Join AIA Milwaukee for a renovation tour of the Milwaukee Repertory Theater.

Milwaukee Repertory Theater, one of the nation's leading regional theaters, is undergoing a transformative renovation to enhance its artistic, educational and community offerings.

Located in a historic 1898 power plant, the theater complex—last updated in 1987—has served its purpose but now requires significant upgrades to meet modern performance needs. EUA, Fisher Dachs Associates, and other key partners led the design of a comprehensive overhaul of the facility, including flexible theater configurations, updated MEP systems and improved production spaces.

For the first time, all three of the building’s performance venues will be accessible from a central lobby, creating a more communal experience for patrons and fostering greater social interaction before, during, and after events. This shared space supports Milwaukee Rep’s vision to build deeper connections among audience members and strengthen the theater’s role as a cultural hub.

Beyond the theaters, the redesign focuses on inclusivity, accessibility, and community engagement. The project introduces wellness rooms, improved access for persons with disabilities, and the Herzfeld Foundation Education & Engagement Center to serve over 20,000 students annually. New lounges and modern amenities will foster year-round activity. Milwaukee Rep’s renovation will deepen the venue’s cultural impact and secure its relevance for future generations.

The tour will begin promptly at 4:00PM. Please check-in with an AIA Milwaukee officer stationed at the main entrance. 

There will be a Happy Hour at Vault following the tour.

Presenters

• Tom Stacey, AIA Senior Project Manager, EUA
• Jeff Weber Senior Project Architect, EUA
• Melissa Vartanian Managing Director, Milwaukee Repertory Theater

Details

This is an active construction site and there will likely be workers on-site doing discrete activities. PPE is required to include hard hat, safety glasses (with side shields), safety vest and appropriate, hard sole/closed toe footwear. There is limited guest PPE so you’re encouraged to bring your personal gear.

Learning Objectives:

• site: Understand how the project is integrated seamlessly into the greater Milwaukee Downtown Theater district and specifically the Associated Bank Theatre Center, respecting the historical integrity of the building while also embracing the necessary upgrades to enhance the theater experience and modernization to bridge the theater’s past with the future of the community and theatre industry.
• programming: Observe how the new complex featuring three state-of-the-art theaters, an education & engagement center, lobby renovation and riverwalk reconceptualization will support a broader range of productions, educational initiatives, and community engagement activities
• systems: Learn about performance & production enhancements such as the flexible theater configurations, fly loft integration and advanced production technology as well as building systems and infrastructure upgrades. Accessibility and inclusive features were integrated into the overall design.
• code: Gain insights into how the building code improved ADA accessibility to prime seating areas in the theater and the dressing rooms plus the addition of gender inclusive restrooms.

LINKS:

• EUA – Transform a theater complex into a cultural hub with versatile venues + advanced amenities
• Milwaukee Rep’s Powering Milwaukee: Reimagining a Beloved Theater
• Hunzinger – Renovations will reach all aspects of the Milwaukee Repertory Theater
• $80 Million construction effort transforming Milwaukee Repertory Theater from inside out
• Milwaukee REP – Things to know about our new center
• Milwaukee REP - Features of Our New Theater Center

Submitted for AIA/CES approval

No refunds day of event.

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