New performing arts season begins in September, from team known for spotlighting acclaimed performers and emerging talent
The Wisconsin Union Theater (WUT) team has announced its 2025-2026 season, continuing its tradition of presenting a diverse arts lineup with a season of music, dance, theater, and comedy events, for which patrons can currently purchase subscriptions. Single ticket sales will begin June 24.
The season includes the Jazz Series, the 106th Classical Series, and a variety of performances across many genres, including Brazilian jazz, Afropop, modern dance, multimedia theater, and more.
The Classical Series begins with acclaimed pianist Richard Goode and an all-Beethoven program on Oct. 23, followed by a return performance from the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center on Dec. 5, performing the Complete Brandenburg Concertos by J.S. Bach. It continues with a lineup that includes mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato performing Kevin Puts’ new work “Emily–No Prisoner Be” with edgy string trio Time for Three on Feb. 12, 2026. The Wisconsin premiere of “Emily–No Prisoner Be” is based on and features the poetry of Emily Dickinson.
The full Classical Series lineup includes:
- Pianist Richard Goode, Oct. 23
- Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, Dec. 5
- “Emily–No Prisoner Be”: Joyce DiDonato and Time for Three, Feb. 12, 2026
- Soprano Erin Morley and tenor Lawrence Brownlee, March 5, 2026
- Doric String Quartet, March 22, 2026
- Attacca Quartet with composer and singer Caroline Shaw, April 16, 2026
WUT will also present the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra’s only scheduled Wisconsin performance during the 2025–26 performing arts season on Jan. 28, 2026. One of the United Kingdom’s most prominent orchestras, the 90-piece ensemble will perform “Béatrice et Bénédict” Overture by Hector Berlioz, Piano Concerto No. 1 by Ludwig van Beethoven performed by Benjamin Grosvenor, and Symphony No. 10 by Dmitri Shostakovich.
WUT subscribers gain early access to purchase tickets to the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra performance. The subscriber presale date will be announced later this summer. If still available, the WUT team anticipates that any remaining Royal Philharmonic Orchestra tickets will become available for purchase to non-subscribers in fall 2025.
This year’s Jazz Series continues to bring legendary stars and some of today’s leading innovators to Madison’s jazz scene.
The series will include pianist Jason Moran’s multimedia tribute to James Reese Europe, the band leader of the Harlem Hellfighters regiment, which is credited with bringing jazz to Europe during World War I. The tribute explores James Reese Europe’s music in a look back at the history of jazz and the role that history plays in jazz today.
The full 2025-26 Jazz Series features:
- Luedji Luna, Sept. 25
- HIROMI'S Sonicwonder, Oct. 2
- Samara Joy, Nov. 15
- Jason Moran and the Harlem Hellfighters, Feb. 7, 2026
- Emmet Cohen: "Miles and Coltrane at 100" featuring Jeremy Pelt and Tivon Pennicott, Feb. 28, 2026
- Chucho Valdés & Paquito D’Rivera Reunion Sextet, April 30, 2026
The Black Box Sessions series returns with a performance by rapper and producer Blueprint on Sept. 20; rapper, songwriter, and producer redveil on Oct. 4; and hip-hop duo PARTYOF2 on Oct. 30.
Redveil is known for his introspective, relatable songs that delve into personal topics, such as mental health and politics. He has developed his own soulful, experimental, gospel-inspired hip-hop sound, inspired by artists like Tyler, the Creator and Earl Sweatshirt.
The Black Box Sessions debuted in 2024 as an annual series of intimate, club-style performances featuring a particular genre or theme.
The season will also include:
- Noga Erez with Special Guest V1V1D, Oct. 15
- Manual Cinema's “The 4th Witch,” Oct. 17
- Contemporary African music by Dobet Gnahoré, March 12, 2026
- Dance theater piece “Still/Here” performed by Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company, March 18, 2026
- Madison Jazz Festival on the Terrace, June 13-14, 2026
Patrons can save on season event tickets by purchasing subscriptions. Subscribers have first access to the best seats and enjoy other benefits. Subscription options include:
- A six-concert Classical Series subscription for a 20% discount
- A six-concert Jazz Series subscription for a 20% discount
- Build-your-own subscription options of three to five events for 15% off or six or more events for a 20% discount
Patrons can purchase tickets online, in person at the Memorial Union Box Office, or by phone at (608) 265-2787.
For more than 80 years, the Wisconsin Union Theater has brought world-class performing arts to Madison, creating seasons of long-time music traditions, acclaimed artists, as well as music and artists that are reshaping the future of genres.
WUT curates its season with the student-led Wisconsin Union Directorate (WUD) Performing Arts Committee (PAC).
When patrons make purchases at Memorial Union, Union South, the Terrace, or the Terrace Store online or purchase WUT tickets, they also help fund Wisconsin Union Theater events and student leadership roles in the performing arts.
Patrons can visit union.wisc.edu/theater to learn more about the 2025–26 season.