The Green Room

By Charlie Pingel 

As we gear up for the 2024–2025 Wisconsin Union Theater (WUT) season, we’re looking forward to raising the curtain, greeting new and familiar faces, and experiencing fresh sounds on stage. Our three series – Jazz, Classical, and the new Black Box Sessions – are each set to showcase a diverse array of talents, providing unique and moving experiences throughout the season.

Continue reading to learn about the first artists of each series. And don’t forget the opportunity to save on these series with a subscription is only available until the first respective show, so make sure to secure your discounted seats before it’s too late!

Jazz Series – esperanza spalding

Thursday, Sept. 19 at Shannon Hall

esperanza spalding's music truly embodies the past, present, and future of jazz. Her innovative approach and dynamic performances have earned her 11 GRAMMY nominations and five GRAMMY wins, making her one of the most influential artists in modern jazz.

The variety of spalding’s music beautifully sets the stage for the 2024–2025 Jazz Series, with each artist exploring different facets of the genre, from traditional to experimental interpretations. Opening the WUT season, esperanza spalding will perform songs from her eight previous albums and her forthcoming release, “Milton + esperanza,” a collaboration with Brazilian singer-songwriter Milton Nascimento, releasing on Aug. 9.

Purchase a Jazz Series subscription, and save 20% off all six jazz concerts. Learn more about all Jazz Series events here.

Classical Series – Eighth Blackbird

Thursday, Sept. 26 at Shannon Hall and Friday, Sept. 27 with UW Wind Ensemble at the Hamel Music Center

Four-time GRAMMY–winning sextet Eighth Blackbird is renowned for its innovative approach to classical music, pushing boundaries with each performance. On Sept. 26 at Shannon Hall, join us for a captivating performance as Eighth Blackbird showcases its techniques and sound.

Following its Shannon Hall performance, Eighth Blackbird extends its dedication to community growth and mentorship. On Sept. 27 at the Hamel Music Center, it will collaborate with the UW Wind Ensemble to perform Viet Cuong's "Vital Sines," among other works.

Purchase a Classical Series subscription, save 20% off all six classical concerts, and earn an additional discount on the two Classical Series: Encore concerts. Learn more about all Classical Series events here.

NEW! Black Box Sessions – Sa-Roc

Thursday, Dec. 5 in the Play Circle

We’re thrilled to host DC native Sa-Roc as the inaugural artist for the Black Box Sessions. Sa–Roc is the true definition of an “artivist,” using her music to address social issues with powerful and thought-provoking messages. Experience an artist who merges elevated lyrics with personal vulnerability and heavy hooks with heavy meaning.

Purchase a Black Box Sessions subscription, and save 15% off all four hip-hop concerts. Learn more about all Black Box Sessions here.

With an incredible lineup of performances across our three series, the 2024–2025 Season is sure to be memorable. Take advantage of extra savings with our Build-Your-Own subscription option, available throughout the season. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this exciting journey from the very beginning.

Secure your subscription today to enjoy exclusive savings and guaranteed seats for a season filled with diverse and inspiring performances.