
MILWAUKEE, Wis: Nō Studios, a center for the creative arts and activism in downtown Milwaukee, is thrilled to announce that tickets for Dance Fest 2025 are officially on sale on the Nō Studios website. Now in its fourth year, Dance Fest continues to grow, bringing together a powerful lineup of world-class talent, including Ailey II, Madison Ballet, House of Jit, Visceral Dance, Madd Rhythms, Water Street Dance Milwaukee, and more.
Hosted in partnership with New York’s Joyce Theater, one of the only theaters in the U.S. built specifically for dance, this year marks a new milestone as Ailey II headlines the festival. The event will take place at the Marcus Performing Arts Center’s Peck Pavilion on Saturday, August2, 2025, setting the stage for a celebration of artistry and cultural vibrancy. Festival-goers will experience a wide variety of dance genres, including ballet, salsa, African-inspired, Irish stepdance, and contemporary.
“Dance Fest brings together some of the most exciting and original performers from around the country,” said John Ridley, founder of Nō Studios. “With Ailey II leading the lineup, this year’s festival is shaping up to be something truly special; a one-day event where creativity, culture,and community take center stage in Milwaukee. This is an opportunity to witness extraordinary talent from across the Midwest and beyond.”
Dance Fest will once again be curated by Morgan Williams, a celebrated choreographer and the founder of Water Street Dance Milwaukee. “Every year, Dance Fest brings together some of the most inspiring and diverse dance companies from across the country.” said Williams, “It’s a powerful reminder of how dance transcends boundaries and unites us in the spirit of creativity and celebration. I can’t wait for the community to witness the magic we’ve curated this year.”
The event will be emceed by Danni Gee, Director of Programming for New York City’s The Joyce Theater. “Our mission at The Joyce is to celebrate the full spectrum of dance, and Dance Fest brings that to life in such a vibrant way,” said Gee. “We’re thrilled to partner with Nō Studios again to showcase artists who are expanding the language of movement. With ticket sales now live, I urge everyone to secure their spot for a front-row view of this incredible celebration.” Danni is also partnering with Tempo, Wisconsin’s largest professional women’s organization, for an onstage conversation.

Dance Fest 2025 will feature performances by:
● Ailey II (New York, NY): The next generation of dance, AILEY’s second company is renowned for merging the spirit and energy of the next generation with the creative vision of emerging choreographers.
● Water Street Dance Milwaukee (Milwaukee, WI): Dedicated to exploring diversity within their art, artists, and audiences, the company is renowned for their athletic, innovative, and entertaining performances. They were named to Dance Magazine’s “25
to Watch” list in 2024.
● Madison Ballet (Madison, WI): Wisconsin’s second-largest dance organization is under the direction of Ja’ Malik and is focused on building a better community through art.
● House of Jit (Detroit, MI): Celebrating the legacy and energy of Detroit’s street dance
culture.
● Visceral Dance (Chicago, IL): A contemporary dance company pushing boundaries through powerful choreography.
● Madd Rhythms (Chicago, IL): Chicago’s premier tap company, celebrated for their rhythm and innovation.
Dance Fest will take place at the Marcus Performing Arts Center’s outdoor Peck Pavilion, along the Milwaukee River. The family-friendly festival will also include youth dance performances, community-focused daytime programs, live music, guided yoga, and a market with local vendors. It will also feature a conversation with Danni Gee Vendors are encouraged to apply for participation at info@nostudios.com, and the full event schedule will be posted to nostudios.com/dance-fest-2025 in the coming weeks.

“Hosting Dance Fest at Peck Pavilion is an honor,” said Kevin Giglinto, President & CEO of the Marcus Performing Arts Center. “This festival not only brings world-class dance to Milwaukee but also aligns with our own commitment to the community with diverse and powerful performing arts experiences. We’re thrilled to open our doors to the vibrancy and energy that Dance Fest brings each year.”
Dance Fest is sponsored by the Marcus Performing Arts Center, The Joyce Theater, and media partner WISN 12 News. To buy tickets, please visit nostudios.com/dance-fest-2025.
Extra Credit Reading: The program is here