Alverno Presents, the performing arts series at Alverno College, will close at the end of the 2015-16 season. For 56 years, the college sponsored the critically-acclaimed program, but will now direct the college’s resources toward increasing student financial aid, programming and services.

"Alverno College passionately believes that a vibrant performing arts culture is vital to our community and to student life. Throughout our history, the arts have been and will continue to be an integral part of our mission," says Mary J. Meehan, Ph.D., president of Alverno College. "We are saddened by the loss of Alverno Presents but incredibly proud of all that David and his team have accomplished."

The program has carved out a niche for itself bringing contemporary dance, world music, jazz and avant garde performances to the Pitman Theatre stage, as well as crowd favorites. Under the leadership of David Ravel, artistic director for the last 13 years, Alverno Presents has cultivated a loyal audience and garnered both local and national acclaim. His vision brought world-class performances to Milwaukee audiences, and introduced many to cutting-edge dance performances, conceptual pieces and performance art not seen on other Milwaukee stages.

Among his many successes, Ravel is responsible for bringing Global Union to town. The one-day world music festival, which takes place in September at Humboldt Park, features artists from every corner of the globe and is free to attend.

Some of Alverno Presents’ other productions will live on through a partnership with The Pabst Theater Group, including the thoughtfully curated "Uncovered" series, where artists explore and reimagine the music of an important American composer. Ravel will continue to serve as artistic director and curator of these performances.

"The Pabst is really proud to continue the great work of Alverno Presents," says Gary Witt, CEO of The Pabst Theater Group. "We feel that the work that David and Alverno Presents have done has contributed greatly to our city and we are pleased now to nurture its ability to continue. The community will continue to enjoy Milwaukee artists’ interpretations of the ‘Uncovered’ series and, after a one-year hiatus, we will review the possible return of Global Union in 2017."

The Pitman Theatre, built in 1953, will continue to be available to local artists for rehearsals and performances as it has been in the past.