News Summary
Milwaukee will host the grand opening of the Associated Bank Theater Center, featuring Broadway star Bernadette Peters. The $80 million facility aims to enrich the local arts scene, encompassing three distinct theaters and a comprehensive education center. The opening date is set for October 11, with tickets going on sale starting May 5. This venue promises to be a remarkable addition for performances and events, reflecting a significant investment in Milwaukee’s cultural landscape.
Milwaukee is set to celebrate the grand opening of the Associated Bank Theater Center on October 11, 2025, with a concert featuring Broadway legend Bernadette Peters. This momentous event marks the culmination of an $80 million investment into the Milwaukee Repertory Theater’s new facility, which aims to enhance the arts scene in the area.
The new theater center covers an expansive 152,500 square feet and is located at 108 E. Wells St., occupying the same site as the previously existing Patty & Jay Baker Theater Complex. It includes three distinct theaters designed to host a variety of performances and events.
Theaters and Facilities
The center encompasses the Ellen & Joe Checota Powerhouse Theater, the Herro-Franke Studio Theater, and the Stackner Cabaret. The Ellen & Joe Checota Powerhouse Theater is the main venue for large-scale productions, providing extensive seating and advanced technical capabilities for major shows. The Herro-Franke Studio Theater will serve as an intimate black box space for innovative and experimental works, with completion expected by February 2026 as part of Phase II of the project. The Stackner Cabaret, which was renovated in 2018, will continue to host smaller productions and special events with a full dining experience.
The theater complex also boasts a modernized lobby featuring numerous restrooms, concessions, and seating areas to enhance visitor experience. An education and engagement center is integrated into the facility, aimed at serving over 20,000 students annually and facilitating educational programming.
Accessibility Features
The theater center places a strong emphasis on accessibility, integrating industry-leading accessibility programs and adaptive technology to ensure all patrons, regardless of mobility or sensory limitations, can enjoy the performances.
Construction and Design
The development of the Associated Bank Theater Center involved nearly 240,000 work hours, reflecting a significant commitment to construction quality and safety standards. The design was executed by EUA, alongside theater consultants Fisher Dachs Associates, ensuring that the facility meets the needs of both performers and audiences alike.
Ticket Information and Future Events
The grand opening concert, which will feature Bernadette Peters, serves as both a celebration and fundraising opportunity. Tickets for the event will be available first to donors who supported the capital campaign, with remaining tickets going on general sale starting May 5, 2025. Ticket prices range from $100 to $450.
Following the grand opening, the Milwaukee Repertory Theater will launch its 2025/2026 Season in November with the musical “Come From Away,” further promising a diverse range of productions in the new venue.
Conclusion
The grand opening of the Associated Bank Theater Center is set to be a landmark event for both the Milwaukee Repertory Theater and the vibrant Milwaukee arts community at large, symbolizing a bright future for the city’s cultural landscape.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- BizTimes
- Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
- BroadwayWorld
- Urban Milwaukee
- The Architect’s Newspaper
- Wikipedia: Milwaukee
Author: STAFF HERE MILWAUKEE WRITER
MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
