Vision
A community anchor on State Street in Milwaukee’s Near West Side boosts development and economic vitality while benefiting local youth. It offers a safe environment, promoting growth for at-risk populations.
Mission
“The New State is a community of thriving creatives who are dedicated to the appreciation of performance arts while cultivating professional and economic development.”
What is The New State?
The New State is a historical redevelopment project that will transform the old State Theater into a community music hub for all ages.
AND
The New State is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering Milwaukee’s creative community.
Through hands-on training programs, live events, and artist support, we provide young people and emerging artists with the skills and opportunities to thrive in the music and entertainment industries.
The New State will uplift a city block, creating public space, cultural infrastructure, and economic opportunity, while empowering our youth through self-governance and self-expression.
Honoring the Legacy, Building the Future
Once a vibrant Milwaukee landmark, the State Theater also known as The Palms or The Electric Ballroom is now being revived as a dynamic creative space for artists, performers, and the community. Through education and collaboration, we’re shaping the next generation of creatives while preserving the theater’s historic essence.
Empowering the Next Generation
The New State nonprofit is dedicated to providing young artists with the tools, training, and opportunities to thrive in music, production, and the arts. Through hands-on education, mentorship, and community-driven programs, we’re fostering the next generation of creatives while building a more inclusive and innovative arts scene.
On December 14, 2018, The New State team purchased the historic building on Milwaukee’s Near West Side, which is in need of serious renovation after a fire in 2017.
With your help, and once finished with renovation, The New State will become a hotbed for youth arts and will house a combination of non- and for-profit businesses, sharing and collaborating in the space.
This will include:
415-capacity all-ages music venue
hosting 150+ live events per year, supporting 180+ microbusinesses
Two rentable sound engineering studios
including Mammyth Audio
Community music park with a stage
Storefront
for local artists to sell art, music, and merchandise
Classes and workshops
focusing on youth, modern music (hip hop/rap, electronic), performance skills and professional development as musicians.
The New State aims to provide 40+ hours of music-related instruction per week.
Café
Looking Ahead: Building the Future Together
Our work is far from finished. With each project, we aim to expand opportunities for youth while strengthening community ties. Future plans for The Music Park include more events, expanded programming, and more ways to get involved.
Be part of the journey—whether by volunteering, donating, or attending our events, your support fuels our mission to create a brighter future through music and community.