Blog
Student-Run WUD Film Screens Hundreds of Classics, Blockbusters Each Year
The 330-seat Marquee Cinema in Union South has held everything from lectures to political debate watch parties—but is likely most notably known as the home of the WUD Film Committee, which holds hundreds of film screenings every year. Completely student-run, WUD Film screens movies through dual 35mm projectors, an HD projection system and a state-of-the-art sound system—and all for free to patrons. Film screenings are held almost every day during the academic year, from featured new releases to old-time favorites, all thanks to the 40...
read moreWomen in the Arts at the Union: The Past, Present and Future
When asked to name famous artists throughout history, names like Pablo Picasso, Shakespeare or Arthur Miller might come to the mind. However, missing from that list is the immense impact women have played in the arts for centuries. As the world kicks off Women’s History Month, we’re excited to look back at the Wisconsin Union’s own history, and share the tremendous influence women in art leadership roles have made, in the past and present. In 1939, Fan Taylor stepped into her role as the first publicist of the Wisconsin Union Theater from...
read moreMemorial Union Guestrooms Reopen as Wisconsin Union Club Suites
Recent years have been a period of transformation at Memorial Union, including within the lakefront destination’s hotel rooms. Previously known as the Memorial Union Guestrooms, the six rooms have reopened as the Wisconsin Union Club Suites. While the rooms stay true to Memorial Union’s character, they have been revamped to better suit guests’ needs and enhance comfort. The Wisconsin Union Club Suites are an original feature of Memorial Union, which opened its doors in 1928, and offer guests a unique way to experience life on campus. Nestled...
read moreWin or Lose: March Madness Gamewatches
In past years, Wisconsin Union members and guests have gathered at Memorial Union and Union South to cheer on the Badgers through their journeys in NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournaments. Ending a 19-year streak in the postseason, our Badgers have given us enough pride to last a lifetime. Here are some memorable moments from past years: While we mourn the Badger’s loss of their longstanding streak, we can find solace in the spirit March Madness provides and continue to cheer on the remaining teams. The Wisconsin Union will provide...
read moreTrustee Stories: George Cutlip
Wisconsin Union Association Trustee George Cutlip, in many ways, grew up at the Wisconsin Union’s Memorial Union. It’s a place his parents would take him to have many meals, to see academic life in action and to have many other experiences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus. The Cutlip family had more than social and educational ties to the Union and campus; his parents also worked at UW-Madison. George’s father Scott taught in the UW-Madison School of Journalism (now called the School of Journalism and Mass Communication) and...
read moreA Place to Dine: Delicious Changes and Conversations
A lot has changed at the Wisconsin Union over the past year, and dining is no exception. While staples like der Rathskeller and the Brat Stand remain, new food options such as Italian dishes at Strada and handcrafted fare at Carte have made a name for themselves at the Memorial Union. Since opening in January 2017, Strada has made Italian street food a dining go-to at Memorial Union. Visitors can partake of traditional options such as delicious, hearth-fired pizza or try unique, flatbread piadinas that are customizable and can be stuffed to...
read moreTaste of the Union: Tapas at Prairie Fire
Looking for something more than coffee, tea, espresso and bakery and grab-n-go items at Prairie Fire? You won’t have to go far for a tapas dining experience fit for any foodie. Tucked behind the building’s notable coffeehouse sits a tapas haven. With a variety of beverages as well as a refreshing mix of tapas to choose from, this cozy café offers the picture-perfect way to unwind after a long day. The diverse options at Prairie Fire made it impossible to choose just one, so, in true tapas fashion I splurged for two. Going for a bolder choice,...
read moreArt and Science Come Together in Sustainability Initiative at Union South
One Earth. It’s all we have. We, the Wisconsin Union team, always aim to do our part to help preserve our incredible planet for future generations. For us, that commitment includes many sustainability initiatives one of which was a research-based art display that debuted at Union South in October 2017. For this newest initiative that combines both art and science, students from the Department of Life Sciences Communications (LSC) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in collaboration with the Office of Sustainability and the Wisconsin Union...
read moreBehind the Scenes at the Union: Jay Ekleberry
Well, you’ve probably heard of Wheelhouse Studios, but you may not know about the man behind it all, Studio Director Jay Ekleberry. Jay has been with the Wisconsin Union since 1984 and has provided countless members and guests with hands-on art experiences and helped customers creatively make an impact in the Madison community. His passion to learn and foster a sense of engagement among everyone who enters Wheelhouse Studios is contagious. Jay is especially passionate about community-based art that focuses on the public collaboratively taking...
read moreToo Cold to Terrace?
We’re still a couple months shy of Terrace season, but there are still plenty of opportunities to put your Wisconsin Union membership to good use. From discounts on Van Galder bus tickets to Chicago (Think of what you’ll save in parking fees!) to free room rentals for personal events, your membership gives you great deals, all year round. This month, we’re excited to host an exclusive backstage event at the Wisconsin Union Theater’s production of the opera “La Bohème”, featuring wine, appetizers and a pre-show talk with Director of University...
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