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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.

Rising musician Sophie Hiroko getting ready to record her debut album

Rising musician Sophie Hiroko getting ready to record her debut album

Duluth native Sophie Hiroko started 2026 by releasing a new single. And she shared at the MPR State Fair Stage that she has secured studio space to record her first album.
by Nina Moini and Ellen Finn

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The art, craft and community of quilting

The art, craft and community of quilting

MPR News host Angela Davis and her guests talk about what goes into making a quilt, how quilting has evolved and the community and personal stories that can be stitched into every finished piece.
by Angela Davis, Cari Dwyer and Maja Beckstrom

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‘For the joy of it’: State Fair diehards say they don’t care about winning a blue ribbon

‘For the joy of it’: State Fair diehards say they don’t care about winning a blue ribbon

A blue ribbon at the Minnesota State Fair might seem like the prize that home bakers covet, but many of the Minnesotans submitting to the State Fair enter year after year for more than a placement. For some, it’s become a tradition, community and duty.
by Anika Besst

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Local actor reflects on Dolly Parton's passion for spreading joy

Local actor reflects on Dolly Parton's passion for spreading joy

Ruthie Baker landed a role in playing the country singer in a Christmas musical in 2018 where she met the entire cast before the performance. “She wanted us to shine as brightly as we could on that stage.”
by Clay Masters and Matthew Alvarez

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Tim Curry, iconic character actor and 'Rocky Horror Picture Show' star, dies at 80

Tim Curry, iconic character actor and 'Rocky Horror Picture Show' star, dies at 80

A beloved character actor known for his iconic role in “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” Tim Curry has died at 80. His longtime friend and manager Marcia Hurwitz said he died Wednesday at his home in Los Angeles. No cause was disclosed.
by The Associated Press

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Chaz Millionaire, longtime Twin Cities radio DJ and KMOJ voice, dies at 61

Chaz Millionaire, longtime Twin Cities radio DJ and KMOJ voice, dies at 61

For more than four decades, Chaz Millionaire - aka Charles Dillon - shared music, conversation and local culture with Minneapolis, including through his work at KMOJ, “The People’s Station.”
by Sarah Thamer

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Dolly Parton, music star, actor and beloved figure who spanned generations has died at 80

Dolly Parton, music star, actor and beloved figure who spanned generations has died at 80

Dolly Parton, the beloved music and film star known for her vibrant personality and poignant songwriting, has died. She was 80 years old. Her career spanned decades, with hits like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You.”
by The Associated Press and MPR News Staff

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