Music, Theatre & Film

Madison has many great music and film venues along with every type of restaurant and bar that one could want. The Orpheum and the Barrymore Theaters are the best places to catch the big national bands coming through Madison, while smaller venues like the High Noon Saloon offer a more intimate concert environment. You can also find classical music, plays, dance, and opera at the Overture Center and the Union Theater.

And if the band or show that you're looking for is not coming through Madison, chances are you can find them in Milwaukee or Chicago. If you like to dance, there are groups within our department that enjoy contra, ballroom, and swing dancing. There are also many clubs downtown where you can find your favorite type of dance music.

For those interested in film, the city holds an annual Film Festival showcasing a week of the best new independent films, world cinema, and new media. Also, the University Cinematheque offers foreign and independent films year-round.