Kids in the Rotunda

Ken Lonnquist

Saturday, November 9

9:30am, 11am & 1 pm

Rotunda Stage

Free

Age Recommendation

All Ages

Runtime

45 minutes

Enjoy a delightful performance by Ken Lonnquist, who writes and sings humorous, literate and thoughtful songs about nature, the environment and current issues. He'll perform his most popular kids' songs, including favorites like "Nattie Of The Jungle" and "One Speed Bike." You might also hear tunes like "The Alligator Rag," "Tobacco" and "I Sold My Cat To The Circus."
Would you like to help Lonnquist decide which songs to play? Send an email with your requests to: ken@kenland.com.

The 1pm performance will be American Sign Language interpreted. Please email kidsintherotunda@overture.org at least one hour ahead to be seated within sight of the interpreter for live performances.

A livestream option will be available once a month. Dates for the season are Oct. 30, Nov. 29, Dec. 14, Jan. 11, Feb. 22, Mar. 22 and Apr. 26. Visit the Kids in the Rotunda web page for updates.

Learn More

In addition, Little Om BIG OM Yoga will lead youngsters in free family-friendly yoga sessions at 10:15 a.m. and 11:45 a.m.

Meet the Artist

Ken Lonnquist, a caucasian man with chin length white hair playing the acoustic guitar. He is wearing a black hat, light colored button shirt with a black vest. The image is stylized with a painting texture.

Ken Lonnquist

Ken Lonnquist began writing songs at seven, took up the guitar at 12, and has performed professionally since 1977. He writes and sings for all ages, but has a particular knack for engaging kids (even "old kids" age 10-12) with humorous, literate, thoughtful songs. He writes about nature, the environment, story-songs and topical issues. A series of acclaimed recordings for adults and children have made him a favorite family entertainer. He's written many musicals for Children’s Theater of Madison, and his “Old Befana” yuletide musical tours annually from Chicago to Minneapolis with his Kenland Theatrical Troupe! Sign-language videos and other special projects have widened his reach beyond singer-songwriter status… but his charm and energy as a live performer remain the heart of his work.

Upcoming Kids in the Rotunda Events

  • February 7

    Saturday

    Family Friendly, Free Events, Kids in the Rotunda, Music Drum Power

    Rotunda Stage

    The Drum Power advanced performing group features local youth ages 12-16, showcasing drumming and dance from Guinea, Senegal and Mali in West Africa and Salvador Bahia and Rio, Brazil.

    Multiple Showtimes
  • February 14

    Saturday

    Family Friendly, Free Events, Jazz, Kids in the Rotunda, Music NOLA Tribute

    Rotunda Stage

    Get ready for a musical journey with the New Orleans Tribute! This talented group, featuring members from Mama Digdown's Brass Band and Madison's top jazz musicians, brings the vibrant sounds of New Orleans Jazz and Secondline music to you—no plane ticket needed.

    Multiple Showtimes
  • February 21

    Saturday

    Family Friendly, Free Events, Kids in the Rotunda, Music L.E.X

    Rotunda Stage

    L.E.X delivers original kid-friendly hip-hop music with positive themes like regulating emotions, being kind, chasing dreams and navigating childhood experiences.

    Multiple Showtimes
  • February 28

    Saturday

    Family Friendly, Free Events, Fringe Festival, Kids in the Rotunda, Variety Mark Hayward

    Rotunda Stage

    Mark Hayward's performance is a delightful mix of comedy and object manipulation. Using props like yo-yos, tops, juggling equipment and even a mousetrap, he creates a fun and witty show that everyone can enjoy.

    Multiple Showtimes
  • March 14

    Saturday

    Dance, Family Friendly, Free Events, Kids in the Rotunda Kalaanjali Indian Dance Company

    Rotunda Stage

    Experience breathtaking stories of the East through the graceful postures, percussive feet, vibrant costumes and dynamic expressions of the Kalaanjali dancers.

    Multiple Showtimes
  • March 21

    Saturday

    Family Friendly, Free Events, Kids in the Rotunda, Music Tom Pease

    Rotunda Stage

    One of the series’ most popular performers, Tom Pease engages children with imaginative songs, humor and full audience participation. Pease’s show leaves audiences with a renewed appreciation for their own sense of place and community.

    Multiple Showtimes
  • March 28

    Saturday

    Dance, Family Friendly, Free Events, Kids in the Rotunda Madison Ballet

    Rotunda Stage

    Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the Madison Ballet like never before! Audience members will have an up-close experience of a ballet class warm up, barre practice, center floor work and choreography rehearsal.

    Multiple Showtimes

Kids in the Rotunda is supported by