Youth Theater & Performing Arts

Performing Arts

First Stage

One of the nation’s most acclaimed children’s theaters and the largest theater training program of its kind in the nation, First Stage inspires both children and adults to explore the wonder of the performing arts together. Featuring local professional actors and talented children from the company, productions have ranged from shows like Shrek, the Musical to The Best Christmas Pageant Ever and Nancy Drew and Her Biggest Case. First Stage performs its main stage plays at the Todd Wehr Theater in the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts, and tours locally and statewide.

Performing Arts

Milwaukee Ballet School & Academy

The academy is one of the three largest dance schools in the nation and the only school in the Midwest accredited by the National Association of Schools of Dance. Offering children’s, pre-professional, and recreational classes, the school brings classical ballet training to nearly 600 students. Students perform in annual and bi-annual showcases and audition for coveted ensemble roles in the Milwaukee Ballet’s yearly production of The Nutcracker, a Milwaukee holiday tradition.

Performing Arts

Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra

MYSO is one of the largest and most respected youth orchestra programs in the country, teaching nearly 1,000 young musicians. Founded in 1956, MYSO offers more than 25 ensemble options, from symphony and string orchestras, to jazz and steel pan bands, for students at all skill levels.