MN Shortlist, March 13–19: Films in Ely, orchestral favorites and a shamrock-themed rock lineup
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Across Minnesota this week, the arts appear in some unlikely settings — a restored North Woods movie palace, neighborhood churches, a Duluth theater and a club leaning into pre–St. Patrick’s Day energy.
Taken together, the lineup offers a snapshot of how culture moves through the state: touring productions, returning artists and local bands all sharing the same calendar.
'Søndergård, Gerstein and Bernstein' at Orchestra Hall in Minneapolis — March 13–14
Pianist Kirill Gerstein returns to the Minnesota Orchestra for a program that highlights music closely associated with his career, including Thomas Adès’ “Piano Concerto",” written for him in 2018. Led by music director Thomas Søndergård, the concerts also include works by Leonard Bernstein and Maurice Ravel. Gerstein has become a familiar presence with the orchestra over the years, and this weekend’s concerts continue that relationship.
Ely Film Festival at Ely’s Historic State Theater in Ely — Through March 15
Northern Minnesota’s growing film culture gathers each year at the Ely Film Festival, which brings independent cinema to the restored Art Deco Historic State Theater in the center of town. The program mixes regional storytelling with visiting filmmakers. One of the featured films is the dark comedy “Ish Meets a Mermaid,” where Ojibwe mythology collides with afterlife satire in the story of a Native artist whose life shifts after meeting a mysterious woman from beneath Lake Superior.
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'Shamrock Shakedown shows' at the Green Room in Minneapolis — March 13–14
As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, the Green Room leans into the holiday’s color scheme with two nights of bands under the banner “Shamrock Shakedown.” Night one features Squeaky Feet, Feed the Talking Dog and Twine. Night two brings back Feed the Talking Dog alongside funk-rock band Dead Larry and groove-driven group Useful Jenkins. Both shows are 21+.
'Nina Tso-Ning Fan: The Lark Ascending' at churches in Eden Prairie, St. Paul and Mahtomedi — March 13–15
The St. Paul Chamber Orchestra continues its community-venue series with a program inspired by music of the British Isles. The centerpiece is Ralph Vaughan Williams’ “The Lark Ascending,” with SPCO violinist Nina Tso-Ning Fan as soloist. The concerts also include Grace Williams’ “Sea Sketches,” appearing on an SPCO program for the first time, and a suite from William Walton’s score to “Henry V.”
'Little Shop of Horrors' at NorShor Theatre in Duluth — March 13–29
The Duluth Playhouse revisits the cult musical “Little Shop of Horrors,” the story of a struggling flower shop worker whose fortunes change after discovering a strange and very hungry plant. The show features music by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken and includes puppeteer Chris Ibarra performing the role of Audrey II. The production continues the NorShor Theatre’s role as a hub for large community musicals on the North Shore.
'Dinosaur World Live' at Children’s Theatre Company in Minneapolis — through April 5
The touring production “Dinosaur World Live” turns paleontology into stage spectacle. A young scientist introduces audiences to a parade of oversized prehistoric creatures brought to life through elaborate puppetry. The show was created by U.K. theater maker Derek Bond with puppets designed by Olivier Award-winning builder Max Humphries.
This week’s suggestions serve as a reminder reminder that Minnesota’s arts life isn’t concentrated in one venue or one city. From Ely to Duluth to Minneapolis and St. Paul, performances and screenings continue to circulate through concert halls, community spaces and small stages, creating the kinds of gatherings that keep the cultural season moving.
