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.
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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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 -
April 4
Saturday
Dance, Family Friendly, Free Events, Kids in the Rotunda Trinity Irish Dance Academy
Overture Hall Main Lobby
Get ready for a high-energy showcase that will leave you breathless! In this performance, you’ll witness the incredible talent of Trinity students, some as young as 3.5 years old, as they bring traditional Irish steps and vibrant choreography to life on stage.
Multiple Showtimes -
April 11
Saturday
Dance, Family Friendly, Free Events, Kids in the Rotunda, Music Limanya Drum and Dance
Rotunda Stage
Performing traditional music from Guinea and Mali, West Africa, Limanya Drum and Dance Ensemble incorporates song, dance, drum and theater into high-energy entertainment for all audiences.
Multiple Showtimes -
April 18
Saturday
Dance, Family Friendly, Free Events, Kids in the Rotunda, Music Duke Otherwise
Rotunda Stage
Don’t miss the wildly entertaining Duke Otherwise! This playful wordsmith, spirited performer and captivating tap dancer brings music and laughter to audiences of all ages.
Multiple Showtimes -
April 25
Saturday
Family Friendly, Free Events, Kids in the Rotunda, Music Lullaby Project
Rotunda Stage
Join local musicians and teaching artists for a very special day of sharing songs created for the little ones in your life.
Multiple Showtimes