August 2026 Update: Where Community Comes Together
As summer winds down, there's still plenty of time to make memories together at the Schauer Arts Center. August offers many opportunities to connect with family, friends, and neighbors through the arts. Whether you're enjoying live entertainment in the courtyard, sharing a movie under the stars, exploring a new class, or looking ahead to our upcoming performing arts season, we hope you'll join us as we celebrate another month of creativity, community, and fun.
Family Weekend Featuring Optimist Theatre
On Sunday, August 16, the Schauer Arts Center will come alive with Shakespeare's magic as Optimist Theatre brings its acclaimed touring productions to Hartford for the first time. Best known for Milwaukee's beloved Shakespeare in the Park, Optimist Theatre will transform the Schauer into a welcoming space where families and community members of all ages can share the joy of live theater together.
The day will feature interactive family activities, Renaissance games, engaging pre-show programs, and a special concert by Milwaukee Early Music Now. Whether you're introducing your children to Shakespeare for the first time or rediscovering these timeless stories yourself, this full day of performances and activities offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Movies in the Courtyard
There's nothing quite like spending a summer evening outdoors with friends and neighbors. Grab your lawn chairs, pack a cozy blanket, and join us on Wednesday, August 19, when our courtyard transforms into an open-air movie theater for a special screening of Happy Feet.
Bring the whole family, arrive early to find your favorite spot, and enjoy an evening of laughter, music, and community in a beautiful outdoor setting. It's the perfect opportunity to relax, reconnect, and celebrate the simple joys of summer together. Doors open at 7:00 pm, and the movie will begin at dusk.
2026–27 Performing Arts Season
We're excited to welcome everyone back this September as we launch our 2026–27 Performing Arts Season, featuring an outstanding lineup of entertainment.
We're excited to welcome everyone back this September as we launch our 2026–27 Performing Arts Season with an outstanding lineup. Experience the music and moves of the King of Pop with MJ the Illusion, relive the biggest rock anthems with That Arena Rock Show, laugh along with Napoleon Dynamite Live, enjoy the timeless hits of Fleetwood Mac performed by The Seven Wonders, and cap it off with the hilarious Bad Momz of Comedy. We look forward to sharing another season of memorable performances that bring our community together through the arts.
Schauer School of the Arts Fall Session
Learning and creativity continue this fall at the Schauer School of the Arts. Registration opens Monday, August 3, at noon for a variety of classes designed to inspire participants of all ages.
Adults can explore new opportunities in visual arts and dance, while children can discover their creativity through dance and theater classes. Whether you're trying something new or building on an existing passion, our classes provide a welcoming environment to learn, grow, and connect with others. Be sure to preview the fall schedule on our website—classes fill quickly.
Thank you for making the Schauer Arts Center a place where our community gathers to experience the arts, learn something new, and create lasting memories. We look forward to seeing familiar faces and welcoming new ones throughout August and into the exciting season ahead. We hope you'll join us and be part of all the Schauer has to offer.
