Banner text reads: "Celebrate our big 2-OH" with multiple "O"s depicting different performances in Overture Center

As we celebrate 20 years since Overture Center's grand opening, our hearts are full of gratitude and pride. These two decades have been a journey of growth, creativity and community, and we are thrilled to share this milestone with you.

Overture through the Years

We may have opened our doors in 2004, but there's a lot more history to this building than you might know!

Explore

"Happy 20th anniversary, Overture Center! May you continue to unite the Madison community with your incredible performances and inclusive spirit."

Susi Holiday, Volunteer

"My favorite part of volunteering at Overture Center is seeing the wonder on the faces of those coming for the first time."

Judy Lyons, Volunteer

Fun Facts

Arts and beyond

Community programs and engagement at Overture

  • Overture Galleries are hubs of creative expression

    Each year, our five Overture Galleries mount four cycles of seasonal exhibitions, providing a forum for diverse artistic expression and showcasing local artists across all visual media.
  • A mother and father with their baby looking at a high quality microphone. The baby girl is reaching for the microphone. They all have light complexion and lighter hair.

    The Lullaby Project strengthens bonds between parents and children

    The Lullaby Project helps new and expectant parents express their hopes and dreams through songwriting, with the help of local singer-songwriters.
  • A performance of Kids in the Rotunda. Many parents and children watching a show. Many of them are standing and dancing.

    Kids in the Rotunda fosters a love for the arts

    We inspire a passion for the arts in young children, hoping it grows into a lifelong love. Our free Kids in the Rotunda series exposes kids to new sounds, cultures and art forms.
  • A wide shot of Capitol Theater and an audience of young students. On stage a person is making announcements in front of a piano and a guitar.

    OnStage student field trips connect students with live performances

    Our OnStage student field trip series welcomes students from public, private and home schools to experience a diverse range of performing arts, connect to curriculum content and present various cultural perspectives.
  • A man in a suit jacket with dark hair and light complexion plays a golden organ console.

    Duck Soup Cinema reclaims the silent era

    Several times a year, we reclaim the silent film heritage of the Capitol Theater with local vaudeville-style acts opening for a silent film screening featuring a skilled organist who mirrors the actors' emotions, just as it was done in 1928.

  • Disney Musicals in Schools introduces musical theater programs to grade schoolers

    Selected schools participate in a 17-week musical theater residency, led by a team of teaching artists, to develop performance skills, teamwork and boost student creativity and empathy. Overture is proud to continue partnering with Disney Theatrical Group.
  • A student with light complexion, two long light brown braids in a black long-sleeved dress, singing with one hand raised and eyes closed.

    The Jerrys recognizes talent, honors excellence and inspires dreams

    Each year, theater professionals and educators attend productions at over 90 high schools in 30 counties. After participating schools receive feedback, the program culminates in an unforgettable awards show held every June in Overture Hall.

  • International Festival celebrates the rich cultural heritage within our community

    Featuring more than 60 local performers, businesses and non-profit organizations with global connections, Overture's International Festival celebrates the cultural connections and heritage within our community.

  • Equity and Innovation creates a welcoming space for all

    At Oveture, we're dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment that reflects the diversity of our community and the artistry on our stages. We proudly partner with over 30 community groups to offer arts experinces to those who might not otherwise have the opportunity and empower middle and high school students of color through the Arts Career Exploration Spotlight (ACES) program.

LEARN MORE ABOUT COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

"Overture Center has been an integral part of our family's life. From attending Kids in the Crossroads with our young daughters to watching them perform, give talks and celebrate milestones, the Center shaped their growth into adulthood."

Brian Fox, Patron

"Taking our family to see 'The Lion King' was unforgettable. As the animals came down the aisles, I was overwhelmed with a feeling of wonder and joy."

Terry Austin, Donor

20th Anniversary Stories

20th Anniversary Video Stories

  • Beth Racette: Combining community and creativity in Overture Galleries

  • Jess Schuknecht: Leading the frontline of Overture’s ticketing team

  • Jim St. Vincent: His commitment to Overture and its future

  • Jim Yehle: Merging professional expertise and personal passion to support Overture Center

Read the 20th Anniversary Brochure

"Hearing from patrons about the wonderful time they had and how much they enjoyed their experience with us is my favorite part of working at Overture Center."

Melissa DeMonbreun, Employee

"The incredible people—both my colleagues and our audiences and community—are my favorite part of working at Overture Center. The connections and relationships formed here are truly special and make every day rewarding."

Alanna Medearis, Employee

A world of wonder awaits!

No matter what you like, Chief Artistic Experiences Officer Tim Sauers promises that the 2025/26 season has something special in store for you.

"I can't wait for everyone to see what we've lined up. It's going to be a season to remember!"

Explore the Season

Resident Companies

We're honored to host nine amazing resident organizations that bring a variety of art forms to life. Explore these groups that call Overture their home.

Learn More

"People need art and need to be inspired, and that's one of the greatest things Overture does."

Erin Liljegren, Artist

"The opportunity Overture provides for people to see world-class performances, experience new things and share that with others is amazing."

Carol Toussaint, Donor

Overture. Forever.

Help secure Overture Center's future with the Overture Forever campaign! We're aiming to raise $30 million to preserve and maintain our beloved building from the foundation to the roof. Join us in protecting this cultural treasure and ensuring a vibrant future for the arts in Madison.

Learn More

Our successes are a collective triumph, made possible by the dedication of our employees, resident organizations, patrons, donors and partners. Your commitment has elevated Overture Center to a beacon of artistic excellence and inspiration. 

Thank you for being part of Overture. Here's to the next 20 years and beyond!