Weekend Best Bets: October 24-26

What you need to see, do, hear, and experience this weekend

Friday, October 24

Stage Fright

WHAT: Twin Cities Horror Fest
WHERE: The Southern Theater
WHEN: 5:30 p.m.
When it comes to horror, it’s hard to imagine a more compelling collection of live performances in one place. From original psychological shorts like Doll Collection to curious adaptations of classics like Frankenstein and Jekyll and Hyde, choose from nine local troupes and groups performing live at The Southern Theater. Purchase individual and festival tickets at tchorrorfestival.com.

Dynamic Duo

WHAT: The Black Keys
WHERE: Target Center
WHEN: 8 p.m.
While this pair of musicians has come a long way from humble beginnings in Akron, Ohio, it’s probably never a bad time to see The Black Keys live on stage. Also on the ticket will be English singer-songwriter Jake Bugg, a 20 year-old talent who’s gathered quite a bit of attention in recent years. Get tickets at targetcenter.com.

Saturday, October 25

Eerie Art

WHAT: Shadowed Visions Halloween Reception
WHERE: The People’s Gallery, St. Paul
WHEN: 6:30 p.m.
So Halloween approaches, and you’ve read all the spooky tales, seen all the horror flicks—now you’re wondering, What else is out there? Well, The People’s Gallery has responded by displaying original eerie artwork of 25 local artists. Plus, the opening Halloween Art Reception will be a chance to dress in costume and meet the artists behind it all. For more information, go to peoplesgallery.org.

Halloween Haunts

WHAT: Unhinged: Haunted Basement
WHERE: Soap Factory
WHEN: 6:30 p.m.
If you live in the Twin Cities, surely you’ve heard of it. It may be the spookiest with graphic rooms and convincing acting that have led one staff writer to compare the feeling to “walking in on the scene of a crime.” If that’s the kind of thing you’re into this time of year, the Haunted Basement’s an absolute must. Soapfactory.org has a closer look; check out our preview for sneak peeks.

Sunday, October 26

Autumn Outdoors

WHAT: BareBones Outdoor Puppet Extravaganza
WHERE: Hidden Falls, Saint Paul
WHEN: 7 p.m.
While days of October seem to fall away with the leaves, it’s nice to take the time outdoors to cherish a chilly breeze, the sound of leaves crunching beneath your feet, the ripened colors everywhere. Featuring ancient fables, a public naming ceremony, and five different community-arts performances, this all-ages outdoor puppet fair will be a family-friendly way to enjoy the fall’s festivities. Go to barebonespuppets.org for more information.

Local Vocals

WHAT: Made in Minnesota
WHERE: Orchestra Hall
WHEN: 4 p.m.
Composers and choirs combine for this full evening of vocal performances. The event will highlight Minnesota’s finest composers, conductors, and singers, from traditional works of Dominick Argento to the modern music of Jocelyn Hagen and Dessa. For tickets to the concert, go to vocalessance.org.