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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.

Vicente Fernández, revered Mexican singer, dies at 81

Vicente Fernández, revered Mexican singer, dies at 81

Fernández was largely considered the last living legend of the Mexican ranchera, the style of song deeply rooted in the values and traditions of rural Mexico. Over a six-decade career, his voice became synonymous with Mexico itself.
by Adrian Florido

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Anne Rice, author of gothic novels, dead at 80

Anne Rice, author of gothic novels, dead at 80

Anne Rice, the gothic novelist widely known for her bestselling novel “Interview With the Vampire,” died Saturday at the age of 80.
by The Associated Press

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Return to a world of caring and kindness, in 'Amos McGee Misses the Bus'

Return to a world of caring and kindness, in 'Amos McGee Misses the Bus'

In Erin and Philip Stead's follow-up to 2010's “A Sick Day for Amos McGee,” the fastidious zookeeper gets help from his animal friends to finish his chores, so they can go on an exciting outing.
by Samantha Balaban

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'Christmas of Swing' honors WWII veterans through letters and song

'Christmas of Swing' honors WWII veterans through letters and song

The U.S. entered World War II 80 years ago this month, and as Americans in the military went out to fight, they sent back letters to friends and family filled with stories. Now, the History Theatre in St. Paul is bringing some of those stories together on stage, including four people from the north side of Minneapolis whose parts in the war effort were different, but very important.
by Ava Ewald

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Phil Klay's new book examines the globalization of violence

Phil Klay's new book examines the globalization of violence

Phil Klay’s much-anticipated second book is out. On Friday, he joined Kerri Miller to talk about his debut novel, the meaning of war, and how patriotism has become a loaded concept.
by Kerri Miller and Kelly Gordon

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Holiday music that puts you in the spirit

Holiday music that puts you in the spirit

It’s beginning to sound a lot like Christmas, and MPR News host Angela Davis talks about your favorite holiday music. Freshen up you playlist and hear what other people are listening to this December.
by Angela Davis and Maja Beckstrom

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Two poets chronicle their friendship and isolation during the pandemic

Two poets chronicle their friendship and isolation during the pandemic

Marilyn Hacker and Karthika Nair were under lockdown in Paris only miles apart from each other. “A Different Distance” compiles the almost daily poems they wrote from March 2020 to March 2021.
by Jeevika Verma

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Mel Brooks says his only regret as a comedian is the jokes he didn't tell

Mel Brooks says his only regret as a comedian is the jokes he didn't tell

Brooks wrote countless edgy jokes over the years, but he doesn't regret any of them. He calls comedy his "delicious refuge" from the world. "I hide in humor," he says. His new memoir is “All About Me!”
by Terry Gross

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Ask a Student: Book series elementary school kids love

Ask a Student: Book series elementary school kids love

Usually every week for Ask a Bookseller, MPR News’ Emily Bright checks in with indie booksellers all over the country for recommendations. But this week, we’re changing it up with an Ask a Student edition, courtesy of some of the readers at Gatewood Elementary School in Minnetonka, Minn.
by Emily Bright

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Art Hounds: Capturing the light, sound and joy of the season

Art Hounds: Capturing the light, sound and joy of the season

Jorts Improv takes on the holiday romantic comedy in “A Snowy Kiss.” Painter Joshua Cunningham captures the light falling across landscapes throughout Minnesota. An Austin Advent concert features a van Daalen pipe organ.
by Emily Bright

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