Opening Jan. 21, 2027, the exhibit celebrates Milwaukee's theater legacy through historic artifacts, theatrical treasures and special programming.
MILWAUKEE (Tuesday, October 20, 2026) – The Milwaukee Theater District and Milwaukee County Historical Society (MCHS) are pulling back the curtain on Milwaukee's performing arts history with “Behind the Marquee: Stories from Milwaukee's Theater District,” a new exhibit opening Jan. 21, 2027, at the Milwaukee County Historical Society.
Featuring costumes, props, archival materials and memorabilia from across Milwaukee's performing arts community, the exhibition celebrates the people, productions and places that have shaped the city's stages, tracing the artistic legacies, bold ideas and generations of talent that continue to influence how Milwaukee tells its stories today. "Milwaukee's theater community has always been bigger than any one stage or production," said Josh Albrecht, chief marketing officer at Visit Milwaukee, a founding partner of the Milwaukee Theater District. "This exhibit brings those stories together, giving audiences a chance to discover the talent, creativity and history that make Milwaukee's performing arts community so special."
“Milwaukee’s theaters have helped shape the city’s cultural identity, creating spaces for creativity, connection and shared experiences across generations,” said Ben Barbera, president and executive director of the Milwaukee County Historical Society. “We’re excited to work with the Milwaukee Theater District to share these stories and highlight another part of what makes Milwaukee special.”
From Center Stage to Behind the Scenes
Highlights include costumes from Black Arts MKE's Black Nativity, scenic designs from Renaissance Theaterworks, puppets from First Stage and Skylight Music Theatre and props from Next Act Theatre. Visitors will also discover Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra memorabilia, original Riverside Theater seats and a rendering and finished costume by award-winning designer Paul Tazewell, who worked at Milwaukee Repertory Theater.
Beyond the Exhibition
Special programming will bring Milwaukee's theater history to life through hands-on workshops, discussions and community events. Highlights include a First Stage puppetry workshop, a presentation on the history of Black theater in Milwaukee, a theater-themed trivia event hosted at Saint Kate, a discussion on women in the performing arts with Renaissance Theaterworks and a virtual Lunch and Learn exploring the history of Theatre X. Additional programming, including SPARK! experiences with Milwaukee Ballet and Danceworks, will be offered, with more events to be announced.
Plan Your Visit
Behind the Marquee opens Jan. 21 and runs through March 31, 2027, at the Milwaukee County Historical Society, located at 910 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. A historical timeline and artifacts from MCHS's collection will remain on display through the end of 2027.
For more information, visit milwaukeehistory.net.