Madison celebrates 10 years of performing arts at Overture

Next weekend Madison celebrates a gift that, 10 years later, remains one of the most extraordinary acts of generosity any American city has ever experienced. It’s the 10th anniversary of the grand opening of Overture Center for the Arts, the 200-plus million dollar love letter from Jerry Frautschi to the city in which he was born and loves dearly.

Frautschi and his wife, Pleasant Rowland, made the decision to give Madison a performing arts center that ranks among the best in the world with ongoing support for resident companies to boot. It was an act of philanthropy that seemed to overshadow the size of the city to which it was made.

But in keeping with their vision, Overture has helped transform downtown Madison while at the same time becoming an integral part of the city’s very identity.

And now we are one, Madison and Overture, with performances, exhibits, parties, and gatherings of kids, families and friends that have become part of how we describe who we are and what Madison is.

It’s going to be a great party, a great performance and a great opportunity to once again thank Jerry Frautschi and Pleasant Rowland for their never-to-be-forgotten love for Madison.