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.

Cube Critics: Stay up to date with our weekly art and culture chats with MPR News’ Jacob Aloi, Alex V. Cipolle, Max Sparber, Aron Woldeslassie and guests. Listen to or read Cube Critics here

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.

September 19, 2024 4:00 AM

Art Hounds: A play looks at things Hinckley lost in the fire

Art Hounds recommend Bucket Brigade Theater’s original play “Survivors of the Fire,” “SOLO: the performances of the McKnight Dancer Fellowships” and the the St. Peter Art Stroll.

by Emily Bright

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September 18, 2024 1:59 PM

A deep dive into adaptations taking over Twin Cities theatres this fall

MPR News arts reporter Jacob Aloi shares his love for adaptations, which you can see many of this fall on stages across the Twin Cities.

by Cathy Wurzer and Jacob Aloi

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September 18, 2024 1:47 PM

‘It’s part of who we are’: Traditional Mexican music has been celebrated for centuries in Minnesota

As Hispanic Heritage Month kicks off, we take a look at how traditional Mexican music has had enduring popularity in Minnesota.

by Cathy Wurzer and Ellen Finn

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September 18, 2024 8:25 AM

‘Rez Ball’ is a story for everyone

The Netflix film directed by Sydney Freeland and co-written by Sterlin Harjo is a story centered on a Native American basketball team fighting to be recognized as the champions they are.

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September 17, 2024 2:07 PM

Minnesota Now and Then: A Minnesotan Broadway performer’s stardom was limited by the Red Scare

If you were a devoted theater fan in 1940s Minneapolis, you would have come across a rising star named Hilda Simms. Simms went on to lead on Broadway and in Hollywood. But like many performers of her generation, the Red Scare limited her rising stardom.

by Cathy Wurzer and Alanna Elder

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September 17, 2024 2:03 PM

Flower photography blooms into broadcaster Diana Pierce’s second act

Twin Cities broadcasting legend Diana Pierce has taken on a new calling in retirement: flower photography. She’s launched a newsletter about flowers and the people who tend to them.

by Cathy Wurzer and Alanna Elder

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September 17, 2024 10:10 AM

Voicing Sherlock Holmes in Minnesota: A collaboration between author Larry Millett and actor Steve Hendrickson

Actor Steve Hendrickson brings Larry Millett’s Minnesota Mystery series to life through audiobook narration, enhancing the stories' reach and character depth.

by Emily Bright

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September 16, 2024 1:38 PM

Tito Jackson, member of the Jackson 5, dies at 70

The singer and guitarist was part of sibling quintet that took over the pop world in 1969 — it released four consecutive No. 1 hits — and launched a family entertainment dynasty that lasted decades.

by Chandelis Duster and Rachel Treisman

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September 16, 2024 5:14 AM

Japan celebrates record Emmy wins for 'Shōgun'

Japan erupted with joy Monday as the samurai series “Shogun” won a record 18 Emmys for its first season. It took home prizes including Outstanding Drama Series, as star and co-producer Hiroyuki Sanada became the first Japanese actor to win the Emmy for best lead actor in a dramatic series.

by The Associated Press