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.

Bob Woodward takes NPR behind the headline-grabbing moments in his new book
Bob Woodward speaks to NPR about the revelations in his new book, and recounts how key moments and meetings in recent years played out behind closed doors.
Beyond books: How a public library in Ohio’s Rust Belt is spurring economic growth
The public library in Toledo, Ohio, is one of a number across the U.S. that have become entrepreneurial hubs. Business-specialist librarians are helping aspiring small-business owners and nonprofits for free.
Q&A: Local actor Ryan London Levin talks about taking on a 1-man show about Jewish identity
Six Points Theater in St. Paul is producing “Just for Us,” the Tony and Emmy award-winning one man show by comedian Alex Edelman, about Jewish identity. Twin Cities actor Ryan London Levin plays “Alex” in this new production, the first to perform the role other than Edelman.
Comedy takes over Minneapolis stages for 10,000 Laughs festival
The festival has expanded to venues across the city, including Pantages Theatre, First Avenue, Parkway Theater, Sisyphus Brewing and Theatre in the Round. This year’s national headliners include David Cross, Ali Macofsky, Rory Scovel, Mike E. Winfield, Katherine Blanford and Pete Holmes.
Art Hounds: Get in the Halloween spirit
Minnesota artists recommend a play centered on a wily witch. Also Lanesboro’s Commonweal Theatre produces the Pulitzer-winning play, “Doubt.”
Climate scientist and mom addresses work-life balance in new book
Climate scientist Anna Farro Henderson talks about balancing a career in politics, climate science with motherhood, a subject she explores in her new book “Core Samples: A Climate Scientist’s Experiments in Politics and Motherhood.”