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.

Cube Critics: Stay up to date with our weekly art and culture chats with MPR News’ Jacob Aloi, Alex V. Cipolle, Max Sparber, Aron Woldeslassie and guests. Listen to or read Cube Critics here

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.

In a new book, Minnesota author spotlights unsung hero from the HIV/AIDS crisis
“When the Band Played On” by Michael G. Lee tells the story of Randy Shilts, a pioneering journalist who worked to change the narratives and reporting around the HIV/AIDS crisis in the 1980s.
Performance Today host Fred Child on taking the ‘stuffiness’ out of classical music
Fred Child is the host of the most-listened-to classical music program in the country, Performance Today. Coming up at 9 a.m. on Thursday, he talks with MPR News host Chris Farrell about stepping down after 25 years.  
Turning pages through time: St. Paul’s Red Balloon Bookshop celebrates its 40th year
The Red Balloon Bookshop in St. Paul celebrates 40 years as a beloved community hub for children’s books, storytimes and local literary events, weathering challenges like eBooks, Amazon and the pandemic.
The glamour unravels: ‘Cabaret’s’ haunting echoes of denial and hope
The University of Minnesota’s production of “Cabaret” blends dazzling performances with a chilling exploration of denial, humanity and political upheaval, reflecting the timeless relevance of its themes.
New book traces life from a Somali orchard to running a nonprofit in Minnesota
In “My Dear Loving Sisters: Tea and Stories from an Audacious Life,” Fatoun Ali lays out how she survived poverty and abuse to raise four children and start a nonprofit. She told her story in the form of a workbook, with strategies and questions for overcoming all kinds of challenges.
Indigenous stories to be featured in film festival, celebrating culture and community
In celebration of Native American Heritage Month, Twin Cities Film Fest will host MNmicro Film Festival: Indigenous. The six featured films center on Indigenous stories and voices.
Photos: We saw you Rock Your Mocs!
Fond du Lac Band tribal citizen and artist Wendy Savage shares her inspiration for her moccasin-making in honor of “Rock Your Mocs” week. Several Indigenous community members also share photos and reflections about their moccasins.