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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.

Heat can damage instruments. Here’s how to protect yours

Heat can damage instruments. Here’s how to protect yours

With high temperatures this week, we asked a violinist and an instrument craftsman for tips to maintain instruments during hot weather.
by Jacob Aloi

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As wildfires burn, an Ely theater opens its doors to community

As wildfires burn, an Ely theater opens its doors to community

The Northern Lakes Arts Association continues with its Broadway in the Boundary Waters production of “Jesus Christ Superstar” July 17-26, with lowered ticket prices, to provide an escape for community.
by Alex V. Cipolle

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Talking Volumes 27th season announced for fall 2026

Talking Volumes 27th season announced for fall 2026

Talking Volumes, a collaboration between MPR News and the Minnesota Star Tribune, returns for a landmark 27th season at a new location, the O’Shaughnessy Auditorium at St. Catherine University in St. Paul.
by MPR News Staff

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Big Books and Bold Ideas hits the road. First stop: 'The Road to Tender Hearts'

Big Books and Bold Ideas hits the road. First stop: 'The Road to Tender Hearts'

Big Books and Bold Ideas is embarking on a three-week virtual road trip, talking with authors who’ve written about this scenic, sometimes quirky and often eye-opening way to see America.
by Kerri Miller and Kelly Gordon

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MN Shortlist July 17-24: An arcade tourney, a Guthrie romance, art of the border and a new art space

MN Shortlist July 17-24: An arcade tourney, a Guthrie romance, art of the border and a new art space

An arcade tournament, exhibitions openings in the Twin Cities and Grand Marais, a new gallery in downtown Minneapolis, a musical play in Alexandria and a feisty romance at the Guthrie.
by Jacob Aloi and Alex V. Cipolle

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'Feels like summer:' Minnesota Orchestra opens genre-crossing festival this weekend

'Feels like summer:' Minnesota Orchestra opens genre-crossing festival this weekend

"Summer at Orchestra Hall" opens Thursday night with a lineup stretching far beyond the classical canon — from Grammy winning bluegrass musician Chris Thile to jazz singer John Holiday to movie scores from Star Wars and E.T.
by Nina Moini and Ellen Finn

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Hamline Midway Library grand opening Saturday after three years of litigation, construction

Hamline Midway Library grand opening Saturday after three years of litigation, construction

The new one-story library replaced a more than 90-year-old building that was demolished in 2025. Construction was delayed after a community group sued to preserve the historic building. The new library includes some original elements from the previous structure.
by Nina Moini and Aleesa Kuznetsov

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