Marcus Center

[1] Plans began as early as 1945 for a war memorial to provide for "art, music, drama, public discussion, and social assembly."

Milwaukee County agreed to established two parks in conjunction with the new Center, Red Arrow to the east and Pere Marquette to the west.

The gala opening included the Milwaukee Symphony, Donizetti’s opera Lucia di Lammermoor and guest appearances by stars of the American Ballet Theatre.

Touring acts during the first month of operation included the New York Philharmonic, Duke Ellington, National Ballet of Canada, Hildegarde, and Louis Armstrong.

The very first Broadway at the Marcus Center season was in 1994 with Grease (November 29 – December 4, 1994), Hello Dolly!, Damn Yankees, Cats, Tommy, and The Phantom of the Opera.