MN Shortlist, Sept. 26-Oct. 2: Ibsen at the Guthrie and more
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Minnesota Shortlist is your weekly curated roundup of recommended arts events from MPR News, highlighting standout theater and music performances, exhibits and gatherings around the region.
Featured event: ‘A Doll’s House’ at the Guthrie Theater
Through Oct. 12 – When Henrik Ibsen’s “A Doll’s House” was first produced in Norway in 1879, it was controversial. The play divided audiences: was a mother demanding respect and leaving her family to find herself an act of inspiration or of recklessness?
“A Doll’s House” has traveled widely through translation and reinvention, but its story of women’s sacrifice and fight for respect still lands — as seen in the Guthrie’s spare, elegant production.
The fresh translation by Amy Herzog is presented with a simple set and subtle lighting cues. It’s a reminder that the great plays of the theater canon sometimes need only a strong cast, a good director and an audience ready to listen. (Jacob Aloi)
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‘Jlin: Permutation of Three’ at Walker Art Center
Thurs, Oct. 2 – Indiana-based electronic musician Jlin has built a career of otherworldly compositions that are unpredictable and innovative. Liminal in nature, Jlin’s work isn’t defined by standards or genres. Instead, she layers noise, everyday sound, voice and percussive lines with the precision of classical orchestration, crafting soundscapes that feel both expert and unimaginable.
“Jlin: n! = 3! (Permutation of Three)” is making its Twin Cities debut. It includes solo pieces, collaborative work with violinist and composer Daniel Bernard Roumain and tap improviser and choreographer Leonardo Sandoval — as well as a performance by members of The St. Paul Chamber Orchestra. (Anika Besst)
‘Learning from Place: 100 Years of Mexican American Culture on St. Paul’s West Side’ at Neighborhood House in The Wellstone Center
Sept. 27 — St. Paul’s west side is a neighborhood shaped by generations of Mexican Americans. “100 Years of Mexican American Culture on St. Paul’s West Side” is an immersive event celebrating the neighborhood’s stories, history, cuisine and vibrant traditions. Members and leaders of the Latino community will share stories throughout the day, drawing on their experiences as residents, artists and business owners.
Offered in collaboration with the Minnesota Latino Museum, the event moves through the neighborhood, illuminating its past, present, and future through stories. The group will stop at Alebrijes: Keepers of the Island — an art exhibit on Raspberry Island — and The Flats. (Anika Besst)
Twin City Cat Fanciers CFA Cat Show at the St. Paul RiverCentre
Sept. 27-28 — Cats from across the U.S. and Canada come to town this weekend to compete at the 92nd Twin City Cat Fanciers CFA Cat Show. Twin City Cat Fanciers was founded in 1938 and has held annual shows, with occasional biannual events, nearly every year since.
This year, there are expected to be over 30 breeds of unique felines exhibited, including the hairless Sphynx, curly coated Rex breeds, massive Maine Coons, pampered Persians and the svelte Siamese. Competitors will be judged on a range of factors, including breed, color and agility. Alongside the two-day competition, local rescues will be on hand to share information about adoptable pets. (Anika Besst)
‘Treasure Island’ at Children’s Theatre Company
Through Oct. 19 — In his youth, Children’s Theatre artistic director Rick Dildine felt a longing for adventure, not unlike the main character Jim Hawkins in "Treasure Island. “I remember growing up in rural Arkansas, wanting and knowing that something more,” Dildine said.
Having served as the artistic lead of the theater for the last year, Dildine is directing “Treasure Island,” the first production he is helming at the Children’s Theatre Company. The production features high-octane sword fights, theatrical effects and rousing music performed by the cast.
Aside from the swashbuckling on stage, the fun of the high seas pirate tale spills into the lobby, where pirate-themed activities and props entertain theatergoers before they head into the theater. By the time you leave the show, you can’t help but feel like picking up a copy of Robert Louis Stevenson’s book — or at least rewatching “Pirates of the Caribbean.” (Jacob Aloi)
