Cartoons and Culture

Finally, there's an event that caters to both high and lowbrow sensibilities at the same time.

Published On: November 1, 2024

Do you have a friend or partner who is your cultural opposite? One of you prefers the stirring majesty and cognitive stimulation of a night at the symphony, while the other delights in pratfalls, exploding cigars, and the sight of a person or talking animal getting smacked in the face with a cream pie. Do the two of you have trouble finding activities that you can enjoy together?

Well, finally, there’s an event that caters to both high and lowbrow sensibilities at the same time.

The Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra is performing “Bugs Bunny at the Symphony,” next weekend, featuring classical works by composers such as Rossini, Wagner, and others while Looney Tunes cartoons play on a large screen.

You may not have realized it when you were camped in front of the TV on Saturday morning, but Bugs Bunny and company were providing you with early exposure to classical music and opera, with parodies like “What’s Opera, Doc?” and the “Rabbit of Seville.”

The MSO will be accompanying 11 classic shorts and three new episodes live for a unique experience with a broad appeal. Considering Bugs Bunny has been doing his thing for 85 years now, it’s ideal for culturally odd couples of all ages.

“Bugs Bunny at the Symphony” will be performed at the Bradley Symphony Center this coming Friday and Saturday evening, with a matinee on Sunday. Find tickets here. That’s all, folks.