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.

'My Fair Lady' began its record run 60 years ago
On opening night, Rex Harrison was so unnerved by the prospect of singing with a live orchestra that he refused to come out of his dressing room and the performance was nearly called off.
Bravery among the ruins in 'Noonday'
Pat Barker's latest novel completes the trilogy she began with "Life Class." Her first foray into the World War II era is rich with evocative language, though it occasionally verges on soap opera.
Ken Burns and Henry Louis Gates, Jr. on race in America
Emmy Award winning filmmaker Ken Burns and Harvard University professor Henry Louis Gates Jr. speak about race in America at a National Press Club event on Monday. Both men have films coming out about racial issues, and have teamed up to host a national lecture series addressing the racial barriers existing in America.
This 'Menagerie' is full of fierce feeling
Ken Liu's new "The Paper Menagerie" collects 15 of his Hugo and Nebula Award-winning stories. Critic Amal El-Mohtar calls it "stupendously good work" that strikes chords profound enough to hurt.
'Streetfight': How American streets can change for the better
Countries around the world are making significant investments in bike-friendly and pedestrian-friendly streets. Can the U.S. keep up? Janette Sadik-Khan, author of 'Streetfight,' shares her ideas.