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• 2nd Friday Breakfast at Lakeside St. Coffee House

  • Start
    December 12, 2025
  •  
  • End
    May 08, 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    6 sessions
  • Location
    402 W Lakeside St, Madison, WI 53715

   

  
  

  Meets every 2nd Friday!

  • Where:  Lakeside Street Coffee House

  • When:  Meets on the second Friday of each month

  • Time: 9:30 am to 11:30 am
  • A prominent stairway leads to the lower level where our group meets.
  • The menu changes daily. To find out today's menu, please call the restaurant directly - 608 441-7599
  • Place:  Lakeside St. Coffee House, 402 W. Lakeside St., Madison
  • Directions are pictured on the map below
  • Parking: Street Parking
    
  • Organizer: Sharon Scrattish
  • RSVP or Questions?:  If you are new to the Lakeside Coffee gathering please RSVP Sharon by email or phone (sscratti@gmail.com or 608-280-8050)

  
  

  

  
  

  Show details
• 3rd Friday Lunch on the East Side

  • Start
    December 19, 2025
  •  
  • End
    May 15, 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    6 sessions
  • Location
    876 Jupiter Drive

  at

  
  

  3rd Friday Lunch on the East Side at Great Dane East

  
  

  Where?  Great Dane East,  876 Juniper Drive,  Madison
  

  When?  Meets on the third Friday of each month from 11:30-1:30

  What?  Lunch with friends, old and new.    To view the menu go to  https://www.greatdanepub.com/menu/.  You will pay with your own check with gratuity at your own discretion.
  
  Directions:   Entrance is a few hundred feet from Cottage Grove Road and conveniently located on Madison Metro's Route C.
  
  Parking: There is plenty of parking in the adjacent parking lot.  No stairs!
  
  Organizer:   Sue Ellerhorst 
  

  RSVP is required because we are limited to 24 or fewer.  Email Sue at  nana@orcagranny.com by the Wednesday before the lunch to let her know you are coming.   Also email her if you have any questions.

  
  

  
  

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• 1st Friday Breakfast on the West Side

  • Start
    January 02, 2026
  •  
  • End
    September 04, 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    9 sessions
  • Location
    601 Junction Road, Madison

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Where?  Panera Bread,  601 Junction Road, Madison, WI 
  

  When?  Meets on the first Friday of each month from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

  What?  Breakfast with friends, old and new.    To view the menu go to https://www.panerabread.com/en-us/menu.html.
  
  Directions:   Located 1.5 blocks south of Old Sauk Road on Junction Road.
  
  Parking: There is plenty of parking in the adjacent parking lot.  No stairs!
  
  Organizer:  Catherine Masi 
  
  RSVP or Questions?  Email Catherine at catherine.masi@gmail.com  by the Thursday before the breakfast to let her know you are coming.  Also email her if you have any questions.

  • 

  
  

  Show details
• 4th Friday of the Month Coffee

  • Start
    January 23, 2026
  •  
  • End
    May 22, 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    5 sessions
  • Location
    Rotunda Cafe in the Lobby of Lake Ridge Bank, 1965 Atwood Ave., Madison, WI

  

  COFFEE GATHERING

  
  

  Make new friends and meet new PLATO members over a cup of coffee and breakfast snacks. 
  
  The Rotunda Cafe, 1965 Atwood Avenue on Madison's near east side

  
  

  • Meet on Fourth Friday of each month
    
    

  • Time: 9:30 am to 11:30 am
    
    
  • Place: Rotunda Cafe, lobby of Lake Ridge Bank, formerly Monona Bank
    
    
  • Ambiance: With a unique, large seating area, The Rotunda Cafe is an attractive rotunda in what was once the Monona Bank building at Schenks Corners. Great ambiance with pleasant, soothing background music.
    
    
  • Place order at counter, bus own table 
    
    
  • Food choices are limited but do include breakfast burritos and doughnuts

  • Parking: (see below)
    
    
  • RSVP or Questions? Email Sue Ellerhost at luvcetaceans@gmail.com or Donaby Henton at aiexplorer125@gmail.com by Wednesday so they know you are coming. 
    
    
  • COVID Protocol: Please continue to use a mask if you desire

  Parking Options:

  • Street parking is available on either side of the bank, on Atwood and on Winnebago and further down both streets.
    
    
  • Parking is also available at Trinity Lutheran Church, 904 Winnebago St.  Please note: The church requests a small good will donation which will be used to benefit a local neighborhood fund. We will periodically request a few dollars donation for this from our members who use the lot.
    
    
  • Parking is also available in the lot behind United Way, 2059 Atwood Ave. Drive all the way in to the unmarked spaces toward the back of the lot.

  Show details
• Lecture - Birding – Transitioning from Winter to Spring!

  • When
    March 19, 2026
  •  
    1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
  • Location
    Oakwood Village University Woods Arts & Education Center

  

  Birding – Transitioning from Winter to Spring! 

  Thursday, March 19 from 1:30-3:00 p.m.

  
  

  In-Person at Oakwood Village University Woods

  Arts & Education Center

  
  

  6205 Mineral Point Road

  
  

  Registration is Not Required

  FREE PARKING

  In 2015 Chuck Henrikson started leading Tuesday bird walks in the UW Arboretum year-round.  In March of 2020 the bird walks were halted because of Covid so he did the bird walks by himself each week and sent bird reports that included 10 - 12 bird photographs to 15 to 20 birders.  Those birders sent the reports to their friends and those friends emailed him and asked to be added to the bird report email list.  As Covid waned Chuck was able to start the bird walks again and thought he didn’t need to send out the bird reports anymore.  He was totally wrong!  Everyone wanted to get the bird reports!  They especially liked the bird photos.  As word of the bird reports got out, the number of recipients kept growing and today he sends reports to a little over 1000 people.

  In addition to his bird walks, Chuck teaches Birding 101 for the Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance. This year will be his 9th year of teaching the course!

  Chuck  was born and raised near Lake Minnetonka in Minnesota. After graduating from high school, he went to St. Olaf College in Northfield and earned a bachelor’s degree in biology. Following graduation, he was accepted at the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine where he earned a master’s degree and PhD in anatomy. After completing a post-doc, he returned to Purdue to teach gross anatomy, histology and neuroanatomy in veterinary medicine. In 1988 he came to the University of Wisconsin- Madison to teach in the School of Veterinary Medicine. During his time at UW, Chuck visited the UW Arboretum often and trained to become a Volunteer Steward of the Arboretum.   As a steward he got to know all the plants, animals and birds of the Arboretum very well. After 21 years at UW-Madison, Chuck retired in 2009.  He says he was a casual birder before retirement but afterwards he really became serious about submitting all his sightings in checklists to Cornell Lab of Ornithology or eBird.  Now birding has become a passion and he goes birding every day! 

  ________________________________________

  Transportation Options:

  
  

  Bicycle:  Bike racks are available

  
  

  Bus: The BRT Route A bus  runs every 15 minutes and stops in front of Oakwood at the Island/Mineral Point station.  

  
  

  Car: 
  

  • Use the Island Drive entrance at 6205 Mineral Point Road.
  •  Veer left and follow the drive to the 2nd driveway with sign “Heritage Oaks Parking Garage.”
  •  Turn right into driveway.
  •   Press the buzzer and the Oakwood desk attendant will buzz you in. There are 70 parking stalls. Park in any visitor or non-reserved stall. Take the elevator up one floor to the main entrance, turn right and walk through the mail box area into the lobby. Ask at the desk for directions to the Performing Arts Center.
  • When you exit the underground parking, the garage door opens automatically.
  • _________________________

  Questions?  Contact lecture organizer Barbara Drake at barbaradrake21@gmail.com

  Show details
• Tour of the Wisconsin Veterans Museum

  • When
    April 08, 2026
  •  
    1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
  • Location
    30 West Mifflin Street, Madison
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  
  

  Tour of the Wisconsin Veterans Museum

  Wednesday, April 8 from 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

  Free to PLATO members and guests

  Registration is required

  Registration Deadline - April 6

  The Wisconsin Veterans Museum is dedicated to telling the stories of the veterans of Wisconsin who served in the United States armed forces. A docent, and military veteran, will guide us through the exhibits and dioramas illustrating how Wisconsinites – both men and women – participated in American history from the Civil War through the conflicts of the 20th and 21st centuries. Exhibits include many personal and military artifacts and a “Huey” helicopter that flew during Vietnam. You can hear, in their own words, veterans recount everyday military life as well as their part in historic moments. This museum has won awards from the American Alliance of Museums and is affiliated with the Smithsonian.

  Please meet in the lobby of the museum about 10 minutes before the tour starts to meet our tour guide.

  ________________________________________

  Transportation Options:

  Bicycle:  Bike racks are available.

  Bus: The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Route A and Route B buses run every 15 minutes and stop on State street.

  Parking:   The State Street Capitol Garage is located at 200 N. Carroll St, just a two-block walk to the museum.

  For further information, contact Joyce Knutson at k2pmw@sbcglobal.net or 608-238-4279.

  Show details
• Lecture - Hearing Advice to Make You (and your ears) Smile!

  • When
    April 09, 2026
  •  
    1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
  • Location
    Oakwood Village University Woods Arts & Education Center

  

  Thursday, April 9 from 1:30-3:00 p.m.

  
  

  In-Person at Oakwood Village University Woods

  Arts & Education Center

  
  

  6205 Mineral Point Road

  
  

  Registration is Not Required

  FREE PARKING

  Juliette Sterkens, AuD is a professional audiologist who has shared her knowledge of hearing loss with organizations across the upper Midwest.  In her lecture she will highlight the advances in hearing technology, hearing rehabilitation, and assistive listening. She will also share answers to commonly asked questions about hearing loss and rehabilitation, as well as answering questions directly from the audience.

  Dr. Sterkens has more than four decades of experience in audiology, hearing rehabilitation, and assistive listening. Since 2012, she’s been on an encore career as a consumer and assistive-listening consultant with the Hearing Loss Association of America, thanks to special grant funding.  She has received several awards for her work, including the American Academy of Audiology Presidential Award and the Wisconsin Audiologist of the Year Award. She lives in Oshkosh, WI and serves on the board of HEAR-in-the-Fox Cities, a nonprofit that helps pay for hearing aids for children in Northeast Wisconsin. Locally, she has worked with members of the Madison chapter of Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA).

  ________________________________________

  Transportation Options:

  
  

  Bicycle:  Bike racks are available

  
  

  Bus: The BRT Route A bus  runs every 15 minutes and stops in front of Oakwood at the Island/Mineral Point station.  

  
  

  Car: 
  

  • Use the Island Drive entrance at 6205 Mineral Point Road.
  •  Veer left and follow the drive to the 2nd driveway with sign “Heritage Oaks Parking Garage.”
  •  Turn right into driveway.
  •   Press the buzzer and the Oakwood desk attendant will buzz you in. There are 70 parking stalls. Park in any visitor or non-reserved stall. Take the elevator up one floor to the main entrance, turn right and walk through the mail box area into the lobby. Ask at the desk for directions to the Performing Arts Center.
  • When you exit the underground parking, the garage door opens automatically.
  • _________________________

  Questions?  Contact lecture organizer Barbara Drake at barbaradrake21@gmail.com

  Show details
• Exploring Wisconsin's Driftless Area

  • When
    April 22, 2026
  •  
    9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Location
    Mt. Horeb, Barneveld area
  • Spaces left
    10

  Register

  
  

  
  

  Exploring Wisconsin's Driftless Area

  Wednesday, April 22, 2026

  Registration deadline is Monday, April 6

  
  

  Step into the stories that shaped one of Wisconsin’s most fascinating regions with a visit to the Driftless Historium in Mt. Horeb.  This is  more than just a walk through a museum — it’s an engaging journey through the landscapes, people, and traditions that make the Driftless Area so unique.

  Discover compelling exhibits, remarkable artifacts, and vivid photographs that bring local history to life.  From early settlers and cultural heritage to the natural forces that carved this extraordinary terrain, every gallery reveals something unexpected and memorable. Whether you’re a lifelong resident, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about the region, you’ll gain new insights and a deeper appreciation for the place we call home.

  Join fellow explorers for an experience that is educational, social, and genuinely enjoyable. Come for the history — leave with stories you’ll be telling long after the tour ends.

  Following lunch, we're off to visit and learn more about Vortex Optics at their store in Barneveld. Vortex Optics is an American manufacturer of special optical equipment for wildlife watching, outdoor recreation, shooting sports, law enforcement and military.  Their products include binoculars, monoculars, scopes and related accessories.

  A surprise stop will end our day's event.

  
  

  _________________________________________
  

  Lunch (Indicate your choice when registering)

  Lunch includes coffee, hot tea, soda, or iced tea and dessert

  • Classic Burger on Brioche Bun, prepared Medium Well, served with Lettuce, tomato, Onion, & Cheddar Cheese with a side of French Fry Dippers
  • Half of a Grilled Chicken Wrap along with a cup of Soup Du Jour. Wrap contains Chicken, Spring Mix, Ranch, Avocado, Pepper Jack, Pico do Gallo, Bacon, Tortilla Strips
  • BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich on a Pretzel Bun with a side of French Fry Dippers 
  • 9" Bomber's Special Pizza, Sausage, Pepperoni, Onions, Mushrooms, Green Peppers, Black Olives, and Cheese 
  • Deluxe Caesar Salad with a Grilled Chicken Breast, Homemade Polenta, and Croutons. 

  
  

  _________________________________________

  PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center  and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity.  You will be required to fill out the 2026 Verona Senior Center New Member  and Trip Waiver Form   (no charge).  You can fill out these forms in advance or on the day of the trip.  

  Schedule:  (Return times are approximate)

  TRAVELERS ARE REQUESTED TO ARRIVE 15 MINUTES PRIOR TO DEPARTURE
  

  9:00 a.m.  Depart (East Madison) Dutch Mill Park & Ride (East Lot)

  9:30 a.m.   Depart Verona Park & Ride

  5:30 p.m.   Return Verona Park & Ride

  6:00 p.m.   Return (East Madison) Dutch Mill Park & Ride (East Lot)

  Departure Locations:

  
  

  Verona Park & Ride - 2585 Old PB, Verona, WI

  
  

  East Side (Dutch Mill Park & Ride (East Lot))

  Map below for those boarding the bus on east side Dutch Mill Park & Ride. Please park in the "east" lot as indicated by the arrow. (east of Arby's)
  

  
  

  Cost: $65 per person and includes bus transportation, driver tip, admission fees, meal, taxes, and gratuities.

  Seating is limited, so register today!  Registrations must be received no later than noon on Monday, April 6, 2026.

  Mail-In Registration Form:   Print, fill-in, and mail this form for those who wish to register off-line and by check
  

  Refund Policy:  PLATO refunds an event fee if cancelled prior to the registration deadline.  Refunds after the registration deadline are only processed if a wait-listed registrant can attend.  

  PLATO Membership:  PLATO membership is $60.00/year and all memberships renew on July 1. 
  

  For further information, contact PLATO trip coordinator, Bob Shaw,  robert.e.shaw@gmail.com , 608-255-3486.
  

  Show details
• Lecture - Healthy Grown – Sustainable Produce from Wisconsin!

  • When
    April 23, 2026
  •  
    1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
  • Location
    Oakwood Village University Woods Arts & Education Center

  

  Thursday, April 23 from 1:30-3:00 p.m.

  
  

  In-Person at Oakwood Village University Woods

  Arts & Education Center

  
  

  6205 Mineral Point Road

  
  

  Registration is Not Required

  FREE PARKING

  Healthy Grown is a whole farm approach of growing potatoes and vegetables using the best environmental practices possible, from pesticide use to promotion of ecological standards on the farm.  Dr. Deana Knuteson will present the history and requirements of the Healthy Grown program, its acceptance by Wisconsin farmers, and how the purchase of Healthy Grown vegetables benefits the consumer (You!) who buys and consumes them!  These practices are keeping Wisconsin on the cutting edge of sustainability documentation.

  The program has been operating under the overall vision/mission of: “Healthy Grown is to maintain ecological, sustainable and environmentally sound potato and vegetable production systems while enhancing value for growers with the ‘Good for you, good for the environment’ message.”

  Deana Knuteson, Ph.D. is the educational program coordinator for the Wisconsin Healthy Grown® program and works extensively on large-scale sustainability initiatives. She is a member of the Department of Plant Pathology at UW-Madison. Deana received her Bachelor’s degree in Botany from the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point, and her Master’s degree and Ph.D. in entomology from the University of Wisconsin- Madison.

  
  

  ________________________________________

  Transportation Options:

  
  

  Bicycle:  Bike racks are available

  
  

  Bus: The BRT Route A bus  runs every 15 minutes and stops in front of Oakwood at the Island/Mineral Point station.  

  
  

  Car: 
  

  • Use the Island Drive entrance at 6205 Mineral Point Road.
  •  Veer left and follow the drive to the 2nd driveway with sign “Heritage Oaks Parking Garage.”
  •  Turn right into driveway.
  •   Press the buzzer and the Oakwood desk attendant will buzz you in. There are 70 parking stalls. Park in any visitor or non-reserved stall. Take the elevator up one floor to the main entrance, turn right and walk through the mail box area into the lobby. Ask at the desk for directions to the Performing Arts Center.
  • When you exit the underground parking, the garage door opens automatically.
  • _________________________

  Questions?  Contact lecture organizer Barbara Drake at barbaradrake21@gmail.com

  Show details
• Nature Walk at Oakwood Village University Woods

  • When
    May 06, 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    6209 Mineral Point Road, Madison
  • Spaces left
    15

  
  

  
  

  Nature Walk at Oakwood Village University Woods

  Wednesday, May 6, 2026 from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

  Rain Date - Thursday, May 7 from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

  Registration will open in early April

  Free to PLATO members and guests

  Registration is required and is limited to 15 people

  The Oakwood Nature Preserve is an 8 acre conservation park maintained by residents of the Oakwood community and the Oakwood horticulture staff. We will walk along the three-fourths of a mile wood- chipped Rustic Path among tall trees. The path goes beside Trillium Corner (a spring ephemeral garden), the prairie plots and a vernal pond and there are some short but steep slopes.

  We will have a one-hour walk followed by a social hour with lemonade and cookies in the Oaks Community Room. There will be listening devices for all participants. Unfortunately, the trail is not accessible for people with disabilities.  Bring water, sunglasses, a walking stick if you use one and dress for the weather. Sandals are not appropriate footwear. There are restroom facilities at the start and end.

  __________________________________________

  Transportation Options:

  
  

  Parking:  Parking will not be in the usual spots for PLATO events at Oakwood since the nature preserve is on the west end of the campus. Do not enter the underground parking garages.  After entering the Island Drive entrance turn immediately to the right.  Park near The Oaks residence hall on the west end of campus (see map below). There is plenty of surface parking. Look for signs and somebody showing you where to park. 

  
  

  
  

  Bicycle: Bike racks are available.

  
  

  Bus: The BRT Route A bus  runs every 15 minutes and stops in front of Oakwood at the Island/Mineral Point station.  

  
  

  • _________________________

  Nature Walk Coordinator/Leader: The tour will be led by Barb Littlewood, a PLATO member, Oakwood resident and member of the Oakwood Nature Preserve committee. If you have questions, contact Barb at barb.littlewood@gmail.com  or 608-283-9905.

  
  

  Show details
• Frida...a Self Portrait at the Milwaukee Rep

  • When
    May 09, 2026
  •  
    1:30 PM
  • Location
    Milwaukee
  • Spaces left
    3

  Register

  

  Saturday, May 9, 2026   1:30 pm Matinee

  Milwaukee Rep - Herro-Franke Studio Theater

  An Iconic Painter’s Art, Heart and Spirit

  Live boldly, love wildly, paint passionately — this was the uncompromising life of Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. Through music, movement and irresistible charm, acclaimed writer and actor Vanessa Severo crafts a poetic performance that explores Frida’s breathtaking life and astonishing genius. This sizzling play plunges into the brilliant, nuanced world of Kahlo’s tumultuous, extraordinary life, offering a vivid exploration of how we shape ourselves through the art that we love.

  “Vulnerable, emotional, personal, and full of joy... utterly captivating.” – Broadway World

  “Colorful and imaginative… a deeply affecting drama that leaves an ineradicable imprint.” – The Pitch

  recommended age:  12 and up

  Approximate Running Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes with no intermission 

  
  

  So much is new at the Rep!  This is PLATO's first visit to the newly remodeled facilities.  The new black-box theater, the Herro-Franke Studio offers a uniquely flexible space that brings you closer to the story—perfect for powerful, intimate productions and bold, unexpected performances. Whether it’s a moving drama or a fresh new work, this space invites you into a one-of-a-kind theatrical experience where no two visits feel the same.

  The Herro-Franke Studio Theater is located on the Lobby level.  New more comfortable seats, railings in the aisles, cupholders, new assisted listening devices, new concession bar and modernized restrooms are just some of the new features.

  Tickets:  Our group will be seated in row C (third row) on both sides of the center aisle.  Seats will be assigned based on registration date.

  Group Lunch  is at The Public Market.  We will save tables on the  second-floor.  Each person is responsible for ordering, paying for and carrying their own meal from one of the nine unique eateries in the Public Market to the second floor dining area.  In addition to the nine eateries, there is a bakery, wine shop and bar, coffee shop, etc.  An elevator and stairs access the second floor and restrooms near the seating area.  Again, lunch is not included in your registration.

  
  

  Our bus will also drop-off and pick-up at the Milwaukee Public Market for lunch alternatives. There are many nearby Third Ward restaurants from which to choose.  Many restaurants have changed over time so please check to see if they will be open and we highly recommend that you make a reservation.

  Historic Third Ward Official Restaurant List - Check to see if they are open.

  Historic Third Ward Official Shopping List - Check to see if they are open.

  This theater trip's patrons with share a bus and group lunch with the patrons attending Mrs. Christie.

  Itinerary   

  Bear in mind that our boarding bus route is like Madison Metro or any other municipal bus service.  Please arrive early at your boarding stop so you don’t miss the bus.  When everyone is aboard and seated, we leave.  Don’t be late.  We can wait just 5 minutes at any one location.

  Accessibility Policy:  On the Badger Bus, you must be able to climb steps to board and exit the bus.  If you need assistance, we require that you bring a friend to give you a hand.

  Leaving Madison

  9:30 AM   Westside: Bus arrives for boarding at Oakwood University Woods, 6205 Mineral Point Road

  9:40 AM   Westside: Bus departs from Oakwood University Woods (sooner if everyone is aboard)

  10:15 AM   Eastside: Bus departs East Towne former Sears at light pole #13.  Leave for Milwaukee (sooner if everyone is aboard).

  In Milwaukee

  11:30 AM   Drop of at Milwaukee Public Market, 400 N Water St., Milwaukee

  12:55 PM    Pick-up at Milwaukee Public Market

  1:00 PM    Drop off at Milwaukee Repertory, 108 E Wells St., Milwaukee

  1:30 PM   Frida…a Self Portrait and Mrs. Christie begins

  2:45 PM   Frida performance ends

  3:35 PM   Mrs. Christie ends

  4:05 PM   Depart for Madison (sooner if everyone is aboard)

  Arrive Madison (Estimated)

  5:20 PM   Bus returns to East Towne

  5:50 PM   Bus returns to Oakwood University Woods

  Non-Member Policy:   Members must register their guests. Each PLATO member is entitled to bring one non-member guest per bus trip.  Members may bring more than one guest near the registration deadline date if seats are available.  Check with trip organizer.  Non-member guests pay an additional $10 registration fee.

  PLATO Membership:  PLATO membership is $60.00/year and all memberships renew on August 1.  

  Mail-in registration form linked here.

  For further information, contact theater trip organizers:

  Sue Josheff, sooziej@sbcglobal.net  608-770-3828 or 

  Nancy McClements, nancymcclements@gmail.com 608-358-4478

  Show details
• Mrs. Christie at the Milwaukee Rep

  • When
    May 09, 2026
  •  
    1:30 PM
  • Location
    Milwaukee
  • Spaces left
    13

  Register

  
  

  Saturday, May 9, 2026   1:30 pm Matinee

  Milwaukee Rep - Checota Powerhouse Theater

  The Curious Disappearance of Agatha Christie

  This effervescent, charming new comedy celebrates writers, womanhood, and the stories that shape our lives. In 1926, famed author Agatha Christie vanished for 11 days, reappearing without explanation. The real-life case of the “Missing Mrs. Christie” became a tabloid sensation, but the reasons behind her disappearance remain unknown. Now, 100 years later, a devoted superfan stumbles upon the clues that could finally crack the case, launching a coming-of-age journey of memory and self-discovery – with the thrill of a good old-fashioned mystery.

  Co-production with Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park
  

  “For budding detectives and soul searchers… whet your inner Hercule Poirot.” – San Francisco Chronicle

  Running Time: Approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes with one intermission

  Recommended Age: 12 and up

  
  

  So much is new at the Rep!  This is PLATO's first visit to the newly remodeled facilities.  The new flagship performance space, the 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.  New features include wider seats, cupholder, better sightlines, aisle railings, new assisted listening system and more.

  Tickets:  Our group will be seated in pairs on the left in rows A, B, C and D seats 7 & 8 and on the right mirroring the seats on the left.  Seats will be assigned based on registration date.

  Group Lunch  is at The Public Market.  We will save tables on the  second-floor.  Each person is responsible for ordering, paying for and carrying their own meal from one of the nine unique eateries in the Public Market to the second floor dining area.  In addition to the nine eateries, there is a bakery, wine shop and bar, coffee shop, etc.  An elevator and stairs access the second floor and restrooms near the seating area.  Again, lunch is not included in your registration.

  
  

  Our bus will also drop-off and pick-up at the Milwaukee Public Market for lunch alternatives. There are many nearby Third Ward restaurants from which to choose.  Many restaurants have changed over time so please check to see if they will be open and we highly recommend that you make a reservation.

  Historic Third Ward Official Restaurant List - Check to see if they are open.

  Historic Third Ward Official Shopping List - Check to see if they are open.

  This theater trip's patrons share a bus and group lunch with the patrons attending Frida...a Self Portrait.

  Itinerary   

  Bear in mind that our boarding bus route is like Madison Metro or any other municipal bus service.  Please arrive early at your boarding stop so you don’t miss the bus.  When everyone is aboard and seated, we leave.  Don’t be late.  We can wait just 5 minutes at any one location.

  Accessibility Policy:  On the Badger Bus, you must be able to climb steps to board and exit the bus.  If you need assistance, we require that you bring a friend to give you a hand.

  Leaving Madison

  9:30 AM   Westside: Bus arrives for boarding at Oakwood University Woods, 6205 Mineral Point Road. 

  9:40 AM   Westside: Bus departs from Oakwood University Woods (sooner if everyone is aboard).

  10:15 AM   Eastside: Bus departs East Towne former Sears at light pole #13.  Leave for Milwaukee (sooner if everyone is aboard).

  In Milwaukee

  11:30 AM   Drop of at Milwaukee Public Market, 400 N Water St., Milwaukee

  12:55 PM    Pick-up at Milwaukee Public Market

  1:00 PM    Drop off at Milwaukee Repertory, 108 E Wells St., Milwaukee

  1:30 PM   Frida…a Self Portrait and Mrs. Christie begin

  2:45 PM   Frida performance ends 

  3:35 PM   Mrs. Christie performance ends

  4:05 PM   Depart for Madison (sooner if everyone is aboard)

  Arrive Madison (Estimated)

  5:20 PM   Bus returns to East Towne

  5:50 PM   Bus returns to Oakwood University Woods

  Non-Member Policy:   Members must register their guests. Each PLATO member is entitled to bring one non-member guest per bus trip.  Members may bring more than one guest near the registration deadline date if seats are available.  Check with trip organizer.  Non-member guests pay an additional $10 registration fee.

  PLATO Membership:  PLATO membership is $60.00/year and all memberships renew on August 1.  

  Mail-in registration form linked here.

  For further information, contact theater trip organizers:

  Sue Josheff, sooziej@sbcglobal.net  608-770-3828 or 

  Nancy McClements, nancymcclements@gmail.com  608-358-4478

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• Dane County Landfill Tour

  • When
    June 02, 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
  • Location
    3656 County Highway AB, McFarland, WI
  • Spaces left
    20

  

  Dane County Landfill Tour

  Tuesday, June 2 from 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
  

  Free to PLATO members and guests.

  Registration is required.

  Registration opens in early May

  We had a wait list for last year's Dane County Landfill Tour so we are repeating it in 2026.

  Ever wonder what happens to your trash after it leaves the curb? Join us for an eye-opening, behind-the-scenes field trip to our local landfill and waste management facilities — a fascinating journey into the world of recycling, renewable energy, and responsible disposal.

  Tour highlights Include:

  • Clean Sweep Facility: See how hazardous household materials like paints, cleaners, and batteries are safely collected and handled.
  • Construction & Demolition Recycling Center: Learn how building materials are sorted and reused to keep tons of waste out of landfills.
  • Renewable Natural Gas Plant: Discover how organic waste is turned into clean, renewable energy that powers homes and vehicles.
  • Active Landfill Site: Get a rare, firsthand look at how today’s landfills are engineered to manage waste while protecting the environment.

  Why You Should Come:

  • Gain a deeper understanding of where your waste goes — and why it matters.
  • Learn how to reduce your own environmental footprint.
  • Perfect for  sustainability advocates and curious minds of all ages.

  Space is limited and spots fill quickly, so register today for this unique, educational experience that just might change the way you see your garbage!

  ____________________________________

  Safety information:  The health of our visitors and staff is important to us and we have implemented the following policies and procedures for our tour program:

  - Safety vests will be provided and must be worn at all times during the tour.

  - No sandals or open toed shoes. 

  - Bathroom access is extremely limited, please plan accordingly.

  Weather: Tours proceed rain or shine, so tour attendees should dress for the weather. 

  Directions:  Please meet at Hope Park  (3656 County Highway AB, McFarland, WI) directly outside our landfill facility where our mobile Trash Lab exhibit is located. The Trash Lab exhibit will be parked out front, with a "tours" sign to mark where we will be gathering. Visitors will have a chance to explore the Lab prior to getting on our Waste + Renewables bus for the grounds tour. 

  
  

  For further information, contact PLATO trip leader, Cynthia Moore,  eron99c@gmail.com , 608-228-8836.

  Show details