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.

Minneapolis author Curtis Sittenfeld’s new book delves into love, friendship and being wrong
Curtis Sittenfeld writes fiction based on what “fascinates and perplexes” her. Her newest collection of short stories “Show Don’t Tell” continues that theme.
‘Outrageous’ and ‘chilling’: Local orgs react to new DEI restrictions from the National Endowments for the Arts
The Playwrights’ Center of Minneapolis has rejected a $35,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts due to new federal restrictions barring grant recipients from promoting diversity, equity, inclusion and gender ideology, joining a growing number of arts organizations nationwide in condemning the policy.
The SNL 50th anniversary special: What worked and what didn’t
The “Saturday Night Live” 50th anniversary prime-time special was full of sketches and nostalgia — and stretched more than three hours. NPR TV critic Eric Deggans breaks it down.
3 Harry Potter fan fiction authors are coming to a bookstore near you
Fan fiction — unsanctioned, unofficially published works based on popular novels or films — was intentionally never mainstream. The coming months will see a trio of titles by popular Draco and Hermione — Dramione — fanfic authors.
Review: 'The Snowy Day' at Minnesota Opera
Minnesota Opera’s adaptation of “The Snowy Day” stays true to author Ezra Jack Keats’ simple yet groundbreaking children’s book, preserving its vivid textures and colors while adding playful music and small expansions to the story, resulting in a brief but warmhearted production.