For top-notch performances of historical and contemporary plays, there's no better place in Saint Francis than Soulstice Theatre. Head on over to the in-house restaurant for a delectable meal. Having trouble finding that family-friendly activity everyone will love? This theater is made for all ages, so little ones are welcome to come along, too. Parking is plentiful, so visitors can feel free to bring their vehicles.

For the love of spectacle, you'll want to get to Fred Astaire Dance Studios, Franklin's premiere theater. Parking is plentiful, so patrons can feel free to bring their vehicles.

In 1947, on New York City's Park Avenue, the first Fred Astaire Dance Studio—cofounded by the eponymous toe tapper himself—opened its doors to the public. More than six decades later, now boasting schools across North America, the dancing institution still adheres to the legendary Mr. Astaire's curriculum and instruction techniques. Specializing in social ballroom and competitive dances, the schools' current consortium of professional instructors shepherds students of all ages and skill levels through dance lessons that span from classic ballroom and foxtrot romps to the modern steps of salsa, swing, or mambo. In addition to classes, the studio hosts social practice parties where up to 40 students hone newly acquired rug-cutting capabilities. As foot-charming music blares from the speakers, instructors work to cultivate a lively social setting where each guest can dance, mingle, and surgically correct their second left foot without fear of embarrassment.

Great symphony orchestras can breathe new life into centuries-old works of art, but few can excel in looking to the future as well. For more than half a century, the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra has done just that, enriching its community while drawing upon innovative technologies to reach listeners across the country. Its nationally syndicated radio broadcast, for instance, has filled the airwaves for more than four decades, transmitting the sounds of the MSO's 83 musicians to some 3.8 million listeners and their 7.6 million pets. The the orchestra also became the county's first to offer live recordings for download through iTunes. But it's not all internet and radio-play here—the MSO's pioneering spirit extends into its music, where it has premiered works by composers such as Philip Glass, Roberto Sierra, and Marc Neikrug.

The Turner Hall Ballroom is an expansive performance hall complete with a stage and sweeping balcony that played host to social, cultural and political exhibitions throughout the early 1900’s. Due to multiple fires, the ballroom operators were forced to close its doors years ago. Now, however, this preservation trust is working to restore the historic structure to its former glory. As a potentially great venue for showcasing the arts, as well as a historic treasure, the restoration project is underway with great support from local residents and community businesses. The trust needs your help to restore this gem and reinstate a major portion of the city’s history.

The Milwaukee Repertory Theater has been playing a vital role in enriching the culture of local community since 1954. Now on its 61st season, this theater produces an impressive 600 performances a year, including such favorites as “The Color Purple,” “Harvey,” and of course, “A Christmas Carol,” without which no holiday season would be complete. Frequent collaborations with the adjacent Pabst Theater work to further enrich the theatrical selection at the Repertory. The theater has an interesting volunteer program called “Friends of the Rep,” which grants discounts, access to the Rep Annual Meeting, and a discount card for local Milwaukee establishments.