INTRODUCING THE 94th ANNUAL WAA-MU SHOW!
Experience the magic of Northwestern University like never before with the 94th Annual Waa-Mu Show, “Arch Madness.” This thrilling, original student-written musical takes you on a multi-dimensional journey through the Waa-Multiverse, where you’ll encounter AI-controlled robot Wildcats, uncover the secrets of a mysterious a cappella group, and explore the shared experiences that define life as a Northwestern student. Guided by a mystical host, Arch Madness celebrates the vibrant traditions, iconic landmarks, and Wildcat spirit that connect generations, while boldly reimagining Waa-Mu’s legacy for a new era. This year’s show is a love letter to Northwestern, blending the nostalgia of Waa-Mu’s past with a bold vision for its future - and having a lot of fun along the way!
Don’t miss Arch Madness—the first-ever multi-dimensional musical—May 2–11, 2025, at Cahn Auditorium!
In order to produce our annual production, the student team of the 94th Annual Waa-Mu Show relies on the financial support of generous donors. Help us bring The Waa-Mu Show to life!
This year, we are reconnecting with Waa-Mu's legacy and embarking on a new project, the Waa-MUseum. This immersive and interactive experience aims to reconnect with the show's 94 year legacy by featuring posters, displays, and stories from writers, actors, and everyone else who has helped shape Waa-Mu throughout its history. The Waa-MUseum will open in conjunction with this year's show, Arch Madness, and remain on display in Cahn to be enjoyed by all.
INTRODUCING THE NEW WAA-MU MERCH WEBSITE!
About
Northwestern’s oldest theatrical tradition, The Waa-Mu Show provides undergraduates with an unparalleled education in new musical theatre development. Over 150 students participate every year as producers, writers, and performers in the creation of an original musical that inspires audiences, challenges the artists involved, and engages the surrounding communities. The Waa-Mu Show is a forerunner in the world of musical theater writing, giving undergraduate students a chance to serve as leaders in every aspect of the production's creation, from writing to orchestration to performance.
The Waa-Mu Show began in 1929 when the Women’s Athletic Association (W.A.A.) joined forces with the Men’s Union (M.U.) in a performance of original, student-written material. The show was traditionally a musical revue, consisting of Northwestern-inspired vignettes tied together by a theme. However, over the last decade, the Waa-Mu Show has evolved into an original full-length musical.
Waa-Mu's pre-professional environment has been a breeding ground for young theatrical superstars throughout its history. Past cast members include Walter Kerr in the 1930s; Claude Akins, Sheldon Harnick, Cloris Leachman, Paul Lynde, Charlotte Rae and Tony Randall in the 1940s; Warren Beatty, Penny Fuller and Garry Marshall in the 1950s; Karen Black, Frank Galati, Ann-Margret and Tony Roberts in the 1960s; Laura Innes and Shelley Long in the 1970s; Gregg Edelman, Ana Gasteyer, and Megan Mullally in the 1980s; Zach Braff, Brian d'Arcy James, Heather Headley, Jason Moore and Kate Shindle in the 1990s; and, more recently, Jenny Powers.
MISSION STATEMENT
The Waa-Mu Show strives to be an accessible community that celebrates creativity, collaboration, and tradition. By sharing stories that engage the hearts and minds of Northwestern’s campus, as well as those of the greater community, The Waa-Mu Show aspires to give students an unparalleled experience that prepares them to lead and advance the world of musical theatre.
Media
Explore Past Waa-Mu Productions Here!
