Kids in the Rotunda
Whoopensocker
Saturday, October 18
9:30am, 11am & 1pm
Rotunda Stage
Free
Age Recommendation
All Ages
Runtime
45 minutes
Whoopensocker arts residency program and performing ensemble works with emergent readers and writers to create original theater pieces. The cast, led by a director and artistic producer, create a 45-minute sketch show made up entirely from the students’ writing. This show is a combination of sketches, songs and physical theater. It is a fantastic culmination of creativity, celebrated with students, staff and community.
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.
In addition, families are invited to participate in “Art After Overture” from 10:30am - 12:30pm, in partnership with the Madison Public Library.
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Sat, Oct 18, 2025
9:30 AM
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Sat, Oct 18, 2025
11:00 AM
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Sat, Oct 18, 2025
1:00 PM
Kids in the Rotunda
Join us for our free series designed to captivate families of all ages! Our handpicked lineup guarantees an unforgettable experience for your family.
A livestream option will be available once a month. Visit the Kids in the Rotunda web page for updates on livestreamed performances.
Meet the Artist
Whoopensocker
Whoopensocker is an arts-in-education residency program and performing ensemble that works with emergent readers and writers and uses theater as a tool to teach creative writing and social-emotional skills. The ensemble of teaching artists brings a toolbox of new ideas to classrooms to create a dynamic community-building experience for the whole class through six weeks of contact time with elementary school students in their classrooms. Since 2014, Whoopensocker has served over 3,500 students in school-based residences in 15 schools across Dane County. The Whoopensocker Performing Ensemble is a professional company of artists that creates original performances based on the writing of students from the Whoopensocker program. These hour-long shows are shared with the students and their families through funded field trips and with the public at venues across Madison. Since 2014, they have served thousands of students across Dane County through free school field trip performances and through public performances for students, their families and the community.
Art After Overture
In addition, families are invited to participate in “Art After Overture” in partnership with the Madison Public Library. The sessions provide arts experiences related to the morning’s Kids in the Rotunda performance. "Art After Overture" will take place at the Central Library location from 10:30am-12:30pm.
This performance is part of the Wisconsin Science Festival!
The Wisconsin Science Festival is a statewide celebration of science, technology, engineering, art and math with activities for people of all ages, backgrounds and interests throughout Wisconsin. Events include hands-on science exhibitions, demonstrations, performances, tours, pub nights, workshops and more. Unleash your curiosity from October 16-26!
Kids in the Rotunda is supported by
Upcoming Kids in the Rotunda Events
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October 18
Saturday
Comedy, Family Friendly, Free Events, Improv Comedy, Kids in the Rotunda, Theater Whoopensocker
Rotunda Stage
Whoopensocker arts residency program and performing ensemble works with emergent readers and writers to create original theater pieces. This show is a combination of sketches, songs and physical theater. It is a fantastic culmination of creativity, celebrated with students, staff and community.
Multiple Showtimes -
October 25
Saturday
Family Friendly, Free Events, Kids in the Rotunda, Music, Theater The Jerry Ensemble
Rotunda Stage
The Jerry Ensemble of Southern Wisconsin, a premier performance group representing the Jerry Awards, will perform Disney's "Finding Nemo KIDS!" Join us and witness the future stars of musical theater in action!
Multiple Showtimes -
October 29
Wednesday
Family Friendly, Free Events, Kids in the Rotunda, Variety Wayne the Wizard
Rotunda Stage
Get ready for spooky fun and silly surprises! Wayne the Wizard brings Halloween to life with colorful magic, comedy ventriloquism and lots of audience participation.
Multiple Showtimes -
November 1
Saturday
Educational/Talks, Family Friendly, Free Events, Kids in the Rotunda Zoozort
Rotunda Stage
Do you love learning about wildlife? Then join us for Zoozort's live animal program, where you'll discover special abilities, behaviors and habitats of some of the world’s most amazing animals.
Multiple Showtimes -
November 8
Saturday
Family Friendly, Free Events, Kids in the Rotunda, Music Birds of a Feather
Rotunda Stage
Birds of a Feather (Little Miss Ann + Suzi Shelton) will perform classic favorites and new songs from their debut album "Rock Together," featuring themes of friendship, adventure and community.
Multiple Showtimes -
November 15
Saturday
Family Friendly, Free Events, Kids in the Rotunda, Music Beni Daiko
Rotunda Stage
Beni Daiko will introduce Japanese culture through powerful Taiko drumming, traditional lion dance and modern interpretations. Get ready for an interactive experience with audience participation!
Multiple Showtimes