BURLINGTON, IOWA (September 21, 2026) — Athleticism, artistry and contemporary choreography will take center stage Friday, October 2, when Water Street Dance Milwaukee opens the Burlington Civic Music Association’s 97th season at the Capitol Theater in downtown Burlington.
The performance begins at 7PM at the Capitol, 211 N Third St.
Recognized as one of the Midwest’s leading contemporary dance companies, Water Street Dance Milwaukee has built a national reputation for performances that combine technical precision, physical power, and emotional storytelling. Dance Magazine named the company one of “25 to Watch” in 2024, recognizing artists and organizations making a significant impact on the dance world.
Water Street Dance Milwaukee is a multifaceted repertory company dedicated to pushing the boundaries of contemporary dance. Its repertoire draws from a wide range of choreographers, voices and movement styles, creating performances designed to be both thought-provoking and entertaining.
Artistic director Morgan Williams founded the company, and it has become a prominent part of Milwaukee’s contemporary dance scene. Its work emphasizes performance, education, collaboration, and opportunities for developing dancers.
This season opener gives Burlington audiences a chance to experience a company that has attracted attention well beyond its Wisconsin home. Water Street Dance Milwaukee’s performances pair demanding physical movement with choreography meant to connect with audiences, whether they are longtime dance enthusiasts or experiencing contemporary dance for the first time.
Water Street Dance Milwaukee will also take its work beyond the evening stage during its Burlington visit through a series of community and educational outreach programs.
On Thursday, October 1, the company will perform at Heartsong, where its visit will continue Water Street Dance Milwaukee’s work with older adults in assisted-care settings. The company will also perform a 1PM concert for area sixth-grade students at the Capitol Theater.
On Friday, October 2, company members will lead a master class for area dance students beginning at 12:30PM at Cheryl’s School of Dance. The outreach activities allow residents of different ages and backgrounds to experience contemporary dance through performances and instruction.
Including the October 2 evening performance, the Burlington Civic Music Association will present six performances during its 2026-27 season. All six programs will begin at 7PM at the Capitol Theater.
Following Water Street Dance Milwaukee, the season continues with a diverse lineup spanning a cappella music, country and American standards, classical crossover, piano, and brass:
- Six Appeal on November 17
- Mandy Barnett on December 18
- Sons of Serendip on February 18
- David Osborne Trio on March 4
- Alliance Brass on April 29
Season and single-performance tickets are available through the Burlington Civic Music Association. For ticket information, call 319-752-0336, or visit the Burlington Civic Music Association website.
