Wisconsin Union Theater facts for kids
The Wisconsin Union Theater is a special place for performances in Madison, Wisconsin. It's located inside the University of Wisconsin–Madison's Memorial Union. Here, you can enjoy all kinds of shows! They have music from around the world, concerts, dance performances, jazz, and many other exciting events.
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A Look Back: The Theater's History
How the Theater Started
The Wisconsin Union Theater first opened its doors in the fall of 1939. A talented architect named Michael Hare designed this beautiful building. To celebrate its opening, the first shows were held on October 8th. Radio stations across the state even broadcast the opening ceremonies! For the next three days, audiences watched four performances of a play by Shakespeare called The Taming of the Shrew. Famous actors Alfred Lunt and Lynn Fontanne starred in these first shows.
Famous Visitors Over the Years
For more than 70 years, many famous people have visited the Wisconsin Union Theater. They have come to perform, speak, or share their talents. Imagine seeing people like former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr., and President John F. Kennedy!
Many amazing musicians have also performed here, including Ella Fitzgerald, Yo-Yo Ma, Arthur Rubinstein, Jascha Heifetz, Itzhak Perlman, and Louis Armstrong. Dancers like Martha Graham and writers such as T. S. Eliot, Robert Frost, and Kurt Vonnegut have also graced the stage. It's truly a place where history and art come together!
Students Help Run the Show
Did you know that students at the University of Wisconsin–Madison help run the theater? The Wisconsin Union Directorate lets students get involved in planning and putting on the performances. Every year, students work with the theater staff. They help choose artists, handle contracts, manage ticket sales, and even work backstage. They also help with publicity and other important tasks. This gives students great experience in the world of performing arts!
Exciting Renovations and New Spaces
In 2006, students voted to help fund a big project to update the Memorial Union. The Arts and Recreation Wing of the Memorial Union, where the theater is, was renovated from 2012 to 2014. These updates were finished in June 2014, just in time for the theater's 75th anniversary!
The renovations brought some fantastic new spaces:
- Shannon Hall: This is the largest space in the Union Theater. It has 1,135 seats, perfect for big concerts and shows.
- The Play Circle: This is a modern space with special technology. It can hold up to 300 people for more intimate performances.
- Festival Room: This is a brand-new space used for classes, workshops, and smaller performances.
What's Happening Now: Current Programs
The Wisconsin Union Theater offers many different types of performances and festivals throughout the year.
Madison World Music Festival
The annual Madison World Music Festival started in September 2004. This festival brings music from many different countries to Madison. The best part? It's completely free for everyone to enjoy! Past performers have included artists like Lila Downs and the Whirling Dervishes.
Isthmus Jazz Series and Fest
If you love jazz music, you'll enjoy the Isthmus Jazz Series. This series brings jazz artists to perform at the Union Theater each season. In June, there's also the Isthmus Jazz Fest. This festival offers free jazz music on the Union Terrace, a popular outdoor spot. In 2007, the famous singer Madeleine Peyroux was a headliner.
Classical Concert Series
The Wisconsin Union Theater has had a concert series since it first opened. Each year, talented artists perform beautiful classical music. Famous musicians like Hilary Hahn, Joshua Bell, Yo-Yo Ma, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra have performed here.
World Stage Series
The World Stage Series features artists from many different countries. These performances bring unique cultures and sounds to the theater. Artists like Youssou N'Dour, Lila Downs, Angelique Kidjo, and Anoushka Shankar have been part of this series.
