This spring, Milwaukee’s renowned family theater, First Stage, will present “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical” as the grand finale of its 2023/24 mainstage season.
This humorous and heartfelt musical is a lively adaptation of Jeff Kinney’s immensely popular book series, brought to life on stage with an energetic book by Kevin Del Aguila and catchy tunes by the dynamic songwriting duo Michael Mahler and Alan Schmuckler.
Set against the backdrop of the trials and tribulations of middle school, the story follows the determined Greg Heffley, who is on a mission to climb the social ladder and avoid being the least popular kid in school—a title he’d rather leave to his eccentric neighbor Fregley or possibly even his best friend, Rowley Jefferson. But as Greg’s schemes to gain popularity unfold, he’s forced to question what true friendship means and whether it’s worth sacrificing.
Directed by Julie Woods-Robinson, with music direction by Milwaukee’s own Paula Foley Tillen and choreography by Wisconsin’s Molly Rhode, this production is appropriate for the whole family.
“The animated world of Greg Heffley’s middle school dilemmas comes to life in a way that’s both uproarious and touching,” says Woods-Robinson. “The catchy numbers like ‘Joshie Says,’ ‘Mom Bucks,’ and ‘Better Than You’ are bound to be instant hits among the audience.”
“Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical” runs from April 6 to May 5, 2024, at the Marcus Center’s Todd Wehr Theater in downtown Milwaukee.
With tickets starting at $20 and a performance runtime of approximately 75 minutes, including a brief intermission, it’s the perfect outing for families with children ages 5 and up.
The show is specially suggested for adults, teens, and kids 5-12.
First Stage is excited to bring this new musical to Milwaukee audiences following its premiere at the Children’s Theatre Company in 2022.
Artistic Director Jeff Frank highlights the universal appeal of Kinney’s work, noting its recognition with six Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards and global publication in 66 languages. “Kinney captures the chaos of middle school with humor and heart. This musical reflects that spirit, celebrating the importance of genuine friendship amidst the quest for popularity,” Frank adds.
Tickets are available for purchase at the Marcus Center Box Office, by phone, or online at firststage.org.
For performance dates and times, and to decide which of the talented young casts you’ll see in action, visit the First Stage website.
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.