The spooky season has arrived, and the Milwaukee Theater District has all the thrills and chills you could ever hope to find at venues around the city. Kicking off this week, Milwaukee Theater Week celebrates the performing arts in our community alongside the many spectacular venues, actors and behind-the-scenes factors that allow the show to go on in our city. So, whether it’s the spine-tingling feeling of an enchanting melody or a surprising twist you never saw coming, here are nine shows we can’t wait to see in Milwaukee this October.

 

Waitress - Skylight Theater

Photo by Mark Frohna

"Waitress"

Skylight Music Theatre
October 4-27, 2024

Are you craving a musical that dazzles the crowd every time with a Tony-nominated score? “Waitress,” at Skylight Music Theatre, is here to satisfy. Based on a book by Jessie Nelson and a movie by Adrienne Shelly, “Waitress” follows a talented pie baker trapped in a loveless marriage as she searches for the ingredients to the secret recipe to happiness in unexpected places. The musical is headlined by lyrics and music by none other than Sara Bareilles, a six-time Grammy nominee with hits such as “Brave” and “Love Song.” Order up! Get your tickets here.

 

Steve Miller Band

Miller High Life Theatre
October 11, 2024, at 8 p.m.

Miller at the Miller High Life Theatre, it’s a match made in Milwaukee. The legendary Steve Miller Band is set to rock the Miller High Life Theatre as the local Milwaukeean celebrates over 50 years of timeless hits and unforgettable performances. Known for classics like "The Joker" and "Fly Like an Eagle," this group continues to electrify audiences worldwide with their unique blend of psychedelic and classic rock—don’t miss the chance to experience this spectacular performance.

 

Becky G

The Rave / Eagles Club
October 12, 2024, at 8 p.m.

Get ready, Milwaukee! Multi-platinum artist Becky G is set to light up The Rave/Eagles Club as part of her highly anticipated “CASA GOMEZ: OTRO CAPÍTULO” tour, celebrating her Mexican heritage with a mix of Regional Mexican songs from her latest album, “ESQUINAS.” This concert promises an unforgettable night filled with fan-favorite hits and heartfelt performances, all while supporting music education through her partnership with the Save The Music Foundation. Experience Becky G's captivating energy and musical journey on this incredible tour!

 

Tom Colicchio Why I Cook

 

Tom Colicchio: Why I Cook – A Conversation with Paul Bartolotta

The Riverside Theater
October 14, 2024, at 7 p.m.

“Top Chef” may have wrapped its season in Wisconsin, but the spotlight still shines on our city’s sensational culinary scene in the Milwaukee Theater District. One of the show’s long-time judges is headed back to the Cream City this month for a special conversation with local restauranteur extraordinaire Paul Bartolotta. Each ticket includes a copy of Tom’s book, “Why I Cook.” Pack your (figurative) knives, and go find your tickets here.

 

"THE MOORS"

Renaissance Theaterworks
October 20-November 10, 2024

A spooky comedy just in time for Halloween, take a trip to the dreary, windswept moors of England to discover the tale of a young governess who arrives at a manor in search of the mysteriously missing Mr. Branwell. After exchanging semi-romantic correspondence, the governess finds only Branwell’s two sisters, a maid and a talking mastiff. Immerse yourself in this whimsical satire, where nothing is as it seems at the Renaissance Theaterworks.

 

Tigers Jaw

Vivarium
October 21, 2024, at 8 p.m.

This is a can’t-miss performance by Tigers Jaw, live at Vivarium in Milwaukee, where the Scranton-based band will showcase their latest album, "I Won’t Care How You Remember Me." With its focus on living in the present amidst today’s distractions, this album blends heartfelt lyrics with the band’s signature sound, reflecting their growth and creative freedom. Experience their dynamic performance as they bring their most ambitious work to life in an intimate setting! I care how you remember this show! Get your tickets today.

 

Best Seats in MKE - N. Broadway Parklet

 

It’s Alive at Gallery Night

Best Seats in MKE
October 18, 2024, at 6-8 p.m.

The Milwaukee Theater District is alive! You’ve seen it on the RiverWalk and at Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel on Halloween, now It’s Alive at Gallery Night in the Historic Third Ward. Come out to Gallery Night to see the city’s arts scene on full display. Featuring an endless variety of traditional art at galleries throughout the neighborhood, you can now see a different discipline of artistic expression as the performing artists of the Skylight Music Theatre bring their talents to the Best Seats in MKE for a free one-of-a-kind performance.

 

Dropkick Murphys

The Riverside Theater
October 22, 2024, at 7 p.m.

The Dropkick Murphys are bringing their high-energy blend of punk rock and Celtic folk to The Riverside Theater, and you won’t want to miss it. Since their formation in 1996, this Boston band has become an anthem for the underdogs, creating music meant to be sung loud in packed venues, and they’re set to deliver a night of camaraderie and celebration! Make your mid-week plans!

 

P!NK with special guests The Script and KidCutUp

POSTPONED

Postponed for 2024, P!NK will bring her highly-flying, showstopping performance to Fiserv Forum sometime in the near future! Fans can expect a night filled with her greatest hits like "So What" and "Just Give Me A Reason," along with breathtaking aerial stunts and dance routines. With nearly 3 million tickets sold last year alone, P!NK continues to solidify her status as a touring powerhouse. Find more info here!