The Young boasts a unique design with a graciously appointed chamber housing approximately 1,340 seats. Through innovative lighting and architectural arrangements, the auditorium achieves a sense of warmth and intimacy despite its size. Its clean lines and uncluttered space create an inviting performing environment, with 46’ proscenium opening revealing a spacious stage spanning over 4,000 sq. ft.
Noteworthy features include the Fern Young Terrace, offering unparalleled charm to any hosted event, and the Kachel Center, a versatile multi-purpose room with a sprung hardwood floor. Both spaces can serve as support areas for auditorium functions or function independently for meetings, rehearsals, or receptions.
In addition to these amenities, extended public areas provide diverse activity options, including registration desks, concession areas, a gift shop, and a ticketing outlet.
The proximity to UW-Whitewater Center of the Arts further enhances The Young’s potential usage. Physically attached and functionally related, the Center of the Arts houses three smaller auditoriums, various meeting rooms, the Crossman Art Gallery, a skylit atrium, and the Ticket Services Main Office, enriching the overall experience for visitors.
Shows performed since 1993
Volunteers since opening day
Opened our doors October 23, 1993
The Young Performing Arts Center at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater honors an individual whose name has long been associated with philanthropy and humanitarianism throughout the state of Wisconsin and around the world.
From humble beginnings without the advantages of a high school or college degree, Mr. Young used his time, talents and strong entrepreneurial spirit to establish a variety of successful businesses. When his printing business took him to Africa in 1929, Mr. Young was able to pursue another interest of his, Christian mission work.
After returning from Africa in 1932, Mr. Young remained committed to the people he met there. That commitment resulted in his establishment of the Irvin L. Young Foundation in 1949. In the years that followed, Mr. Young directed the majority of his income to the foundation, allowing him to organize and maintain a variety of schools and medical clinics around the world. Many of the facilities are still in operation today.
Mr. Young’s positive influence was kept alive through the hard work and benevolence of his wife, Fern, who served as the Young Foundation’s executive director. The Fern Young Terrace on the second floor was named in recognition of her continued dedication and support of the university.
The Youngs dedicated their lives to serving others. As a result, untold thousands, both at home and abroad, have been positively affected by their benevolence. In 1993, that service and generosity was extended to the UW-Whitewater campus community and the thousands of people across southeastern Wisconsin who have been served and will continue to be served for many years to come by The Young Performing Arts Center.
