Skylight Music Theatre Hosts “Pawditions” - Open Dog Auditions for a Featured Role in A ROCKIN' MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S EVE

Local media invited to capture a tail-wagging casting call on March 21 on the Cabot Stage

MILWAUKEE, WI (February 27, 2026) – Skylight Music Theatre is setting the stage for a four-legged scene-stealer. On Saturday, March 21, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Skylight will host “Pawditions,” open dog auditions, in the historic Cabot Theatre for a featured walk-on role in A ROCKIN’ Midsummer Night’s Dream, onstage April 10-26.

This production, co-conceived and directed by Artistic Director Michael Unger, is a bold new musical adaptation that blends Shakespeare’s beloved comedy with an original, dynamic, rock-inspired score by frequent Skylight collaborator, Eric Svejcar. This production is part of World Premiere Wisconsin and is a professional world premiere that will offer a whimsical backdrop for a brief but delightful canine role.

The part calls for a confident canine who can obediently walk across the stage on leash with its owner. No previous acting experience necessary, just good manners and star quality. Pawditioners must be leashed at all times and comfortable around other dogs and people.

“This is a story that celebrates love, mischief, and magic,” says Unger. “Inviting a local pup to join us onstage is such a joyful and playful way to bring the spirit of this show to life and to keep theatre playful and connected to our Milwaukee community. To say nothing of the fact that Shakespeare’s text requires it!”

Skylight is proud to partner with Riley’s Social House & Sandwich Co. and Milwaukee Area Domestic Animal Control Commission (MADACC) throughout the run of A ROCKIN’ Midsummer Night’s Dream to amplify Milwaukee’s local animal resources and support current and prospective pet owners in their adoption processes, pet inquiries, lifestyles, and beyond.

“We’re proud to partner with Skylight Music Theatre in this unique way,” says Kate Hartlund, MADACC Community Engagement Coordinator. “Involving a local dog and pet-owner is a wonderful reminder of the joy, companionship, and unconditional love animals bring into our lives, and we hope it inspires audiences to consider adoption and support animal welfare throughout Milwaukee County.”

Media outlets are invited to attend this joyful casting call. Courtesy of Riley’s Social House & Sandwich Co., all attendees regardless of casting will receive complimentary treats and a chance to win a $50 gift card redeemable at Riley’s. Pawditions promises fetching photo and video opportunities and the first exclusive preview of Skylight’s upcoming professional world premiere production of A ROCKIN’ Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Pawdition Details:

·       Pawditioner sign up link: https://forms.office.com/r/EhxD81k0Gs 

·       Date: Saturday, March 21

·       Time: 10 AM – 12 PM

·       Location: Cabot Stage| Skylight Music Theatre | 158 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202

·       Visual Opportunities: Interviews with dogs, owners, Riley’s Social House & Sandwich Co., and creative team; dogs walking across stage; full scale stage lights and music. 

·       Community Partners: Riley’s Social House & Sandwich Co. & MADACC

About Skylight Music Theatre:

Skylight Music Theatre is Milwaukee’s Home for Music Theatre. As a professional theatre company that produces innovative, high-quality musical productions that entertain, educate, and inspire, we are committed to providing a platform for local talent and showcasing the best of Broadway and beyond. Founded in 1959, Skylight is Milwaukee’s professional Equity music theatre company, one of the state's largest employer of Wisconsin actors, and a proud Cornerstone Member of the United Performing Arts Fund. Skylight Music Theatre marks its 66th season in 2025-2026.

About MADACC:

Milwaukee Area Domestic Animal Control Commission (MADACC) currently rescues and assures safe, temporary shelter, veterinary and humane care for nearly 13,000 stray, unwanted, abandoned, mistreated and injured animals each year — more than any other single facility animal shelter in Wisconsin.  MADACC provides a central location for owners to find and recover their lost pets at 3839 W. Burnham St. in West Milwaukee. For more information call (414) 649-8640 or visit the MADACC website at www.madacc.org. MADACC is open to the public 7 days a week.

About Riley’s Social House & Sandwich Co.:

Founded in 2021 by Jess and John and inspired by their rescued dog Riley, Riley’s is a Milwaukee restaurant group built around great food, genuine hospitality, and a dog friendly culture. What began as a sandwich shop in Shorewood has grown into multiple neighborhood concepts known for inventive menu specials, craft drinks, and community focused events. Today, Riley’s Social House and Riley’s Bar + Burger continue the brand’s mission of creating welcoming spaces where guests can enjoy memorable food and drinks alongside their four legged companions.