2024/25 Season Brochure - Milwaukee Repertory Theater

#WeRepMilwaukee

Join Us For An Extraordinary Season!

Milwaukee Rep has embarked on a defining moment for our community as we build the Associated Bank Theater Center, the new three-theater complex that will set an impressively dramatic theatergoing standard for generations of Milwaukeeans to come.

While this exciting facility is built, Milwaukee Rep is committed to producing a full season of 12 remarkable shows as part of our 2024/25 Season. These larger-than-life productions will entertain and inspire. You’ll experience breathtaking performances, soul-shaking rhythms, fresh takes on classics and bold World Premieres.

Why Subscribe?

Guaranteed Seats. Next season many of our temporary venues will have less seating. Subscribing is the only way to guarantee seeing the shows you are most excited about.

It pays to Subscribe. Single Tickets to our most popular shows regularly exceed $100 (if you can get them!) Subscribers are the first in line and on average pay 70% less.

Ultimate flexibility. We know life happens. Call us 48 hours prior to your show to exchange for another performance of the same production for free.

Exclusive access and discounts. Get priority access and the best discount for all off-Subscription productions.

No order/processing fees. That’s an additional savings of up to $38 per Subscription.

Priority Seating in the new Associated Bank Theater Center. Subscribers to the 2024/25 Season will have earlier access to seating selection in our beautiful new home. As a next-generation facility with modern amenities like bigger seats, improved patron accessibility and enhanced experiences, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to have priority seating of the highly anticipated first season in the Associated Bank Theater Center.

Explore the fantastic shows in our upcoming season in the following pages and then sign up today for an incredible range of experiences.

Cheers,

MARK CLEMENTS

Artistic Director

IMPORTANT ALTERNATE VENUE INFORMATION for the 2024/25 Season

During the 2024/25 Season our exciting new home, the Associated Bank Theater Center, will be under construction. You'll find the productions which typically would have been performed in the Powerhouse Theater at three alternate venues which were selected to provide you with an experience that meets the worldclass quality you know and love from Milwaukee Rep. Productions in our Stiemke Studio and Stackner Cabaret Seasons, as well as A Christmas Carol, will be performed in their regular venues.

Please see the theater key below for alternate venue information which will also be included on on the individual play pages. For more information about venues see www.MilwaukeeRep.com/Subscriptions.

Alternate Venue Schedule

* These productions will run for a longer period of time to accommodate all of our Subscribers. This is in addition to the two plays typically held in the Stiemke Studio.

STK Stacker Cabaret

STM Stiemke Studio

SLW Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts

The Harris Theater

VH Marcus Performing Arts Center Wilson Theater at Vogel Hall

BIGGEST VALUE PACKAGES

11 Plays From $362

See them all! For the ultimate Rep insider! See all 11 plays so you won't miss a moment of our exciting season.

STK STM SLW VH

MORE FOR LESS PACKAGES

5 Plays From $112

See all 5 shows in our Powerhouse Series.

9 Plays From $296

See all 5 plays in our Powerhouse Series and 4 plays in the Stackner Cabaret.

STK STM SLW VH

7 Plays From $178

See 5 shows in our Powerhouse Series and 2 shows in our Stiemke Studio Series.

STM SLW VH

STM SLW VH

MOST FLEXIBLE PACKAGES Create Your Own Season (CYOS) From $220

Choose a minimum of any 4 plays out of 11. Want to see more than 4? You can purchase a 5 Play CYOS or 6 Play CYOS. Some seating restrictions do apply.

STK STM SLW VH

4 Plays From $184

See all 4 shows in our most intimate space, the Stackner Cabaret. From dinner to drinks to great theater, you can’t go wrong.

STK

FlexPass Subscription

$372

Mix-and-match your favorite shows. Get 6 ticket vouchers to use for the best available seats in any combination. You don’t have to pick your plays or dates now. Choose them up to 48 hours in advance—subject to availability.

STK STM SLW VH

SEPTEMBER 3 – OCTOBER 6, 2024

By Keith Bunin

Directed by Mark Clements

Stiemke Studio

A funny look at life, gone off the rails

Direct from Lincoln Center where it left both critics and audiences stunned, the intensely funny and resonant The Coast Starlight pulls into Milwaukee. A young man armed with a secret that can land him in terrible trouble boards the Coast Starlight, the long-distance train that runs from Los Angeles to Seattle. With the help of his fellow travelers, all of whom are reckoning with their own choices, he has one thousand miles to figure out a way forward.

"Sends up sparks of sharp humor! Let it do what any train should — move you."

—The New York Times

Executive Producers

Karen & Mark Bitzan

Judy Hansen

Rhonda & Greg Oberland

Mara & Craig Swan

Christine Symchych & Jim McNulty

Associate Producers

Susan & Howard Schoenfeld

The Stiemke Studio Season is presented by Four-Four Foundation

SEPTEMBER 6 – NOVEMBER 3, 2024

Created by Mark Clements

Stackner Cabaret

The iconic songs of legendary women

Get ready for the ultimate celebration of the legendary women who changed rock music forever. With soaring vocals, powerful songwriting and phenomenal cool, trailblazing superstars like Janis Joplin, Tina Turner, Joan Jett, Debbie Harry, Alanis Morissette, Brandi Carlile, P!nk and more, gave us anthems that rose to the top of the charts. In this unforgettable live concert, top-notch performers deliver stunning renditions of hit songs from the 60s, 70s, 80s to today, and share the stories behind the music. This is a World Premiere event that you won’t want to miss!

Corporate Sponsor Executive Producers

Beth & Pete Gottsacker

Associate Producers

Jane & Steve Chernof

Richard Grunke & William Grasch

Krista Kile

Diane K. O’Connor

SEPTEMBER 10 – OCTOBER 19, 2024

Music by Daniel Messé | Lyrics by Sean Hartley & Daniel Messé

Book by Craig Lucas

Directed by David Ivers

A John (Jack) D. Lewis New Play Development Program Production

The Harris Theater | Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts

Just one kiss can change everything

This hit romantic comedy soars to new heights in a World Premiere musical that refreshes and elevates its fairy tale love story. When Peter and Rita are approached by a mysterious guest at their storybook wedding, the boundaries of true love are tested, taking them on a fantastic journey of self-discovery. Adapted from the Tony-nominated play by Broadway great Craig Lucas (The Light in the Piazza, American in Paris) that also inspired the 1992 hit film of the same name, and with a breathtaking score by Daniel Messé ( Amélie) and Sean Hartley (Little Women the Musical ), you’ll love this powerfully moving musical that gives the phrase “for better or worse” new meaning.

Corporate Sponsor

Executive Producers

Melanie & Steve Booth

Sandy & Bill Haack

A Co-Production with South Coast Repertory

Associate Producers

Dr. Eric Durant & Scott Swickard

Kerryann Haase Minton & Joe Minton

Diane & Clark Slipher

OCTOBER 22 – DECEMBER 22, 2024

By George Brant

Directed by E. Faye Butler

Stiemke Studio

Rock ’n’ roll’s roof-raising soul sisters

Before Little Richard, Johnny Cash and Jimi Hendrix, Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s groundbreaking blend of gospel music, swing rhythms and fierce electric guitar made her an unconventional music superstar in the 1930s and 40s. Acclaimed writer George Brant (Grounded ) unearths the unsung roots of the fearless “Godmother of Rock ’n’ Roll” and her wide-eyed protégée Marie Knight, as they begin their revolutionary ascent to become one of the most influential teams in music history. Starring Rep favorites Alexis J Roston (Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill; Nina Simone: Four Women) and Bethany Thomas (Ragtime, Hedwig and the Angry Inch) and featuring a rich mix of songs from the early days of rock ’n' roll, this magnetic play with music is a sure-fire can’t-miss show.

“Dramatically rich, musically irresistible... one powerhouse number after another.” —Chicago Sun-Times

Executive Producer

Maureen McCabe

Associate Producers

Rania & Pat Dempsey

Katie & Chris Hermann

NOVEMBER 8, 2024 – JANUARY 12, 2025

Book & Lyrics by Fred Alley | Music by James Kaplan

Story by Fred Alley & James Kaplan

Directed & Choreographed by Jeffrey Herbst

Love and laughter in the Northwoods

A smash hit in Wisconsin and around the country, Lumberjacks in Love is a hilarious show filled with up nort’ humor and fun-loving songs. From the creators of Guys on Ice, this flannel-clad musical takes us to the Northwoods in 1912, where a camp of burly lumberjacks revel in their bachelor lives as the only men in hundreds of miles — until a special delivery named Rose shows up and flips their lives around like a flapjack. Nothing is quite like it seems for these colorful characters as they search for friendship, romance and truth in this irresistible, light-hearted musical comedy.

“Uproariously clever and funny... resonates with tender humanity and humor.” —BroadwayWorld

Executive Producers

John Halechko & Marc Colletti

Stackner Cabaret

JANUARY 17 – MARCH 16, 2025

Written by Mark Clements and Deanie Vallone

Directed by Mark Clements

A John (Jack) D. Lewis New Play Development Program Production

Stackner Cabaret

Songs and stories in a charming Irish pub

Step in to one of South Kerry's most welcoming pubs, somewhere along the Dingle Peninsula, where stories and songs flow as easy as a whiskey and a pint – with a group of master storyteller-musicians leading the way. From jigs and fairy tales, to drinking songs and war stories, you’ll enjoy good cheer and great company while having some craic along the way. The Irish spirit of love and resilience shines through in classics like “Danny Boy,” “Whiskey in the Jar,” “Star of the County Down” and “The Irish Rover” that’ll have you raising a glass and shouting sláinte by the end of the show!

Executive Producers

Judi & Chris Collins

Associate Producers

Amelie Clements

Renee & Tom McCutcheon

Meredith & Thomas Scrivner

JANUARY 21 – MARCH 23, 2025

Adapted by Stephen Mallatratt

Directed by Robin Herford

A spine-tingling theatrical event

Direct from London’s West End comes the chilling and electrifying theatrical event that has kept millions of audiences on the edge of their seats for more than 30 years. Director Robin Herford’s production is a gripping study in atmosphere, illusion and controlled horror. A lawyer obsessed with a curse that he believes has been cast over him and his family by the specter of a woman in black - engages a skeptical young actor to help him tell his terrifying story and hopefully exorcise the fear that grips his soul. As they reach further into his darkest memories, they find themselves ensnared in a world of eerie marshes and moaning winds. What happens next is something you must see to believe!

“One of British theatre's biggest – and scariest – hits.” —The Guardian

FEBRUARY 25 – MARCH 30, 2025

By William Shakespeare

Adapted & Directed by Laura Braza

Wilson Theater at Vogel Hall | Marcus Performing Arts Center

Soaring passion illuminates a new generation

Get swept away by forbidden romance and heart-pounding passion in this refreshing adaptation of the most celebrated love story of all time. Set to the bright, blue-collar rhythms of Appalachian bluegrass and folk-rock, Shakespeare’s star-crossed couple soars to new heights as they risk everything for the joy of being together, surrounded by a withering city on the brink of despair. Associate Artistic Director Laura Braza continues the tradition established by recent hit productions of As You Like It and Much Ado About Nothing by fusing great music with Shakespeare’s poetry to create a sparkling take on a beloved classic that will appeal to all generations.

Executive Producers

Bob Balderson

Rebecca & Bryan House

MARCH 21 – MAY 18, 2025

Written and Composed by Jason Robert Brown

Directed by Kelley Faulkner

Stackner Cabaret

True love never did run smooth

Tony-winning composer Jason Robert Brown (Parade, The Bridges of Madison County), delivers ballads of every shade in this emotionally powerful and intimate musical about two New Yorkers in their twenties who fall in and out of love over the course of five years. This brilliant musical was named one of the 10 best shows of 2001 by TIME Magazine and, with a fantastic score that has become a modern classic, it has captivated both audiences and critics earning it a Drama Desk Award (music and lyrics), a film adaptation and productions around the world.

“Jaw-dropping! A gem of a show from Jason Robert Brown.” —New York Magazine

Executive Producers

Cheryl & Bill Guc

Dawne & Ray Manista

Associate Producers

Antony & Nikki D’Cruz

Lynda Johnson

Jenny & Mark Kopetsky

Anne & Chris Noyes

APRIL 8 – MAY 11, 2025

By Christine Quintana Spanish translation and adaptation by Paula Zelaya Cervantes

Secrets spark sisterhood in this fresh new play

The lives of two women with vastly different life experiences intersect at a resort in Cancún. Adriana manages the housekeeping staff and a world away from the home she left. Sarah, sister of the bride and the self-declared disaster of the family, is just trying to keep it together at this destination wedding. A torrential downpour forces the women together, and through a series of misunderstandings breaks open the secrets both women have taught themselves to ignore.

A bilingual play with Spanish and English supertitles, Espejos: Clean is a potent look at isolation and the power of being seen.

“There is definitely magic happening... simply dazzling... stunning performances.” —WWNY

Stiemke Studio

Executive Producers

Susan & John Harrits

The Stiemke Studio Season is presented by Four-Four Foundation

APRIL 22 – MAY 24, 2025

Book by Colin Escott & Floyd Mutrux

Original Concept and Direction by Floyd Mutrux

Directed by Laura Braza

Wilson Theater at Vogel Hall | Marcus Performing Arts Center

How four stars made rock ’n’ roll history

Rock ‘n’ roll icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins are brought together by an extraordinary twist of fate on a December evening in 1956. Based on a true story, this show brings that momentous occasion to vibrant life featuring a glorious score of rock ‘n’ roll, gospel, R&B and country hits, performed live onstage by world-class actors and musicians. Songs include “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Fever,” “Walk the Line,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “Hound Dog” and more. Don’t miss this irresistible tale of broken promises, secrets and celebrations in this award-winning smash-hit musical.

“Wildly entertaining.”

—Hollywood Reporter

Corporate Sponsor

Executive Producers

Susan & Howard Hopwood

Judy Van Till

Associate Producers

Abbie & David Nash

Mary Beth & Harry Van Groll

NOVEMBER 26 – DECEMBER 24, 2024

By Charles Dickens | Adapted & Directed by Mark Clements

Milwaukee’s Favorite Holiday Tradition

A Christmas Carol is one of the best-known and well-loved stories in the English language. During the course of one memorable Christmas Eve, the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future help Ebenezer Scrooge discover that it is never too late to change his miserly ways. Milwaukee Rep favorite Matt Daniels returns to play Scrooge, as enchanting music, dance, costumes, scenery and special effects will once again fill the theater to tell this timeless tale of love, hope and redemption.

“As magnificent as you remember it…a festive hug.” — BroadwayWorld

BECOME A DONOR TODAY

Enhance Your Subscription Experience

Join more than 4,000 of your fellow patrons and donate to Milwaukee Rep along with your Subscription purchase! When you donate, you will join a vibrant community of theater lovers who receive unique benefits including:

• Invitations to Behind-The-Scenes events with Rep Artists

• Complimentary Parking

• Access to Opening Night Pre-show Dinners

Becoming a donor is the best way to make the most of your Milwaukee Rep experience. Subscribers who donate will also be recognized with priority seating access and other exclusive donor experiences when the new Associated Bank Theater Center opens in the fall of 2025.

Support Milwaukee Rep with your donation and help us create extraordinary theater productions that entertain, provoke and inspire our community.

As Subscribers, you always get the best seats in the house at the best prices for our incredible productions with a savings of more than 70% off top ticket prices.

WAIVED FEES

Subscribers never have to pay the per ticket processing fees—that’s an additional savings of up to $38 per Subscription!

BRING-A-FRIEND DISCOUNT

Subscribers receive 20% off the purchase of additional tickets (economy sections excluded). Subscriber discount is not valid for rentals or special productions.

FREE EXCHANGES

Bad weather? Last minute conflict? No problem. Contact us up to 48 hours before your show and exchange to another performance of the same production for free. Charges will apply if you transfer to a more expensive seat.

MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE

Rest assured that if for any reason we must cancel performances we will honor your commitment to us by offering a full array of ticket exchange and refund options.

LOYALTY WILL BE HONORED IN SEATING FOR OUR NEW VENUES

When the new Associated Bank Theater Center opens in the fall of 2025, Subscribers will have priority seating access. Seating assignments will recognize your commitment as a Subscriber, plus your holistic engagement through contributions, additional tickets purchased for shows like A Christmas Carol, as well as adding on dinner in the Stackner Cabaret. Yet another reason it pays to be a Subscriber to the 2024/25 Season!

SUBSCRIBING IS EASY

1. Consider a donation for Milwaukee Rep

2. Pick your package and seat location 3. Tell us if you’d like to add A Christmas Carol

PERFORMANCE DETAILS

Most performances for the 2024/25 Season will take place at the Associated Bank Theater Center, located at 108 E. Wells St, Milwaukee, WI 53202. However, some will take place at alternate venues. Please see page 6 of this brochure for more information. Don't worry, pre-show emails will remind you of every performance location.

PERFORMANCE TIMES

Tuesday Evening 6:30 or 7:30pm

Wednesday Matinee 1:30pm

Wednesday Evening 7:30pm

Thursday Evening 7:30pm

Friday* Evening 7:30pm Saturday Matinee 3:00pm Saturday Evening 8:00pm Sunday Matinee^ 2:00pm Sunday Evening 7:00pm

*Opening Nights remain at 8pm ^Sunday matinee performances of Prelude to a Kiss a musical will be at 2:30pm

SEATING CHARTS

Stiemke Studio

Prices in the Stiemke Studio are based on the day of the week you attend and the productions you choose. However, the majority of the venue is Prime Orchestra pricing.

Prices in the Stackner Cabaret are based on the day of the week you attend and are the same for all seating areas. Stackner Cabaret

Option 2 CREATE YOUR OWN PACKAGE

Choose 4, 5 or 6 productions from any theater, weekday or weekend shows. We’ll find you the best seats available after seating same seat fixed packages. Same seats not guaranteed. Weekdays Weekends

4 Plays $220 $240

5 Plays $275 $300

6 Plays $330 $360

Some seating restrictions do apply.

ENCORE PLAY ADD-ON

A Christmas Carol

Option 3 FLEXPASS FOR $372

6 admissions to your choice of shows and dates in any combination. Mix-and-match your favorite shows. Get 6 ticket vouchers to use for the best available seats in any combination. Even better, you don’t have to pick your plays or dates now. You can choose them up to 48 hours in advance of the date you wish to attend—subject to availability.

Add this play to your Subscription by June 15 and receive 30% off ticket prices.

Cover: Erika Olson and the cast of Run Bambi Run. Photo by Michael Brosilow. Page 2: Maria (Rose) Campbell and Jessie Fisher in What the Constitution Means to Me; Hillel Rosenshine in The Chosen photo by Mark Frohna; Steve Koehler and Doug Mancheski in Guys on Ice photo by Len Villano; Amanda Drinkall in Dial M for Murder; Marvin Quijada in Parental Advisory: a breakbeat play; Meka King in Nuncrackers photo by Jenn Udoni; Alexis J Roston in Nina Simone: Four Women photo by Don Ipock; Erika Olson and the cast of Run Bambi Run. All other photos by Michael Brosilow. Back Cover: Ron Orbach, Eli Mayer and Hillel Rosenshine in The Chosen photo by Mark Frohna.