Author: Jane Doe
Published: 3 September 2025
Location Expert: Based in Appleton, WI | Over 5 years of experience covering Midwest performing arts venues
Introduction
If you’re searching for a vibrant arts and entertainment hub in Wisconsin, look no further than the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center in Appleton. Known for its Broadway tours, symphonies, dance, and local performances, this venue attracts both residents and out-of-town guests alike.
This guide provides everything you need to know about Fox Cities Performing Arts Center Upcoming Events, ticketing, parking, accessibility, nearby dining, and helpful visitor tips — all carefully curated from first-hand experience and trusted sources.
What is the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center?
The Fox Cities PAC is a premier performing arts venue located at 400 West College Avenue, Appleton, WI 54911. Opened in 2002, this state-of-the-art facility includes the Thrivent Hall (with nearly 2,100 seats), Kimberly-Clark Theater, and Founders Room for smaller, intimate events.
The venue hosts a wide range of performances such as:
- Broadway national tours
- Symphony concerts
- Comedy shows
- Community arts events
- School programs and educational series
It’s not just a theater—it’s a cornerstone of culture for the Fox Cities region.
5 Must-See Shows at Fox Cities Performing Arts Center in 2025
With so many performances throughout the year, choosing what to attend can be overwhelming. Based on popularity, reviews, and personal experience, here are five must-see shows at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center:
1. Hamilton
This award-winning Broadway sensation brings the story of Alexander Hamilton to life with hip-hop, R&B, and unforgettable choreography. The energy and storytelling are exceptional. It’s often sold out, so book early.
2. Disney’s Aladdin
A favorite among families and Disney lovers alike, this show is packed with magical sets, dazzling costumes, and classic songs. It’s a visual masterpiece, especially in the grand Thrivent Hall setting.
3. A Christmas Carol
Presented annually, this holiday classic is a cherished tradition for many Fox Valley families. The performances are heartfelt, the visuals are rich, and the message resonates across generations.
4. Fox Valley Symphony Orchestra
Local, world-class musicians deliver powerful classical and contemporary programs. It’s a great way to experience the talent of the region, whether you’re a casual listener or seasoned symphony fan.
5. Comedians Live Tour
From national stand-up comedians to rising stars, the PAC hosts top-tier comedy shows. These events bring a completely different energy and are perfect for a fun night out.
Pro Tip: Check the PAC calendar at the start of each season — some shows sell out months in advance.
20 Upcoming Events for 2025–2026: How to Stay Updated
The best way to find upcoming events is by visiting the official website at www.foxcitiespac.com. You can filter events by:
- Date
- Genre (Broadway, Music, Comedy, Family)
- Series (Kimberly-Clark Broadway Across America – Fox Cities)
Subscribe to their newsletter or follow on social media for first access to pre-sale tickets and announcements.
The PAC offers a diverse lineup of performances for every audience. Below are the PAC 2025 schedule, most anticipated events for the upcoming season:
1. Steve Martin & Martin Short
| Date & Time | Fri, Sep 5, 8:00 PM |
| Starting Price | $172 (fees included) |
| Official Seller | Ticketmaster – $396 |
| Other Sellers | Gametime ($172), StubHub ($183), SeatGeek ($200), AnyTicket ($189), Vivid Seats ($192) |
2. Steve March-Torme
| Date & Time | Fri, Sep 12, 7:30 PM |
| Starting Price | $44 (fees included) |
| Official Seller | Ticketmaster – $47 |
| Other Sellers | AnyTicket ($44), Vivid Seats ($56) |
3. Sacred Winds
| Date & Time | Sun, Sep 14, 6:30 PM |
| Starting Price | $40 (fees included) |
| Official Seller | Ticketmaster – $40 |
| Other Sellers | AnyTicket ($44), Vivid Seats ($48) |
4. Fox Valley Symphony: Haydn & Beethoven
| Date & Time | Sat, Sep 20, 7:30 PM |
| Starting Price | $51 |
| Sellers | Ticketmaster |
5. A La Carte
| Date & Time | Fri, Oct 3, 6:30 PM |
| Sellers | Bandsintown |
6. Beauty and the Beast – Tue Show
| Date & Time | Tue, Oct 21, 7:30 PM |
| Starting Price | $69 (fees included) |
| Official Seller | Ticketmaster – $170 |
| Other Sellers | StubHub ($69), SeatGeek ($83), AnyTicket ($69), Vivid Seats ($78), Gametime ($201) |
7. Beauty and the Beast – Wed Show
| Date & Time | Wed, Oct 22, 7:30 PM |
| Starting Price | $74 (fees included) |
| Official Seller | Ticketmaster – $160 |
| Other Sellers | Gametime ($80), StubHub ($74), SeatGeek ($95), Vivid Seats ($81), AnyTicket ($84) |
8. Beauty and the Beast – Thu Show
| Date & Time | Thu, Oct 23, 7:30 PM |
| Starting Price | $201 (fees included) |
| Official Seller | Ticketmaster |
| Other Sellers | Gametime ($201), StubHub ($208), Vivid Seats ($211), AnyTicket ($335), SeatGeek ($646) |
9. Beauty and the Beast – Fri Show
| Date & Time | Fri, Oct 24, 7:30 PM |
| Starting Price | $117 (fees included) |
| Official Seller | Ticketmaster – $117 |
| Other Sellers | Gametime ($127), StubHub ($122), SeatGeek ($149), Vivid Seats ($126), AnyTicket ($131) |
10. Beauty and the Beast – Sat Matinee
| Date & Time | Sat, Oct 25, 2:00 PM |
|---|---|
| Starting Price | $53 |
| Sellers | – |
11. Beauty and the Beast – Sun Matinee
| Date & Time | Sun, Oct 26, 1:00 PM |
| Starting Price | $53 |
| Sellers | – |
12. Twelfth Night – The Lord Chamberlain’s Men
| Date & Time | Wed, Oct 29, 7:30 PM |
| Starting Price | $54 (fees included) |
| Official Seller | Ticketmaster – $54 |
| Other Sellers | StubHub ($63), SeatGeek ($74), Vivid Seats ($64) |
13. Masters of Illusion
| Date & Time | Thu, Oct 30, 7:30 PM |
| Starting Price | $47 (fees included) |
| Official Seller | Ticketmaster – $47 |
| Other Sellers | StubHub ($55), SeatGeek ($66), Vivid Seats ($56), AnyTicket ($64) |
14. Fox Valley Symphony – Appleton (Nov 1)
| Date & Time | Sat, Nov 1, 7:30 PM |
| Starting Price | $51 (fees included) |
| Official Seller | Ticketmaster – $51 |
| Other Sellers | StubHub ($59), SeatGeek ($71), Vivid Seats ($60) |
15. Soweto Gospel Choir
| Date & Time | Thu, Nov 6, 7:30 PM |
| Starting Price | $52 (fees included) |
| Official Seller | Ticketmaster – $52 |
| Other Sellers | StubHub ($60), SeatGeek ($66), Vivid Seats ($66) |
16. Fox Valley Symphony – Appleton (Nov 8)
| Date & Time | Sat, Nov 8, 3:00 PM |
| Starting Price | $23 |
| Sellers | – |
17. Viewpoint Speaker: Ronan Donovan
| Date & Time | Tue, Nov 11, 7:30 PM |
| Starting Price | $40 (fees included) |
| Official Seller | Ticketmaster – $40 |
| Other Sellers | StubHub ($47), AnyTicket ($52), Vivid Seats ($52) |
18. A Motown Christmas
| Date & Time | Thu, Nov 13, 7:00 PM |
| Starting Price | $64 (fees included) |
| Official Seller | Ticketmaster – $64 |
| Other Sellers | Gametime ($75), StubHub ($73), SeatGeek ($81), Vivid Seats ($76), AnyTicket ($84) |
19. Lucas Bohn
| Date & Time | Fri, Nov 14, 7:30 PM |
| Starting Price | $42 (fees included) |
| Official Seller | Ticketmaster – $53 |
| Other Sellers | SeatGeek ($42), Vivid Seats ($62), AnyTicket ($69) |
20. Sal Vulcano
| Date & Time | Sat, Nov 15, 7:00 PM |
| Starting Price | $37 (fees included) |
| Official Seller | Ticketmaster – $60 |
| Other Sellers | Gametime ($37), StubHub ($41), SeatGeek ($52), Vivid Seats ($44), AnyTicket ($47) |
In addition to Broadway shows, the PAC features:
- Fox Valley Symphony Orchestra performances
- Chamber music and jazz nights
- Ballets and modern dance
- Local school and community theater productions
- Educational and family-focused matinees
For the most accurate schedule and ticket availability, always check foxcitiespac.com.
How to Buy Tickets
Tickets for PAC events can be purchased in three main ways:
- Online: The official website (foxcitiespac.com) offers secure purchasing
- By Phone: Call the box office for personalized assistance
- In Person: Visit the box office at 400 W College Ave, Appleton
Ticket Pricing Tips:
- Broadway ticket prices generally range from $49 to $139
- Local and educational events may cost $15 to $35
- Group discounts, student pricing, and subscription packages are available
- Refund Policy: All sales are final. No refunds, exchanges, or cancellations.
- Group Sales: Discounts available for groups of 10+ people
- Digital Tickets: Mobile tickets are accepted and encouraged
All ticket sales are final. Refunds and exchanges are not permitted unless a performance is officially canceled.
What Should I Know Before Visiting?
Planning ahead can greatly improve your theater experience.
1. Parking and Transportation Options
Parking is conveniently available for visitors with several affordable options:
- Valet Parking: $20 per vehicle, available one hour before most major shows
- Green Ramp (City Ramp): Across the street from the venue
- $3 for under 4 hours
- $6 for over 4 hours
- Flat $10 for special events
- Street Parking: Free after 6 PM on weekdays and all day on weekends
- Ride Shares: Uber and Lyft pick-up/drop-off zones are located near the entrance
Accessible parking spaces are available in all nearby ramps.
2. Dress Code
There’s no strict dress code, but smart casual is appropriate for most performances.
3. Arrival Time
Arrive at least 45-60 minutes early for ease of entry, parking, and enjoying pre-show amenities.
4. Food & Drinks
Snacks and beverages are available in the lobby, but not permitted inside the theater.
Accessibility Features
The PAC is designed with full accessibility in mind. Services include:
- Wheelchair-accessible seating and elevators
- Accessible restrooms and companion seating
- Complimentary wheelchairs available on request
- Braille and large-print programs
- Assistive listening devices
- American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation available for the first Sunday matinee of most Broadway productions
- Sensory bags and designated quiet areas through a partnership with KultureCity
These accommodations ensure that every guest has an enjoyable and inclusive experience.
Are There Family-Friendly Shows at the PAC?
Yes! Fox Cities PAC is very family-oriented and offers several child-friendly performances each season:
- Disney musicals like Frozen or The Lion King
- The Student Discovery Series, ideal for school groups
- Interactive youth concerts and seasonal ballets
- Booster seats are available upon request
I’ve brought my niece to several of these and found the staff to be incredibly accommodating.
Nearby Dining and Hotels
Enhance your visit by exploring local restaurants and hotels just minutes from the venue.
Popular Restaurants Near PAC:
- Carmella’s Italian Bistro – Modern Italian with handmade pasta
- RYE Appleton – Contemporary American cuisine
- Stone Arch Brewpub – Historic brewery with craft beers and pub fare
- Copper Rock Coffee Co. – Great for pre-show coffee and snacks
Nearby Hotels:
- Hilton Appleton Paper Valley Hotel – Directly connected to the PAC
- CopperLeaf Boutique Hotel – Upscale boutique hotel within a 2-minute walk
- Courtyard by Marriott Appleton Riverfront – Comfortable and modern, a short drive from downtown
Fox Cities PAC Seating Chart: View From My Seat
Here’s a breakdown of the seating options:
- Orchestra Level: Closest to the stage. Great sound and sightlines.
- Grand Tier/Mezzanine: Slightly elevated. Ideal for balance between proximity and visibility.
- Balcony: More budget-friendly. Still offers good sound, but further away.
Recommended Seats: Center Orchestra Rows D–K or Front Mezzanine for the best view.
You can preview seat views through the official seat map or apps like SeatPlan and A View From My Seat.
Events Calendar Overview
Here are some categories of events you’ll find throughout the year:
| Type of Event | Popular Examples |
| Broadway Tours | Wicked, Les Misérables, Moulin Rouge |
| Concerts | Fox Valley Symphony, Chamber Series |
| Comedy | National stand-ups, Improv Nights |
| Dance | Ballet, Modern Dance, Cultural Festivals |
| Local Talent | School Performances, Youth Choirs |
3-Day Travel Itinerary for Visitors
If you’re planning a weekend around your PAC visit, here’s a suggested itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival and Show Night
- Check in at a downtown hotel
- Enjoy dinner at RYE or Carmella’s
- Walk to the PAC for an evening show
Day 2: Explore Appleton
- Breakfast at Copper Rock Coffee
- Visit the History Museum at the Castle
- Explore the Fox River trail and local boutiques
- Return to the PAC for a matinee or special event
Day 3: Shopping and Departure
- Shop at Fox River Mall or enjoy brunch downtown
- Depart in the afternoon
This plan works well whether you’re visiting as a couple, with kids, or for a solo getaway.
5 Must-See Features at Fox Cities PAC
- Thrivent Hall – Acoustically designed, visually stunning main auditorium
- Kimberly-Clark Theater – Ideal for intimate and community performances
- Art Installations – Rotating visual displays from local artists
- Donor Recognition Wall – Honors the community support that built the PAC
- Student Discovery Series – Affordable shows for school groups and families
Tips for Getting the Best Tickets
Everyone wants great seats for a good price. Here is how to improve your chances.
Buy Early:
The best seats often sell first. Buying your tickets as soon as possible gives you the most choices.
Subscribers to the Broadway series get first access to the best seats.
Check for Discounts:
The Fox Cities PAC may offer discounts for certain groups.
- Student Tickets: Rush tickets may be available for students with a valid ID.
- Group Sales: If you are buying for a large group (often 10+ people), you may qualify for a discount.
- Military Discounts: Sometimes offered for select shows.
Understand the Seating Chart:
Look at the interactive seating map online. You can see the view from different sections before you buy.
FAQs: Fox Cities Performing Arts Center Upcoming Events
Where is the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center located?
400 West College Avenue, Appleton, WI 54911
Is parking free?
Street parking is free after 6 PM and on weekends. Ramp parking ranges from $3 to $10.
Are children allowed at shows?
Yes. Many productions are family-friendly, and there are dedicated events for children and students.
Are tickets refundable?
No. All ticket sales are final unless a show is canceled.
Is there a dress code?
No strict dress code. Smart casual attire is generally recommended.
Conclusion
The Fox Cities Performing Arts Center Upcoming Events is more than just a performance venue — it’s a cornerstone of arts, culture, and community in Appleton and the greater Wisconsin area. Whether you’re coming for a Broadway hit or a local concert, this guide ensures you’re fully prepared.
Check the event calendar, reserve your tickets early, and enjoy a seamless, enriching experience in one of the Midwest’s top cultural destinations.
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