BIG FUN

The 2008-2009 Performing Arts whirlwind begins this month with a fury of original shows, regional premieres and some very promising ensembles. Off The Wall’s production of Gypsy includes the talented Alison Mary Forbes in the lead role and a well-balanced supporting cast. Milwaukee Shakespeare calls in a cast of seasoned theatre professionals to open its season with the romance Love’s Labour’s Lost. Next Act Theatre’s Artistic Director David Cecsarini makes a notable appearance onstage as Vince Lombardi this season while Michael Gotch takes on numerous roles in the Milwaukee Rep’s production of Douglas Wright’s one-man drama I Am My Own Wife. Big names make a splash this month, including Robin Williams, Itzhak Perlman, Second City, the Rat Pack (sort of) and former Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra Pops Director Doc Severinsen. And the UWM Dance Department celebrates nearly half a century in existence with one of the largest assemblies of local dance talent we’ve seen in years.