Quartet

Million Dollar Quartet Milwaukee: Ultimate Guide to Tickets, Visiting Hours, and Historical Sites

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: Relive Rock ‘n’ Roll History in Milwaukee

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, provides a vibrant stage for the legendary “Million Dollar Quartet,” an electrifying theatrical recreation of the December 4, 1956, jam session at Sun Studio in Memphis. This iconic event united Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins—four trailblazers whose collaboration marked a turning point in American music. Hosted by the Milwaukee Repertory Theater at the Marcus Performing Arts Center, the show delivers live performances, dynamic storytelling, and an authentic tribute to the birth of rock ‘n’ roll.

Beyond the stage, Milwaukee invites visitors to explore its thriving cultural scene, including nearby attractions like the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Historic Third Ward. This comprehensive guide offers everything you need to plan an unforgettable visit, including practical details on showtimes, ticketing, accessibility, and local historical sites (Shepherd Express; Milwaukee Rep).

The Legendary Night: December 4, 1956
Sun Records & the Birth of Rock ‘n’ Roll
Cultural Impact of the Million Dollar Quartet
Milwaukee’s Production: Details & Ticket Information
Top Milwaukee Historical Sites & Attractions
Accessibility & Visitor Amenities
FAQs: Visitor Essentials
What to Expect at Million Dollar Quartet
Plan Your Visit: Tips & Resources

The Legendary Night: December 4, 1956

On a cold December evening in 1956, Sun Studio in Memphis became the epicenter of music history when Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins gathered for an impromptu session. Orchestrated by Sun Records founder Sam Phillips, this rare collaboration—dubbed the “Million Dollar Quartet” by the local press—captured the raw energy, camaraderie, and innovation that defined the dawn of rock ‘n’ roll (Shepherd Express). It was the only time these four icons performed together, making it a singular event in American music lore.

Sun Records & the Birth of Rock ‘n’ Roll

Sun Records, under Sam Phillips’ direction, became a crucible for musical genius in the early 1950s. Phillips championed artists who blended rhythm and blues, gospel, and country, forging a sound that would revolutionize popular music. Each member of the Quartet launched their career at Sun:

Elvis Presley: Revolutionized pop culture with his charismatic stage presence.
Johnny Cash: Known for his storytelling and deep baritone.
Jerry Lee Lewis: Famed for his energetic piano performances and boundary-pushing style.
Carl Perkins: Guitar virtuoso and rockabilly innovator.

Their convergence at Sun Studios symbolized the creative fusion that shaped postwar America (TMJ4).

Cultural Impact of the Million Dollar Quartet

The Million Dollar Quartet session stands out as a pivotal cultural moment:

Symbolic Milestone: Embodied the spirit of innovation and cross-genre collaboration at the heart of 1950s America (Shepherd Express).
Historic Recordings: Engineer Jack Clement captured over an hour of music and banter, offering a rare, unfiltered glimpse into these artists’ personalities.
Enduring Inspiration: The session has inspired award-winning musicals and tributes, ensuring its legacy endures across generations.

Milwaukee’s Production: Details & Ticket Information

The Milwaukee Repertory Theater’s production brings the Sun Studio session to the stage with unmatched authenticity and energy. Hosted at the Marcus Performing Arts Center’s Wilson Theater at Vogel Hall, the show features a cast of actor-musicians who perform live and channel the spirit of each legend (Shepherd Express; TMJ4).

Showtimes & Visiting Hours

Performance Dates: April 22 – May 24, 2025
Showtimes: Most evenings at 7:30 PM; select matinees available. Confirm specific dates and times on the Milwaukee Rep website.
Box Office Hours: Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; extended hours on performance days.

Ticket Pricing & Booking

Prices: $35–$80, depending on seating and date.
Booking: Purchase online via the Milwaukee Rep website, by phone at 414-224-1761, or at the box office.
Note: Advance booking is recommended; shows frequently sell out.
COVID-19: Health and safety policies follow local guidelines—check for updates on the official website.

Cast & Creative Team

Blake Burgess as Johnny Cash (through May 11)
JP Coletta as Jerry Lee Lewis
Armando Gutierrez as Carl Perkins
Joe Hebel as Elvis Presley
Aja Alcazar as Dyanne (Presley’s girlfriend)
Seth K Hale as Sam Phillips

Directed by Laura Braza, the cast is celebrated for their musicianship and ability to evoke the spirit of the original quartet.

Top Milwaukee Historical Sites & Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring Milwaukee’s rich cultural landscape:

Milwaukee Art Museum: Renowned for its striking architecture and diverse collections (Visit Milwaukee).
Historic Third Ward: Arts district with galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.
Milwaukee Riverwalk: Scenic walking paths and public art installations near the theater.

Accessibility & Visitor Amenities

Venue Access: The Marcus Performing Arts Center is fully ADA-compliant, with accessible seating, restrooms, and services for guests with disabilities.
Parking: Ample metered street parking and nearby garages.
Public Transit: Served by Milwaukee County Transit System and the Hop streetcar.

FAQs: Visitor Essentials

Q: What ages is the show recommended for?
A: Ages 12 and up.

Q: Are walk-up tickets available?
A: Limited; advance purchase is strongly recommended.

Q: Can I take photos during the performance?
A: No, photography and recording are prohibited.

Q: Are there special events or talkbacks?
A: Check the Milwaukee Rep website for details.

What to Expect at Million Dollar Quartet

Enjoy classic hits like “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Walk the Line,” and “Great Balls of Fire.”
Experience dynamic storytelling that delves into the personal and professional lives of each music legend.
Immerse yourself in a live recreation of the legendary Sun Studio session.

Plan Your Visit: Tips & Resources

Download the Audiala app for real-time showtimes, ticket alerts, audio guides, and exclusive content.
Follow Milwaukee Rep and Visit Milwaukee on social media for updates and insider tips.
Make dining or sightseeing reservations in advance, especially during festival season.

Discover Milwaukee Repertory Theater: Tickets, Venue Experience, and Visitor Info

Why Choose Milwaukee Rep?

As Wisconsin’s largest performing arts organization, Milwaukee Rep is a beacon of creativity and diversity, drawing locals and visitors alike for world-class productions.

Venue Details & Visiting Hours

Associated Bank Theater Center (opening Fall 2025): Three venues—Checota Powerhouse Theater, Herro-Franke Studio Theater, and Stackner Cabaret—offer a range of experiences (Milwaukee Rep Tickets).
Box Office: Monday–Thursday, 12–6 PM; Friday, 12–4 PM; open for performances on weekends.

Ticket Options & Discounts

Purchase: Online, phone (414-224-9490), or at the box office.
Discounts: $20 tickets for students and patrons 25 & under, plus group rates.
Location: 108 East Wells Street, Milwaukee, WI 53202.

Accessibility & Amenities

Fully ADA-compliant.
Stackner Cabaret offers food and beverage service.
Guided tours available; check here.

2025/26 Season Highlights

Enjoy acclaimed productions like Come From Away, McNeal, and the 50th anniversary of A Christmas Carol (Visit Milwaukee Theater Season).

Stay Connected

Website: www.MilwaukeeRep.com
Ticket Office: 414-224-9490 | [email protected]

Explore the Milwaukee Soldiers’ Monument

Located downtown, the Milwaukee Soldiers’ Monument honors Civil War veterans and is accessible year-round, free of charge. The site features detailed sculptures and is a focal point for Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, special events, and easy access via car or public transit. For more, see Milwaukee Historic Sites and Visit Milwaukee.

Milwaukee’s Quartet Tradition: From Rock to Classical

Milwaukee boasts a rich tradition of quartet performances, from the theatrical “Million Dollar Quartet” to the renowned Fine Arts Quartet’s classical concerts at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (Fine Arts Quartet at UWM). These events, often paired with citywide festivals, reinforce Milwaukee’s reputation as a cultural powerhouse—offering both ticketed and free experiences.

Top Milwaukee Attractions, Dining, and Events

Milwaukee Art Museum: Tuesday–Sunday, 10 AM–5 PM; Thursdays until 8 PM (mam.org)
Historic Third Ward: Boutiques, art galleries, and dining (Milwaukee Public Market)
Lakefront & Summerfest: Major music festivals, cultural events (Summerfest)
Pabst Mansion: Guided tours, $15–$20 (Pabst Mansion)
Dining: Story Hill BKC (Story Hill BKC), Harbor House (Harbor House), Sanford (Sanford Restaurant), Mason Street Grill (Mason Street Grill)
Accommodations: The Iron Horse Hotel (The Iron Horse Hotel), Brewhouse Inn and Suites, downtown lofts

Frequently Asked Questions (Milwaukee Attractions)

Q: Museum hours?
A: Milwaukee Art Museum: Tues–Sun, 10 AM–5 PM, Thurs until 8 PM (mam.org).

Q: Summerfest tickets?
A: See Summerfest site for passes.

Q: Accessibility?
A: Most venues are ADA-compliant; confirm when booking.

Q: Best time to visit Milwaukee?
A: Summer for festivals; fall for foliage and fewer crowds.

Q: Transportation?
A: Walkable downtown, bike-share, streetcar, and frequent bus service.

Summary: Why See the Million Dollar Quartet in Milwaukee?

Attending “Million Dollar Quartet” in Milwaukee is a journey into the heart of American music history, brought to life by the Milwaukee Repertory Theater’s acclaimed production. With robust visitor resources, a welcoming cultural scene, and a city full of attractions, your experience extends far beyond the theater. Plan ahead for tickets, explore the city’s historical gems, and make the most of your stay with the Audiala app and other visitor tools. For the latest updates and ticket availability, visit the Milwaukee Rep website and Shepherd Express.