Update: we have exceeded our goal! Thank you to everyone who contributed. The Next Big Thing campaign will remain open until October 31 if you would still like to make a contribution.
Next Act Theatre is thrilled to announce an exciting new opportunity:
Long-time patrons Val and Gary Zamecnik have generously offered to match donations to Next Act up to $50,000 between now and December 31, 2025.
Funds raised during this campaign will be used to support production costs for the 2025-26 season, which includes productions of SANCTUARY CITY by Martyna Majok, BOSWELL by Marie Kohler, SWING STATE by Rebecca Gilman and DINNER WITH THE DUCHESS by Nick Green.
When we raise $50,000, the match unlocked by the Zamecniks will be used to renovate Next Act Theatre’s rehearsal hall, including a new floor and a new ceiling lighting grid. The rehearsal hall is used by Next Act Theatre, Renaissance Theaterworks and outside organizations for rehearsals, classes, workshops, meetings and even performances, and these updates will improve outcomes for artists, students and patrons. The rehearsal hall will be renamed The Val and Gary Zamecnik Studio following this renovation. Funds will also support the acquisition of a new lighting board for Next Act Theatre, among other equipment improvements.
“Next Act has grown substantially over the past few years, including increased programming and partnerships, additional staff members, and improvements to our space,” said Managing Director Libby Amato. “This campaign will allow us to continue that growth and bring an even higher standard of excellence to our productions and educational opportunities. We extend our deepest gratitude to Val and Gary for their support. Their commitment to the Wisconsin artistic community is second to none!”
You can double your money by donating before December 31. Click below to donate online, call (414) 278-0765 or mail a donation to:
Next Act Theatre
PO Box 394
Milwaukee, WI 53201
We can’t do it without you! Be part of the Next Big Thing and support improvements that will keep Next Act Theatre producing the kind of impactful, entertaining, thought-provoking theatre you love for years to come!