Shakespeare in the Park presents The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
2025-07-12 13:00 - 18:30 (America/Chicago) | Wisconsin Lutheran College, 8800 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, United States
Optimist Theatre’s free Shakespeare in the Park presents of The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
Grab your lawn chair and picnic snacks for a totally rad Shakespearean summer—where sun, swagger, and sharp-tongued banter rule the stage! This year’s productions, The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing, are reimagined with 1980s beach party flair, blending big laughs, bold choices, and a few surprises under the neon sky.
Each show day is a full experience. Before and between performances, The PLAY’s the Thing brings hands-on activities inspired by Shakespeare, theatre, and ‘80s pop culture. Early Music Now musicians will set the scene, performing Renaissance-era music in tubular 1980s beach attire.
Both plays are performed by the same trio of powerhouse actors. Shrew runs approximately 80 minutes, while the puppet-powered Much Ado is a breezy 45-minute romp. Expect quick changes, brilliant physical comedy and inventive staging (and puppetry in Much Ado!).
Abridged and directed by Kelley Faulkner,* with stage management by Melissa L. Wanke.* Featuring SitP favorite Libby Amato** and introducing George Lorimer** and Kailey Azure Green.
*Member of Actors’ Equity Association.
**Member of Actors’ Equity Association or appearing under an AEA contract.
Free Outdoor Performance
Wisconsin Lutheran College, 8800 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53226
1:00 PM – Seating Opens & The PLAY’s the Thing Activities Begin
2:00 PM – Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
2:45 PM – The PLAY’s the Thing tent reopens
4:10 PM – Early Music Now Performance
5:00 PM – The Taming of the Shrew
Show Address: Wisconsin Lutheran College, 8800 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53226
Addresses are provided however, please check the show page for exact performance location on each property.
Registration Strongly Recommended. Visit: https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/JbzKzcFMYx2JV9oH3CBM5Q
For more information visit: https://www.optimisttheatre.org/shakespeare-in-the-park-2025.html

Beetlejuice, Jr.
2025-07-12 15:00 - 16:15, 2025-07-12 19:00 - 20:15 | Children’s Theater of Madison, 1055 E Mifflin St, Madison, Wisconsin, 53703, United States
STARLIGHT THEATER AT MYARTS
Say the name three times and you’ll meet the (not so alive) star of this hilarious and heartfelt musical adaptation of Tim Burton’s classic film.
Run Time: 75 minutes + intermission
Friends, community and family – Join us for the culmination of this 3-week Starlight Series session –This performance will feature talented CTM kids from this session performing a full musical in the Starlight Theater at MYArts.
In this Starlight Series program, students strengthen their musical theater skills through daily rotating workshops, collaborate with a large ensemble of actors, gain a deeper understanding of what goes into putting on a production, and perform on our largest stage: the Starlight Theater at MYArts.
Tickets are Just $12!
Happens on the following Dates:
Jul 11, 2025, 7:00pm to 8:15pm Timezone: CDT
Jul 12, 2025, 3:00pm to 4:15pm Timezone: CDT
Jul 12, 2025, 7:00pm to 8:15pm Timezone: CDT

Shakespeare in the Park presents The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
2025-07-13 13:00 - 18:30 | Washington Park, Milwaukee, 1859 N 40th St, Milwaukee, WI, 53208, United States
Optimist Theatre’s free Shakespeare in the Park presents of The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
Grab your lawn chair and picnic snacks for a totally rad Shakespearean summer—where sun, swagger, and sharp-tongued banter rule the stage! This year’s productions, The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing, are reimagined with 1980s beach party flair, blending big laughs, bold choices, and a few surprises under the neon sky.
Each show day is a full experience. Before and between performances, The PLAY’s the Thing brings hands-on activities inspired by Shakespeare, theatre, and ‘80s pop culture. Early Music Now musicians will set the scene, performing Renaissance-era music in tubular 1980s beach attire.
Both plays are performed by the same trio of powerhouse actors. Shrew runs approximately 80 minutes, while the puppet-powered Much Ado is a breezy 45-minute romp. Expect quick changes, brilliant physical comedy and inventive staging (and puppetry in Much Ado!).
Abridged and directed by Kelley Faulkner,* with stage management by Melissa L. Wanke.* Featuring SitP favorite Libby Amato** and introducing George Lorimer** and Kailey Azure Green.
*Member of Actors’ Equity Association.
**Member of Actors’ Equity Association or appearing under an AEA contract.
Free Outdoor Performance
Washington Park, 1859 N 40th St, Milwaukee, WI 53208
1:00 PM – Seating Opens & The PLAY’s the Thing Activities Begin
2:00 PM – Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
2:45 PM – The PLAY’s the Thing tent reopens
4:10 PM – Early Music Now Performance
5:00 PM – The Taming of the Shrew
Show Address: Washington Park, 1859 N 40th St, Milwaukee, WI 53208
Addresses are provided however, please check the show page for exact performance location on each property.
Registration Strongly Recommended. Visit: https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/SSSMobrTJ8RuQ_2h6ePcfw
For more information visit: https://www.optimisttheatre.org/shakespeare-in-the-park-2025.html

Classic Movie: The 39 Steps
2025-07-14 18:00 - 20:00 | Taliesin Hillside Theater, 6604 Hwy 23, Spring Green, 53588, United States
Experience a classic movie in a historic space!
First shown at Taliesin in 1935, The 39 Steps is a classic comedy thriller and a highlight of Alfred Hitchcock’s directing career. While sitting in a London theatre watching a man perform dazzling memory tricks, Richard Hannay and the rest of the audience flee after hearing a gunshot. As he leaves, he encounters a young woman who asks if she can accompany him. Fascinated by her apparent terror, he agrees. During the night, however, she is murdered in his flat, and he must avoid the police long enough to find the real killers and clear his name.
This film is presented in partnership with the River Valley Film Club and American Players Theatre.

Classic Movie: The 39 Steps
2025-07-14 19:00 - 20:00 | Wisconsin

The Comedy of Errors
2025-07-18 17:00 - 2025-07-27 19:00 | Wisconsin
It’s the Comedy of…
Mistaken identities
Stolen jewelry
Quack medicine
Missed meals
Families reunited
Love at first sight.
It’s Shakespeare’s Comedy of Errors, presented by Madison Shakespeare Company for two weekends only this summer!
Egeon wants to find his long-lost boys.
Adriana wants her husband back.
Antipholus wants Adriana’s sister Luciana.
Dromio wants people to stop hitting him.
And everybody just wants to know what is going on around here.
Presented outdoors at the Madison Country Day School amphitheater. Bring a blanket, cushion, or chair for best comfort!
Performance will continue in light rain and other typical summer weather conditions. In the event of weather cancellation, guests will be invited back to a future MSC performance.
Directed by John Hendel and featuring the talents of MSC veterans including Travis Bedard as Antipholus of Syracuse, Laura Kochanowski as Adriana, Malcolm McCanles as Dromio of Ephesus, and Mary Dexter as the Abbess, alongside newcomers including Bill Buchanan, Ian Hughes, and Lee McKnight.
Performance dates:
July 18, 6:30 PM
July 19, 5:00 PM
July 20, 5:00 PM
July 25, 6:30 PM
July 26, 5:00 PM
July 27, 5:00 PM

Shakespeare in the Park presents The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
2025-07-19 13:00 - 18:30 | Humboldt Park, 3000 S Howell Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
Optimist Theatre’s free Shakespeare in the Park presents of The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
Grab your lawn chair and picnic snacks for a totally rad Shakespearean summer—where sun, swagger, and sharp-tongued banter rule the stage! This year’s productions, The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing, are reimagined with 1980s beach party flair, blending big laughs, bold choices, and a few surprises under the neon sky.
Each show day is a full experience. Before and between performances, The PLAY’s the Thing brings hands-on activities inspired by Shakespeare, theatre, and ‘80s pop culture. Early Music Now musicians will set the scene, performing Renaissance-era music in tubular 1980s beach attire.
Both plays are performed by the same trio of powerhouse actors. Shrew runs approximately 80 minutes, while the puppet-powered Much Ado is a breezy 45-minute romp. Expect quick changes, brilliant physical comedy and inventive staging (and puppetry in Much Ado!).
Abridged and directed by Kelley Faulkner,* with stage management by Melissa L. Wanke.* Featuring SitP favorite Libby Amato** and introducing George Lorimer** and Kailey Azure Green.
*Member of Actors’ Equity Association.
**Member of Actors’ Equity Association or appearing under an AEA contract.
Free Outdoor Performance
Humboldt Park, 3000 S Howell Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207
1:00 PM – Seating Opens & The PLAY’s the Thing Activities Begin
2:00 PM – Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
2:45 PM – The PLAY’s the Thing tent reopens
4:10 PM – Early Music Now Performance
5:00 PM – The Taming of the Shrew
Show Address: Humboldt Park, 3000 S Howell Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207
Addresses are provided however, please check the show page for exact performance location on each property.
Registration Strongly Recommended. Visit: https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/kNwqK9YrV54-N00R7nZy7w
For more information visit: https://www.optimisttheatre.org/shakespeare-in-the-park-2025.html

Dance Fabulous Presents: It’s Fabulous!!! A Variety Burlesque Cabaret
2025-07-19 20:00 - 23:00 | Atwood Music Hall, 1925 Winnebago Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin, 53704, United States
Get ready for a night of pure fabulousness!
Dance Fabulous presents a one-night-only show: ‘It’s Fabulous!!! A Variety Burlesque Cabaret’ at the NEW Atwood Music Hall, Saturday, July 19th at 8pm.
Packed with raucous musical theater numbers, a very special hits countdown, and lessons on how to “adult” from a twist on classic childhood television.
And you won’t want to miss our interactive game show section, where you might just win fabulous prizes.
Watch live performances by DOSES , and all your favorite stars from Madison’s stages , including bonafide burlesque champion, Plezher performing her award-winning roach number you have to see to believe!
Hosted by Dana Pellebon as Ms. Behavin’ with notable Madison burlesque performers Mae Summers, Cherry Popper and the return of Foxy Veronica. Over 30 dancers will take the stage in this celebration of all things fabulous.
It’s funny, it’s fierce, and it’s everything you didn’t know you needed in one unforgettable night.
Doors at 7pm, Show at 8pm, Run time: 90 minutes, dance party with DJ Scary Mike and the Geminis after the show. Vivent Health Services will be on hand to provide community resources and special giveaways.
Seated show, 18 years or older.
General Admission: $25/ADV $30/DOS
Balcony Seating: $40/ADV $45/DOS
Tickets at theatwoodmusichall.com.

Shakespeare in the Park presents The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
2025-07-20 13:00 - 18:30 | Sherman Park, 3000 N Sherman Blvd, Milwaukee, WI, 53210, United States
Optimist Theatre’s free Shakespeare in the Park presents of The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
Grab your lawn chair and picnic snacks for a totally rad Shakespearean summer—where sun, swagger, and sharp-tongued banter rule the stage! This year’s productions, The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing, are reimagined with 1980s beach party flair, blending big laughs, bold choices, and a few surprises under the neon sky.
Each show day is a full experience. Before and between performances, The PLAY’s the Thing brings hands-on activities inspired by Shakespeare, theatre, and ‘80s pop culture. Early Music Now musicians will set the scene, performing Renaissance-era music in tubular 1980s beach attire.
Both plays are performed by the same trio of powerhouse actors. Shrew runs approximately 80 minutes, while the puppet-powered Much Ado is a breezy 45-minute romp. Expect quick changes, brilliant physical comedy and inventive staging (and puppetry in Much Ado!).
Abridged and directed by Kelley Faulkner,* with stage management by Melissa L. Wanke.* Featuring SitP favorite Libby Amato** and introducing George Lorimer** and Kailey Azure Green.
*Member of Actors’ Equity Association.
**Member of Actors’ Equity Association or appearing under an AEA contract.
Free Outdoor Performance
Sherman Park, 3000 N Sherman Blvd, Milwaukee, WI 53210
1:00 PM – Seating Opens & The PLAY’s the Thing Activities Begin
2:00 PM – Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
2:45 PM – The PLAY’s the Thing tent reopens
4:10 PM – Early Music Now Performance
5:00 PM – The Taming of the Shrew
Show Address: Sherman Park, 3000 N Sherman Blvd, Milwaukee, WI 53210
Addresses are provided however, please check the show page for exact performance location on each property.
Registration Strongly Recommended. Visit: https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/9IOPVfNv4RmkJozG92A3_g
For more information visit: https://www.optimisttheatre.org/shakespeare-in-the-park-2025.html

Dance Nation
2025-07-24 19:30 - 2025-08-03 14:00 | Gilbert V. Hemsley Theatre – Vilas Hall, 821 University Ave, Madison, Wisconsin, 53706, United States
University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Department of Theatre and Drama / University Theatre
Presents
Dance Nation
By Clare Barron
Somewhere in America, an army of pre-teen competitive dancers plot to take over the world. And if their new routine is good enough, they will claw their way to the top at the Boogie Down Grand Prix in Tampa Bay. But in Clare Barron’s raucous pageant of ambition and ferocity, these young dancers have more than choreography on their minds, because every plié and jeté is a step toward finding themselves, and a fight to unleash their power.
Director Audrey Lauren Standish leads actors Blake Beam, Maya Buffomante, Ava Childs, Malika Dalikawa, Austin Demerath, Madison Gieryn, Megan McCary, Jameson Milhaupt, Amelie Rosenhagen, Jayda Smith, and AJ Stoffels.
Kristin Roling is the choreographer, assisted by Chloe Maier, Audrey Lauren Standish is the intimacy director, Thea Quick is the dramaturg, Juli Gessner is the scenic designer, Rebekah Jacobs is the costume designer, assisted by Arje Wilson, Aly Amidei is the hair and makeup designer, Megan Reilly is the lighting designer, assisted by Sophia Kaseno, Ryan Bertelson is the sound designer, Rob Wagner is the technical director, Isabel Osterhus is the props director, and Allison Kowalczyk is the stage manager, assisted by Allie Figueroa and Rachel Reichard.
Content Advisory: This production contains coarse language, depictions of self-harm, simulated masturbation and descriptions of masturbation, sex and sexual violence.
For more information visit https://theatre.wisc.edu/
This production is made possible by support from the Anonymous Block Grant and the Brittingham Trust.
Performances will be held July 24-August 3 and September 11-21 in the Gilbert V. Hemsley Theatre, Vilas Hall 821 University Avenue Madison WI 53706. Performance times for the summer are as follows:
Thursday July 24 @ 7:30pm
Friday July 25 @ 7:30pm
Saturday July 26 @ 2:00pm
Saturday July 26 @ 7:30pm
Sunday July 27 @ 2:00pm – talkback after the performance
Thursday July 31 @ 7:30pm
Friday August 1 @ 7:30pm
Saturday August 2 @ 2:00pm
Saturday August 2 @ 7:30pm
Sunday August 3 @ 2:00pm
Tickets for summer performances will be on sale July 7. Tickets for fall performances will be on sale August 11.
Ticket Prices:
$28 Adult
$23 Senior (62 +)
$23 UW Faculty/Staff (ID)
$10 UW Students and other College Students (ID)
$10 Children (K-12)
$17 Group Sales (10 tickets or more)
To Order Tickets:
1. Call 608-265-2787 (Open M-F 2-6 PM)
2. Online www.artsticketing.wisc.edu
3. Walk up sales: Mitchell Theatre Lobby Box Office opens 1 hour prior to performances for walk up sales.

Wabeno Area Players Present the Musical Comedy "Guys on Ice"
2025-07-25 19:00 - 21:00, 2025-07-26 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-07-26 19:00 - 21:00, 2025-07-27 14:00 - 16:00 | Nancy Volk Auditorium at Wabeno High School, 4325 Branch Street, Wabeno, Wisconsin. 54566, WABENO, Wisconsin, 54566, United States
The Wabeno Area Players are thrilled to present this purely Wisconsin comedy which was first produced in Door County in 1998. The play is about Marvin, Lloyd and Ernie escaping reality during the bitter cold of winter, trading ice-fishing jokes and talking about life in Wisconsin, as they jig their poles and patiently wait for ‘the big one” to bite.
Performances are Friday, July 25 at 7:00pm, Saturday, July 26 at 2:00pm and 7:00pm and Sunday, July 27 at 2:00pm. All performances are in the Nancy Volk Auditorium in Wabeno, WI. Tickets are available online at wabenoareaplayers.org and at the door. Adults/$15 and Students/$10

Shakespeare in the Park presents The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
2025-07-26 13:00 - 18:30 | Mitchell Park, 524 S. Layton Blvd, Milwaukee, WI, 53204, United States
Optimist Theatre’s free Shakespeare in the Park presents of The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
Grab your lawn chair and picnic snacks for a totally rad Shakespearean summer—where sun, swagger, and sharp-tongued banter rule the stage! This year’s productions, The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing, are reimagined with 1980s beach party flair, blending big laughs, bold choices, and a few surprises under the neon sky.
Each show day is a full experience. Before and between performances, The PLAY’s the Thing brings hands-on activities inspired by Shakespeare, theatre, and ‘80s pop culture. Early Music Now musicians will set the scene, performing Renaissance-era music in tubular 1980s beach attire.
Both plays are performed by the same trio of powerhouse actors. Shrew runs approximately 80 minutes, while the puppet-powered Much Ado is a breezy 45-minute romp. Expect quick changes, brilliant physical comedy and inventive staging (and puppetry in Much Ado!).
Abridged and directed by Kelley Faulkner,* with stage management by Melissa L. Wanke.* Featuring SitP favorite Libby Amato** and introducing George Lorimer** and Kailey Azure Green.
*Member of Actors’ Equity Association.
**Member of Actors’ Equity Association or appearing under an AEA contract.
Free Outdoor Performance
Mitchell Park, 524 S Layton Blvd, Milwaukee, WI 53204
1:00 PM – Seating Opens & The PLAY’s the Thing Activities Begin
2:00 PM – Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
2:45 PM – The PLAY’s the Thing tent reopens
4:10 PM – Early Music Now Performance
5:00 PM – The Taming of the Shrew
Show Address: Mitchell Park, 524 S Layton Blvd, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Addresses are provided however, please check the show page for exact performance location on each property.
Registration Strongly Recommended. Visit: https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/Iz49gCznG-_kLXEW60RWSg
For more information visit: https://www.optimisttheatre.org/shakespeare-in-the-park-2025.html

Shakespeare in the Park presents The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
2025-07-27 13:00 - 18:30 | Grant Park, 100 E Hawthorne Ave (Area 5), South Milwaukee, WI, 53172, United States
Optimist Theatre’s free Shakespeare in the Park presents of The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
Grab your lawn chair and picnic snacks for a totally rad Shakespearean summer—where sun, swagger, and sharp-tongued banter rule the stage! This year’s productions, The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing, are reimagined with 1980s beach party flair, blending big laughs, bold choices, and a few surprises under the neon sky.
Each show day is a full experience. Before and between performances, The PLAY’s the Thing brings hands-on activities inspired by Shakespeare, theatre, and ‘80s pop culture. Early Music Now musicians will set the scene, performing Renaissance-era music in tubular 1980s beach attire.
Both plays are performed by the same trio of powerhouse actors. Shrew runs approximately 80 minutes, while the puppet-powered Much Ado is a breezy 45-minute romp. Expect quick changes, brilliant physical comedy and inventive staging (and puppetry in Much Ado!).
Abridged and directed by Kelley Faulkner,* with stage management by Melissa L. Wanke.* Featuring SitP favorite Libby Amato** and introducing George Lorimer** and Kailey Azure Green.
*Member of Actors’ Equity Association.
**Member of Actors’ Equity Association or appearing under an AEA contract.
Free Outdoor Performance
Grant Park, 100 E Hawthorne Ave, South Milwaukee, WI 53172 (Area 5)
1:00 PM – Seating Opens & The PLAY’s the Thing Activities Begin
2:00 PM – Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
2:45 PM – The PLAY’s the Thing tent reopens
4:10 PM – Early Music Now Performance
5:00 PM – The Taming of the Shrew
Show Address: Grant Park, 100 E Hawthorne Ave, South Milwaukee, WI 53172 (Area 5)
Addresses are provided however, please check the show page for exact performance location on each property.
Registration Strongly Recommended. Visit: https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/KLGWpyUA4UMWmlrht9j1_Q
For more information visit: https://www.optimisttheatre.org/shakespeare-in-the-park-2025.html

Capital City Theatre Presents Stephen Sondheim’s Assassins
2025-08-01 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-08-02 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-08-03 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-08-07 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-08-08 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-08-09 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-08-10 14:00 - 16:00 | Overture Center for the Arts, 201 State Street, Madison, Wisconsin, 53703, United States
A journey through the dark side of the American dream, Stephen Sondheim and John Weidman’s Tony-winning musical Assassins explores the lives of nine men and women who either killed (or tried to kill) one of the Presidents of the United States. From John Wilkes Booth to Lee Harvey Oswald and beyond, the stories of our country’s most successful and would-be assassins intersect in unexpected ways, creating a powerful, yet unnervingly funny look at some of the most shocking moments in US history.

Shakespeare in the Park presents The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
2025-08-02 13:00 - 18:30 | Lake Park, 2975 N Lake Park Rd, Milwaukee, WI, 53211, United States
Optimist Theatre’s free Shakespeare in the Park presents of The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
Grab your lawn chair and picnic snacks for a totally rad Shakespearean summer—where sun, swagger, and sharp-tongued banter rule the stage! This year’s productions, The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing, are reimagined with 1980s beach party flair, blending big laughs, bold choices, and a few surprises under the neon sky.
Each show day is a full experience. Before and between performances, The PLAY’s the Thing brings hands-on activities inspired by Shakespeare, theatre, and ‘80s pop culture. Early Music Now musicians will set the scene, performing Renaissance-era music in tubular 1980s beach attire.
Both plays are performed by the same trio of powerhouse actors. Shrew runs approximately 80 minutes, while the puppet-powered Much Ado is a breezy 45-minute romp. Expect quick changes, brilliant physical comedy and inventive staging (and puppetry in Much Ado!).
Abridged and directed by Kelley Faulkner,* with stage management by Melissa L. Wanke.* Featuring SitP favorite Libby Amato** and introducing George Lorimer** and Kailey Azure Green.
*Member of Actors’ Equity Association.
**Member of Actors’ Equity Association or appearing under an AEA contract.
Free Outdoor Performance
Lake Park (New Location!), 2975 N Lake Park Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53211
1:00 PM – Seating Opens & The PLAY’s the Thing Activities Begin
2:00 PM – Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
2:45 PM – The PLAY’s the Thing tent reopens
4:10 PM – Early Music Now Performance
5:00 PM – The Taming of the Shrew
Show Address: Lake Park (New Location!), 2975 N Lake Park Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53211
Addresses are provided however, please check the show page for exact performance location on each property.
Registration Strongly Recommended. Visit: https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/El4tUFdO2XJzt7K_j7PfKA
For more information visit: https://www.optimisttheatre.org/shakespeare-in-the-park-2025.html

A Play Reading: "Reading Anna K"
2025-08-02 16:00 - 18:00 | Token Creek Concert Barn, 4037 State Road 19, DeForest, Wisconsin, 53562, United States
Token Creek presents a play reading! Synopsis: Not everyone in the senior-living book club wants to read Anna Karenina. But they tackle it anyway….and in so doing open long- buried memories, test friendships, and rediscover what it means to be human—to need, to want, and to love. In “Reading Anna K” playwright Fran Zell takes a heartfelt look at life imitating art while exploring our endless need for friendship, love, and new beginnings.
Run time: 75 min.
Talkback and reception follow.

Shakespeare in the Park presents The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
2025-08-03 13:00 - 18:30 | Wisconsin
Optimist Theatre’s free Shakespeare in the Park presents of The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
Grab your lawn chair and picnic snacks for a totally rad Shakespearean summer—where sun, swagger, and sharp-tongued banter rule the stage! This year’s productions, The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing, are reimagined with 1980s beach party flair, blending big laughs, bold choices, and a few surprises under the neon sky.
Each show day is a full experience. Before and between performances, The PLAY’s the Thing brings hands-on activities inspired by Shakespeare, theatre, and ‘80s pop culture. Early Music Now musicians will set the scene, performing Renaissance-era music in tubular 1980s beach attire.
Both plays are performed by the same trio of powerhouse actors. Shrew runs approximately 80 minutes, while the puppet-powered Much Ado is a breezy 45-minute romp. Expect quick changes, brilliant physical comedy and inventive staging (and puppetry in Much Ado!).
Abridged and directed by Kelley Faulkner,* with stage management by Melissa L. Wanke.* Featuring SitP favorite Libby Amato** and introducing George Lorimer** and Kailey Azure Green.
*Member of Actors’ Equity Association.
**Member of Actors’ Equity Association or appearing under an AEA contract.
Free Outdoor Performance
Forest Home Cemetery & Arboretum, 2405 W Forest Home Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53215
1:00 PM – Seating Opens & The PLAY’s the Thing Activities Begin
2:00 PM – Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
2:45 PM – The PLAY’s the Thing tent reopens
4:10 PM – Early Music Now Performance
5:00 PM – The Taming of the Shrew
Show Address: Forest Home Cemetery & Arboretum, 2405 W Forest Home Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53215
Addresses are provided however, please check the show page for exact performance location on each property.
Registration Strongly Recommended. Visit: https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/7P5lvrg6VTL2R-ydHIAwDA
For more information visit: https://www.optimisttheatre.org/shakespeare-in-the-park-2025.html

Hadestown: Teen Edition
2025-08-08 14:00 - 2025-08-10 21:15 | Starlight Theater at MYArts, 1055 E Mifflin St, Madison, Wisconsin, 53703, United States
GET TICKETS NOW!
Join us for the culmination of this 4-week Advanced Acting Academy Production!
Welcome to Hadestown, where a song can change your fate. This jazz-inflected folk opera won the Tony Award for Best Musical and took Broadway by storm!
This show will feature talented CTM high schoolers performing a two-hour-long musical with intermission in the Starlight Theater at MYArts.
Tickets are only $20!
Note: This musical has mature themes. Recommended for ages 8+.
Happens on the following Dates:
Aug 8, 2025, 7:00pm to 9:15pm Timezone: CDT
Aug 9, 2025, 2:00pm to 4:15pm Timezone: CDT
Aug 9, 2025, 7:00pm to 9:15pm Timezone: CDT
Aug 10, 2025, 2:00pm to 4:15pm Timezone: CDT

Shakespeare in the Park presents The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
2025-08-09 13:00 - 18:30 | Kern Park, 3614 N. Humboldt Blvd., Milwaukee, WI, 53212, United States
Optimist Theatre’s free Shakespeare in the Park presents of The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
Grab your lawn chair and picnic snacks for a totally rad Shakespearean summer—where sun, swagger, and sharp-tongued banter rule the stage! This year’s productions, The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing, are reimagined with 1980s beach party flair, blending big laughs, bold choices, and a few surprises under the neon sky.
Each show day is a full experience. Before and between performances, The PLAY’s the Thing brings hands-on activities inspired by Shakespeare, theatre, and ‘80s pop culture. Early Music Now musicians will set the scene, performing Renaissance-era music in tubular 1980s beach attire.
Both plays are performed by the same trio of powerhouse actors. Shrew runs approximately 80 minutes, while the puppet-powered Much Ado is a breezy 45-minute romp. Expect quick changes, brilliant physical comedy and inventive staging (and puppetry in Much Ado!).
Abridged and directed by Kelley Faulkner,* with stage management by Melissa L. Wanke.* Featuring SitP favorite Libby Amato** and introducing George Lorimer** and Kailey Azure Green.
*Member of Actors’ Equity Association.
**Member of Actors’ Equity Association or appearing under an AEA contract.
Free Outdoor Performance
Kern Park (New Location!), 3614 N Humboldt Blvd, Milwaukee, WI 53212
1:00 PM – Seating Opens & The PLAY’s the Thing Activities Begin
2:00 PM – Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
2:45 PM – The PLAY’s the Thing tent reopens
4:10 PM – Early Music Now Performance
5:00 PM – The Taming of the Shrew
Show Address: Kern Park (New Location!), 3614 N Humboldt Blvd, Milwaukee, WI 53212
Addresses are provided however, please check the show page for exact performance location on each property.
Registration Strongly Recommended. Visit: https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/v4G8APsGkBkgGwIi-c4pDg
For more information visit: https://www.optimisttheatre.org/shakespeare-in-the-park-2025.html

Shakespeare in the Park presents The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
2025-08-10 13:00 - 18:30 | Lincoln Park, 1301 W. Hampton Blvd., Glendale, WI, 53209, United States
Optimist Theatre’s free Shakespeare in the Park presents of The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
Grab your lawn chair and picnic snacks for a totally rad Shakespearean summer—where sun, swagger, and sharp-tongued banter rule the stage! This year’s productions, The Taming of the Shrew and Much Ado About Nothing, are reimagined with 1980s beach party flair, blending big laughs, bold choices, and a few surprises under the neon sky.
Each show day is a full experience. Before and between performances, The PLAY’s the Thing brings hands-on activities inspired by Shakespeare, theatre, and ‘80s pop culture. Early Music Now musicians will set the scene, performing Renaissance-era music in tubular 1980s beach attire.
Both plays are performed by the same trio of powerhouse actors. Shrew runs approximately 80 minutes, while the puppet-powered Much Ado is a breezy 45-minute romp. Expect quick changes, brilliant physical comedy and inventive staging (and puppetry in Much Ado!).
Abridged and directed by Kelley Faulkner,* with stage management by Melissa L. Wanke.* Featuring SitP favorite Libby Amato** and introducing George Lorimer** and Kailey Azure Green.
*Member of Actors’ Equity Association.
**Member of Actors’ Equity Association or appearing under an AEA contract.
Free Outdoor Performance
Lincoln Park, 1301 W Hampton Ave, Glendale, WI 53209
1:00 PM – Seating Opens & The PLAY’s the Thing Activities Begin
2:00 PM – Much Ado About Nothing – Puppet Edition
2:45 PM – The PLAY’s the Thing tent reopens
4:10 PM – Early Music Now Performance
5:00 PM – The Taming of the Shrew
Show Address: Lincoln Park, 1301 W Hampton Ave, Glendale, WI 53209
Addresses are provided however, please check the show page for exact performance location on each property.
Registration Strongly Recommended. Visit: https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/vLlSOEHoZCvIUF7QvAoilg
For more information visit: https://www.optimisttheatre.org/shakespeare-in-the-park-2025.html
