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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 2026-2027 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.

 

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Upcoming Events

Jun
26
Jun 26 2026 | 4:30 - 10pm
Memorial Union
Celebrate the final weekend of the Madison Jazz Festival with FREE performances on the Terrace throughout the afternoon and evening.
Individual performing music in front of a crowd on the Terrace
Jun
26
Jun 26 2026 | 8:30 - 10pm
Memorial Union
Nate Smith explores the magical alchemy of a jam session with good friends who also happen to be top-notch musicians.
Photo of Nate Smith holding a drum stick.
Jun
27
Jun 27 2026 | 12:30 - 10:30pm
Memorial Union
Celebrate the final weekend of the Madison Jazz Festival with FREE performances on the Terrace throughout the afternoon and evening.
Photo of the memorial union terrace stage with people dancing.
Jun
27
Jun 27 2026 | 7 - 8:30pm
Memorial Union
Hands down the top jazz trombonist working today, Wycliffe Gordon mixes homage and innovation with virtuosity and elegance in golden-age standards and new compositions.
Wycliffe Gordon holding a trombone.
Sep
10
Sep 10 2026 | 7:30 - 9pm
Wisconsin Union Theater
“One the most dynamic rising stars in jazz today” (The Wall Street Journal), bassist Linda May Han Oh synthesizes her experience into something wholly original.
Photo of Linda May Han Oh on a white backdrop.
Sep
16
Sep 16 2026 | 7:30 - 9:30pm
Wisconsin Union Theater
Sure to impress and inspire, classical-music game changers Cantus and Imani Winds team up for this special ancestry-themed concert of works exploring different backgrounds.
Photo of Cantus (left) and Imani Winds (right).
Sep
17
Sep 17 2026 | 7:30 - 9pm
Wisconsin Union Theater
An icon of undiminishable light, a voice of undeniable power, and a humanitarian of unsinkable spirit, Angélique Kidjo unites people and styles with unshakeable hope.
Angelique Kidjo standing in front of a light blue background.
Oct
01

Michael Mayo

Music
Oct 1 2026 | 7:30 - 9pm
Wisconsin Union Theater
With an upbeat attitude and a velvety-smooth voice, confessional singer-songwriter and Grammy Award nominee Michael Mayo shares his unique mix of jazz, neo-soul, and R&B.
Michael Mayo standing in front of a blue background.
Oct
08
Oct 8 2026 | 7:30 - 9pm
Wisconsin Union Theater
Inspired by the Flint, Michigan, water crisis, the neo-noir play "The Poisoner" raises universal questions about local politics, public trust, and community safety.
Sepia-toned promotional graphic for "The Poisoner"
Oct
09
Oct 9 2026 | 7:30 - 9pm
Wisconsin Union Theater
Inspired by the Flint, Michigan, water crisis, the neo-noir play "The Poisoner" raises universal questions about local politics, public trust, and community safety.
Sepia-toned promotional graphic for "The Poisoner"