Apr 16 Thursday
Named one of the coolest film festivals in the world by MovieMaker Magazine, the Milwaukee Film Festival is one of the Midwest’s largest film festivals, and one of Milwaukee’s most-beloved cultural events.
Proud to be known for its world-class hospitality, the Milwaukee Film Festival spotlights bold new voices, acclaimed filmmakers, unique stories, and work made right here in Milwaukee that resonates far beyond the screen.
Join us in April for our 18th annual festival!
http://mkefilm.org/mff
May 07 Thursday
Indulge in some of the best food, drinks, and company Milwaukee has to offer – all while raising critical resources that make JCC programs accessible to families of all backgrounds and needs. Together, we’ll ensure that every child can experience the joy, growth, and opportunities that come with being part of our community.
KidShare raises important funds for children and family programs of the Harry & Rose Samson Family Jewish Community Center:
For more information: https://www.jccmilwaukee.org/program/kidshare/
Jun 05 Friday
On June 5, HYFIN will host its signature annual fundraiser, the HYFIN Anti-Gala, an immersive cultural experience where music, community and impact collide.
This year’s theme — “Shell Toes. Soundwaves. Social Impact.” — celebrates the bold creativity of the 1980s, a decade that reshaped Black music, fashion, entrepreneurship and global cultural influence.
More than a celebration, the Anti-Gala is a powerful investment in the future. The evening will honor four distinguished awardees whose work embodies HYFIN’s pillars — Music & Culture, Entrepreneurship, Youth Education and Storytelling — along with the prestigious Davis Award, recognizing a community leader who has dedicated their career to uplifting and empowering youth.
Guests will experience a one-of-a-kind atmosphere blending the energy of a family-style cookout, the nostalgia of the 80s, and the power of cultural storytelling, featuring DJs spinning classic sounds of the decade, authentic 80s memorabilia curated by the Milwaukee Hip Hop Museum, and a signature dessert experience from Kimberly Sweets, winner of the Netflix series Is It Cake?
The HYFIN Anti-Gala offers sponsors more than visibility. It provides an opportunity to align with one of Milwaukee’s most influential cultural platforms and directly support the preservation, amplification and future of Black music and culture. For more information about sponsoring, contact director of underwriting Jeremy Zuleger.
Apr 11 Saturday
Newlyweds Paul, a proper young lawyer, and Corie, a romantic free spirit, are thrilled to move into their new Manhattan apartment — a tiny, sixth-floor walk-up with no heat and a hole in the skylight. Bliss turns to chaos after a blind date between Corie’s mother and their dashing upstairs neighbor forces the couple to confront their differences in this side-splitting, romantic comedy.
The beloved Disney phenomenon comes to life onstage as only First Stage can: with young performers in iconic roles, breathtaking design, and unforgettable theatrical magic. A story of sisters, courage, and love, Frozen is a must-see family event for dreamers of all ages.
Wisconsin born Arts Fishing Club is coming up to play Vivarium with local Milwaukee band Ladybird.
AFC has is a 2x Summerfest alum band and brings a wild indie rock show.
National attention for the band is growing from NPR as one of 10 Nashville Artists To Add To Your Playlists, American Songwriter, “Arts Fishing Club is proving that even in the age of hi-fi future pop and viral TikTok moments, the chemistry of a good band is still one of the greatest thrills out there…” Joe Vitagliano of American Songwriter
For fans of: Bon Iver, Band of Horses, Mt. Joy, Rainbow Kitten Surprise
Step into a jumpin’ jazz joint where the legendary music of Fats Waller takes center stage. Five extraordinary actor-musicians transform into a jubilant swing band for the ages in this Tony Award-winning musical — last seen in our 2013/14 Season — that brings the razzle-dazzle spirit of the Roaring Twenties to the 2020s. Get ready to sing, dance and let loose with this brilliant celebration of an iconic trailblazer and his lasting legacy.
“Classy and glamorous... a dose of old-school pizzazz.” – Chicago Tribune
Created and Originally Directed by Richard Maltby Jr.Conceived by Richard Maltby Jr. & Murray HorwitzDirected by E. Faye Butler
Live boldly, love wildly, paint passionately — this was the uncompromising life of Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. Through music, movement and irresistible charm, acclaimed writer and actor Vanessa Severo crafts a poetic performance that explores Frida’s breathtaking life and astonishing genius. This sizzling play plunges into the brilliant, nuanced world of Kahlo’s tumultuous, extraordinary life, offering a vivid exploration of how we shape ourselves through the art that we love.
Vulnerable, emotional, personal, and full of joy... utterly captivating.” – BroadwayWorld
Written and Performed by Vanessa Severo
Directed by Joanie Schultz
Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays 7:30pm; Wednesdays 1:30pm; Saturdays 3pm & 8pm; Sundays 2pm & 7pm
Written and Performed by Vanessa Severo Directed by Joanie Schultz
Step into a world where the ordinary becomes extraordinary. This evening-length dance theatre work uses the vastness of outer space as a metaphor to explore distance, connection, and possibility. Through bold movement, evocative text, and stunning imagery, audiences are immersed in a dazzling, multi-sensory experience. The evening also features a captivating new work by guest artist Alexandra Barbier. Join us at the beautiful Jan Serr Studio, where the Milwaukee skyline becomes our backdrop, and the performance emerges from a wondrous shimmer of light.
$15 adv / $20 at the door (advance sales ONLINE ONLY until 3pm day of show, then available at the door). Doors at 7:00pm, showtime 8:00pm. THIS IS AN 18+ EVENT! General Admission ticket includes a combination of limited seating and standing room. Seating is first come first serve. Tickets are nonrefundable.
As winter’s chill melts away, the stage bursts into color with Petals & Pasties, a playful burlesque celebration of renewal, flirtation, and the irresistible joy of warmer days. This show invites the audience into a world where blossoms bloom, and every performer brings a fresh twist to the art of tease. This is a night of artistry, humor, and irresistible spectacle—an ode to self‑expression wrapped in rhinestones and seasonal delight.
Whether you're a longtime burlesque lover or stepping into the scene for the first time, Petals & Pasties promises a vibrant, unforgettable experience that leaves the room buzzing long after the final bow.
Entertainers:
Blaque Diamond- Producer/Host
Frankie Moonshine- Performer/ Co-Host
Thee Golden Alchemist- Performer
Nautica De La Luster-Performer
Dionysia-Performer
Lola Mischief-Performer
Penelope Peach-Performer/ dollar diva
Apr 12 Sunday
The Bridgewater will host live music on Sundays with rotating genres serenading patrons on Sundays from 1-4 p.m., starting May 26th until September 2nd.
To make a reservation and to see the full music line-up, visit: https://bridgewatermke.com/