Ellen & Joe Checota Powerhouse Theater
Our new flagship performance space, the Ellen & Joe Checota Powerhouse Theater, sets the stage for epic dramas and powerful musicals with an industry-first convertible stage and Broadway-level production values that elevate every performance.
The fully reconfigured seating design improves sightlines and audience comfort while significantly expanding accessibility throughout the theater. For the first time, guests with disabilities can enter directly from Level 1 without needing to use an elevator or navigate stairs.
The theater is also accessible via the Sandra & William Haack Galleria on Levels 2 and 3, with convenient access provided by a new public elevator or through the Associated Bank River Center entrances on the upper levels.
Proscenium Seating Configuration – 671 Seats
For the first time, the theater will feature a convertible Proscenium layout, aligning with major venues on Broadway and across Europe. This innovation opens the door for Milwaukee Rep to develop and premiere new works with the potential to tour nationally and internationally—bringing stories born in Wisconsin to stages around the world.
Thrust Seating Configuration – 568 Seats
The new Powerhouse will provide a classic Thrust seating – placing audiences just feet from the action and creating an electric, up-close connection between performers and patrons.
Powerhouse Theater Features
The Powerhouse Theater may have the same footprint as before, but inside, everything has been reimagined to improve your experience. With fewer seats on both the main floor and in the balcony, you’ll enjoy better sightlines. We've also made it easier to find your way: the main floor is now divided into Left, Center, and Right sections, and the balcony into four clearly marked sections. Row numbers now start on the left side of each row for easier navigation. Plus, you can now access the theater from three different levels — including a brand-new lower-level entrance that makes getting to Rows A–F simpler than ever. Accessibility has also improved: Row A joins Row M in offering wheelchair seating options.
Click here to view a seating chart.
Features include…
Larger Seats
Enjoy greater comfort with our newly upgraded, wider seats
Cup Holders
Seats now features a convenient cup holder to keep your drink within easy reach
Better Sightlines
Reconfigured seating ensures clearer, unobstructed views of the stage
Lower Level Wheelchair Seats
Wheelchair-accessible seating is now available in Row A for easier access. Additional wheelchair seating is also available in Row M of the Orchestra and Row C of the center Balcony.
Bariatric Seats
Select seats are designed with additional width and support to comfortably accommodate all guests
Swing Arm Seats
Select swing arm seats make it easier to transfer into your seat from a wheelchair or mobility device
Aisle Rails
New handrails along the aisles provide extra support and stability when entering or exiting your seat
New Assisted Listening System
Our upgraded system now uses hearing loop technology. Guests without hearing aids can check out listening devices at the Level 1 or Level 2 Guest Services Desk.
New Audio Description System
Using the hearing loop technology, guests can pick up a device at the Level 1 or Level 2 Guest Services Desk and tune to the designated channel for Audio Description. Audio Description is currently available at one performance during each production's run.
Modern Production Technology
Offers advance digital sound, laser projection capability, automated scenery and intelligent lighting programmable to deliver more dynamic and visually stunning productions
Preferred Seating
The Checota Powerhouse Theater features 30 new Preferred Seats comprising rows B, C and D in Lower Center Orchestra.
Preferred Seats are available by Subscription only for those purchasing at minimum a 5-Play Powerhouse package. Contact the Ticket Office at 414-224-9490 to learn how to upgrade your Powerhouse Subscription.
Preferred Seats feature...
• Best locations for optimal sightlines/sound
• Widest and most comfortable seats
• Double arm rests
• Cup holders for each seat
• Priority customer service
• 1 single use pass to the Lubar Lounge
