Johnson Financial Group becomes Broadway at the Marcus Center title sponsor

Johnson Financial Group signed on as the exclusive title sponsor in a multi‐year deal for the Broadway at the Marcus Center series.

The Racine‐based financial group's partnership with the downtown Milwaukee theater begins with the 2019‐2020 season. That season will include the much‐anticipated Milwaukee premier of Lin‐Manuel Miranda's musical “Hamilton.”

The sponsorship is set to last for three seasons. Johnson Financial declined to disclose the financial details of the arrangement.

Jim Popp, the chief executive officer of Johnson Financial, said in a release that his company is excited to sponsor the upcoming series.

“There are so many cool things happening in Milwaukee right now,” he said. “Having a great performing arts scene is incredibly important to the vibrancy of the city, so we're really happy to have the opportunity to stay connected in this way.”

The Marcus Center does not receive direct support from the United Performing Arts Fund, the release says, elevating the importance of earned income. Paul Mathews, the president and CEO of the Marcus Center, said it is thrilled to partner with Johnson Financial.

“Their support of the arts and our venue is an important part of keeping the Marcus Center, and our resident partners, financially strong as we work together to welcome the entire community into our building and on to our grounds,” he said.

Green Bay‐based Associated Bank now sponsors the Broadway series. Heidi Lofy, the vice president of sales and marketing for the Marcus Center, said Associated Bank would continue as a corporate partner but would not be connected to the Broadway series.

Associated Bank announced in 2015 that it would sponsor the Marcus Center facility and its Broadway series as part of a long‐term agreement. Prior to Associated, BMO Harris Bank served as the title sponsor of the series.

Article by Sari Lesk | Milwaukee Business Journal