By Kayla Zastrow
Life’s full of choices! Here are some events to keep you occupied this weekend:
Pippin
THURS.-SAT. 7/14-7/16 | UW CENTER FOR CIVIC ENGAGEMENT JAMES F. VENINGA THEATRE
Last month Wausau Community Theatre unfortunately had to cancel this production at the Grand Theater due to a COVID outbreak among the cast. But they are excited to be able to perform it this week at the UW Center for Civic Engagement. With characters loosely based on real-life figures from the Middle Ages, the musical tells the story of a young prince and his journey to be extraordinary. In the end, Pippin finds that happiness lies not in extraordinary endeavors, but rather in the unextraordinary moments that happen every day. The infectiously unforgettable score from four-time Grammy winner, three-time Oscar winner and musical theatre giant, Stephen Schwartz, captivates and appeals to the young at heart. Starts at 6:30 pm on Thurs., 7:30 pm on Fri., and 2 pm & 7:30 pm on Sat. $22 adults, $18 seniors, college and active military and $14 youth. Tickets at showtix4u.com.
Much Ado About Nothing
FRIDAY 7/15 | RIB MOUNTAIN STATE PARK, WAUSAU
The Wisconsin-based travelling theater company, Summit Players, performs a 75 minute production of Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing” outside at Rib Mountain’s scenic outdoor amphitheater. According to Executive Director of Summit Players A.J. Magoon, “There’s a reason Much Ado About Nothing is one of Shakespeare’s most popular comedies. It’s hilarious and heartfelt, and this version is perfect for audiences of all kinds.” Before the performance, kids (and fun adults) can attend a 45-minute educational workshop “Inside Shakespeare’s Story: Much Ado About Nothing”. This workshop is a great way for kids to become comfortable with the language used in Shakespeare’s plays and helps them learn more about Shakespeare himself through games and exercises, culminating in performing a short scene. Workshop 5:30 pm; performance 7 pm. Presented by The Friends of Rib Mountain State Park. 715-842-2522, ribmountain.org.
Concerts on the Square: Unity the Band
WEDNESDAY 7/20 | 400 BLOCK, DOWNTOWN WAUSAU
With high energy and funky reggae tunes, this wildly popular, feel-good band from the Fox Valley has become a Wausau and Concerts on the Square favorite. With positive party vibes, the band plays old roots and reggae favorites along with original music that blends the influences of roots, rock, blues, funk and reggae into their own unique sound. Fronted by the energetic and charismatic Kai “Pita” Kotobalavu on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, he draws you in with island-smooth sound and gets the crowd up on their feet. Concerts play rain or shine, though an indoor location might be found in severe weather. Bring a picnic, blanket or lawn chair. No large buffet tables, no pets, no smoking. Free. 6-8 pm. Details at wausauevents.org.
The Sapsuckers
FRIDAY 7/15 | WHITEWATER MUSIC HALL, WAUSAU
With an eclectic style that ranges from hillbilly roots to Nashville pop, the songwriting duo of The Sapsucks has developed a lively, contemporary take on country music. Their creative lyrics, catchy melodies, and clever stage show has earned them a growing fanbase in the Midwest and beyond. You’ll love their original songs that blend humor, heartache, and honky-tonk. The Sapsuckers are “Clever, charming, perfectly executed, and last but not least, really funny.” according to Klutch Chronicle. Starts at 8 pm. $5 cover. Details on Facebook.
Peter Pan in the Gardens
SATURDAY 7/16 | MONK BOTANICAL GARDENS, WAUSAU
This new walking theatre experience features beloved characters from the classic tale of Peter Pan. Follow Wendy and Peter through the botanical gardens that have been transformed into Neverland. Be part of the adventure as you interact with the Lost Boys, pirates, fairies and even a mermaid! Be prepared to walk at a leisurely pace and enjoy the plethora of fun family activities after including games and crafts. Presented by Out of The Woods Theatre. Starts at 9 am. Adults $18 members, $20 non-members; children 18 & under $13 members; $15 nonmembers. Details at outofthewoodstheatre.com.
Booze and Botany
THURSDAY 7/21 | WHITEWATER MUSIC HALL, WAUSAU
Come join the finest Wausau mixologists for its fourth year of unique fun. Enjoy a curated menu of sample craft cocktails and complimentary sample dishes created from a selection of fresh ingredients right from Monk Gardens. Attendees will receive a booklet upon entry that includes cocktail recipes inside and will serve as a “passport” to be stamped at each food and drink table. And for this night only, Whitewater Music Hall will have each of the sample cocktails available for purchase (as full-sized drinks) at the bar. It’s an entire evening of fun with complimentary snacks, raffles and a silent auction. Presented by Monk Gardens. Starts at 6 pm. $55 non-members/$45 members. Details at MonkGardens.org.
