Sept. 29, 2026
Contact Dan Pivovar at daniel.pivovar@gmail.com

VITERBO UNIVERSITY CONSERVATORY FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS TO PRESENT THE MUSICAL KISS ME, KATE OCT. 8–11

LA CROSSE, Wis. – Backstage rivalries, Shakespearean comedy, and Cole Porter’s sparkling music combine in one of Broadway’s most beloved musicals as the Viterbo University Conservatory for the Performing Arts presents Kiss Me, Kate Thursday, Oct. 8–Sunday, Oct. 11 in the Fine Arts Center Main Theatre.

Winner of Tony Awards for Best Musical, Best Original Score, Best Author, and Best Revival of a Musical, Kiss Me, Kate is a celebration of theatre itself. As a theatre company prepares a production of The Taming of the Shrew, the offstage romance—and rivalry—between its leading actors proves every bit as dramatic as the play they’re performing. Kiss Me, Kate is filled with wit, glamour, and unforgettable songs like Too Darn Hot, Brush Up Your Shakespeare, and Kiss Me, Kate.

“I think audiences will really enjoy the dancing, the humor, and the story in this timeless battle of the sexes,” said Dan Pivovar, the director of the production. “It has big dance numbers, and the music is classic musical theatre, with hints of jazz and notes of comedy.”

Pivovar is joined by music director Diane Foust and choreographer Renell Taylor. This production of Kiss Me, Kate stars Viterbo students Carley Clover as Lilli Vanessi, Braeden Jackson as Fred Graham, Tori Greenlaw as Lois Lane, and Davin Williams as Bill Calhoun.

“The students are incredible,” Pivovar said. “They’ve been working so hard and dancing their hearts out. I hope everyone comes to see the show. It’s going to be great.”

Music and lyrics are by Cole Porter, with book by Sam and Bella Spewack. Kiss Me, Kate is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Tams-Witmark LLC.

Kiss Me, Kate is recommended for ages 12 and older. It is a classic musical comedy that includes period humor and gender dynamics reflective of the era in which the show was written.

Performance times are 7:30 p.m. Oct. 8–10 and 2 p.m. Oct. 11. Tickets are $22 plus taxes and fees for main floor seating. A group sale discount of 10 tickets or more at 10% off single ticket prices is available by calling or visiting the box office. For more information or to order tickets, contact the Viterbo box office at 608-796-3100 or visit https://www.viterbo.edu/fine-arts-center.

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