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.

LEARN MORE

Banner reads: "Kids in the Rotunda"

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.

Learn More

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

VIEW THE FULL SERIES
  • 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
  • November 22

    Saturday

    Family Friendly, Free Events, Kids in the Rotunda, Music Ken Lonnquist

    Rotunda Stage

    Enjoy a delightful performance by Ken Lonnquist, who writes and sings humorous, literate and thoughtful songs about nature, the environment and current issues.

    Multiple Showtimes
  • November 28

    Friday

    Family Friendly, Free Events, Kids in the Rotunda, Music Cash Box Kings

    Rotunda Stage

    The Cash Box Kings bring the classic Chicago blues era to life, tailored to teach children about this timeless genre. This be-bopping blues party promises to get everyone on their feet and grooving!

    Multiple Showtimes
  • November 29

    Saturday

    Family Friendly, Free Events, Kids in the Rotunda, Music Yid Vicious

    Rotunda Stage

    Yid Vicious brings klezmer for all ages to the Rotunda Stage. Get ready to dance as we celebrate the wonders of the season with Yiddish dance beats, special guests and shenanigans galore.

    Multiple Showtimes
  • December 6

    Saturday

    Family Friendly, Free Events, Kids in the Rotunda, Music Stuart Stotts

    Rotunda Stage

    Stuart Stotts is an energetic singer and storyteller who loves engaging audiences. In a family-friendly setting, you'll find yourself singing, moving, sharing ideas and laughing together.

    Multiple Showtimes
  • December 13

    Saturday

    Family Friendly, Free Events, Kids in the Rotunda, Music The Handphibians

    Rotunda Stage

    The Handphibians will bring the vibrant sounds of Rio de Janeiro, Salvador and Recife, Brazil, to life with their songs and traditional drumming rhythms.

    Multiple Showtimes