Wintry mix spreads across Minnesota

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This week’s lineup leans toward proximity, with several events designed to bring audiences closer to the work itself. From studio-based festivals and in-development musicals to open artist spaces and interactive cultural programming, the emphasis is on direct engagement rather than distance.

International Festival of Minnesota at St. Paul RiverCentre in St. Paul — April 10–11

The relaunch of the former Festival of Nations brings more than 70 communities together for food, performance and hands-on activities. Returning after a multi-year hiatus, 

 offers a large-scale, all-ages way to experience global cultures in one place.

‘The Full Monty’ at Frey Theatre in St. Paul — April 10–19

 with a cast of performers over 55, shifting the emphasis toward aging, resilience and humor. Set in Buffalo, the production follows a group of unemployed men who turn to an unlikely solution, balancing comedy with questions of dignity and vulnerability.

Puppet Lab Festival at Open Eye Theatre in Minneapolis — April 10–19

 showcases new work developed over a six-month residency. The resulting pieces range from experimental to interactive, offering a look at how contemporary puppetry is created and performed in the Twin Cities.

‘The Postman’s Daughter’ at Illusion Theater in Minneapolis — April 11–25

A new musical in development from Minnesota-connected composer Justin D. Cook, 

 centers on the relationship between a new mother and her mail carrier. The production continues Illusion Theater’s focus on developing locally rooted work.

‘Once Upon a River 2026’ at The Historic Auditorium in St. Croix Falls — April 12

 combines music and storytelling in a program tied to Earth Day themes. The event brings together performers and audiences for an evening focused on the St. Croix River and its surrounding landscape.

‘Mississippi Valley Orchestra: Fantasy’ at The O’Shaughnessy in St. Paul — April 12

Mississippi Valley Orchestra’s “Fantasy” program

 features works by Debussy and Bartók alongside Germaine Tailleferre’s “Ballade.” The concert highlights a mix of familiar and less frequently performed repertoire.

‘St. Paul Spring Art Crawl’ across St. Paul — Through April 12 (and April 17–19, April 24–26)

 opens studios and exhibition spaces across multiple neighborhoods, including Cathedral Hill and Hamline Midway. Visitors can explore artist studios, pop-ups and galleries throughout three weekends.

Taken together, these events offer a range of ways to engage, whether you’re moving through a large festival, settling into a performance or stepping inside a working studio.

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MN Shortlist recommends IFest-MN, ‘The Full Monty’, a puppet fest and more.

MN Shortlist, April 10–16: Works in progress, traditions reopened

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