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Wisconsin Union Theater

About Us

As the premier performing arts presenter at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, the Wisconsin Union Theater (WUT) brings extraordinary music, dance, and theater to life through its annual season. More than a stage, it serves as a learning lab for student leaders. Through the Wisconsin Union Directorate, students gain hands-on experience in artistic curation, artist services, and event promotion, honing invaluable skills with guidance and mentorship from professional staff.

Beyond presenting a vibrant season, WUT welcomes university departments, student organizations, and the greater Madison community, who rent our state-of-the-art venue for performances, symposiums, graduations, and conferences. WUT also owns and operates Campus Arts Ticketing, which provides seamless ticket sales and box office services for the arts on campus.

Whether bringing world-class artists to the stage or empowering students behind the scenes, WUT is at the heart of Madison’s cultural scene.

See the 2025-2026 Season Lineup

WUT's performance spaces include Shannon Hall, Play Circle, and the Festival Room, a large rehearsal space/dance studio. All spaces have fully sprung stage floors, state-of-the-art lighting, and comprehensive sound and video systems.

The Wisconsin Union Theater is committed to creating an inclusive place for the staff, crew, and students who work in the WUT and for the performers, artists, and audience members who engage with the WUT through our programming, events, and activities.

Upcoming Events

Feb
12
Feb 12 2026 | 7:30 - 9:30pm
Wisconsin Union Theater
Ticketed Event
Superstar mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato joins Time for Three in a new work by Kevin Puts, which synthesizes music, visuals, and poetry to celebrate Emily Dickinson.
Emily No Prisoners Be 1200x800
Feb
28
Feb 28 2026 | 7:30 - 9:30pm
Wisconsin Union Theater
Ticketed Event
Featuring trumpeter Jeremy Pelt, saxophonist Tivon Pennicott, and pianist Emmet Cohen, celebrate the centennial of Miles Davis and John Coltrane.
Photo of Emmet Cohen leaning against a wooden desk.
Mar
05
Mar 5 2026 | 7:30 - 9:30pm
Wisconsin Union Theater
Ticketed Event
Two of opera’s brightest stars and Metropolitan Opera favorites, soprano Erin Morley and tenor Lawrence Brownlee, share the stage for an evening of bel canto brilliance.
Split frame featuring images of Erin Morley (left) and Lawrence Brownlee (right)
Mar
12
Mar 12 2026 | 7:30 - 9:30pm
Wisconsin Union Theater
Ticketed Event
Virtuoso singer, dancer, percussionist, and songwriter from Côte d’Ivoire, Dobet Gnahoré, offers a message of hope for the future with her new album.
Photo of Dobet Gnahore wearing a red dress with yellow and green jewelry, standing with her hand on her hips.
Mar
18
Mar 18 2026 | 7:30 - 9:30pm
Wisconsin Union Theater
Ticketed Event
Blending movement, personal stories, and striking visuals, Bill T. Jones’s "Still / Here," remounting 30 years after its premiere, is a testament to the survival and strength of people facing life-threatening conditions.
Photo of dance company members on stage with their arms raised, wearing white clothing illuminated by pastel lights.
Mar
22
Mar 22 2026 | 7:30 - 9:30pm
Wisconsin Union Theater
Ticketed Event
Featuring masterpieces of Bach, Haydn, and Beethoven, the Doric String Quartet continues to win over audiences with their combination of elegance and intimacy.
Photo of Doric String Quartet dressed in formal attire holding their instruments.
Apr
16
Apr 16 2026 | 7:30 - 9:30pm
Wisconsin Union Theater
Ticketed Event
The Attacca Quartet and Pulitzer Prize winner Caroline Shaw team up for a performance of cutting-edge music that proves that the future of classical music is bright.
Square photo of Attacca quartet members smiling in front of a light blue background
Apr
30
Apr 30 2026 | 7:30 - 9:30pm
Wisconsin Union Theater
Ticketed Event
With some 29 GRAMMY and Latin GRAMMY awards between them, legends Chucho Valdés and Paquito D’Rivera reunite on a tour celebrating their 60-year friendship.
Photo of Chucho Valdes and Paquito D'Rivera standing next to each other with arms crossed, both wearing colorful patterned shirts