The hall is named after the Uihlein family, heirs to the Schlitz Brewing Company fortune, who were significant patrons of Milwaukee arts.
It was designed as part of the original Performing Arts Center complex which opened in 1969.
The interior layout utilizes a continental seating arrangement, which eliminates center aisles for better sightlines.
The venue's stage floor is constructed from specialized wood to accommodate the technical requirements of professional ballet dancers.
The Marcus Center complex sits on the site of the former Pabst Mansion gardens.
Uihlein Hall features a sophisticated acoustic shell that can be adjusted to favor either orchestral or operatic sound profiles.
Uihlein Hall is the primary performance space within the Marcus Performing Arts Center in downtown Milwaukee. The venue serves as the permanent home for the Milwaukee Ballet, the Florentine Opera, and the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra's specific programming. Designed with a capacity exceeding 2,000 seats, it features a multi-tiered configuration including a main floor and multiple balcony levels. The hall is renowned for its acoustics, specifically engineered for large-scale symphonic and theatrical productions. The facility underwent major structural and aesthetic renovations in recent years to modernize its interior and audience amenities. It functions as the centerpiece of the regional performing arts scene, hosting both national touring Broadway productions and local cultural institutions. The building is situated directly along the Milwaukee River, integrating indoor performance spaces with riverfront access.
The elevated outdoor balcony overlooking the Milwaukee River and the downtown skyline at sunset.
Check the digital signage in the main lobby upon arrival to locate your specific seating level, as the balcony entrances are accessed via different elevators.
Arrive early to walk the outdoor promenade along the river, which offers the best views of the Milwaukee skyline and the neighboring Kilbourn Avenue bridge.
Pre-order beverages at the lobby bars before the performance to bypass lines during the scheduled intermission.
Do not attempt to enter through the administrative office doors; use the main glass-fronted entrance facing the river walk or the main lobby entrance.
Operates based on event schedules; the building is generally closed to the public on days without scheduled performances or rehearsals.
Business casual is standard, though opening nights often attract formal attire; refrain from photography or video recording during performances.
