Madonna’s in vogue for Forum Theatre’s ‘Words & Music’ concert

For its newest Words & Music concert, Forum Theatre is wishing on a lucky star with four-decades-plus of impact on American culture: Madonna.

“In the ‘80s, ‘90s and early 2000s she pushed the boundaries of what was acceptable and challenged the norm. She was daring and empowered new generations to embrace themselves,” Forum artistic director Kathryn Page Hauptman said.

“Her catalog of music is incredible with hit after hit,” she added. “The more I learn, the more I admire her talent, her business acumen and her fearlessness. Because she is so universally and globally popular, it never hit me that she was born in America and is a product of America.”

Three concerts are scheduled this weekend at Wichita Art Museum.

Performers include Alexandra Adkins, Nathaniel Lee, Jenny Mitchell, Tyler Treat and Brynlea Watkins.

Music, Hauptman said, includes not only Madonna hits of the 1980s and ‘90s, but songs from her movies including “Evita,” “Desperately Seeking Susan” and “A League of Their Own.”

The Words & Music concert, staples of the Forum season, include not only music performers or themes, but information between songs narrated by Hauptman.

“I’m learning a lot about her myself,” she said. “I think people will walk away with a whole new appreciation for Madonna — that is my hope.”

Until its scheduled move to its new home in the Hyde neighborhood late this summer, Forum Theatre has presented its concerts at the Wichita Art Museum.

“The space is so, so beautiful,” Hauptman said. “It’s perfect for concerts like this.”

‘WORDS & MUSIC – MADONNA’

When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10; 2 and 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 11

Where: Wichita Art Museum, 1400 W. Museum Blvd.

Tickets: $31-$34, from forumtheatre.org or 316-618-0444