2026/27 Season Brochure - Milwaukee Repertory Theater

Welcome!

The Inaugural Season of the Associated Bank Theater Center has been nothing short of extraordinary. With record-breaking ticket sales and countless sold-out performances, we truly couldn’t have imagined a more exciting opening chapter for our new home.

As we look ahead to our 2026/27 Season, we’re thrilled to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible across our stages. Our expanded 13-production lineup features three brand-new plays—one in each of our performance spaces—and showcases the very best of Milwaukee Rep: Bold, Award-Winning voices, World Class Artistry and stories that reflect the full richness of our shared humanity.

The 11 Subscription Shows Include:

• A high-energy Broadway musical inspired by an iconic film

• Two World Premieres, with deep Wisconsin roots

• A gripping new thriller centered on the heist of the world’s most valuable jewels

• A direct-from-Broadway play nominated for seven Tony Awards

• The return of the best-selling Stackner show of all time

Subscriber Add-On Specials

Alongside A Christmas Carol, we’re delighted to offer a special Off-Subscription production in the Herro-Franke Studio Theater. Exclusive early access will be available to 2026/27 Subscribers for this limited engagement.

Directed by me, Twelve Angry Men will feature an all-star cast of Wisconsin favorites— an unforgettable theatrical experience you won’t want to miss.

If you’ve joined us for a show this season, thank you! If you haven’t yet experienced the Associated Bank Theater Center, we invite you to discover all that awaits you here.

Explore the exciting lineup ahead—and Subscribe today for a season filled with unforgettable moments.

Cheers,

Mark Clements Artistic Director

BIGGEST VALUE PACKAGES

11 Plays

From $394

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

9 Plays From $321

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

7 Plays

From $198

See 5 shows in our Powerhouse Theater and 2 shows in our HerroFranke Studio Theater.

5 Plays

From $125

See all 5 shows in our flagship Theater as part of the Powerhouse Productions.

4 Plays From $196

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

MOST FLEXIBLE PACKAGES

Create Your Own

Subscription (CYOS) From $228—Zone A From $188—Zone B

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.

FlexPass Subscription From $387 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.

JAN. 16 – MAR. 14, 2027

MAR. 26 – MAY 20, 2027

DEC. 2 – DEC. 24, 2026

FEB. 2 – FEB. 28, 2027

Kicking off the Stackner season, this highenergy musical revue brings to life the legendary songs of John Kander and Fred Ebb, the iconic duo behind Chicago, Cabaret, and Kiss of the Spider Woman. Featuring 36 unforgettable songs, five dynamic performers deliver beloved favorites with heart and show-stopping style. The music moves seamlessly from sizzling showstoppers to intimate, moving moments that reveal the depth of the duo’s remarkable collection of songs. From razor-sharp humor to powerful storytelling, this celebration is pure Broadway joy from start to finish.

“A delightful revue... this joyous celebration keeps the music alive.”

PART OF THE David Kundert Stackner Season High-Energy Broadway Celebration SEPT. 11 –

LOS ANGELES TIMES

MUSIC BY John Kander

LYRICS BY Fred Ebb

CONCEIVED BY Susan Stroman, David Thompson and Scott Ellis

DIRECTED & CHOREOGRAPHED BY Kelley Faulkner

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER S Kristine & Wayne Lueders

ASSOCIATE PRODUCERS Richard Grunke & William Grasch

The Music. The Magic. The ‘80s. SEPT. 22 – NOV. 1, 2026

Get ready to kick off your heels and feel the beat! The smash-hit film Footloose explodes onto the stage with high-octane choreography and electrifying ’80s anthems, including “Let’s Hear It for the Boy” and “Holding Out for a Hero.” When city teen Ren moves to a small town where dancing is banned, he challenges the rules, sparks romance, and inspires a community to rediscover joy, freedom, and the power of music. Helmed by Olivier Award-winning artist Stephen Mear, who wowed Rep audiences with his choreography for Ragtime and Guys and Dolls, this energetic, feel-good Tony-nominated musical will have you laughing, cheering, and jumping to your feet.

“An incredibly fun trip down memory lane.”

STAGE ADAPTATION BY Dean Pitchford & Walter Bobbie

BASED ON THE ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY BY Dean Pitchford

MUSIC BY LYRICS BY Tom Snow Dean Pitchford

ADDITIONAL MUSIC BY Eric Carmen, Sammy Hagar, Kenny Loggins and Jim Steinman

DIRECTED & CHOREOGRAPHED BY Stephen Mear

PRESENTED BY David Kundert

CORPORATE SPONSOR

EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS

Maureen McCabe

Beverly & Tony Petullo

ASSOCIATE PRODUCER

Elaine Pagedas

Step into an unforgettable adventure of mystery, mischief, and messy humanity. Katie Bender transforms the theater into an intimate DIY séance, daring to summon the spirit of Houdini— and maybe wrestle with the chaos of her own life along the way. Equal parts hilarious, haunting, and heartbreakingly honest, this one-woman show fuses memoir and live magic to explore ambition, motherhood, and the craving to break free. Expect laughter and glimpses of the extraordinary hidden in everyday life.

“A funny... haunted exploration of ambition, legacy, and familial responsibility.”

THE AUSTIN CHRONICLE

A John (Jack) D. Lewis New Play Development Program Production Houdini, Motherhood And

WRITTEN & PERFORMED BY Katie Bender

DIRECTED BY Lily Wolff

PRESENTED BY Diane & Clark Slipher

ASSOCIATE PRODUCERS

Julia Ihlenfeldt

Sandy Laedtke

Jennifer & Mark Niedfeldt

PART OF THE Four-Four Foundation Herro-Franke Studio Season

Epic Songs. Electric Energy. One Unforgettable Show. NOV. 6, 2026 – JAN. 3, 2027 STACKNER CABARET

Step into a world of high-octane piano and legendary hits! Rock ‘N’ Roll Piano Man takes you on a thrilling journey through the history of rock ‘n’ roll piano—from the rebellious roots of Little Richard and Fats Domino to the soulful sounds of Ray Charles, and piano legends Elton John and Billy Joel. JP Coletta, who brought down the house as Jerry Lee Lewis in Million Dollar Quartet, and his band bring each song to life with electrifying energy, dazzling skill, and irresistible charisma. Experience classics like “Great Balls of Fire,” “Bennie and the Jets” and “She’s Always A Woman” in an unforgettable tribute to the music that shaped generations. “Coletta is a star stepping into his prime.”

CREATED BY JP Coletta

PRESENTED BY

Sandra & William Haack

EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS

Sharee Allain & David Schertz

Susan & Howard Hopwood

Mary Beth & Harry Van Groll

ASSOCIATE PRODUCERS

Judi & Chris Collins

Kristine Krause & Scott Patulski

PART OF THE David Kundert Stackner Season

unexpected laughs, it takes you on a thrilling ride that keeps you guessing until the final moment. Perfect for the holiday season, it’s the ultimate escape into suspense, humor, and hightech fun.

“A pulse pounding thriller... cinematic and unforgettable.”

CORPORATE SPONSOR

EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS

Mike Carter

Rebecca & Bryan House

Abbie & David Nash

ASSOCIATE PRODUCERS

Susan & John Harrits

Katie & Chris Hermann

JAN. 12 – FEB. 7,

2027 CHECOTA POWERHOUSE THEATER

A Bold, Contemporary Twist On A Classic Story

Broadway smash hit and seven-time 2025 Tony Award nominee John Proctor Is the Villain is a sharp, provocative reexamination of morality and consequence. Set in a modern high school classroom, students collide over truth, power, and whose voices actually get heard. Funny, fearless, and bursting with energy, this contemporary take flips familiar ideas on their head and tackles today’s most urgent questions—leaving you laughing, gasping, and talking long after you leave the theater.

“Wonderful... a play of magnificent confrontations.”

NEW YORK POST

BY Kimberly Belflower

DIRECTED BY

Laura Braza

PRESENTED BY Christine Symchych & Jim McNulty

A New Musical Celebration Of A Championship Team JAN. 16 – MAR. 14, 2027 STACKNER CABARET

From the creator of the sold-out hit Dad’s Season Tickets, comes a World Premiere musical comedy that celebrates the Milwaukee Bucks unforgettable championship journey through the eyes of a close-knit group of lifelong fans. From the arrival of a franchise-changing MVP in 2013, to the final buzzer in the Summer of 2021, the glorious end of a 50-year wait reveals how one extraordinary season, one electrifying talent, and the exceptional people around us — can make a lasting impact on our lives. Joyful, funny and full of hometown pride, sports fans and theater fans won’t want to miss this musical that captures the soul of our city when its team took the world stage.

PART OF

BY

OF THE David Kundert Stackner Season

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

Chekhov’s Classic. Door County Freshness. FEB. 26 – MAR. 28, 2027 CHECOTA

Milwaukee Rep favorite Aaron Posner (The Chosen) returns for the World Premiere of his gloriously funny, brilliantly sharp reimagining of Chekhov’s masterpiece, The Cherry Orchard. Set in modern day Door County, one unforgettable family fights for love, legacy, and tradition as the future of their beloved family estate teeters on the edge of change. The Cherry Tortured is the latest in Posner’s award-winning series of bold and clever Chekhovian adaptations that rank among the most produced plays in the country — and you can be the first to see this cheeky, free-spirited take on an all-time classic.

“[Posner is] a dramatist who knows his Chekhov up and down.”

THE WASHINGTON POST

WRITTEN & DIRECTED BY

Aaron Posner

PART OF

EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS

Idy Goodman

Judy Hansen

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

Join the fun that made The Craic the biggest hit in Stackner Cabaret history. Set in a lively Irish pub, five friends share an evening full of music, stories, and unforgettable camaraderie. Sing along to classics like “Danny Boy,” and “Whiskey in the Jar,” and feel the excitement that had audiences jumping to their feet. From laughter to music-filled moments, every second is full of warmth, humor, and charm. Whether you’re returning for the experience or discovering it for the first time, this joyous celebration of friendship and laughter is pure Irish delight — Sláinte!

“Anyone with an affinity for Irish music, culture, or folkloric fun shouldn’t miss it.”

BY Mark Clements & Deanie Vallone

DIRECTED BY Mark Clements

CORPORATE SPONSOR

EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS

Jim Phillips & Karen Plunkett

ASSOCIATE PRODUCERS

Krista Kile

Diane K. O’Connor

Marlyn & Neal Spear

PART OF THE David Kundert Stackner Season

The Legend You Know, The Story You’ve Never Heard APR. 6 – MAY 9, 2027 HERRO-FRANKE STUDIO THEATER

Step into Penelope, where myth, music and theater collide in a captivating one-woman journey. The legendary wife of Odysseus waits, weaves and wrestles with love, loss and life on the edge of the sea. With a bourbon in hand and a three-piece band, she shares her heartache, humor and unshakable resolve with songs ranging from jazz to folk to indie rock. Confiding in us about her son, her suitors, and the faith she must place in herself, this ancient tale is reborn for a modern audience. Penelope is funny, heartfelt and utterly alive, asking what it truly means to wait for the ones we love.

“A wonderfully ingratiating new musical.” THE WASHINGTON POST

MUSIC, LYRICS & ARRANGEMENTS BY Alex Bechtel

BOOK BY Alex Bechtel, Grace McLean and Eva Steinmetz

BASED ON WRITINGS IN ‘The Odyssey’ by Homer

DIRECTED BY Laura Braza

ASSOCIATE PRODUCERS

Caryl & Frank Briscoe

Dr. Rania Dempsey & Pat Dempsey

Dr. Mark & Barbara Sharon

PART OF THE Four-Four Foundation Herro-Franke Studio Season

From Tony Award–winning playwright Matthew López comes Somewhere, a tender and riveting portrait of a tight-knit Puerto Rican family in 1959 New York City. Set against the excitement and energy of Broadway’s West Side Story, the Candelaria siblings chase their dreams of dancing on stage, buoyed by their mother’s love and infectious enthusiasm. When their building is slated for demolition to make way for Lincoln Center, the family must navigate heartbreak, hope, and the unshakable bonds that hold them together. Bursting with music, dance, humor, and heart, this joyous, moving story is a celebration of family, resilience, and the American Dream.

“A tender, deeply moving work full of humor, humanity, and love.”

BY Matthew López

DIRECTED BY María Amenábar Farias

PRESENTED BY Cheryl & David Walker

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER

RA Stevens Foundation

ASSOCIATE PRODUCERS

Jean & David Lauer

Why Subscribe?

Subscribers enjoy the Best Seats at the Best Prices —often saving up to 70% off top Single Ticket rates. By Subscribing now, you lock in the lowest prices of the year while gaining access to exceptional value all season long.

For example, Subscribers paid an average of under $50 per ticket for Come From Away, while Single Ticket prices reached as high as $275.

And that’s just the beginning—only Subscribers receive access to these exclusive benefits.

Benefits of

Subscribing

GUARANTEED SEATS

Subscribing is the only way to guarantee seeing the shows you are most excited about.

ULTIMATE FLEXIBILITY

We know life happens. Call us no later than 48 hours prior to your show to exchange for another performance of the same production for free.

EXCLUSIVE ACCESS & DISCOUNTS

Get priority access and the best discount for all off-Subscription productions, including A Christmas Carol.

NO ORDER/PROCESSING FEES

That’s an additional savings of up to $38 per Subscription.

One night. Three spirits. A chance at redemption. Follow Ebenezer Scrooge on a magical journey that reminds us all of the power of generosity, connection and hope. Featuring Matt Daniels as Scrooge, Milwaukee Rep’s A Christmas Carol sparkles with festive music, breathtaking visuals, dazzling stagecraft, and heart—bringing joy, wonder and the true spirit of the season to audiences of all ages.

“A must see for the holidays... a buoyant, spirited staging filled with holiday music that definitely lifts the spirits.”

SHEPHERD EXPRESS

Get 30% Off When You Purchase by June 1.

A NOVEL BY Charles Dickens

ADAPTED & DIRECTED BY Mark Clements

PRESENTED BY Jay Franke & David Herro

CORPORATE SPONSOR

EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS Molly & Tom Duffey

ASSOCIATE PRODUCERS Saints Andrew and Mark Charitable Gift Trust

EQUIPMENT SPONSOR

Make Sure to Purchase By June 1 For Discounted Tickets

Strangers. One Impossible Choice. FEB. 2 – FEB. 28, 2027

HERRO-FRANKE STUDIO THEATER

Twelve

Step inside a sweltering jury room where the fate of a young defendant rests with twelve ordinary citizens. What begins as an open and shut case unravels into a gripping battle of logic, prejudice, and moral courage. Tensions flare, alliances shift, and the path to justice becomes anything but clear in this timeless, razor sharp drama that feels as urgent today as ever. This all-star production featuring Wisconsin favorites, including Matt Daniels, James Pickering, Marcus Truschinski, Jonathan Wainwright and more, brings electrifying intensity and unforgettable humanity to one of the most celebrated courtroom dramas of all time.

Only Subscribers have the first opportunity to purchase tickets to this limited run event!

BY Reginald Rose

DIRECTED BY Mark Clements

EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS

Bob Balderson

Mara & Craig Swan

ASSOCIATE PRODUCERS

Dr. Eric A. Durant & Scott A. Swickard

Greg & Rhonda Oberland

Laura & Adam Peck

Dr. Carol C. Pohl

Kathy & Paul Slesar

PART OF THE Four-Four Foundation Herro-Franke Studio Season

UPGRADE TO PREFERRED SEATING

The Ellen & Joe Checota Powerhouse Theater features 30 Preferred Seats comprising rows B, C and D in Lower Center Orchestra.

Preferred Seats Offer:

• Best locations for optimal sightlines/sound

• Widest and most comfortable seats

• Double arm rests

• Priority customer service

Additionally, Preferred Seat Subscribers will receive one (1) single use pass to The Lubar Lounge, our stunning donor lounge (unlimited access is a donor benefit at the $5,000 level).

Preferred Seats are available exclusively for Subscribers when purchased by June 1 by adding an additional $125 per Powerhouse 5-Play Package.

to inquire on how to upgrade your Subscription today.

DONATE WITH YOUR SUBSCRIPTION PURCHASE

Being a Subscriber AND a donor is the best way to make the most of your Milwaukee Rep experience. Donors receive access to unique benefits like behind-the-scenes events with Rep artists, priority seating and complimentary parking.

When you make a tax-deductible donation in addition to your benefits, you help us to keep tickets accessible for underserved communities so everyone can experience the magic of live theater.

LUBAR LOUNGE

The Associated Bank Theater Center features a stunning donor lounge accessible to all public spaces in the building.

Unlimited access to The Lubar Lounge is a donor benefit starting at the $5,000 level annually.

• A pre-and post-show elegant lounge with private restrooms

• An exclusive coat check for members

• Premium liquors and craft cocktails

• Complimentary refreshments

• Services of The Lubar Lounge Concierge

Consider a donation to Milwaukee Rep

Pick your package and seat location

Tell us if you’d like to add A Christmas Carol and/or Twelve Angry Men

PERFORMANCE LOCATIONS

All Subscription performances take place at the Associated Bank Theater Center, located at 108 E. Wells St, Milwaukee, WI 53202. A Christmas Carol takes place at the Pabst Theater located at 144 E. Wells Street.

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

Matinee 3:00pm

Evening 8:00pm Sunday Matinee 2:00pm Sunday Evening 7:00pm

*A Christmas Carol performance times are different.  There are no Wednesday Matinees in the Stackner Cabaret.

SEATING CHARTS

CPH Ellen & Joe Checota Powerhouse Theater

“Balcony” seating is not available for new Subscriptions.

Seating in the Herro-Franke Studio Theater is flexible and may be different for each play. Prices in the HerroFranke Studio Theater are based on the day of the week you attend and are the same for all seating areas. HFST Herro-Franke Studio Theater

STK Stackner Cabaret

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

BEST VALUE PACKAGES— Save up to 70% off Single Ticket Prices!

Prices are per person per Subscription and exclude tax and fees. Add $125 over Zone A pricing for Preferred Seating in the Checota Powerhouse to 11-play, 9-play, 7-play and 5-play packages.

CREATE YOUR OWN SUBSCRIPTION

Choose 4, 5 or 6 productions from any theater, weekday or weekend shows. We’ll choose your seats based on the zone you pick after fixed package seating is completed.

FLEXPASS FOR $387

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

ENCORE PLAY ADD-ONS

A Christmas Carol Add this play to your Subscription by June 1 and receive 30% off ticket prices.

Twelve Angry Men

Only Subscribers receive the exclusive first chance to purchase discounted tickets by June 1.