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- calendar_today November 2, 2026
Exploring Madison's Cultural Calendar: Nov. 2-5, 2026
This week in Madison, a diverse lineup of music, poetry, theater, and literary events awaits. From acclaimed musicians and local performances to book readings and thought-provoking discussions, here's what's happening around town from November 2 to 5, 2026.
Monday, Nov. 2: Music & Poetry Kick Off the Week
- Lee Bains at A Room of One’s Own, 6 p.m. – Known for his music focused on social justice and community, Lee Bains presents a mix of heartfelt songs and readings from his poetry collection Work Lunch. The event also highlights local talent with music from Blasfemme and poetry by Madison youth poet laureate mk zariel.
- Tear Dungeon at Bur Oak, 8 p.m. – Austin’s Tear Dungeon delivers hardcore punk and garage sounds, supported by Madison bands Dogsblood and Diskonekt. For those seeking an intense start to the week, this promises a high-energy show.
Tuesday, Nov. 3: International Sounds and Big-Name Performances
- Diles que no me maten at UW Memorial Union-Rathskeller, 7 p.m. – This Mexico City-based experimental ensemble brings their new album Escrito en agua to Madison, featuring a blend of jazzy instrumentals, rock, and poetic elements. Local act Cambodian Sim Card opens the show with their droney sound.
- Béla Fleck at Stoughton Opera House, 7:30 p.m. – Legendary banjo player Béla Fleck, known for his genre-blending collaborations, performs showcasing the range of the banjo beyond bluegrass. Tickets available via the venue's website.
- Trippie Redd at The Sylvee, 8 p.m. – Hip-hop star Trippie Redd returns to Madison on his “Non Disclosure Agreement Tour,” following the release of his latest album NDA. The night will feature K Suave, BalloutDaDon, Gigi Holland, and Goldie as supporting acts.
Wednesday, Nov. 4: Workshops, Discussion & Electronic Music
- Tim Kaiser at Communication, 7 p.m. – Duluth instrument builder Tim Kaiser headlines a night of electronic music and improvisation, with performances from regional artists gwubbi, Tyler Lantta, and Anmati (Matt Blair, Andrew Fitzpatrick, Tim Russell).
- A Celebration of Howard Zinn at Barrymore, 7 p.m. – A discussion event honoring historian Howard Zinn, featuring Matt Rothschild, Dave Zirin, John Nichols, Norm Stockwell, and Maximillian Alvarez. The conversation centers around Zinn’s legacy and the new biography The People’s Historian.
Ongoing Theater Performances: Gaslight and The Moors
- Gaslight at Overture Center-Playhouse (through Nov. 22): – Forward Theater’s adaptation of Patrick Hamilton’s 1938 play Gas Light brings new relevance to the term “gaslighting.” Performances run Wednesday through Sunday with matinee options available.
- The Moors at Bartell Theatre (through Nov. 14): – StageQ presents Jen Silverman’s "comically dark" period piece, perfect for the post-Halloween season. Shows take place Thursday through Sunday with special performances on select dates.
Thursday, Nov. 5: Literary and Multimedia Tributes
- Pat Scheckel at Mystery to Me, 6 p.m. – Author Pat Scheckel discusses his debut novel Time Stitchers, set in fictional Wisconsin and weaving time travel with family mystery. The conversation with local writer Cayce Osborne will be livestreamed for remote access.
- Andrea Gibson’s Love Letter from the Afterlife at Barrymore Theatre, 7:30 p.m. – This multimedia event celebrates the life and legacy of poet Andrea Gibson, with a film screening of Gibson’s final live performance and live music from Goosebump Orchestra. Megan Falley, Gibson’s wife, will share stories and reflections.
Discover More Madison Events
For further details and additional happenings, consult the local events calendar or visit individual venue websites for ticket information and updates.
Source: isthmus.com.
