UPAF Announces Record 2016 Campaign

The United Performing Arts Fund (UPAF) announced a record 2016 campaign goal of $12,260,000 at its annual campaign launch celebration on Tuesday.

The 2016 UPAF Campaign Co-Chairs who announced the goal are:  Paul Eberle, chief executive of Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek; Paul Purcell, chairman of Baird; and Peggy Williams-Smith, senior vice president of SafeHouse Restaurants, Marcus Hotels and Resorts.

The goal was announced at the conclusion of a program that featured a tribute to lyricist Yip Harburg, including his Oscar-winner “Over the Rainbow” with an appearance by Yip’s great grandson, Aaron Harburg and performances of his music by UPAF Member Groups, including Present Music, Skylight Music Theatre, Danceworks, The Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra, the Milwaukee Chamber Theatre and First Stage.

Last year’s campaign raised a record $12,001,226.

“After our record-breaking 2015 UPAF Campaign, we are motivated to raise the bar even higher for 2016,” said Deanna Tillisch, UPAF president and CEO.  “The performing arts are invaluable on many levels; they enrich our souls, educate our children and promote true prosperity.  The 15-week UPAF Campaign is essential to ensuring we sustain these assets.  We are confident that with our dynamic co-chairs, committed company partners and thousands of generous individual donors, UPAF will achieve another milestone.”

United Performing Arts Fund’s mission is to secure community resources, promote the performing arts as a regional asset and improve the quality of life through responsible investment in and financial support of the performing arts in Southeastern Wisconsin.