Arts and Culture

MPR News has you covered with news and stories about local art and culture happenings across Minnesota.

Art Hounds: Art Hounds are members of the Minnesota arts community who look beyond their own work to highlight what's exciting in local art. You can explore arts events here, or become an Art Hound today.

Art Reviews: Our arts team offers insight on the latest in theater, music, visual arts and more. We explore the breadth of creativity and innovation found throughout Minnesota, offering audiences a deeper understanding of the works and artists shaping our cultural landscape. Read more here.

Art Friend: Everyone needs an art friend. Art Friend is a new segment with our arts team. Art spaces can feel exclusive and art can be confusing, obtuse, and even boring. But, especially with the right context, everyone can be a critic. So let us be your guide- your Art Friend. Listen or read Art Friend stories here.

Our arts coverage is made possible in part by the Minnesota Legacy Amendment's Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.

Heart and Hearth: An on-air Christmas party
MPR News invites listeners to a festive on-air wassailing celebration, “Heart and Hearth,” featuring music, storytelling and communal singing inspired by the English holiday tradition.
Aly Aleigha tried to write a Christmas song under pressure and found stillness
Under a tight Advent deadline, Midwest singer-songwriter Aly Aleigha set out to write a Christmas song meant to slow people down and discovered how much meaning can grow under pressure.
Minneapolis-born John Skelley's magical journey with Harry Potter comes full circle
Minneapolis-born John Skelley can't escape the pull of Harry Potter. The stage actor first joined Broadway's “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” as an understudy. He then led the cast in San Francisco before the pandemic hit.
Stories for the cold months: The importance of seasonal storytelling
Winter is storytelling season in many Native communities. MPR News guest host Leah Lemm talks about how stories can help us learn, connect and keep traditions alive.
Vince Zampella, video game pioneer behind Call of Duty, dies at 55
Video game pioneer Vincent Zampella has died at 55. He was one of the creators behind bestselling video games such as Call of Duty. Electronic Arts announced that Zampella died Sunday. The company did not elaborate on a cause of death.
Barry Manilow has early-stage lung cancer and will undergo surgery
Barry Manilow will have surgery to remove a cancerous spot on his left lung, and has rescheduled his upcoming concerts in January. The singer announced on Instagram that doctors caught it “so early” thanks to an MRI in the wake of a long bout with bronchitis.
Minneapolis Sound legend Jellybean Johnson remembered for his music and love
After a career spanning over 45 years, Garry George “Jellybean” Johnson was celebrated for his contributions to the music community as a skillful producer, songwriter, guitarist and drummer and to his family and Minneapolis culture.
Vikings holiday halftime party to feature Snoop Dogg, KPop Demon Hunter performers, Lainey Wilson
Snoop Dogg and the voices starring in Netflix’s hit movie “KPOP Demon Hunters” will star in the 2025 NFL Christmas Gameday halftime show for the Vikings matchup against the Detroit Lions.