Join the stars of the Milwaukee Repertory Theater’s world premiere of ‘George & Gracie: A Love Story’ for a lively pre-opening talk on legendary comedy duo George Burns and Gracie Allen.
Jim Pickering and Tami Workentin will trace the pair’s rise from struggling vaudeville performers to radio, television, and film icons, highlighting how Burns’s experience as a Jewish immigrant from Galicia shaped his life, career, and comedic voice. This engaging conversation explores the intersection of personal identity, performance, and cultural history, celebrating the creativity and devotion that defined their partnership and legacy.
Kosher cookies and coffee will be provided for attendees. Feel free to bring your lunch to nosh.
Event Information
DATE: Sunday, April 19, 2026
TIME: 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
LOCATION: Jewish Museum Milwaukee
COST: Free with Museum Admission
About the Presenters
Jim Pickering has been appearing in Milwaukee Rep productions since 1974. Among his favorite roles at the Rep are Ebenezer Scrooge in A CHRISTMAS CAROL, which he performed 450 times, Niels Bohr in COPENHAGEN, Nat Miller in AH, WILDERNESS!, and, of course, Rick Steadman, the title role in THE NERD. He is also an Emmy Award-winning voice talent. He lives in Bay View with his wife, playwright and actress Tami Workentin.
Tami Workentin is more than delighted to be presenting her first play (ever) to the Milwaukee Rep audiences with her real-life husband, Jim Pickering, playing alongside her as the iconic comedic duo George Burns and Gracie Allen. Tami recently completed a highly successful run as Peg in Rebecca Gilman’s SWING STATE at NextAct Theatre. Tami has enjoyed a rich history as both an actor and director. Additional credits: Milwaukee Rep, Renaissance Theaterworks, Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, First Stage, Northern Sky, Optimist Theatre, Milwaukee Shakespeare and the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts. Regional credits include the Goodman Theatre, Court Theatre, Organic Theatre, Bailiwick Repertory Theatre, Rochester Civic Theatre, Orlando Shakespeare Festival, Shakespeare-in-the-Park Fort Worth and Taproot Theatre, Seattle. Tami is also a licensed Medical Massage Therapist: stillmassage.com.
In partnership with the Milwaukee Repertory Theater.
