Reviews

Our dedicated reviewers offer 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.

Join us as we celebrate the diversity of expression and the powerful stories told through art in our communities, brought to you by the passionate voices of the MPR News Arts Team.

Minnesota’s holiday stages offer a mix of joy, history and soul
Minnesota’s holiday theater offerings this year range from the soulful traditions of “Black Nativity” and the whimsical charm of “The Nutcracker Fantasy” to a comedic take on Scrooge at the Guthrie, a kid-approved Grinch at the Children's Theatre Company and the feminist and historical journey of “I Am Betty” at History Theatre.
Horror and mystery are center stage with two Twin Cities productions
MPR News arts reporter Jacob Aloi reviews two Twin Cities shows for Halloween, with “Scotland, PA” offering a comedic, fast-food-themed take on “Macbeth,” and “The Reunion” providing a clever, meta whodunnit.
Review: ‘Back to the Future’ is a fun, slick ride  
“Back to the Future: The Musical” faithfully adapts the 1985 film with energetic performances, impressive practical effects and technical wizardry like the flying DeLorean — though its new songs are largely forgettable and the show leans heavily on fan service.
Critical DMs: ’I haven’t got a brain, only straw’ — Scarecrows at the Minnesota State Fair
Arts editor Max Sparber and senior arts reporter and critic Alex V. Cipolle discuss the scarecrow display in the Minnesota State Fair’s Ag-Hort-Bee section.
Critical DMs: Minnesota-made comics
Critical DMs are lightly edited Slack conversations by members of the MPR News arts team about Minnesota art and culture. This week, arts editor Max Sparber, senior arts reporter and critic Alex V. Cipolle and arts reporter Jacob Aloi discuss locally created comics.
Critical DMs: We’re not just hotdish, or iconic but overlooked in Minnesota
Critical DMs are lightly edited Slack conversations by members of the MPR News arts team about Minnesota art and culture. This week, arts editor Max Sparber and senior arts reporter and critic Alex V. Cipolle respond to the nation’s limited reference points for Minnesota by suggesting a handful of iconic but overlooked Minnesota cultural items.