Overture Center Collection: 20th Anniversary Celebration

As Overture approaches its 20th birthday, the center is working hard to create a memorable 2024/25 season of shows and programs for the community. The newest season includes Broadway shows such as "Shucked" and the return of "Wicked," comedians like Steve Martin and Martin Short, and dance performances from Hubbard Street Dance Chicago. Please check out the Overture Center website for more information on the new season.

In addition to the adult-oriented programs in the season, Overture is proud to highlight its youth programs for children and teenagers. These include Kids in the Rotunda, the Lullaby Project, the Jerry Awards, Art Career Exploration Spotlight (ACES), Disney Musicals in Schools, the Middle School Musical Theater Program, and the OnStage Student Field Trips. Their mission to provide free and low-cost programs for children and teenagers is part of the center's overarching goal of community participation. To learn more about these programs, please visit Overture's community engagement page .

This goal of engagement with Madison's communities is at the heart of the Overture Center and plans to remain a mainstay for its future. On July 25, 2024, Jerry Frautschi, whose $205 million gift built Overture Center, donated $10 million to the Overture Forever Campaign, a $30 million campaign to address capital needs and grow Overture's endowment, ensuring the center stays a vibrant and welcoming space.

Frautschi states, “When I made my gift for the development of Overture Center, my vision was to create a world-class arts destination that would become the cultural hub of Madison. As we celebrate Overture’s 20-year anniversary, its success has exceeded even my most ambitious hopes and expectations. With my $10 million pledge to support the Overture Forever Campaign and the additional support of other donors, we can ensure that Overture remains an exceptional building that brings exceptional arts experiences to the Madison area.”

On September 28, 2024, Overture Center will celebrate 20 years of community impact at its "Big 2-Oh" birthday party, a festive night of interactive amusements, surprise performances, sweet birthday treats, and dancing. Ultimately, with the strength and support of lovers of the arts, Overture Center will continue to exist for many years to come.