The annual campaign for the United Performing Arts Fund, or UPAF, wrapped up this week. It successfully raised more than $12 million for local performing arts groups. In addition to the financial support it provides, the UPAF campaign connects people who have performed in Milwaukee over the years.
It's maybe because of our digital age that people are so interested in being in a room with other people, to experience something together that touches their heart, inspires them or makes them feel something. Because our digital age is taking us father and farther away from each other. -Jill Eikenberry
This year, acting couple Michael Tucker and Jill Eikenberry were UPAF’s special closing week guests. People of a certain age will probably remember the husband and wife team from the iconic 1980s TV series, “LA Law."
Tucker, who began his professional career at the Milwaukee Rep, said that the arts are important in all communities.
"It's significant. It has to do with civic pride--if you can appreciate an artist's viewpoint, you'll be able to appreciate your viewpoint and you'll see where your perspective stands in terms of history," he says. "Art does a lot for people, and for the community."
Eikenberry, who grew up in Madison, added that live theater - and all types of performance - brings people together in an age where we are physically seperated more than ever.
