Nõ Studios Dance Fest 2026

Nō Studios is pleased to bring Dance Fest back to Milwaukee on Saturday, August 2. Dance Fest is a combined performance featuring elite dance companies from throughout the country. This eclectic program showcases a variety of dance styles including contemporary, street dance and traditional ballet. 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. Chicago Dance Crash (Chicago, IL): A physical theater dance company existing within the intersection of street dance and concert dance. 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 This event is presented by Nō Studios, an independent organization separate from the Marcus Performing Arts Center. Schedule of Events 11:00 Yoga in the Park. Meet us outside at the Peck Pavilion lawn for a free yoga class. 12:15 African Dance Class by Ko-Thi 1:30 Bachata (Latin style) Dance Class by DAYNC 3:30 Q&A with Company Directors. Meet the participating company artistic directors traveling to Milwaukee for the performance. 4:30 Live Music 6:00 Pre-Show Enjoy a free pre-performance on the lawn featuring local Milwaukee talent 7:30 Ticketed Performance