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.

September 4, 2018 6:01 AM

No place like home: Dorothy's ruby slippers recovered

The famous slippers, from the 1939 movie "The Wizard of Oz," have been missing since August of 2005, when they were stolen in a smash-and-grab burglary at the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, Minn.

by Briana Bierschbach

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September 4, 2018 4:00 AM

New president takes over at MN Orchestra

The transition from Kevin Smith to Michele Miller Burns got underway during the orchestra's South Africa tour.

by Euan Kerr

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September 4, 2018 12:00 AM

Viola Davis brings a new 'Corduroy' book to bear

Inspired by her daughter, the Emmy, Tony and Oscar-winning actress has written a picture book. "Corduroy Takes a Bow" continues the adventures of a curious teddy bear and his young friend Lisa.

by David Greene

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September 3, 2018 12:04 PM

In 'Small Animals,' a mom grapples with parenting in an 'age of fear'

In 2011, Kim Brooks intentionally left her 4-year-old in a car as she ran into a Target. In her new book, she attempts to reckon with the consequences of her decision, and parenting in today's world.

by Mariya Karimjee

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September 2, 2018 5:50 PM

Davis to join MPR News as host of daily 11 a.m. program

A veteran Twin Cities journalist will join Minnesota Public Radio News this fall as host of its daily 11 a.m. program.

by MPR News Staff

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September 2, 2018 10:35 AM

U2 cancels sold-out Berlin show after Bono loses voice

Just a few songs into a Berlin concert on Saturday, Irish rock band U2 canceled the remainder of its performance after lead singer Bono suffered "a complete loss of voice," band members said in a statement.

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September 2, 2018 10:30 AM

Drag Queen Story Hour sparks protests in conservative towns

Drag Queen Story Hours have been held at libraries or book stores in big cities including Los Angeles, Chicago, New York and the Twin Cities. In some smaller communities, however, the programs have sparked protests from conservative and religious groups.

by Associated Press

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September 2, 2018 7:30 AM

'Rush': The other Founding Father from Philadelphia named Benjamin

Stephen Fried's biography argues that Benjamin Rush -- a pioneering physician, writer and a signatory to the Declaration of Independence -- belongs on the historical tier of Benjamin Franklin.

by Melissa Block

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September 2, 2018 12:00 AM

'Dog Symphony' is less a novel than a mood given form

Sam Munson has written a weird book that doesn't try to hide its weirdness. It's nominally about a professor of prison architecture visiting a conference in Buenos Aires -- but then there are the dogs.

by Jason Sheehan