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.

Filmmaker, child actor's parent reacts to new charges against former CTC stagehand
An ex-Children's Theatre Company employee, Ricky McAllister, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on two counts of child pornography. The new charges are stirring up dark memories of an explosive child sex abuse scandal from the 1970s and ‘80s.
DMV artist turns belts into a conversation about discipline
Multidisciplinary artist Lex Marie has gone viral on TikTok and Instagram for her artwork confronting discipline within Black households.
How an eclectic score brings ‘Come From Away’ to life
From Irish whistles to 1990s power ballads, the music of “Come From Away” helps tell the true story of a town that welcomed stranded travelers after 9/11.
Ann Patchett lauds the romance of friendship in 'Whistler'
Ann Patchett returns to Big Books and Bold Ideas for a boisterous conversation with Kerri Miller about writing a novel within a novel, the romance of friendship and how Kate DiCamillo changed Patchett’s new novel, “Whistler.”
MN Shortlist June 12-18: Monty Python’s ‘Spamalot,’ Ole and Lena tie the knot, and quilts on the prairie
Monty Python’s greatest film brought to life on stage, the wedding of Minnesota’s favorite Scandinavians, colorful quilts and more in this week’s MN Shortlist.