Located in the heart of the state capital, the University of Wisconsin (UW) is the state’s largest university, home to nearly 44,000 students. While football and basketball games are certainly the biggest draws during the year, summer offers a number of events that are open to both students and the public. If you’re searching for something exciting to do on your next trip to Madison, make sure to put these UW events and activities on your radar.
Little Shop of Horrors
From July 12 through July 29, see the university’s best and brightest musical theater stars in “Little Shop of Horrors.” This comedy-sci-fi-horror-musical classic features the story of a struggling plant store employee who finds that one of the plants in the store can talk and think, albeit with a taste for humans. Sponsored by the Department of Theatre and Drama, this musical is one you shouldn’t miss.
The show takes place at the Mitchell Theatre on the campus of UW. Tickets are $40 for the opening night gala on July 13, but admission on other dates is $30 for adults (19 to 61), $25 for seniors (62+), $20 for UW students, $15 for children (5 to 18), and free for children under 5. Show times vary by day.
Print in Protest
From now until Sept. 16, the Chazen Museum of art on the campus of UW invites you to explore the printmaking history of the university at Print in Protest. During the 1960s and 1970s, this department of the university printed many intriguing posters that protested poverty, war, and other social issues. At this event, you can see the finest examples of art and anti-government propaganda from the time. Admission is free, and you can find the prints on the second-floor hallway or the Object Study Room of the Chazen Building.
Terrace After Dark
From May through September each year, the UW Student Union invites both students, their guests, and Wisconsin Union members to enjoy the Terrace After Dark event. (If you want to become a member, it’s easy). Over the course of 20 weeks, Terrace After Dark offers free movies and concerts, including upcoming new bands and new releases. There are also special nights that include DJs, open mic nights, talent shows, and more. Instead of dropping $30 for a show or $10 at a movie, hop over here to get it all for free.
YALI Tuesdays
On July 10, 17, and 24, join some of the Mandela Washington fellows at UW for discussions about global health at YALI Tuesdays. Standing for Young African Leaders, this group addresses health concerns domestically, as well as in Africa. Each of these sessions outlines topics such as universal health care in Nigeria, malaria, and health care equality in the United States. These fellows hope to earn an education in the United States and apply their skills back home, giving them a unique insight into the global health care crisis.
With art, music, culture, and entertainment, the events coming up at UW are sure to please. All you need to do is find your way over to the campus.
“University of Wisconsin-Madison” via Flickr by Phil Roeder. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original
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