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Marcus Performing Arts Center

4.7
·2k reviews·Milwaukee, United States

Milwaukee's premier performing arts venue, hosting Broadway tours, concerts, dance, and community events in multiple theaters.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings during Broadway Series

Experience top touring shows

CrowdHigh
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Marcus Performing Arts Center - 2 person walking on hallway

Marcus Performing Arts Center

Best Time

Evenings during Broadway Series

Experience top touring shows

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Milwaukee's premier performing arts venue, hosting Broadway tours, concerts, dance, and community events in multiple theaters.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"A wonderful show with comfy seats and friendly staff, though check your seating for the best sound!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Easy Parking Options

Parking is convenient in the garage across the street. Plan ahead for popular shows! :car:

👗 Dress Code Varies

Smart casual is generally fine for most shows. Check specific event recommendations if unsure. :dress:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Uihlein Hall

Uihlein Hall

Main Auditorium

The grand 2,300-seat hall hosts major Broadway productions and touring shows. Experience world-class performances in a stunning setting.

Outdoor Stage Performances

Outdoor Stage Performances

Outdoor Amphitheater

Enjoy intimate outdoor shows and community events during warmer months. A unique venue for diverse artistic expressions.

Evanescent Art Installation

Evanescent Art Installation

Outside the Center

An enchanting art display that transforms the exterior into a magical space, perfect for photos and family fun.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

Popular shows at the Marcus Performing Arts Center, especially Broadway series, sell out quickly. Booking online well in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred seats and avoid disappointment. Check the official website for the latest schedule and ticket availability.

Understand Your Seating

The Marcus Center has multiple theaters with varying seating arrangements. Balcony seats offer a full view of the stage, but some visitors have noted it can be harder to hear from higher levels. Review seating charts carefully when purchasing tickets to ensure the best experience for your chosen performance.

Best Times

When
Evenings during Broadway Series
Why
Experience top touring shows
Crowd
High
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Enjoy outdoor events & art
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds for art displays
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Greg’s so real for this. #genz #genzintern #genzscript #genzedit #movietheater #gregmarcus
@marcustheatres
213.8K likes • 2.4M views

🚗 Easy Parking Options

Parking is convenient in the garage across the street. Plan ahead for popular shows! :car:

👗 Dress Code Varies

Smart casual is generally fine for most shows. Check specific event recommendations if unsure. :dress:

See you this Saturday at 1:30pm🎉🕺🏽💃🏽 We’ll be at @marcus.center teaching a free Bachata lesson and DJing some Latin music for everyone to enjoy aftwards! This is an ALL DAY event hosted by @nostudiosmke and @modiz90 that includes yoga classes, African dance classes, performances and more! We’re honored to be a part of Dance Fest this year to get people moving a grooving♥️🤗 See you Saturday🙌🏽 #...
dayncacademy
47 likes • 3.1K views
Step into the world of “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” at the Marcus Performing Arts Center presented by First Stage. Playing now through May 5 📓 🔗 Link in bio to grab tickets! #MKETheaterDistrict #VisitMKE #VisitMilwaukee #milwaukee #firststage #diaryofawimpykid
mketheaterdistrict
174 likes • 7.2K views

⏳ Long Concession Lines

Lines can be long during intermissions. Consider getting drinks/snacks before the show. :coffee:

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Don't miss the art installations outside for great photo opportunities! :camerawithflash:

Check out the Evanescent Art Installation outside the Marcus Performing Arts Center ✨ 🫧 📸 Snap some pics with the art installation 🎶 Enjoy live music each evening at 7pm 18th-21st & 6:30pm on the 22nd 🫧 Kids can enjoy bubble blowing starting at 5:30pm 18th-21st & at 4pm on the 22nd 🎹 A rainbow painted piano will be placed daily (weather permitting) 🍴Sazama’s River Edge Patio will be open serving ...
discovermilwaukee
3.1K likes • 81.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Easy Parking Options

Parking is convenient in the garage across the street. Plan ahead for popular shows! :car:

👗 Dress Code Varies

Smart casual is generally fine for most shows. Check specific event recommendations if unsure. :dress:

⏳ Long Concession Lines

Lines can be long during intermissions. Consider getting drinks/snacks before the show. :coffee:

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Don't miss the art installations outside for great photo opportunities! :camerawithflash:

🎶 Free Community Events

Look out for free dance lessons and music events hosted by local groups. :musical_note:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally praise the Marcus Performing Arts Center for its diverse programming, friendly staff, and convenient downtown location with easy parking. The venue itself is often described as nice with comfortable seats. However, some attendees have noted issues with long concession lines during intermissions and potential hearing difficulties from certain balcony seats in Uihlein Hall.

"We saw Wicked, August 2025. We had the full view of the stage and orchestra from the balcony. Everyone was friendly and guided us through the center. Getting tickets online really does not give a clear understanding that seating is multi-floors above the orchestra seats. I believe the balcony had better viewing than the loge a floor below."

Joseph Vorrier

"1st time there. Parking is easy in the parking garage across the street. Venue itself is nice. Comfy seats. Bars and bathrooms are adequate. Would go again. Was fun to see the orchestra setup and play during the show."

Buddy Guy

"MARCUS CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS

Very interesting place. I would assume, all events downtown occur here. Has a small auditorium for outdoor shows.

We drop by to see an art display ”Lost” by Amanda Parer in 2025.

Art. Art. Art. Art everywhere. Nice.

Highly Recommended"

Kalvin Hang

What People Like

Friendly and helpful staff
Convenient parking
Comfortable seating

What People Dislike

Long concession lines
Balcony acoustics in Uihlein Hall

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Marcus Performing Arts Center is located in downtown Milwaukee. It's easily accessible by car, with a parking garage directly across the street.Reddit Public transportation options are also available, with several bus routes stopping nearby. For those flying in, it's a short drive from Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE).

Yes, there is a convenient parking garage located across the street from the venue, making it easy to access for attendees.Reddit It's advisable to arrive a bit early, especially for popular shows, as parking can fill up.

Yes, there are designated drop-off areas near the entrance for ride-sharing services and personal vehicles. This is a good option if you prefer not to park or are being dropped off by someone.

Several Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) bus routes serve the downtown area near the Marcus Performing Arts Center. You can check the MCTS website for specific route information and schedules that best suit your starting point.

The Marcus Performing Arts Center is committed to accessibility. They offer accessible seating, elevators, and other accommodations. It's recommended to contact the box office in advance to discuss specific needs.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can be purchased directly from the official Marcus Performing Arts Center website (marcuscenter.org).TikTok You can also buy them in person at the box office or through authorized third-party ticket vendors. Booking in advance is highly recommended for popular shows like Broadway series.Reddit

For the best selection and pricing for the Marcus Center Broadway Series, purchase tickets directly from the official Marcus Center website or box office as soon as they go on sale. This ensures you get good seats before they sell out.Reddit

Discounts may be available for group sales, students, or seniors for certain performances. It's best to check the specific event details on the Marcus Center website or contact the box office directly for any available promotions.

The box office hours can vary, but they are typically open during business hours on weekdays and often have extended hours on performance days. It's advisable to check the official Marcus Center website for the most up-to-date box office hours.

For many performances, tickets may still be available on the day of the show, especially if it's not a sold-out event. However, for highly anticipated shows like major Broadway productions, it's best to secure your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

The Marcus Center offers various seating options across its theaters. While seats are generally comfortable,Reddit some visitors note that the balcony seating in Uihlein Hall can make it harder to hear the performance.Reddit Reviewing seating charts when purchasing tickets is recommended.

The dress code at the Marcus Performing Arts Center generally leans towards smart casual for most performances. While suits and ties aren't typically required for musicals, dressing nicely shows respect for the performers and the venue.Reddit Comfortable yet presentable attire is usually a safe bet.

Yes, the Marcus Center offers concession stands with beverages and snacks. However, lines can get long during intermissions, so it's advisable to purchase items before the show or be prepared for a wait.Reddit

The Marcus Performing Arts Center hosts a wide range of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, dance, comedy, and local theater productions. They also feature outdoor events and art installations.Instagram

Absolutely! The Marcus Center often features outdoor art installations, such as the 'Evanescent Art Installation',Instagram and sometimes hosts live music or interactive activities, making the exterior a destination in itself.

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, photography and videography are prohibited during performances to avoid distracting the artists and audience. However, you are usually welcome to take photos in the lobby areas and of any art installations outside the venue.Instagram

Yes, the exterior of the Marcus Performing Arts Center, especially with art installations like the 'Evanescent Art Installation',Instagram provides excellent photo opportunities. The lobby areas can also be visually appealing for pre-show photos.

The 'Evanescent Art Installation' outside the center is a prime spot for photos.Instagram The grand architecture of the building itself and the surrounding downtown Milwaukee area also offer great backdrops.

No, taking pictures of the stage or performers during a show is strictly prohibited. This is to ensure the best experience for all attendees and to respect the artists' work.

It's always best to check the specific event's policy or look for signage at the venue. However, the general rule of thumb is no flash photography or recording during performances.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Marcus Performing Arts Center is a fantastic destination for family outings. Shows like 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid' presented by First Stage are specifically geared towards younger audiences.Instagram Beyond staged performances, the center often features interactive art installations Instagram and outdoor activities that are perfect for children, such as bubble blowing and enjoying live music.Instagram

When visiting with children, consider the seating arrangements carefully, especially in Uihlein Hall, to ensure they have a clear view of the stage. The outdoor events and art installations offer a more relaxed environment where kids can move around and engage with the surroundings.Instagram Many families report having a blast and appreciate the family-friendly atmosphere and activities available.

✨ Couples & Date Nights

For a memorable date night, the Marcus Performing Arts Center offers a sophisticated and entertaining experience. Catching a touring Broadway show in Uihlein Hall provides a classic, elegant evening out.Reddit The vibrant downtown location also means you can easily pair your theater experience with dinner at one of Milwaukee's many restaurants before or after the show.

Consider checking the schedule for concerts, dance performances, or even comedy shows for a diverse range of date night options. The center's ambiance, especially during evening performances, creates a perfect setting for a romantic outing. Don't forget to explore any outdoor art installations for a unique pre- or post-show photo opportunity.Instagram

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

Beyond its theatrical productions, the Marcus Performing Arts Center is a significant spot for art lovers. The Evanescent Art Installation outside the venue is a must-see, offering a visually striking experience and great photo opportunities.Instagram The center also occasionally hosts art displays and exhibitions within its public spaces.Reddit

Keep an eye on the Marcus Center's calendar for events that might feature visual arts, such as gallery openings or art fairs.Instagram The surrounding downtown Milwaukee area also boasts numerous art galleries and museums, making the Marcus Center a great starting point for a day dedicated to exploring the city's creative landscape.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Theaters

The Marcus Performing Arts Center is home to several distinct performance spaces, each offering a unique atmosphere. Uihlein Hall is the largest and most prominent, a 2,300-seat auditorium renowned for hosting major Broadway tours and large-scale productions.TikTok Its grandeur makes it ideal for epic musicals and concerts. For more intimate performances, the center also features smaller venues suitable for chamber music, local theater, and experimental works.

Beyond the main halls, the Marcus Center often utilizes its outdoor spaces for special events. These can range from community dance festivals Instagram to art installations Instagram and live music. These outdoor settings provide a more relaxed and casual experience, often drawing families and those looking for a unique cultural outing in Milwaukee.

When planning your visit, understanding which theater your event is in is crucial for setting expectations regarding seating, acoustics, and the overall ambiance. The diversity of its venues ensures that the Marcus Center can cater to a wide array of artistic tastes and audience preferences.

Community and Art Installations

The Marcus Performing Arts Center is more than just a venue for ticketed performances; it's a hub for community engagement and public art. Throughout the year, the center hosts various community events, including free dance classes and workshops, fostering a vibrant local arts scene.Instagram These events are a fantastic way for residents and visitors alike to experience different art forms and connect with local artists.

Furthermore, the exterior of the Marcus Center frequently becomes a canvas for captivating art installations. The 'Evanescent Art Installation' Instagram is a prime example, transforming the space into an interactive and visually stunning environment. These installations often encourage visitor participation, such as bubble blowing or playing a painted piano, making the area around the center an attraction in its own right.Instagram

These artistic and community-focused initiatives highlight the Marcus Center's commitment to making the arts accessible and engaging for everyone. They offer a chance to enjoy art in a less formal setting, often free of charge, and provide excellent opportunities for memorable photos and family fun.Instagram

Attending a Broadway Show

The Marcus Performing Arts Center is a premier destination for Broadway in Milwaukee, bringing acclaimed touring productions to the city. Shows like 'Wicked' Reddit and 'Les Misérables' are frequently featured in their Broadway Series, drawing large crowds and enthusiastic theater-goers. Securing tickets for these popular shows often requires booking well in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly.Reddit

When attending a Broadway show, understanding the seating is key. Uihlein Hall offers a grand theater experience, but as some reviews suggest, the balcony seating might offer a full view but could present challenges with acoustics.Reddit It's advisable to consult the seating chart when purchasing tickets to ensure you get the best possible view and sound for your budget and preference.

While the focus is on the performance, remember that the Marcus Center also offers amenities like concessions Reddit and is surrounded by downtown attractions. Planning your visit to include dinner or exploring the nearby art installations Instagram can enhance your overall experience of a night out at the Marcus Center.

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