A cappella group to perform at Wauwatosa West

The UW-Madison MadHatters are set to play a maddeningly catchy a cappella fundraiser for the Trojan Players on Friday. The group, composed of 15 singers and a vocal percussionist, will cover songs ranging from Hootie and the Blowfish's "All for you" to Bill Wither's "Aint No Sunshine."

This marks the group's second time in Wauwatosa and their second fundraiser for the Trojan Players. The group was initially invited by parent-volunteer Janice Burch Kayser, whose cousin was a former member of the group.

Although last year's performance didn't see the attendance numbers that Burch Kayser and the Trojan Players group would have wanted, it left a lasting impression.

"The momentum really built up this year," Burch Kayser said. "While a lot of high school kids didn't know who they were then, they definitely know now."

The group has been making a name for itself across Wisconsin since their inception in 1997, playing the national anthem in Miller Park for the Brewers, releasing six studio albums and winning two national recording awards. The student-run MadHatters have also played across the country including a December performance for the president at a White House dinner. They've also played in Mexico.

"We had an awesome time last year and were really happy to be invited back this year," MadHatter Joe Meeker said. "We perform all over the state and high school shows are definitely our favorite."

The word has reached not only students and parents, but choral groups in Milwaukee, who have begun purchasing tickets online. Other Milwaukee-area residents that have a connection to the group, be it family members, UW-Madison alumni or friends, have been buying tickets online as well.

The MadHatters describe themselves as a bunch of goofy guys who aren't interested in acting their age but have an interest in playing good music and giving back to the community.

Not only will the $10 ticket buy audience members a chance to see the a cappella group, but they will have a chance to meet them face-to-face after the show.

The group was invited again after other group ideas were kicked around by the Trojan Players.

While the MadHatters aren't coming to Wauwatosa for free, most of the proceeds from the show will directly benefit the Trojan Players.

Kayser Bursch explained the Trojan Player's need for the money.

"It can be pretty pricey when you're looking at licensing, obtaining the scripts from the music companies," she said. "In addition we have props, lighting, costuming and choreography needs to get students to play a part in the productions."

Just the facts

WHO : UW MadHatters

WHAT : A cappella covers of popular songs

WHERE : Wauwatosa West High School

WHEN : 7:30 p.m. Feb. 15

CONTACT : (414) 773-3219