Welcome to the Capitol Civic Centre’s Acoustic Cafe - a low-cost, no-cost series of community events created for the purpose of providing a showcase for the homegrown artistic talent of Northeastern Wisconsin. These smoke-free, alcohol-free and admission-free events strive to celebrate the artists in our midst by bringing together creative writers, musicians and vocalists to provide a multi-cultural, multi-generational experience bound together through our common geography in a supportive forum.

From the funky entrance to the free popcorn, everything about the Cafe is casual and fun. A variety of soft drinks, coffee and tea will be available for purchase if desired. Every event will feature an emcee to keep the action going, and everyone is invited to bring sheet music, a favorite reading (original works are highly encouraged), come ready to sing and play the songs you know and love - or just hang out and listen to friends warm up the night with creative magic!

Entrance to the Acoustic Cafe is via the Capitol Civic Centre Stage Door, next to the loading dock on 7th street between Jay and Franklin. The events normally run between 6:30 and 9:00 PM, and are open to anyone.

If you would like to sign up to actively participate in any of the Acoustic Cafe events, you may sign up for a 5 - 7 minute performance slot by calling the Capitol Civic Centre office at 920.683.1937, or you may <Click Here to Fill Out the Online Form.>

This year’s Acoustic Cafe’ Events:

October 25, 2007:

Great Lakes Lore and Hauntings: a night of ghostly music and stirring stories. Our region is rich with folklore as broad and expansive as the Great Lakes stretching to the horizon. Think of the Edmund Fitzgerald and the power certain stories exert on our imagination. Think of Halloween, just around the corner from our first event.  Tonight we celebrate the oral storytelling tradition in its finest with memorable music, songs, and tales.

Hosted by Dan Hildebrand and Pete Honzik

December 13, 2007:

Open Mic: calling all poets, storytellers, and musicians. December’s theme is open to the imagination. Take a break from holiday stresses and come share a favorite song or story or sit back, listen, and enjoy.

Hosted by Pete and Gloria Pivonka

February 7th, 2008:

Stormy Weather: Love Songs Gone Wrong. This event is tied to Gaelic Storm performing at the Capitol Civic Centre. Tonight we’ll celebrate the Celtic musical and storytelling tradition and also the approach of Valentine’s Day. Choose your theme. Is every love song about love gone wrong? Or would you rather sprinkle a little Irish into your performance? Bring your songs, poems, and stories for an evening of enjoyment.

Hosted by local musicians

April 3rd, 2008:

April Fools and Follies: Our last Acoustic Café event ends on a note of fine humor. Is it true that comedy is more difficult than drama? Tonight, we’ll find out. Our emphasis this last event is on performance and bringing live theater to our backstage. Musicians, poets, and writers are welcome to share the spotlight in front of a friendly crowd!

Hosted by John Wright and UW Manitowoc theater students

Remember, if you would like to participate in any of the above events you are welcome to do so at no cost to you. Give us a call at 920.683.1937 to sign up for a performance slot, or <Click here for the online form.> Tell ‘em the website sent you!