From Beer to Performing Arts Facility

Historical Legacy
In the early 20th century, one of the national hallmarks of Milwaukee was beer production. Today, hiding behind facades of glass and steel, you can sometimes find a portal into Brew City history. One such building is the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center (MYAC).

Evolution from Beer
MYAC, which includes studios for music and theatrical performances and rehearsals plus offices, etc., had several lives: 1) first as a Schlitz beer distribution center built in the 1920's, and then 2)as a newspaper distribution center.

Empty shell
The fact that there were no supporting beams in the middle of the combined building complex meant it was a big hollow empty shell, which made it an architect's dream. All the rehearsal and performance spaces, and much more, were built within that shell.

Youth Arts Hall, the largest performance space in MYAC with a total capacity of 300.

Sondheim Studio, one of our larger rehearsal studios facing Golda Meir School.

MYAC's Birth
MYAC was born out of the vision and leadership of MYSO's Fran Richman and First Stage's Rob Goodman. Both organizations were in the Marcus Performing Arts Center at that time - MYSO occupying what was essentially a boardroom, and First Stage was in an area below the Todd Wehr Theater.

Crossroads
Brad Bingheim, MYAC Facilities and Operations Director says, "MYAC is a unique crossroads. On any given programming night you can find the most diverse group of people in the city interacting with each other. This is such a great community asset."