#5: The Members Show at Walker’s Point Center for the Arts.
Why? Because there’s no better way to survey the local art scene than with a double-header visit to the Haggerty Museum’s “Current Tendencies” and this show of Walker’s Point members. Included are Barbara Miner’s stirring photographs of the Capitol collective bargaining protests, collected in a poster titled “This is what democracy looks like,” as well as work by other local artists.
#4: From My Hometown at the Milwaukee Rep.
Why? Because this gem of a pocket musical is in its third go-around at the Rep’s Stackner Cabaret, and given its ingenious idea, it’s not surprising. Three R&B singers arrive in Manhattan to try to get to the Apollo Theatre, each bringing the legacy of soul music from their home towns: Philadelphia, Memphis and Detroit. Each musical capital offers its own brand of music, and the show is chock full of hits like “I Feel Good,” “Lonely Teardrops” and “Chain Gang.” Kevin Ramsey returns to direct this sure-fire crowd pleaser.
#3: Ensemble Musical Offering’s “The Language of Bach: A Tribute to the Victims of 9/11.”
Why? Because when pondering the inexplicable, there is no better accompaniment than great music, and Joan Parsley’s early music ensemble offers some of the most sublime pieces ever written. Included in the program are two Bach cantatas, featuring the Bach Collegium Choir, the sixth Brandenburg Concerto, a solo violin sonata and works for the organ. Mayor Tom Barrett will offer opening remarks at the Milwaukee concert, and Wauwatosa Mayor Jill Didier will open the Wauwatosa concert.
#2: Ex Fabula’s “Barbershop” at Satin Wave Beauty Salon and Barbershop.
Why? Because you don’t have to be Mayberry’s Floyd to know that the best storytellers often have a pair of shears in their hands and a smock wrapped around their shoulders. Part of Tom Crawford’s “Terminal Milwaukee” series, this storytelling event will feature Crawford’s own tales about his neighborhood along with stories from current residents and other Ex Fabula yarn-spinners. And the always fabulous historian John Gurda will be on hand to offer his historical perspective on the neighborhood.
#1: “United We Stand” at Cathedral Square.
Why? Because it’s a good time to come together, and this free outdoor concert by the Bel Canto Chorus and Milwaukee Chamber Orchestra offers the perfect opportunity. Richard Hynson will conduct Mozart’s Requiem and Samuel Barber’s Adagio for Strings. And the event will also honor members of the military and others who we have lost in recent years. If you can’t attend, the concert will be broadcast live on Wisconsin and Milwaukee Public Television.
