
• The Boys Next Door: Nov. 7-17
• The Quiltmaker’s Gift: Jan. 11-19
• Almost, Maine: Feb. 13-23
• Hamlet: April 3-13

Location: the Helfaer Theater on Marquette campus grounds
(414) 288-7504
diederich.Marquette.edu

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MILWAUKEE BALLET COMPANY
A top-ranked company nationwide, the Milwaukee Ballet attracts world-class performers and choreographers and strives to inspire audiences to think within and beyond traditional ballet.

• Romeo & Juliet: Oct. 31 – Nov. 3
• The Nutcracker: Dec. 14-27
• Winter Series: Feb. 13-16
• Spring Series: April 3-6
• Mirror, Mirror: May 15-18

Location: Marcus Center for the Performing Arts, Pabst Theater
(414) 902-2103
milwaukeeballet.org

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MILWAUKEE CHAMBER THEATRE
One of the city’s oldest professional theater companies and its third-largest (non-musical), MCT was founded by Montgomery Davis and Ruth Schudson in 1975. Almost 40 years later, now under the direction of C. Michael Wright, the company is still committed to producing thought-provoking works with a new emphasis on smaller, intimate productions featuring emerging local talent. 

• Art: Aug. 8-25
• The Detective’s Wife: Sep. 18 – Oct. 13
• Things Being What They Are: Nov. 20 – Dec. 15
• October, Before I was Born: Feb. 19 – Mar. 9
• Lend Me a Tenor: Apr. 10-27

Location: Broadway Theatre Center, 158 N Broadway, Milwaukee
(414) 276-8842
chamber-theatre.com

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MILWAUKEE CHILDREN’S CHOIR
Presenting critically acclaimed concerts since 1994.

• Milwaukee Children’s Choir Training Department Fall Recital 1: Nov. 2
• Milwaukee Children’s Choir Training Department Fall Recital 2: Nov. 3
• American Homeland: A Veteran’s Day Concert: Nov.  10
• Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Pops Spectacular: Dec. 6-8
• An Evening of Readings & Carols: Dec. 14
• Trumpets Sound & Voices Raise!: Dec. 15
• Milwaukee Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”: Dec. 14-27
• SINGATHON: Feb. 15
• Milwaukee Children’s Choir Training Department Spring Recital 1: May 17
• Milwaukee Children’s Choir Training Department Spring Recital 2: May 18
• 20th Anniversary Celebration: June 1

Location: Various venues
(414) 221-7040
milwaukeechildrenschoir.org

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MILWAUKEE OPERA THEATRE

The Milwaukee Opera Theatre offers “Classic opera for a modern world,” and is currently led by Jill Anna Ponasik, who has helped the company embark on a series of ambitious seasons in a row.

• Victory for Victoria: Sept. 6-7
• The Eurydice Project Stage Three: The Festival: Jan. 24-26
• L’Enfant et les Sortileges: Feb. 14-16
• Fortuna the Time Bender vs. The Schoolgirls of Doom!: May 7-24, 2014

Location: Various
milwaukeeoperatheatre.org
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MILWAUKEE PUBLIC THEATRE
Milwaukee Public Theatre creates original theatre works and provides workshops and arts residencies, making the arts accessible to people of all ages and cultures since 1974.

• Tap the Potential Art Exhibition: Oct. 4-18
• Dia de los Muertos Parade: November 2
• Pieces: In My Own Voice: Feb. 6, 13, 27, March 6, fifth show TBA

Additional Season and Performances TBA

Location: Various

(414) 347-1685
milwaukeepublictheatre.org

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MILWAUKEE REPERTORY THEATRE
Dedicated to providing the highest level of professional theater to Milwaukee and Wisconsin. The Rep started in 1954 on Oakland Ave., moved to the Todd Wehr Theater, and eventually into its space adjacent to City Hall. They started a resident acting company and expanded to include both classics and premiere works in their three theaters.

Quadracci Powerhouse

• Ragtime: Sept. 20 – Oct. 27
• Noises Off: Nov. 22 – Dec. 22
• End of the Rainbow: Jan. 10 – Feb.9
• An Iliad: Feb. 28 – March 23
• The History of Invulnerability: April 11 – May 4

Stiemke Studio

• Venus in Furs: Sept. 27 – Nov. 3
• The Whipping Man: Feb. 7 – March 16
• Rep Labs: March 28-31

Stackner Cabaret

• I Left My Heart: A Salute to the Music of Tony Bennett: Aug. 25 – Oct. 20
• Forever Plaid: Oct. 27 – Dec. 29
• Woody Sez: The Life & Music of Woody Guthrie: Jan. 5 – March 9
• Ain’t Misbehavin’: March 16 – May 18

Pabst Theater

•  A Christmas Carol: Nov. 27 – Dec. 24

Location: Patty & Jay Baker Theater Complex, downtown Milwaukee
(414) 224-9490
milwaukeerep.com

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MILWAUKEE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
The MSO is the largest professional arts organization in Wisconsin, featuring 86 professional musicians. The orchestra is playing at a very high level under music director Edo de Waart, in his fourth season with the MSO.

• Tchaikovsky’s Fourth: Sept. 20-22
• Seductive Ravel: Sept. 27-28
• Concertos for Orchestra: Oct. 4-5
• Ella, Louis & All That Jazz: Oct. 11-13
• Fliter Plays Chopin: Nov. 15-16
• Schubert’s Sixth: Nov. 22-24
• Holiday Pops Spectacular: Dec. 6-8
• New Year’s Eve Celebration: Dec. 31
• Doc’s Back!: Jan. 3-5
• Brahms’s “Fifth“: Jan. 17-18
• Radu Lupu: Jan. 24-25
• Leonard Bernstein – “On the Town”: Jan. 31 – Feb. 1
• Valentine Romance: Feb. 14-16
• Transcendent Sibelius: Feb. 21-22
• Orion Weiss plays Ravel: Feb. 28 – March 1
• Cherish the Ladies: March 14-16
• Beethoven: Symphony No. 9: March 21-23
• Beethoven: “Eroica” Symphony: March 28-30
• Beethoven: Symphony No. 7: April 4- 6
• Film with Orchestra: The Wizard of Oz: April 12-13
• Romeo and Juliet: April 18-19
• All Rachmaninoff: April 25- 27
• De Waart Conducts Mahler: May 2-3
• Divine Dvorak: May 30 – June 1
• Bolero: June 6-8
• Patriotic Pops: June 13-15

Location: Marcus Center Uihlein Hall, downtown Milwaukee, unless otherwise noted.
(414) 291-7605
mso.org

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MILWAUKEE THEATRE
Milwaukee and Wisconsin’s largest “destination” theater, home to an extensive calendar of concerts, Broadway musicals, family shows and assemblies of all kinds, and inheritor of a century-long legacy as a center of Milwaukee civic and cultural life.

• Mormon Tabernacle Choir: June 17
• National Sängerfest: June 21 – June 22
• Milwaukee Summer Jam with Young Jeezy & Friends: July 5
• The All Around the World Tour with MINDLESS BEHAVIOR, OMG Girlz & Coco Jones: Aug. 4
• Chris Tomlin: The Burning Lights Tour: Oct. 26
• Disney Live! Three Classic Fairy Tales: Nov. 16
• Mythbusters Behind the Myths: Dec. 4

Location: 500 W. Kilbourn Ave.
(414)908-6001
milwaukeetheatre.org

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MILWAUKEE YOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
MYSO offers the highest level of training in ensemble musicianship to motivated young people from diverse backgrounds across southeasternWisconsin. Programs foster talent, build character and enhance lives by nurturing an enduring love of music.

• MYSO Playathon: Nov. 3
• Founders’ Concert: Jan. 19
• Jazz Heritage Festival: Jan. 24
• Progressions January Jubilee: Jan. 30
• Rhythmic Revolution: Feb. 8
• Brass, Bows and Brilliance: Feb. 15
• Flutes and Fanfare: Feb. 21
• Orchestral Occasion: Feb. 22
• Symphonic Spectacular: Feb. 23
• Choral Collaboration: March 9
• Davidson Chamber Ensemble Recitals: March 30
• Honor Recital: April 6
• Fanfare and Finale: May 4
• Rhythm and Blues: May 10
• Chamber con Brio: May 17
• Ensemble Enchantment: May 18
• Progressions Culminating Celebration: May 28

Location: Various venues
(414) 267-2950
myso.org

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MILWAUKEE YOUTH THEATRE
The Milwaukee Youth Theatre prides itself on being most children’s first chance to be onstage. We involve children in all aspects of our performances.

• The Phantom Tollbooth: Oct. 25
  
• Still Life with Iris: Feb. 20-21
• The World Beyond the Door: May 22-23

Location: Lincoln Center of the Arts, 820 E Knapp St., Milwaukee
(414) 390-3900
milwaukeeyouththeatre.org

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NEXT ACT THEATRE
Next Act Theatre engages the hearts and minds of its audience with compelling and intimate theatre productions intended to stimulate thought and foster new thinking and perspectives. The company is entering its second season in its new home.

• Perfect Mendacity: Sept. 20 – Oct. 13
• Groucho: A Life in Revue: Nov. 15 – Dec. 8
• It’s a Wonderful Life Live Radio Show: Dec. 13-19
• Race: Jan. 31 – Feb. 23
• Three Views of the Same Object: April 4-27

Location: 255 S. Water St.
(414) 278-0765
nextact.org

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OFF THE WALL THEATRE
Dale Gutzman’s tiny jewelerybox theatre completely alters its environment for each production, and the company attacks material from Shakespeare to Sondheim, each show looked at with a fresh and often startling perspective.

• Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: July 17-28
• Grey Gardens: Sept. 11-22
• The Divine Sister: Oct. 23 – Nov. 1
• Cole for Christmas: A Cole Porter Celebration: Dec. 18-31
• Glengarry Glen Ross: Feb. 6-16
• Romeo & Juliet: March 27 – April 6
• Giovanni: The Loves & Legends of Don Juan: May 29 – June 1

Location: 127 E. Wells Street Theater, Milwaukee
(414) 327-3552
offthewalltheatre.com
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PECK SCHOOL OF THE ARTS
PSOA is the only school of the arts in the UW system. In PSOA, everyone is in the creativity business as 2,000 Dance, Film, Music, Theatre and Visual Arts majors work in some of the most exciting and innovative programs available anywhere. The school also hosts various groups and events including the Fine Arts Quartet and Unruly Music. Of special interest this year is PSOA’s programming for the Year of the Arts, a celebration of the school’s 50th anniversary.

Locations: Helen Bader Concert Hall, Helene Zelazo Center for the Performing Arts
2419 E. Kenwood Blvd. Milwaukee, WI
(414) 229-4308
uwm.edu/psoa

Fine Arts Quartet

• Summer Evenings of Music Series: June 9, 16, 23, 30
• Regular Season Concerts: Sept. 29, Nov. 10, Feb. 2, March 30

Locations: Helen Bader Concert Hall, Helene Zelazo Center for the Performing Arts, various other on- and off-campus venues

2419 E. Kenwood Blvd. Milwaukee, WI

(414) 229-4308

uwm.edu/psoa

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PINK BANANA THEATRE
Started in with a dedication and drive to produce quality theatre using local talent, its season includes two shows per year, the occasional surprise pop-up show, and a yearly fundraiser. Pink Banana Theatre’s mission is to encourage new and emerging artists to focus on their artistic crafts while given the opportunity to grow creatively in a collaborative environment.

• Pink Banana One Acts: Game Night: June 6-15
  
• Dark Play, or Stories for Boys: Nov. 1-16

Location: Various venues
pinkbananatheatre.com

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PRESENT MUSIC
PM is Milwaukee‘s hard-core, party-based classical musical ensemble, performing a six-concert season of new music, premieres and unexpected collaborations in unusual venues.

• Inuksuit: Sept. 7
• Third Coast: Oct. 12
• Thanksgiving: Nov. 24
• Women in the Chamber: Jan. 9-11
• Temptation’s Snare: March 6-9
• Life, Love, and Death: April 11
• Home Place: June 21

Location: Turner Hall Ballroom and other venues
(414) 271-0711
presentmusic.org

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QUASIMONDO MILWAUKEE PHYSICAL THEATRE

This new physical comedy troupe got its start as an international touring company formed by graduates of Italy’s Accademia Dell’Arte. Currently embarking on its second full season in Milwaukee, the company looks to explore a diverse assortment of theatrical styles.

• Bacchanalia Redux: Sept. 22-30
• Hansel and Gretel: A Cautionary Tale: Nov. 1-10
• Americlown: Dec. 5-20
• Love and Cthulhu: Feb. 13 – March 1
• Weightless: April 10-26
• Animal Farm: June 5-21

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RACINE THEATRE GUILD
Aiming to “light up lives at all stages,” the Racine Theatre Guild is a professionally-managed community theater offering plays and musicals, children’s theatre, jazz and comedy series, classes and more.

• The Rocky Horror Show: July 19-27
• Suite Surrender: Sept. 13-29
• Deathtrap: Oct. 25 – Nov. 10
• Disney’s Beauty and the Beast: Dec. 6-15
• Almost, Maine: Jan. 17 – Feb. 2
• 37 Postcards: Feb. 28- March 16
• The Miracle Worker: April 4-13
• Les Misérables: May 16- June 1

Location: the RTG at 2519 Northwestern Ave., Racine WI
(262) 633-4218
racinetheatre.org
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RENAISSANCE THEATERWORKS
Creating compelling theatre exploring the feminine voice and offering professional opportunities to emerging local artists.

• The Belle of Amherst: Oct. 18 – Nov. 10
• The Understudy: Jan. 17 – Feb. 9
• Skin Tight: April 4-27

Location: Studio Theatre, Broadway Theatre Center
(414) 291-7800
r-t-w.com

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SHARON LYNNE WILSON CENTER FOR THE ARTS
For ten seasons, the Wilson Center has welcomed people from Southeastern Wisconsin to witness exciting, bold, stirring, thoughtful and entertaining artists from all over the world.

• Red Oak: June 17-21
• Starry Nights: June 21, 28/July 5, 12, 19, 26
• AOD Preview Show: June 26, 27
• First Stage Academy Performance: Aug. 9, 10
• WC Guitar Competition: Aug. 15-17
• Hidden River Art Festival: Sept. 14-15
• Diamond Rio: Sept. 28
• Kronos Quartet: Oct. 11
• Yamato, The Drummers of Japan: Nov. 2
• Kurt Elling: Feb. 14
• EIileen Ivers and Immigrant Soul: March 14 & 15
• Newport Jazz Festival, Now 60!: March 29
• Pilobolus: April 11 & 12
• Broadway’s Elite: May 17

(262) 781-9470
wilson-center.com
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SKYLIGHT MUSIC THEATRE
The Skylight is a nationally-acclaimed professional opera and music theatre offering a tantalizing mix of musical and theatrical arts. This season marks the first for new artistic director Viswa Subbaraman.

• Fidelio: Sept. 20 – Oct. 6
• Les Miserables: Nov. 22 – Dec. 29
• El Cimmaron: Jan 3-22
• In the Heights: Jan. 31 – Feb. 23
• Hydrogen Jukebox: March 14-30
• I Hear America Singing: May 9-30
• Hair: May 16 – June 8

 Location: Cabot and Studio Theatres at the Broadway Theater Center, Milwaukee.
(414) 291-7800
skylightopera.com

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SMITHEREEN PRODUCTIONS

Smithereen Productions began as a way for artistic director Jacob Bach and head producer Mary Baird to produce an improvised musical series, and is now evolving to produce standalone projects as well. Focusing on themes of the human spirit and modern living, Smithereen hopes to showcase daring subject matter that will keep Milwaukee thinking and talking.

• T.I.M. (The Improvised Musical): Third Thursday of the month

Remainder of Season TBA

Location: Various locations
(414) 699-5633
smithereenproductions.com

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SOULSTICE THEATRE COMPANY

• Schoolhouse Rock Live!: July 25 – Aug. 10
• Betrayal: Sept. 12-28
• Picasso at the Lapin Agile: Nov. 7-23
• Enhanced Readers’ Theatre: Dec. 12-14
• God: Jan. 23 – Feb. 8
• Still Life: April 3-9
• Metamorphosis and Myths & Hymns: May 28 – July 31 (performed in repertory)

Location: Soulstice Studio
(414) 431-3187
soulsticetheatre.org

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SOUTH MILWAUKEE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

• Frankenstein: Oct. 26
• Flamenco Vivo with Carlota Santana: Nov. 16-17
• Calmus’ Christmas A Capella: Dec. 12
• Milwaukee Ballet II – The Music of Cole Porter: Jan. 25
• Baby Wants Candy: Feb. 8
• Songs Still Sung featuring the American Contemporary Music Ensamble: March 13
• I’m Not A Pilot featuring the Milwaukee Symphony Youth Orchestra: April 25
• Jason Moran’s Fats Waller Dance Party: April 26

Location: 901 15th Avenue, South Milwaukee, WI
(414) 766-5049
www.southmilwaukeepac.org

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SUNSET PLAYHOUSE
A nonprofit theater in Elm Grove, established in 1960, where volunteers work in conjunction with paid professionals.

• How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying: July 18 – Aug. 11
• Red, Hot, and Cole: Sept. 12 – Oct. 6
• Inherit the Wind: Oct. 24 – Nov. 10
• It’s a Wonderful Life: Dec. 5 – Dec. 31
• Murder on the Nile: Jan. 23 – Feb. 9
• Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: March 13 – April 6
• I Hate Hamlet: May 1 – May 18
• On Golden Pond: June 5 – June 22
• Gypsy: July 17 – August 10

…plus more from the Musical Mainstage and SideNotes Cabaret series throughout the year. See website for details.

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THEATRE GIGANTE
Founded in 1987 by artistic director Isabelle Kralj, Theatre Gigante (former Milwaukee Dance Theatre) is a performing arts organization dedicated to the creation and presentation of performance work that integrates theater, dance, text, and music, through which Theatre Gigante fosters inter-disciplinary collaborations and original work. To further promote and support its artistic mission, Theatre Gigante creates and engages in outreach/educational activities in the community.

• Guy Klucevsek: Accordion Virtuoso Extraordinaire: June 20-21
• A Little Business at the Big Top: November 14-16
• Midsummer in Midwinter: February 7-15
• The Devil’s Mischief: May 9-17
• A Night at Paddy’s Pub with Theatre Gigante: June 2014

Location: various venues
(414) 229-4308
theatregigante.org

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THEATRE UNCHAINED
A multi-purpose creative space that hosts gallery evenings, theatre productions, workshops and live music. The successor to Carte Blanche Studios, the company was rebranded by Jimmy Dragolovich this summer but remains in the same 80-seat location on Milwaukee’s South Side.

• The Odd Couple (female cast): Aug. 16-24
• Spamalot: Sept. 6-22
• Fawlty Towers: Oct. 11 – Nov. 3

Remainder of season TBA

Location: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
(262) 716-4689
theatreunchained.com

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THEATRICAL TENDENCIES
One of the newest companies on the Milwaukee theater scene, Theatrical Tendencies offers “inclusive theater with a passion for outstanding storytelling,” focusing on LGBT themes and issues.

•  The Laramie Project: Oct. 11-26

Location: Soulstice Theatre, 3770 South Pennsylvania Ave., Suite 2, St. Francis, WI
(414) 755-2700
theatricaltendencies.com

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UPROOTED THEATRE
UPROOTED Theatre creates professional productions, readings and diverse educational programming that meets our criteria for artistic excellence, provocative storytelling and community engagement. We meet our mission by producing works that honor the cultures, historical experiences and unique voices of people of color.

• Stretch Marks: Oct. 16-Nov. 3
• The Sunset Limited: March 5-23
• My Red Hand, My Black Hand: April 14

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WAUKESHA CHORAL UNION
Waukesha Choral Union has been active in the community for over 60 years. Originally a combination of the Carroll College student chorus and community singers known as the Waukesha Choral Society, the group took its present form as an auditioned choir in 1978. Under the direction of Ernest Brusubardis, III, the WCU continues a long tradition of collaborating with other musicians and groups, putting together pieces of a very colorful and diverse arts community.

• Requiem: Oct. 26
• Gloria: Dec. 6 & 8
• Creation: March 23
• Sunrise Mass: May 3

Location: Shattuck Auditorium at Carroll University, and various churches
(414) 297-9310
choralunion.org
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WAUKESHA CIVIC THEATRE
WCT provides quality live theatre performances and educational programs.

• Communicating Doors: June 14-30
• 2013-2014 Season Preview Party:  June 23,27
• ELVIS: I’ll Remember You: July 5-14
• The Boxcar Children: July 26 – Aug. 11
• A.C.T. Summer Showcase: Aug. 17
• Snow White And The Magnificent Seven: Aug. 23-25
• The Goodbye Girl: Sept. 13-29
• You Can’t Take It With You: Oct. 18 – Nov. 3
• One Night With John McGivern: Nov. 5
• The Girl Singer: A Tribute To Rosemary Clooney: Nov. 15-17
• Candy Cane Tales and Holiday Carols: Dec. 6-22
• Comedy Tonight’s I Got Yule, Babe: Dec. 16, 19
• Four Guyz In Dinner Jackets: Dec. 27-31
• A.C.T. Combat Boot Camp: Jan. 4
• The Waukesha STEM Academy Presents The Pirates of Penzance, Jr.: Jan. 16-18
• ACT Live!: Jan. 18
• Perfect Wedding: Feb. 7-23
• Curtains: March 13-30
• The Pirates of Pizzazz: April 10-13
• Noises Off: May 2-18
• Comedy Tonight’s Fish Sticks: May 8
• A View from the Bridge: June 6-22

Location: Margaret Brate Bryant Civic Theatre, Waukesha
(262) 547-0708
waukeshacivictheatre.org

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WISCONSIN PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA
Formerly the Waukesha Symphony, the WPO has come a long way during the tenure of music director Alexander Platt. The orchestra has become more itinerant in recent years, and more recently has stretched out to perform in Oconomowoc.

• Cosmic Grandeur: April 28. 3:00pm
• Season Encore Birthday Bash: April 28, 5:30pm
• A Salute to Our Veterans: Korea and the Cold War: November 10, 3:00pm
• An Old World Christmas: December 10, 7:30pm
• Viva Verdi, Viva Vivaldi!: February 23, 3:00pm
• Lyric Masters: April 27, 3:00pm

Location: Shattuck Auditorium at Carroll University, chapel of St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy in Delafield, other venues.
(262) 547-1858
www.wisconsinphilharmonic.org

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WILD SPACE DANCE COMPANY
Founded by Artistic Director Debra Loewen in 1986, Wild Space’s mission is to expand the audience for contemporary dance through performance and outreach programs. Known for site-specific works and artistic collaborations, Wild Space merges contemporary dance with text, architecture and visual art to develop innovative performances.

• Acts of Wilderness: Sept. 19-21
• Sight Readings: Jan. 30 – Feb. 1 (collaboration with UWM Dance and INOVA)
• All About Life: May 1-3

Location: Various venues
(414) 271-0307
wildspacedance.org

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WINDFALL THEATRE
Seeking out little-known gems from well-known playwrights, bringing many premieres to Milwaukee.

• An Empty Plate in the Cafe du Grand Boeuf: Sept. 27 – Oct. 12
• The Petrified Forest: Feb. 14 – March 1
• Storefront Church: May 2-17

Location: Village Church Arts
130 E. Juneau Ave.
(414) 332-3963
windfalltheatre.blogspot.com

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WISCONSIN CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC
The oldest and largest non-profit independent music school in the state, WCM strives to provide the finest musical education and performance opportunities for both aspiring professional performers and individuals seeking cultural enrichment.

• Prometheus Trio Concerts: Sept. 30-Oct. 1, Dec. 9-10, Feb. 10-11, April 28-29
• Philomusica Quartet Concerts: Nov. 4, Jan. 27, May 5
• We Six Concerts: Oct. 10, Nov. 14, Feb. 6, March 20, May 1
• Orquesta Tumbao Concerts: Oct. 31, Feb. 14, March 7, April 19
• Conservatory Concerts: Sept. 16, Oct. 6, Nov. 22, Dec. 5-6, Dec. 14, March 2, March 9, June 1

Location: 1584 N. Prospect Ave. (WCM building), Milwaukee
(414) 276-5760
http://www.wcmusic.org/Concerts.aspx

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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN COLLEGE
The Center for Arts and Performance at Wisconsin Lutheran College offers distinguished guest artists, outdoor summer events and excellent college performing arts groups for all types of audiences.

Guest Artist Series 2013-14:

• Doc Severinsen’s Big Band: Sep. 20
• Jeffrey Siegel Keyboard Conversation: Sep. 25
• Sons of Pioneers: Nov. 1
• Jeffrey Siegel Keyboard Conversation: Dec. 11
• Broadway Holiday: Dec. 14
• Thank You for the Music – A Modern Tribute to ABBA: Feb. 14
• Iveria – Georgian National Song and Dance Ensemble: Mar. 14
• Jeffrey Siegel Keyboard Conversation: May 21

WLC Arts Center, 8815 W. Wisconsin Ave.
(414) 443-8802
wlc.edu/arts/

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WORLD’S STAGE THEATRE COMPANY
A new theater company founded in 2009 seeking to “inspire, entertain and delightfully shock audiences with a broad spectrum of theatrical work.”

Season TBA 

Location: Various

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YOUNGBLOOD THEATRE COMPANY

A young, daring and exciting theater troupe, given to unconventional venues.

• Dying City: September 26 – Oct. 12
• The Edge of our Bodies: December 2013
• Nocturne: December 2013

Location: Various, TBA

414 369-2375
www.youngbloodtheatre.com

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YOUR MOTHER DANCES

A dance troupe aiming to subvert typical images of women in dance, with an emphasis on the juxtaposed roles of its performers.

Season TBA

 

NOTE: All entries are subject to change and may be updated as they give us new or corrected information. Highlighted titles will be linked throughout the season to reviews and features about a production or show. Please contact the venue or company for all further information. If your group’s season schedule is ready but does not appear here, email us with details and we will update your listing.