It’s another terrific collection of talent, as live shows return in full force to the South Milwaukee Perfoming Arts Center. And it starts this summer.
Here is the full press release and details …
South Milwaukee Performing Arts Center (SMPAC) recently announced its annual Performing Arts Series at a Preview Party hosted by the South Milwaukee Performing Arts Council and Skyline Catering & Express Deli.
“Our post-pandemic 2021-2022 season will feature eight performances chosen for their energy, local connections, and broad appeal,” said Rachel Sorce, Executive Director. “Our annual Performing Arts Series is designed for people of all ages and aesthetics, and we encourage performance enthusiasts to include SMPAC in their plans for next season.”
Mark your calendars for September 24 when Big Band, Big Club, Big Night! kicks off the season at the historic and completely remodeled Bucyrus Club & Event Center in downtown South Milwaukee. Enjoy friends, drinks, dinner and dancing to live swing and Motown music performed by one of the finest big bands around, The Bill Sargent Big Band. This will be a very special night in a place that holds memories for generations of South Milwaukeans and is sure to create new memories for generations to come.
Get your laughs on with our ComedySportz® Halloween Hoot-tacular on October 23. Do not miss the Shake & Holla Tour featuring the vanguards of blues, the North Mississippi Allstars, along with the legendary Rebirth Brass Band and Cedric Burnside on November 19. Celebrate the holidays with The Texas Tenors in Deep In the Heart of Christmas on December 12. Sing along to your favorite show tunes with The World of Musicals on January.27. Enjoy Four Guyz in Dinner Jackets in their newest show, Call Us Old Fashioned: The Supper Club Tour, on February 25. Treat your Irish eyes and ears to Celtic Angels Ireland on March 20. And finally…. The Mutts Gone Nuts in Canine Cabaret will steal your heart – and then your socks – when they perform their long-awaited show on April 28.
Past SMPAC subscribers may purchase tickets starting June 22-July 6. Individual tickets will go on sale July 8. Call the box office at (414) 766-5049 Monday-Thursday from 10-3. Groups of 10 or more receive 10% off. For the latest health and safety protocols, please refer to our website. Sign up at southmilwaukeepac.org to receive notifications when tickets for additional shows go on sale. Remember, tickets make great gifts!
Friday, September 24
Big Band. Big Club. Big Night!
The Bill Sargent Big Band at Bucyrus Club & Event Center
5:30 Cash Bar, 6:30 Dinner, 7:30 Concert
Reserve your seats for this very special night at the historic and newly remodeled 1920s Bucyrus Club & Event Center in the heart of downtown South Milwaukee. Bring your friends for a big night on the town! Enjoy drinks, dinner and dancing to swing and Motown classics performed live by the impeccable Bill Sargent Big Band. The Bill Sargent Big Band has been called “the tightest, most solid ensemble of expert musicians Milwaukee may ever see,” (The Milwaukee Journal). Ticket price includes dinner and music. Cash bar. Bucyrus Club & Event Center is located at 1919 12th Avenue in the city of South Milwaukee. Parking is available in the adjacent lot.
Bucyrus Club Redevelopment Video
https://onmilwaukee.com/articles/south-milwaukee-bucyrus-club
Saturday, October 23, 7:30 pm
ComedySportz® Halloween Hoot-tacular
Impromptu laughter and shenanigans
ComedySportz® is an awesomely exciting comedy show played as a sport! The Halloween Hoot-tacular is the same ComedySportz® show that Milwaukee fans have come to love, but with a few Halloween themes included just for fun! During a “match,” you’ll see a Referee and two teams of Players competing in improv games based on audience suggestions. Expect 7-10 games per match and an occasional audience volunteer joining the teams “on the field” to help the hilarity ensue! Everything is made up on the spot. Nothing is rehearsed. Players are quick-witted, funny and compete as hard as they can to make sure the fans in the audience are laughing. ComedySportz® originated in Milwaukee in 1984 and is now played in 24 cities around the world.
Artist website: ComedySportz
Friday, November 19, 7:30 pm
Shake & Holla Tour
Featuring North Mississippi Allstars & Rebirth Brass Band
with special guest Cedric Burnside
The Shake & Holla Tour will showcase foot-stomping Mississippi “Hill Country” blues and the funky, syncopated sounds of New Orleans brass. Touring together for the first time, the Grammy-nominated and Blues Music Award-winning North Mississippi Allstars will be joined by the legendary Rebirth Brass Band for a musical celebration of two great southern musical traditions. Both artists are part of the vanguard of blues and soul music. Appearing with them is blues guitarist, vocalist and drummer Cedric Burnside, a Grammy-nominated artist in his own right and the grandson of legendary Fat Possum recording artist R.L. Burnside. Each artist will perform their favorites and collaborate throughout the show on a grab bag of great songs, exploring the musical connection between the Mississippi Delta and Bourbon Street… right down Highway 61.
North Mississippi Allstars http://www.nmallstars.com/
Rebirth Brass Band https://www.rebirthbrassband.com/
Cedric Burnside website https://www.cedricburnside.net/
Agent website Shake & Holla
Sunday, December 12, 2:30 pm
The Texas Tenors
Deep in the Heart of Christmas
The Texas Tenors have amassed a huge fan base worldwide with over half a million followers on social media and more than 20 million views on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram. They are Billboard Magazine’s #10 “Classical Artist in the World” for 2019. With impressive live ticket sales tracked by PollStar they are considered the most successful touring group in the history of America’s Got Talent. As consummate professionals, these three friends with a simple All-American dream have proven that their impact will be long lasting. They have performed more than 1400 live concerts at performing arts centers, casinos, symphony halls, outdoor festivals and major corporate events. The Texas Tenors truly possess that rare, ever sought after quality of mass appeal.
Artist website: Texas Tenors
Thursday, January 27, 7:30 pm
The World of Musicals
The World of Musicals brings the very best of musical theatre to life. This captivating production is an emotional journey through the world of great musicals that leaves audiences spell-bound. With beautiful and emotional ballads from Evita, Les Misérables and Phantom of the Opera along with great up-beat favorites from Dirty Dancing, Rock of Ages and Mamma Mia, there is something in this show for everyone. Highlights from the newest musicals such as Sister Act II will be featured along with classics from the Golden Age of American Musical Theatre by Rodgers and Hammerstein, Gilbert and Sullivan, George Gershwin and Stephen Sondheim. The World of the Musicals is a show for the entire family, so get ready to be enthralled and sing along to all your favorite and beloved musicals in one unforgettable evening.
Direct from their Australian and European tours, this select cast of highly talented and accomplished performers have been featured in worldwide smash hits on London’s West End and Off Broadway such as Jesus Christ Superstar, Guys and Dolls, Celtic Nights, The King and I, Spring Awakening, Evita, Rent, and Avenue Q among many others. The World of Musicals was created by a powerhouse team in Dublin who are responsible for Celtic Nights, Gaelforce Dance and On Eagles Wings.
“The cast is SUPREMELY talented and an absolute joy to watch.” Broadway World
“The World of Musicals puts on a colourful, inspiring mix from memorable musicals – presented by an outstanding cast.” Reset Productions
Artist Website The World of Musicals
Promo video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ZXFOPgDwHg
Friday, February 25, 7:30 pm
Four Guyz in Dinner Jackets®
Call Us Old-Fashioned: The Supper Club Tour
The Four Guyz in Dinner Jackets® take you on an “Old-Fashioned” road trip with a double shot of nostalgia in their brand-new show! In this energized entrée, the fabulous foursome serve round after round of classic doo-wop and tasty musical side dishes you are sure to relish! We know you will drink up every drop of fun right down to the orange slice and maraschino cherry! Join the Four Guyz in a toast. Your reservation is waiting!
Artist site https://www.fourguyz.com/
You Tube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8e-23VJe0Y&t=1s
Sunday, March 20, 2:30 pm
Celtic Angels Ireland
with Celtic Knights Dancers
and The Trinity Band Ensemble of Dublin
Through their shared zeal and passion for Ireland’s musical traditions, this troupe enables audiences to experience Real Ireland for the price of a concert ticket. Celebrating their cherished heritage through Irish dance, music and song is something these entertainers take very seriously. You’ll be enthralled from the moment the lights dim as the sweet and stirring songs of Ireland, rigorously precise dances, and traditional musicianship carry you to Ireland on wings of music. Some of the sweetest voices under heaven make up the Celtic Angels: Victoria Kenny, Emily Carroll, Tammy Browne, Amy Penston, and Ellie Mullane – Irish to the core and seasoned entertainers all. The Celtic Knight Dancers feature two former lead dancers of Riverdance and perform with athletic precision. The Trinity Band Ensemble of Dublin round out the show with flawless interpretations of authentic Irish Trad instrumentals.
“You have to see it to believe it!” Washington Post
“Go see this show!” CBS
Celtic Angels 60 YouTube sharing – YouTube
Celtic Angels 30 revised YouTube sharing – YouTube
Thursday, April 28, 7:00 pm
Mutts Gone Nuts in Canine Cabaret
Canines and comedy collide
From shelters to showbiz, the Mutts Gone Nuts canines unleash havoc and hilarity in an action-packed spectacular featuring talented 4 legged performers. The dogs are sure to steal your heart… and then your socks! Long-time comedy duo Scott and Joan Houghton introduced dogs into their act in 2005. Prior to involving dogs, the duo worked with Lee Greenwood in Tennessee and at Dolly Parton’s theaters in Branson, Orlando and Myrtle Beach. The Houghtons attempt to match wits with their mischievous canine partners in a family-friendly performance. All nine dogs are USDA APHIS (Animal Welfare) registered and adopted from animal shelters or rescue groups. Expect the unexpected! This show will leave you howling for more. Training methods are positive and reward-based. For all ages.
Artist website: http://www.muttsgonenuts.com/index.html
I laughed until I wept.” First Lady, Barbara Bush
“A must see.” Washington Post Weekender
“Get those dogs out of my dressing room.” Kenny Rogers, recording artist
ADDITIONAL EVENTS
In addition to the 2021-2022 Performing Arts Series, the season includes two youth theatre musical productions this summer, performances by area performing arts groups, shows presented by other promoters or renters, and more. Following are some of the featured performances at SMPAC scheduled for the 2021-2022 season.
SUMMER YOUTH THEATRE
South Milwaukee Youth Theatre (SMYT) provides educational theatre experiences for youth in South Milwaukee and the surrounding communities. Each year, SMYT hosts approximately 100-120 students in multiple casts to produce two summer musical theatre shows. The SMYT Junior Cast of 6-11 year olds will present Disney’s Frozen KIDS on July 17 at 1:00 and 6:00 pm. The SMYT Senior Cast of 12-18 year olds will present Disney’s Moana JR. on July 30 and 31 at 7:00 pm and August 1 at 2:00 pm.
SENIOR OUTREACH
SMPAC brings performing arts experiences to senior living centers and sponsors concerts and other events in the community. Here are the performances set for the 2021-2022 season:
- June 22, 2:30-3:30: Val Sigal at Willowcrest Care Center
- July 14, 2:30-3:30: Matthew Davies at Oak Creek Place
- August 11, 6-7 p.m.: Big Style Brass at Howard Village
SUMMER CONCERTS
South Milwaukee Performing Arts Center (SMPAC) is proud to support live “Music at the Market” in downtown South Milwaukee starting June 3. SMPAC is partnering with the South Milwaukee Downtown Market to bring complimentary live, outdoor concerts to the heart of our community each week. SMPAC joins with other performing arts-minded sponsors to make this possible, including Classic Cargo International, Cousin’s Subs of South Milwaukee, DB Tax & Wealth, Eberhardy & Eberhardy LLP, Molthen-Bell & Son Funeral Home and Moran’s Pub.
The market is open to the public on Thursdays from 3 to 7 p.m. and is located at the corner of Milwaukee and 11th Avenues in the city of South Milwaukee. Concerts generally take place between 5-7 p.m. Check smmarket.org/events for details. The South Milwaukee Downtown market features an eclectic mix of merchants selling fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, flowers, art, jewelry and more. Live music brings energy and enjoyment to the market, while nearby restaurants, shops, bars and Grant Park Beach add to the fun! The South Milwaukee Downtown Market is a destination for families, couples, outdoor enthusiasts and foodies.
Below is a partial list of featured Music at the Market concerts, which are sponsored by SMPAC and Classic Cargo International. For a complete list of concerts, read our press release or visit smmarket.org/events.
Thursday, July 22, 5-8 pm
Reverend Raven & the Chain Smokin’ Altar Boys featuring Westside Andy
South Milwaukee Downtown Market, 11th and Milwaukee Avenues
With smokin’ grooves served up with hot harmonica and smooth stinging guitar, they play original songs peppered with nods to Slim Harpo, Little Walter, Jimmy Rogers, Billy Boy Arnold, Junior Wells and the three Kings. Born and raised on the south side of Chicago, the Rev has been playing the blues since 1971 when he first saw Freddy King play at the Kinetic Theatre in Chicago. After a 15 year hitch in the Navy, Raven moved to Milwaukee. Sponsored by Classic Cargo International.
Thursday, September 9, 5-7 pm
Madtown Mannish Boys
South Milwaukee Downtown Market, 11th and Milwaukee Avenues
The Madtown Mannish Boys is a Madison-based Blues band steeped in Chicago-style Blues, with influences from artists like Muddy Waters, Junior Wells, Otis Spann, Paul Butterfield, and Little Walter. They perform with raw exuberance and driving rhythms that make you want to boogie. Some of their tunes are harmonica-driven, played with gritty fervor and intense energy. Others are soulful ballads, heavily influenced by the likes of Otis Redding and Sam Cooke. This mix of styles and genres makes for an entertaining and dynamic show that you won’t want to miss. Sponsored by Classic Cargo International.
Thursday, September 23, 5-7 pm
Extra Crispy Brass Band
South Milwaukee Downtown Market, 11th and Milwaukee Avenues
The Extra Crispy Brass Band plays music inspired by bands such as the Dirty Dozen, Hot Eight, Rebirth and New Birth Brass Bands. Repertoire includes pieces from traditionals by Louis Armstrong and Sidney Bechet, modern funk tunes, and originals. The Extra Crispy Brass Band has played at Bastille Days, Turner Hall Ballroom, Radio 88.9, Burnhearts Fest, State Fair, the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music and others. The Extra Crispy Brass Band won a WAMI for best horn band/big band of 2014.
Bandleader, vocalist, and trombonist Gregory Cramer formed the band because he missed New Orleans. A resident of the Crescent City in the 1990s, he moved north in 1999 and looked for the Milwaukee version of the Rebirth Brass Band. One day riding his bicycle past Shank Hall he heard the sounds of Mama Digdown’s
Brass Band waft out, and he was inspired by that amazing outfit to form his own band (and learn trombone). Sponsored by Classic Cargo International.
ADDITIONAL FEATURED EVENTS
Friday, October 1, 8:00 pm
Steven Wright presented by ACG
Academy Award winner Steven Wright is a prototype comedian that many others continually try to follow. He’s had a long career in comedy. He booked for his first Tonight Show appearance on Friday, August 6, 1982. The king of late night enjoyed the performance so much he invited Steven to appear again the following Thursday, a rarity on The Tonight Show. His back-to-back appearances helped put his fledgling career into high gear. The comic soon found himself performing his off-beat routines on Saturday Night Live, Late Night with David Letterman, and numerous trips back to The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson.
Sundays – October 31, February 13, April 10 (Concerts are at 3:00 p.m.)
Knightwind Ensemble
Milwaukee’s premier adult wind band.
Saturday, October 30
(All day student a cappella workshops plus an evening concert.)
Milwaukapella
An annual fundraiser for the Rotary Club of Mitchell Field. It will feature a day-long workshop for high school vocal students followed by a performance onstage. Sponsored by Landass & Company Investments and the Rotary Club of Mitchell Field.
TICKETS
Advance tickets will go on sale June 22-July 6 for past season subscription holders. Call (414) 766-5049 M-Th from 10-3 to order. We’re pausing subscriptions for 2021-2022 due to the potential for artist tour changes. We appreciate your understanding and will hold your seats for 2022-2023! Individual tickets will go on sale July 8. Purchase at southmilwaukeepac.org or call (414) 766-5049 M-Th from 10-3. Groups of 10 or more get 10% off. For the latest health and safety protocols, please visit our website. Sign up at southmilwaukeepac.org to receive notifications when tickets for additional shows go on sale. Tickets make great gifts! Box office and Will Call open one hour before most shows.
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