Next Act Theatre Opens Renovated Val and Gary Zamecnik Studio

Milwaukee, WI – On Monday, January 12, Next Act Theatre held a ribbon cutting event for the newly – renovated Val and Gary Zamecnik Studio, located inside Next Act’s building at 255 S. Water St., Milwaukee. A group of excited patrons, donors , staff and friends joined Next Act leaders Cody Estle and Libby Amato, along with supporters Val and Gary Zamecnik, to cut the ribbon on the building’s newly -improved rehearsal hall. Funds for this project were raised through the successful Next Big Thing matching campaign, which raised $ 50,000 from donors in addition to a $50,000 match from the Zamecniks.

“I’ve known Val and Gary for many years ,” said Managing Director Libby Amato. “Their dedication and generosity serve as a testament to their belief in Next Act Theatre. And donations like this are transformative for arts organizations like ours. ”

Next Act Theatre announced its Next Big Thing campaign in July 2025, with the goal of raising $50,000 by December 31, 2025 in order to unlock a $50,000 match from the Zamecniks. Thanks to the support of more than 90 generous donors, Next Act reached its $50,000 goal in just 14 weeks, more than two months ahead of schedule.

Funds from the Zamecniks were used to renovate Next Act Theatre’s rehearsal hall . In recognition of their generous gift, the rehearsal hall was renamed the Val and Gary Zamecnik Studio. Renvoations include a new floor , a new ceiling lighting grid , new chairs for events and a repair and repaint of the walls. The Studio is used by Next Act Theatre, Renaissance Theaterworks and outside organizations for rehearsals, classes, workshops, meetings and even performances , and these updates will improve outcomes for artists, students and patrons. Additional funds from the Zamecniks were used to acquire a new light board for Next Act ’s main theatre space.

“I’m so grateful I met new friends, and ou r family supported it , and I ’m just really grateful … to have an impact that makes a difference ,” said Val Zamecnik.

Funds raised through the Next Big Thing campaign continue to support part of the production costs for the rest of the company’s 2025 -26 season. The season continues with SWING STATE by Rebecca Gilman, directed by Artistic Director Cody Estle, February 11 through March 8, 2026; it concludes with DINNER WITH THE DUCHESS by Nick Green, directed by Samantha Martinson, April 22 through May 17, 2026.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.