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Behind the Scenes of the Wisconsin Union Theater

The green room. Every venue in show business has one. It's a place for performers to relax before, during and after a show and the energy varies, depending on which artist walks through the door: Excited, nervous, calm. We welcome you to join us and take a look at what goes on behind the scenes look at the theater. Welcome to the green room!

By Charlie Pingel

In October 2024, we welcomed the classical a cappella ensemble Chanticleer to Shannon Hall. Now, we invite you to experience a distinctly different side of the genre with the Grammy-winning, “vocal experimentation” a cappella group, Roomful of Teeth on April 9.

Two music virtuosos in one family? Yes, it’s true in the Shaham family. Siblings and music virtuosos renowned around the world violinist Gil Saham and pianist Orli Shaham are coming to the Shannon Hall stage at Memorial Union on April 3 at 7:30 p.m. 

On March 19, The Acting Company will perform August Wilson’s “Two Trains Running” in the Wisconsin Union Theater’s (WUT’s) Shannon Hall, filling the stage with talent, history and stories. Currently on a national tour, The Acting Company will share the story of a diner owner in the Hill District of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania during the civil rights movement.

By Charlie Pingel

Taiko drumming is an ancient art form approximately 1,600 years old, and it remains one of the most prominent cultural traditions in Japan. Passed down through generations, the raw energy and power of Taiko performances have captivated audiences across the globe.

In our evolving, ever-changing world, one constant is advocating for societal change. This includes posting on social media, speaking at an event, calling your local congressman and talking to your extended family during the holidays. Ensuring your voice is heard comes in many forms, but especially in the arts. 

We are thrilled to announce that the iconic Brooklyn-based hip-hop duo, Smif-N-Wessun, will perform at the Play Circle on Thursday, Feb. 13! Known for its groundbreaking beats and lyrical prowess, Smif-N-Wessun has been a staple in the hip-hop community since the release of its iconic album, “Dah Shinin’.” This performance is part of the Wisconsin Union’s Black Box Sessions, bringing the best of early-aughts hip-hop to Madison.

“You must imagine it to manifest it.” – André De Shields

University of Wisconsin–Madison undergraduates can now apply for the Wisconsin Union Theater’s (WUT’s) André De Shields Fund grants to realize their artistic visions aimed at inspiring social change. 

The 2024-25 Wisconsin Union Theater season brings talent from across the world this spring semester, presenting Madison with extraordinary performances through May. A combination of Grammy Award-winning and nominated artists, including Gil Shaham, Roomful of Teeth and Branford Marsalis Quartet, to name a few, are coming for one-day-only performances. You do not want to miss this accomplished lineup! 

PUBLIQuartet is an innovative string quartet on a mission to reimagine classical music through a multicultural and genre-blending lens. Applauded for their ability to blur the lines between classical, jazz, and contemporary music, the ensemble—Curtis Stewart (violin), Jannina Norpoth (violin), Nick Revel (viola), and Hamilton Berry (cello)—has garnered critical acclaim, including two GRAMMY nominations.

By Charlie Pingel

Since 1939, the Wisconsin Union Theater seasons have showcased a multitude of genres and artistic mediums, from classical music and dance to theater and jazz. This year, we are thrilled to bring the vibrant and dynamic styles of Hip Hop to the theater for the 2024-25 Season with our new series, the Black Box Sessions.