Milwaukee Repertory Theater launches Powering Milwaukee campaign for new complex

NOW: Milwaukee Repertory Theater launches Powering Milwaukee campaign for new complex
NEXT:

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Milwaukee Repertory Theater (Milwaukee Rep) launched its Powering Milwaukee campaign to raise funds for a new and expanded theater center on Tuesday, Nov. 29.

Milwaukee Rep has raised $43 million of its $75 million fundraising goal, according to a press release. 

The Powering Milwaukee campaign was created to help close the gap and bring the project to life. 

Milwaukee Rep plays a rich role in the city's history.

Sitting downtown on the Milwaukee River for nearly the past four decades, the multi-theater complex has grown into one of the largest performing arts centers in the country, putting on 700 performances each year. 

"We've just frankly outgrown the facility," Milwaukee Rep Executive Director Chad Bauman said. 

The theater group first announced plans to replace the Patty & Jay Baker Theater Complex earlier this year. 

The new complex, to be named the Associated Bank Theater Center, will include three performance spaces, a large lobby, an education and engagement center, an off-site production center, and venues with modern audience amenities. 

"A new jewel in the crown of downtown," Bauman said. 

Wisconsin ranks among the lowest for public funding of the arts, according to the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies.

Bauman said this project will not happen without private philanthropy.

"Historically, for the last several decades, public support for the arts in the state of Wisconsin is the lowest of any state in the entire country. So, when you have something like a new theater facility, it is by in large supported by private gifts," Bauman said.

Construction will begin once the funds are raised.

The project will be completed in three phases to ensure the venue can remain open during construction. 

To learn more about donating to the project, click here

Share this article: