Friends of StageNorth

Friends of StageNorth supports multi-arts programming in a dynamic and versatile facility located in Washburn, WI. StageNorth’s event series have a distinct “community-forward” mission focus and include recurring events like JazzJam and Live in the Lounge, coupled with local and regional performances—like Yazmin & Beat Zero — that have expanded StageNorth’s impact on the region, as well as supporting continued access to resident companies like Fourth Wall Theater, the Chequamegon Bay Orchestra, and dance and recreation groups that promote health & wellness. 

These events have not only entertained and excited audiences, but have also served to nurture a new generation of performers and tech crew, as well as lifting more seasoned regional veterans to new heights by expanding and growing their repertoire and audience base. New collaborations and programs are continually being explored by the facility’s programming directors. 

Willow Pit Productions: As the result of a synergistic collaboration with StageNorth’s community-focused owner, John Weinel, Willow Pit Productions has emerged as the driving force behind this innovative programming.

Willow Pit operates out of StageNorth, creating a multipurpose community space dedicated to enriching lives through music, movement, and learning. Steve Norwick, the company’s founder, states that:

Our mission is to nurture the artist, athlete, and academic in people of all ages, giving children and adults multi-faceted opportunities to build skills through martial arts, develop musical talents, and explore careers in live music and event production. We recognize that isolation, inactivity, and a lack of meaningful connection can affect both mental and physical well-being. Through regular programming, recreation, entertainment, and hands-on learning, we help people move beyond stagnant routines toward more active creative, and connected lives. We provide a welcoming place to explore interests, build confidence, strengthen physical health, and develop a sense of belonging—using shared experiences to elevate quality of life.

Donations to Friends of StageNorth will support and help to expand our programming, sponsor children and adults who face financial barriers to participation, and develop marketing and outreach platforms that extend our reach. This support will help more people discover and access opportunities for personal growth, mental and physical well-being, and community connection.

Vision for Programming: Incubate the Artist, Athlete, and Academic in a shared creative space.

Mission: Deliver safe, inclusive programming that develops the next generation of live entertainment crew and performers and strives to support patron well-being.

Support Friends of StageNorth by:
- Credit Card or PayPal using the Donate button above or below.

- Send a check (payable to Create Wisconsin), to Create Wisconsin, Box 1054, Madison, WI 53700-1054.  Please include a note indicating that the donation is for “Friends of StageNorth”.

- If you are sending in monies connected to major support of a specific show that has been arranged in advance with Willow Pit Productions, please note those specifics too. Thank you for your support!

Create Wisconsin is a registered 501(c)3 organization and serves as the fiscal receiver for this organization. Your donation is tax deductible.