Dancing Through Life Milwaukee: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is celebrated for its thriving arts scene, historic architecture, and vibrant public spaces. Among its standout artworks, “Dancing Through Life” captures the city’s creative spirit and community energy. This iconic sculpture—created by Schomer Lichtner—features a ballerina atop a colorfully painted cow, symbolizing Milwaukee’s playful approach to art and its diverse cultural identity (Everything Explained Today).

As a centerpiece of the Milwaukee RiverWalk and the southern entrance to Pere Marquette Park, “Dancing Through Life” is both a visual landmark and a community gathering point. The sculpture is permanently accessible and frequently highlighted during citywide exhibitions such as Sculpture Milwaukee, transforming downtown into an open-air gallery (Milwaukee Downtown Blog). Its presence also aligns with Milwaukee’s identity as the “City of Festivals,” complementing events like Summerfest and the Third Ward Art Festival (Visit Milwaukee).

This comprehensive guide details visiting hours, ticketing (noting that public art like “Dancing Through Life” is always free), accessibility information, nearby historic sites, and tips for engaging with Milwaukee’s broader arts and dance culture. Whether you’re interested in the sculpture itself, the live “Dancing Through Life” touring production at the Riverside Theater, or other significant cultural venues, you’ll find everything you need to enrich your experience in Milwaukee (Pabst Theater Group; Inspire Culture).

Table of Contents

Historical Background

Milwaukee’s Tradition of Public Art

Milwaukee’s dedication to accessible art dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The city’s extensive public art collection—especially along the Milwaukee RiverWalk—reflects a longstanding commitment to integrating creativity into urban life (Wikipedia: List of public art in Milwaukee). This ethos paved the way for innovative initiatives like Sculpture Milwaukee, which annually transforms downtown streets into a large-scale outdoor art exhibition.

Launch and Impact of Sculpture Milwaukee

Since 2017, Sculpture Milwaukee has brought internationally acclaimed sculptures to the city’s avenues, breaking down barriers to art appreciation. Its mission is to make art approachable and enjoyable for all, earning the downtown area the nickname “Your Avenue to Art” (Milwaukee Downtown Blog).

The Significance of “Dancing Through Life”

As part of Sculpture Milwaukee’s permanent collection, “Dancing Through Life” stands out for its dynamic celebration of movement and community. The sculpture not only enlivens the RiverWalk but also sparks public dialogue on art’s role in urban spaces (Milwaukee Downtown Blog).

Dance as a Cultural Theme in Milwaukee

Dance is a vital part of Milwaukee’s cultural narrative, transcending language and connecting diverse communities. The city’s dance heritage is celebrated in numerous festivals, studios, and public events, making it a central motif embodied by “Dancing Through Life” (DanceLifeMap).


Artistic Description

Visual Elements and Materials

“Dancing Through Life” features a whimsical ballerina poised atop a vibrantly painted cow—crafted from durable metal alloys to withstand Milwaukee’s climate. The sculpture’s fluid lines and lively colors evoke energy and movement, while its scale is designed for both visibility and public interaction.

Symbolism and Meaning

The artwork symbolizes joy, resilience, and the collective spirit of Milwaukee. Dance serves as a metaphor for navigating life, and the public placement encourages viewers to engage directly with the sculpture, reflecting the city’s inclusive approach to creativity (Milwaukee Downtown Blog).

Placement and Public Interaction

Positioned along the RiverWalk and at Pere Marquette Park’s entrance, the sculpture invites spontaneous interaction—visitors often mimic its poses or use it as a photo backdrop. Its lighting ensures it remains a focal point even at night.

Artistic Influences

The piece blends classical and modern styles, combining realistic anatomy with abstraction to convey movement. Techniques such as lost-wax casting and vibrant painting showcase the artist’s mastery and Milwaukee’s eclectic dance culture (DanceLifeMap).

Integration with Urban Spaces

“Dancing Through Life” is thoughtfully integrated with the surrounding architecture, green spaces, and cultural institutions, offering an ever-changing experience with the seasons and city events.


Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Ticket Details

  • Hours: 24/7, year-round
  • Admission: Free; no tickets required
  • Special Events: For guided tours or related events, check Sculpture Milwaukee or local listings.

Accessibility and Travel Tips

  • Accessibility: The sculpture site is wheelchair accessible with paved paths and ramps.
  • Transit: Accessible by bus, bike-share, and on foot; parking available nearby.

Nearby Historical and Cultural Sites

Enhance your visit by exploring landmarks like City Hall, the Pabst Mansion, the Historic Third Ward, and the Milwaukee Art Museum.

Special Events and Tours

Sculpture Milwaukee frequently offers guided tours, artist talks, and dance performances near the sculpture, especially during festival seasons.

Photography and Visual Resources

Prime times for photography include golden hour and nighttime when the sculpture is illuminated. Social media sharing is encouraged, and virtual tours are available online.


Milwaukee Dance Pavilion: Visitor Guide

About the Pavilion

The Milwaukee Dance Pavilion is a historic and contemporary hub for the city’s dance traditions and festival culture. It has hosted community gatherings and multicultural dance events since the early 20th century.

Hours, Tickets, and Access

  • Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (extended for events)
  • Admission: $10 adults, $7 seniors/students, free for children under 12
  • Guided Tours: Weekends at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM

The venue is fully wheelchair accessible and reachable by public transit (routes 15 and 20).

Cultural Importance

The Pavilion is a focal point for ethnic festivals and dance performances, fostering Milwaukee’s reputation as the “City of Festivals” (Inspire Culture; Milwaukee Magazine). It promotes community engagement and inclusivity through dance programs and civic events.

Area Attractions

Explore nearby the Milwaukee Art Museum, Historic Third Ward, and Bay View—each offering unique cultural and dining experiences.

Interactive Media

Virtual tours, event imagery, and on-site digital kiosks provide a rich multimedia experience of Milwaukee’s dance culture.


”Dancing Through Life” Live Production: Tickets and Venue

Location and Venue Details

The Riverside Theater (116 W Wisconsin Ave), managed by the Pabst Theater Group, is the primary venue, renowned for its historic architecture and acoustics (Pabst Theater Group).

Showtimes and Ticketing

  • Typical Showtimes: 7:30 PM (doors open 6:30 PM)
  • Ticket Purchase: Online, box office, or authorized partners
  • Pricing: Varies by seat; group rates available
  • Lost Tickets: Can be reprinted at box office with ID

Accessibility and Transportation

  • Physical Access: Wheelchair accessible seating, ramps, elevators, and restrooms
  • Transit: MCTS bus stops nearby; adjacent parking structure ($10–$20); rideshare and bike racks available

Venue Navigation and Policies

  • Security: Mandatory screening; arrive 30 minutes early
  • Bag Policy: Only small purses/clutches permitted
  • Photography: Not allowed during performances

Visitor Amenities

  • Concessions: Snacks and beverages available
  • Merchandise: Official show merchandise for sale
  • Lost & Found: Items held for 30 days

Nearby Dining and Lodging

  • Dining: Wide range of options from steakhouses to brewpubs
  • Hotels: Pfister Hotel, Kimpton Journeyman, and national chains within walking distance (Visit Milwaukee Hotels)

COVID-19 Protocols

Health and safety guidelines are updated regularly; check the event page for requirements.

Special Experiences

No backstage tours currently offered; check for future VIP packages on the official site.


Integration with Milwaukee’s Arts and Festivals

Role in Public Art and Festivals

“Dancing Through Life” is a permanent fixture in Milwaukee’s art landscape, installed as part of the RiverSculpture! program and highlighted in annual events (Everything Explained Today; Sculpture Milwaukee).

Accessibility and Visitor Information

Accessible to all and enhanced during festivals with temporary signage and digital guides. Guided art walks often include the sculpture (Sculpture Milwaukee).

Educational and Interactive Programs

The sculpture is used in school programs, community workshops, and festival art walks, with information provided through QR codes and digital maps.

Nearby Attractions and Cultural Synergy

Located near the Milwaukee Public Museum, Historic Third Ward, and Milwaukee Art Museum, the sculpture anchors a rich cultural itinerary.

Visitor Tips for Festival Seasons


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there an admission fee to see “Dancing Through Life”?
A: No, it is free and open to the public year-round.

Q: Are tickets required for the sculpture?
A: No tickets are needed.

Q: Is the location accessible?
A: Yes, wheelchair and stroller accessible paths are available.

Q: Can I visit during festivals?
A: Yes, and it is often a featured stop during major events.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, through organizations like Sculpture Milwaukee.


Conclusion and Next Steps

“Dancing Through Life” is a vibrant testament to Milwaukee’s arts, festivals, and inclusive community spirit. With year-round free access, proximity to cultural landmarks, and integration into public festivals and art walks, the sculpture offers a memorable experience for all visitors.

Plan your trip to Milwaukee—stroll the RiverWalk, discover the city’s dance heritage, attend a live performance, and connect with the city’s creative pulse. Stay informed on events and updates by downloading the Audiala app, following Sculpture Milwaukee on social media, and exploring related posts on Milwaukee history and culture.


References and Further Reading


Visit The Most Interesting Places In Milwaukee

A Beam Of Sun To Shake The Sky
A Beam Of Sun To Shake The Sky
A Place To Sit
A Place To Sit
Aaron Monument
Aaron Monument
Acqua Grylli
Acqua Grylli
Al Mcguire Center
Al Mcguire Center
All In The Air At Once
All In The Air At Once
|
  All Saints' Episcopal Cathedral Complex
| All Saints' Episcopal Cathedral Complex
American Family Field
American Family Field
American System-Built Homes
American System-Built Homes
|
  America'S Black Holocaust Museum
| America'S Black Holocaust Museum
Ancestor
Ancestor
Angel In A Cage
Angel In A Cage
Argo
Argo
At&T Center
At&T Center
Basilica Of St. Josaphat
Basilica Of St. Josaphat
Bay View Massacre
Bay View Massacre
Bay View Series
Bay View Series
Belle Austin Jacobs Memorial
Belle Austin Jacobs Memorial
Bench-Stone
Bench-Stone
Birds Of Knowledge Of Good And Evil
Birds Of Knowledge Of Good And Evil
Blue Dress Park
Blue Dress Park
Borchert Field
Borchert Field
Boy With Goose
Boy With Goose
Bradley Center
Bradley Center
|
  Brewers' Hill
| Brewers' Hill
|
  Brewers' Hill Mra
| Brewers' Hill Mra
Bridge
Bridge
Bronze Fonz
Bronze Fonz
Buildings 1992
Buildings 1992
Calvary Cemetery
Calvary Cemetery
Cardinal Stritch University
Cardinal Stritch University
Cass Street Park
Cass Street Park
Cathedral Of St. John The Evangelist
Cathedral Of St. John The Evangelist
Celebrating The Arts
Celebrating The Arts
Chase Tower
Chase Tower
Christian Wahl
Christian Wahl
City Yard
City Yard
|
  Cleopatra'S Wedge
| Cleopatra'S Wedge
Compass
Compass
Concordia University Wisconsin
Concordia University Wisconsin
Congregation Beth Israel
Congregation Beth Israel
Connect
Connect
Count Casimir Pulaski
Count Casimir Pulaski
Court Of Honor
Court Of Honor
Dancing Through Life
Dancing Through Life
Dauntless Guardian
Dauntless Guardian
Diana
Diana
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
East Side Commercial Historic District
East Side Commercial Historic District
Eclipse
Eclipse
Eight Stone Lions
Eight Stone Lions
Embrace
Embrace
Emil Blatz Temple Of Music
Emil Blatz Temple Of Music
Erastus B. Wolcott
Erastus B. Wolcott
Family
Family
Fire And Water
Fire And Water
First Unitarian Church
First Unitarian Church
Fiserv Forum
Fiserv Forum
Float
Float
Floating Sculpture No. 3
Floating Sculpture No. 3
Forest Home Cemetery
Forest Home Cemetery
Frederick C. Bogk House
Frederick C. Bogk House
General Douglas Macarthur
General Douglas Macarthur
Gesu Church
Gesu Church
Goethe–Schiller Monument
Goethe–Schiller Monument
Harley-Davidson Museum
Harley-Davidson Museum
Hermes
Hermes
Herzing University
Herzing University
Hilton Milwaukee City Center
Hilton Milwaukee City Center
Historic Third Ward
Historic Third Ward
Holocaust Memorial
Holocaust Memorial
Jacques Marquette
Jacques Marquette
Jantar-Mantar
Jantar-Mantar
Joseph Schlitz Brewing Company
Joseph Schlitz Brewing Company
Juneau Monument
Juneau Monument
Kindred Ties
Kindred Ties
Kneeling Camels
Kneeling Camels
Kumo
Kumo
Lake Park
Lake Park
Lakeshore State Park
Lakeshore State Park
Laureate
Laureate
Leif, The Discoverer
Leif, The Discoverer
|
  Letter Carriers' Monument
| Letter Carriers' Monument
Lloyd Street Grounds
Lloyd Street Grounds
Magic Grove
Magic Grove
Mahatma Gandhi Memorial
Mahatma Gandhi Memorial
Majestic Theatre
Majestic Theatre
Marquette Stadium
Marquette Stadium
Marquette University
Marquette University
Menomonee
Menomonee
Midsummer Carnival Shaft
Midsummer Carnival Shaft
Milwaukee
Milwaukee
Milwaukee Art Museum
Milwaukee Art Museum
Milwaukee City Hall
Milwaukee City Hall
Milwaukee County Historical Society
Milwaukee County Historical Society
Milwaukee County Stadium
Milwaukee County Stadium
Milwaukee County Zoo
Milwaukee County Zoo
Milwaukee-Downer College
Milwaukee-Downer College
Milwaukee Intermodal Station
Milwaukee Intermodal Station
Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport
Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport
Milwaukee Public Museum
Milwaukee Public Museum
Milwaukee School Of Engineering
Milwaukee School Of Engineering
Mo, Ni, Que
Mo, Ni, Que
Mount Mary University
Mount Mary University
Mount Olivet Cemetery
Mount Olivet Cemetery
Music
Music
Olympus
Olympus
On Watch
On Watch
Oops, Missed
Oops, Missed
Orbits
Orbits
Patrick And Beatrice Haggerty Museum Of Art
Patrick And Beatrice Haggerty Museum Of Art
Patrick Cudahy Memorial
Patrick Cudahy Memorial
Pattern
Pattern
Peck Pavilion
Peck Pavilion
Pedestrian Drama
Pedestrian Drama
Peter John
Peter John
Pettit National Ice Center
Pettit National Ice Center
Plankinton–Wells–Water Street Historic District
Plankinton–Wells–Water Street Historic District
Poland
Poland
Quartet
Quartet
Queen Of Sheba
Queen Of Sheba
Rainbow
Rainbow
R.D. Whitehead Monument
R.D. Whitehead Monument
Red Arrow Park
Red Arrow Park
Red Flower Rising
Red Flower Rising
Referee
Referee
Ritual Ii
Ritual Ii
Robert Burns
Robert Burns
Round About
Round About
Ruins X
Ruins X
Sentinels
Sentinels
Soaring
Soaring
Space Game
Space Game
Spanish-American War Soldier
Spanish-American War Soldier
Spirit Of Commerce
Spirit Of Commerce
Spirit Of The Firefighter
Spirit Of The Firefighter
St. Joan Of Arc Chapel
St. Joan Of Arc Chapel
St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Cathedral
St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Cathedral
Statue Of Abraham Lincoln
Statue Of Abraham Lincoln
Statue Of Henry Bergh
Statue Of Henry Bergh
Steel Reborn
Steel Reborn
Steuben Monument
Steuben Monument
Stratiformis
Stratiformis
T. A. Chapman Memorial
T. A. Chapman Memorial
Teamwork
Teamwork
Tending The Fire
Tending The Fire
The Calling
The Calling
The Hill Climber
The Hill Climber
The Last Alarm
The Last Alarm
The Lovers
The Lovers
The Reaper
The Reaper
The Source
The Source
The Victorious Charge
The Victorious Charge
Three Bronze Discs
Three Bronze Discs
Tip
Tip
Tree Of Life
Tree Of Life
Trigon
Trigon
Trio
Trio
Twist For Max
Twist For Max
Unfolding
Unfolding
University Of Wisconsin–Milwaukee
University Of Wisconsin–Milwaukee
University Of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Libraries
University Of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Libraries
Upstart
Upstart
Uptown Triangles
Uptown Triangles
U.S. Bank Center
U.S. Bank Center
Uw–Milwaukee Panther Arena
Uw–Milwaukee Panther Arena
Valentin Blatz Brewing Company
Valentin Blatz Brewing Company
Varsity Theater
Varsity Theater
Vegetative Sculpture I
Vegetative Sculpture I
Vliet Street Commons
Vliet Street Commons
Vogel Hall
Vogel Hall
Walk Like A River
Walk Like A River
|
  Walker'S Point Center For The Arts
| Walker'S Point Center For The Arts
Walkways Through The Wall
Walkways Through The Wall
Washington Monument
Washington Monument
Way Four
Way Four
Wind Leaves
Wind Leaves
Wisconsin Center
Wisconsin Center
Wisconsin Conservatory Of Music
Wisconsin Conservatory Of Music
Wisconsin Lutheran College
Wisconsin Lutheran College
Wisconsin School Of Professional Psychology
Wisconsin School Of Professional Psychology
Wisconsin Workers Memorial
Wisconsin Workers Memorial
Woodland Indian And Whistling Swans
Woodland Indian And Whistling Swans
World War I Memorial Flagpole
World War I Memorial Flagpole
You Rise Above The World
You Rise Above The World
Yount Monument
Yount Monument