The Children’s Museum of Fond du Lac proudly celebrated the official ribbon cutting of the enhanced Gnewuch Family FLEX Auditorium during its Museum Music Medley event, bringing together families, community leaders, donors, partners, performers, and supporters to commemorate a space dedicated to creativity, learning, and community connection.

Although the auditorium has served museum guests since 2021, recent investments have transformed the space with a new performance stage, theatrical curtain, upgraded audiovisual technology, and permanent donor recognition. The ribbon cutting celebrated these enhancements while honoring the lasting legacy of the Gnewuch family, whose generosity continues to enrich opportunities for children and families throughout the community.

The evening reflected the auditorium’s purpose as a welcoming gathering place where imagination, education, and the performing arts come together. Families explored the museum after hours, created musical instruments, enjoyed refreshments, and experienced performances by talented local musicians before gathering in the auditorium for the dedication ceremony.

The celebration concluded with an official ribbon cutting, followed by an energetic concert from Franki Jo Moscato, karaoke, and opportunities for young fans to meet the performers.

During the dedication, museum leadership reflected on Tom Gnewuch’s lifelong appreciation for music, science, history, and bringing people together. His vision—and the generosity of his family—helped create a flexible performance and event space where children can discover new talents, build confidence, and experience the joy of live performances alongside their families.

“The Gnewuch Family FLEX Auditorium represents far more than a performance venue,” said Andrea Welsch, Chief Executive Officer of the Children’s Museum of Fond du Lac. “It is a place where children find their voices, families create lasting memories, educators inspire curiosity, and our community comes together through music, learning, and celebration. We are deeply grateful for the generosity of the Gnewuch family and all of the donors and partners who helped bring these exciting enhancements to life.”

Museum leaders also recognized the many individuals, businesses, and organizations whose support made the recent improvements possible, emphasizing that the project reflects the power of community investment in creating meaningful experiences for local children and families.

The Gnewuch Family FLEX Auditorium is available to rent for schools, nonprofit organizations, businesses, youth groups, performances, meetings, celebrations, and community events. Designed as a versatile gathering space, the auditorium supports a wide variety of educational, cultural, and community programming throughout the year, including a weekly service from CenterPoint Church.

For more information about the Children’s Museum of Fond du Lac or to inquire about renting the Gnewuch Family FLEX Auditorium, visit the museum’s website or contact the museum directly.

Children, backed by museum staff, board, donors and partners prepare for the ribbon cutting of the Gnewuch Family Flex Auditorium held on July 31, 2026 at the Children’s Museum of Fond du Lac. The ribbon cutting was followed by an energetic concert performance by Franki Moscato.

About the Children’s Museum of Fond du Lac

The Children’s Museum of Fond du Lac inspires children and families to learn through play by providing hands-on exhibits, interactive programs, and engaging experiences that spark curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning. Through collaboration with community partners and supporters, the museum serves as a welcoming destination for nearly 60,000 visitors annually. For more information, please visit cmfdl.org.

Date posted: August 4, 2026