Oriental Theatre

Amorphic Beer Brings Three Minute Thesis to Oriental Theatre

All-star edition on Oct. 9 will feature past champions.

Amorphic Beer Three Minute Thesis: All Stars

October 9th, 2024, 7-10pm @ The Oriental Abele Theatre

Milwaukee Film Announces Full List of Post-Film Panels and Q&As at 2024 Dialogues Documentary Festival

The inaugural Dialogues Documentary Festival begins this Thursday, September 26th and runs through Sunday, September 29th

Milwaukee Film October Programming Features Vampires, Election-Prep, Musical Experiences, and More

October at the Oriental Theatre brings Bite Club, Democracy Docs, and Rocktober film series, as well as meaningful partnerships with Sojourner Family Peace Center and the Zilber Family Foundation

Amorphic Beer Super Special Events September/October

Milwaukee Film Cuts Youth, Artist Programs, Seeks Sustainability

Organization focusing more tightly on its 'unique contribution' to Milwaukee.

Milwaukee Film Announces Lineup of Films in Honor of Hispanic Heritage Month 2024

Hispanic Heritage Month 2024 films to play at the Oriental Theatre this October

Milwaukee Art Museum Brings Internationally Acclaimed Artist Robert Longo’s Monumental, Hyperrealistic Drawings to the Midwest

The artist’s first solo exhibition in the region in more than three decades, Robert Longo: The Acceleration of History presents work from the past 10 years of his career.

WMSE Announces Exciting Lineup of Events, Including Backyard BBQ Headlined by Guided by Voices

The Friday Night Freak Show Series Triumphantly Returns September 20 at The Oriental Theatre

Milwaukee Film Brings Creepy Kids, Cute Cats, and More to the Oriental Theatre this August

Celebrate Pride and Prep for Paris Olympics with Milwaukee Film Programming this Summer!

Milwaukee Film invites audiences to celebrate LGBTQIA+ stories for a packed weekend of Pride programming, and to prep for the 2024 Summer Olympics with a week of classic sports films

Milwaukee Film Names New CEO, Reports Attendance Growth

And reveals new fall doc festival and 2025 festival dates.

The 2024 Milwaukee Film Festival Wraps Up with Exciting News and Numbers: Unveiling Festival Award Winners and a Significant Leadership Update

Anne Reed to become full-time CEO of Milwaukee Film; $35,000 in awards to be delivered to filmmakers near and far

Milwaukee Film Brings Unique Series to the Historic Oriental Theatre This Spring

The Alfred Hitchcock Retrospective returns to the Oriental Theatre, accompanied by “Cool Moms” in May and “Hot Dads” in June

Check Out These Milwaukee-Made Films At The Film Festival

Cream City Cinema series has everything from documentaries to music videos.

The Return of the Milwaukee Film Festival

And don't forget to celebrate Milwaukee Day.

The Life Story of Gene Wilder

New documentary on Milwaukee-born movie star is breezy fun, with delightful clips and interviews.

Lights, Camera, Scoop! Milwaukee Film partners with local boozy frozen custard company for Giveaway during the Milwaukee Film Festival

Milwaukee Film Festival Returns in April

2024 festival will feature 300 films over 15 days, running from April 11 through 25.

Entrepreneurship Week Celebrates Women, Non-Binary Business Owners

Women's Entrepreneurship week returns May 6 through 10, featuring more than 65 speakers.

Milwaukee Film to Take Over Operations of Historic Downer Theatre this Spring

Milwaukee Film To Screen Wildcat at the Oriental Theatre this May with Writer/Director Ethan Hawke in Attendance

Four-time Academy Award® nominee Ethan Hawke will attend two screenings of his 2023 feature Wildcat for post-film Q&A on 5/18 and 5/19

Nō Studios to Host Reception Following Netflix’s “SHIRLEY” Milwaukee Premiere on March 14th

The film, written and directed by Milwaukee native John Ridley, will premiere at the Oriental Theatre on March 14th followed by a reception held at Nō Studios.

Milwaukee Film Faces Problems

Huge shortfall in funding, departure of chief executive, point to challenges for group.

Jonathan Jackson Leaves Milwaukee Film After 16 Years

Anne Reed selected to serve as Interim CEO

Uncovering The Oriental Theatre’s Mysterious Tiles

An inside tour of art tile in Milwaukee.

Milwaukee PBS Premieres New Documentary

A Hallowed Home for Heroes

Milwaukee Jewish and Muslim Film Fests Coincide With War

Both festivals running this month. 'It gives people a chance to discuss their feelings.'

Live Organ Music Returning To Oriental Theatre

Historic pipe organ installed, with unveiling planned for Nov. 8.

Get Ready For The Cultures & Communities Festival

From principal Ava Coleman to Charlie Sykes, there is event or film for every taste.

Ruben Alcantar Will Paint Mural In Black Cat Alley

Artist became well known for his work on 2020 racial justice murals.

New Black Cat Alley Music Series Announced

Free, all-ages, electronic dance music concert series coming to East Side.

Open Call for New Black Cat Alley Muralist

The East Side BID is looking for an artist to paint a new mural in Black Cat Alley.

Construction Underway On Greenest Library in Milwaukee

New Martin Luther King Library will be a community hub, and provide housing for 93 households.

Milwaukee Film Announces Award Winners

And 58% hike in attendance. The next festival will take place April 11-25, 2024.

Milwaukee Film Celebrates Increase of In-Person Attendance by 58% at The 2023 Milwaukee Film Festival and Honors its 2023 Audience Award-Winning Films

Milwaukee Film is also pleased to announce the dates for the 16th annual Milwaukee Film Festival, which is set to occur April 11-25, 2024.

Milwaukee Film and PBS Wisconsin to Host Premiere of LGBTQ+ History Documentary Wisconsin Pride

Gala event to include the film's cast and crew, as well as gay rights leaders from across the state

Domes Host Art in the Green

Plus, the Riverwest Pub Crawl returns, drone racing comes to Pettit Center and much more.

Milwaukee Film to Host Tribute Dinner to Chicago’s Revolutionary Chef Charlie Trotter on Monday, May 1, Featuring Two-time James Beard Winner Chef Paul Bartolotta at Bacchus – A Bartolotta Restaurant

Featuring a five-course meal with five pairings inspired by the film “Love, Charlie: The Rise and Fall of Chef Charlie Trotter,” showing at The 2023 Milwaukee Film Festival

5 Films To See At Milwaukee Film Festival

Of 250 choices in entire festival here are five picks for every day this week.

Film Festival, Playoffs and Blooming Art

Packed weekend offers diverse array of events.

Milwaukee Film Announces Initial Festival Movies

Also releases the new artwork for annual festival, which returns April 20.

Oriental Theatre placed on National Register of Historic Places

Statement of Alderman Jonathan Brostoff February 14, 2023

Holiday Shopping Season Begins With Special Events

Plus: Trainfest and annual Veterans Day ceremony.

Milwaukee PBS to Broadcast New John Gurda Documentary

People of the Port: A Jones Island Documentary

13 Events to Haunt Your Halloween

Crafts, costume contests and plenty of (boo)ze — where to find the best Halloweekend festivities.

Landmark Lanes Holds 95th Anniversary

The return of 'The Big Lebowski' as the East Side mainstay hosts week-long celebration in September.

MKE Film’s Cultures & Communities Festival Returns

Documentary on Rosa Parks, a "big get," is the opening night film.

Oriental Theatre Hosting World Premiere Friday Night

Small Town Wisconsin makes its big-screen debut in Milwaukee before going nationwide.

2022 Mayor’s Design Awards Announced

25 projects cover entire city, range from big to small.

Free Milwaukee Film Festival Tickets

See a movie on us at the Milwaukee Film Festival.

Milwaukee Film Fest Returns!

Plus, Gallery Night & Day, Vliet Street Art Walk, Rock the Green and more.

Milwaukee County Supervisor Candidates Share Views on Domes, Historic Preservation

Candidates respond to Milwaukee Preservation Alliance survey on favorite historic sites and more

Milwaukee Film Festival Returns to In-Person Screenings at Local Venues

Five cinema screens and one virtual screen to feature 200+ films in a new hybrid format

Milwaukee Preservation Alliance February 2022 Milwaukee County Supervisor Candidate Survey

Candidates share views on historic preservation, future of Mitchell Park Domes

East Side BID Executive Director Job Posting

Dynamic Leader Sought for Milwaukee’s Creative Crossroads

The Brewery District Hosts Equinox Music Festival

Plus, a paranormal conference, Third Space Brewing Fifth Anniversary, Doors Open Milwaukee, the return of Skylight Theatre and more.

New MLK Library Plan Razes Theater, Raises 93 Apartments

New 17,000 square foot library and two-story live-work units on N. MLK Jr. Dr.

Milwaukee Film Hosting New Film Festival

Cultures & Communities Festival runs seven days, through Sunday, September 12.

Milwaukee Film’s Oriental Theatre to Reopen Friday, Aug. 20

Non-profit cultural institution thrilled to welcome moviegoers back to their beloved movie palace.

Blanks, Milwaukee Film Building Second Major Festival

The Cultures & Communities Festival focuses on people of color, seeks a national audience.

Milwaukee Film Festival Returns Thursday

15 days, 202 films, and no need to leave your couch.

2021 Milwaukee Film Festival Moved To May

Organization says move will benefit audiences and create a better fit with film industry.

Milwaukee Film’s Virtual Festival By The Numbers

Over 1.7 million minutes watched.

Get 33% Off a Milwaukee Film Festival Pass

Watch every film for $100, a $60 discount for this all-access pass.

Tune Into the Minority Health Film Festival

Also, check out a dinosaur drive-thru, buy a burger for mental health and register to vote.

Kayak to Support Milwaukee Riverkeepers

Also, welcome home the D.C. marchers, try some Lao BBQ or take a Ghost Walk.

New Grants Allow Black Cat Alley to Add More Murals in 2020

3 Wisconsin Artists Announced for New Murals

Oriental Theatre Closed for Summer, Plans Renovations

Milwaukee Film continuing plan to fully restore 1927 movie palace.

Buy an Oriental Theatre Seat!

Just $25. History for your home while Milwaukee Film upgrades Oriental Theatre.

Park East Land Back on the Market

Plus: Milwaukee Athletic Club redevelopment advances, Oriental Theatre project hits next phase.

MKE Film Starts Oriental Theatre Prep Work

First phase is all about the big necessity.

The Magic of the Oriental Theatre

It changed my life. Now I hope it can change the city’s cultural life.

The Evolution of Drag

From Divine to Divine Trash, drag culture challenges gender politics.

Christopher Darling

Watch a rock band hit the rocks.

The Milwaukee Music Video Show

See the convergence of Milwaukee's film and music scenes. First in a series of previews.

New Black Cat Alley Public Street Art Gallery Opens This Sunday On Milwaukee’s East Side

Black Cat Alley Grand Opening Ceremony and Black Cat Alley at Villa Terrace Exhibition Opens Sunday, September 18

Milwaukee Film Festival Announces Expected Festival Guests

Headliners include Academy Award-winner John Ridley, Emmy Award-winner Sam Pollard, The Blind Side actor Quinton Aaron, Silicon Valley actor Martin Starr, and Arrested Development actor Mae Whitman

2016 Milwaukee Film Festival Box Office Opens on Thursday

Today is last day to buy discounted festival passes and ticket 6-Packs. New Age Narcissism headlines Opening Night Party

Disney’s Queen of Katwe and Academy Award-Winners Highlight Spotlight Presentations

Festival opens with Life, Animated from Academy Award-winner Roger Ross Williams. Milwaukee 53206: A Community Serves Time returns to Milwaukee after sold-out June premiere

2016 Milwaukee Film Festival Reveals Cine Sin Fronteras Program Lineup

Showcasing the rich and vibrant Latinx diaspora through cinema

2016 Milwaukee Film Festival Reveals Second List of Official Selections

Lineup includes Beware the Slenderman and a new sports documentary program

Internationally Renowned Street Artist MTO to Make Milwaukee Appearance

South facing façade of Oriental Theatre to get street art mural for Black Cat Alley Fundraising Gala, on July 21

Internationally Renowned Street Artist MTO to Make Milwaukee Appearance

MTO to paint south facing façade of Oriental Theatre for Black Cat Alley Fundraising Gala, July 21

2016 Milwaukee Film Festival Reveals First List of Official Selections

Milwaukee Film announces new Latinx diaspora program and film festival venues

Milwaukee Film Announces World Premiere Screening of Milwaukee 53206

Film explores the lives of those affected by mass incarceration in Milwaukee

Mural-makers to transform East Side alley into a work of art

Throughout the summer, artists will transform the alley that runs behind the Oriental Theatre and Colectivo Coffee into an outdoor collection of murals.

Milwaukee’s East Side to be Transformed by Street Art Mural Installations

Juried artist selection announced, includes renowned international, national and local street artists

Converting Spaces to Places

Learn about Milwaukee's next great public spaces.

WMSE is turning 35 and singing the birthday blues

WMSE starts singing the blues on Friday, March 25 when they host legends The Siegel–Schwall Band at the Turner Hall Ballroom with hometown icons The R&B Cadets.

Black Souls Matter

Can challenging shows like ‘The Ballad of Emmett Till’ change how we think about race?

2015 Milwaukee Film Festival Attracts 70,885 Attendees for a 10% Increase Over 2014

The Allan H. (Bud) and Suzanne L. Selig Audience Award for feature film goes to Romeo is Bleeding

Power Rankings

My favorite -- and un-favorite -- films so far.

Twelfth Annual Nohl Fellowship Exhibition Opens at INOVA, October 9

Each autumn, the Nohl exhibition affords us an opportunity to stop and consider what it means to be an artist in greater Milwaukee at a specific moment in time.

Milwaukee Film Festival Announces Over 100 Expected Guests

Headliners include actors Raven-Symoné and John Ashton; documentary subjects April Carrión and Moziah Bridges; award-winning directors Chad Gracia and Stanley Nelson

Come & Get It: FarmRaiser & Film Fest!

Please join us at Concordia Gardens on Saturday, September 19, from 4:00 pm - twilight

2015 Milwaukee Film Festival Box Office Now Open

Opening Night Party melds film and community with audience, donors and sponsors

Milwaukee Film Festival Announces 2015 Panels


Chicago Tribune film critic, Michael Phillips, to deliver Keynote Address;
 Panels on Policing and Education highlight the imperative and topical nature of festival documentaries

Landmark Lanes’ Jazzy 88-Year History

Serving booze during prohibition and built by a billionaire jailbird whose son become an ambassador.

Milwaukee Film Festival Announces Full 2015 Lineup

Festival to open with Youth; Oscar winner Paolo Sorrentino’s new film stars Michael Caine & Harvey Keitel. Award-winning films plentiful in Documentary Festival Favorites and Worldviews programs

2015 Milwaukee Film Festival Announces Spotlight Presentations

Acclaimed Wisconsin-set thriller Uncle John among headliners

2015 Milwaukee Film Festival Announces Competition Films

Eight Feature Films Competing for $10,000 Cash Prize - South Milwaukee Native Chad Gracia’s The Russian Woodpecker Included

2015 Milwaukee Film Festival Announces Cream City Cinema Lineup

The Milwaukee Music Video Show debuts as new program

2015 Milwaukee Film Festival Announces Shorter Is Better Lineup

Presenting nearly 60 of the best festival-circuit short films and the return of the Shorter Is Better juried award

2015 Milwaukee Film Festival Announces Passport: Sweden Program

Passport: Sweden proves that cold weather produces cool art

2015 Milwaukee Film Festival Announces Cinema Hooligante Films

Highlighted by 35 mm Anniversary Screenings of Jaws & The Shining

2015 Milwaukee Film Festival Reveals Return of Art + Artists Program

Featuring U.S. Premiere of a Documentary of a Celebrated Latin American Artist. New This Year is a Showcase Highlighting Award-Winning Media Artist

2015 Milwaukee Film Festival Announces Return of Film Feast Program

Film Feast celebrates Milwaukee’s proud food culture with eight food-related films

2015 Milwaukee Film Festival Announces Rated K: For Kids

All-ages program features live action, animation and 20th Anniversary of Babe: The Gallant Pig

2015 MFF Reveals Return of African-American-Focused Black Lens Program

Showcasing fiction and documentary films from emerging and established directors in the black community. The Johnson Controls Foundation provides new financial support.

2015 Milwaukee Film Festival Announces Sound Vision Program

Music film program returns with scheduled appearance by legendary DJ Marco Collins. Koss joins as new sponsor, presenting the program and donating headphones

North and Farwell

It’s already quite vibrant, but changes like turning Prospect and Farwell into two-way streets could improve it.

Dustin Zick

"In Milwaukee, if you bust your butt, it will pay off. In Chicago or LA, nobody may ever know your name."

Milwaukee Film Announces 2014 Festival Dates, New Programming Hire

Sixth Annual Milwaukee Film Festival runs September 25-October 9

A Cry for Justice

A documentary at the Milwaukee Film Festival is a haunting look at a priest who abused deaf boys in this archdiocese.

Urban Milwaukee Night at Film Fest

Join us for the Milwaukee Film Festival's showing of Detropia and post-movie chat and happy hour.