MADACC x Pabst Theater Group: Bringing Dogs, Artists, and Community Together

At our venues, the spotlight doesn’t just shine on stage. Sometimes it’s in the green room, focused on four paws and a wagging tail. 

We’re incredibly proud of our ongoing partnership with MADACC (Milwaukee Area Domestic Animal Control Commission), an organization that provides rescue, shelter, and humane care for more than 12,000 stray, abandoned, mistreated, and injured animals each year, more than any other animal control organization in Wisconsin.

Through this partnership, we’ve welcomed adoptable dogs into our venues to meet artists and comedians before select shows, creating moments that are equal parts joyful and memorable. 

Backstage Besties

Over the past year, this partnership has led to some truly heartwarming moments behind the scenes:

• Nate Jackson, on his Big Dog Comedy Tour, took time backstage at the Pabst Theater to meet some very happy, lovable dogs.

• Bridget Everett, star of Somebody Somewhere, spent time backstage at the Pabst Theater soaking in the love from our four-legged guests.

• Darcy & Jer shared plenty of laughs and even more snuggles during their visit at Turner Hall Ballroom.

In each case, it wasn’t just a quick photo, it was a pause in the day, a moment of connection, and a reminder of how much joy animals can bring, even in the middle of a busy tour schedule. Watch the backstage moment with Nate Jackson here.

MADACC works tirelessly every day to provide shelter, care, and placement for animals across Milwaukee. Every animal that comes through their doors has a story, and we’re grateful to help those stories continue with a little extra visibility, and with a little extra love backstage.

How You Can Help 

While adoption is the ultimate goal, it’s not the only way to make a difference.

MADACC relies on community support every day to care for the animals in their system. Donations of wet and dry food for kittens, cats, puppies, and dogs help keep shelters stocked and animals nourished. Toys provide comfort and enrichment during their stay. Chewy gift cards help staff respond quickly to immediate needs. And for those looking to make a direct impact, financial contributions can be made at madacc.org.

No matter the size, every donation makes a real difference. It means a full bowl, a cozy place to rest, and a little more comfort while they wait for their next home.

We’re proud to continue our partnership with MADACC and to keep finding ways to bring people, performers, and pets together in a shared space of compassion and community.

These are the moments we’ll remember long after the shows end, the small, unexpected reminders of how much good can happen when a community comes together.