Broadway-caliber performances, various concerts and visual arts exhibits are all on deck for planners interested in adding a bit of East Central Wisconsin’s cultural offerings to a meeting.
Following are six impressive venues where groups will find said entertainment and inspiration, as well as amazing spaces for memorable off-site events.
Weidner Center for the Performing Arts, Green Bay
Situated on the lovely University of Wisconsin-Green Bay campus and featuring an exciting calendar of events, including student productions and performances by visiting artists and touring companies, the Weidner Center for the Performing Arts is known for its elegant design and the acoustic excellence of its 2,000-seat main hall, said Diane Nagy, director of marketing at the venue, making it a great option for groups wanting to add a touch of class to their events.
“Weidner Center offers the perfect atmosphere for your next business meeting, lecture or reception,” she said. “We can help you create an elegant dinner or private reception in any of our unique spaces.”
Among those spaces are the stage, grand foyer and smaller lobbies on the second and third floors that overlook the waters of Green Bay.
According to Nagy, group tours can be arranged and group ticketing is available for most events.
Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts, Fond du Lac
Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts (THELMA), which features a two-level art gallery and a hall for performances, is a premier destination for arts and entertainment in the region.
“THELMA is almost 40,000 square feet of the most stunning intimate spaces,” said Jacqui Corsi, the venue’s director of marketing. “Contemporary clarity and old-school Hollywood grandeur are interior design motifs available at THELMA—the perfect blend of old and new.”
Design elements that will stand out include chandeliers featuring 206 hand-hung crystals, Edison light bulbs and tile.
“When you enter THELMA, you feel as though you have stepped into a different place,” Corsi said. “The bright white contemporary lobby is only the starting point. The great hall with state-of-the-art audiovisual and a grand stage is the perfect backdrop for an employee appreciation event or brand announcement.”
Group rates are available for concerts, and group tours of the art exhibits and building as well as behind-the-scenes tours can be arranged for a donation.
Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, Appleton
The Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, located in the heart of downtown Appleton, each year hosts more than 350 events, including Broadway productions, concerts, meetings and receptions.
“In addition to beautiful, flexible spaces, the center can coordinate services with ticketing, stagehands, security personnel, valet parking and house management as needed for your event,” said Maria Van Laanen, the venue’s president.
Among the spaces for group gatherings are two theaters, a luxury suite and the lobby.
“Group ticket sales remain a popular option for group leaders,” Van Laanen added. “By coordinating directly with our dedicated group sales department, group leaders can request recommendations for hotels and restaurants that will help in planning the perfect outing to Appleton and the Fox Cities.”
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Tours are also available if an event is booked at the center.
The Paine Art Center and Gardens, Oshkosh
The Paine Art Center and Gardens, a historic mansion built in 1927, features a wonderful art collection and 3.5 acres of themed garden designs starring tulips and other bulbs in the spring, and annuals and perennials throughout the summer and fall.
“During the holiday season we bring alive the story of the Nutcracker in the Castle to the entire property, immersing visitors in different facets of the holiday presentation through decor, special actor-led performance tours and a cafe that delights young and old with visits by the Sugar Plum Fairy,” said Kelli Marsicek, the venue’s marketing and volunteer coordinator.
Throughout the year, the venue accommodates group receptions, banquets, board meetings, training sessions and more.
“The possibilities are endless for hosting events at the Paine,” Marsicek said. “The backdrop of our carriage house with adjoining courtyard access provides a unique space for pre- and post-dinner festivities. Designed in the style of an English Garden conservatory, the stunning space features a white interior with tall windows and a large skylight.”
Birch Creek Music Performance Center, Egg Harbor
Situated in the heart of Door County is Birch Creek Music Performance Center, a unique summer music academy and performance venue.
“In addition to being a wonderful concert venue for large groups, Birch Creek is equipped with space and accommodations for many types of events during our off-season, including retreats, educational functions and more,” said John Schoneman, the venue’s marketing and media specialist.
On-site facilities can house up to 50 people for overnight stays, and group event spaces are seasonal, including a hall for wintertime use and a barn for use when it’s warm outside.
“The concert barn is old and rustic with wonderful natural acoustics, while Juniper Hall is a modern, indoor facility with wood-paneled floors, high ceilings and reverberating acoustics that are great for speakers, chamber music and small ensembles,” Schoneman said.
Additionally, group tickets are available for performances.
John Michael Kohler Arts Center, Sheboygan
The 50-year-old John Michael Kohler Arts Center, a nationally acclaimed visual and performing arts complex, includes 10 galleries, a theater, meeting spaces, a cafe and six award-winning public washrooms, created by American artists through the center’s renowned Arts/Industry program.
“They have become such magnetic attractions that they are generally a part of every tour,” said Yui Schemrich, the venue’s special events coordinator. “Female visitors can often be seen knocking on the men’s rooms doors and vice versa.”
On-site event spaces, including a main hall and atrium, accommodate seminars, meetings, receptions, dinners and more.
“The Founder’s Room, located in the Italian Revival-style home built in 1882, is suitable for a small board meeting or executives gathering,” Schemrich said. “The Library Sculpture Garden is a striking setting with the facade of the 1904 Carnegie Library, lush plantings and beautiful sculptures. This is used for dinners, receptions and concerts.”
Additionally, according to Schemrich, the staff can assist with creating a unique experience for groups, from docent-led tours of the exhibits and hands-on art activities to group pricing for performances.
