Friday, May 24
Timing Is Everything
WHAT: Changes in Time
WHERE: Minneapolis Theatre Garage, Minneapolis
WHEN: Friday and Saturday, 7:30 p.m.
Say “GLBT” to anyone nowadays and they’ll know what you’re talking about. But the word “transgender” wasn’t even a common term 50 years ago. 20% Theater Company explores the extent of society’s impact and influence in the world premiere of EB Boatner’s Changes In Time, closing Saturday night. The show consists of three plays within a play, and follows the story of Rain/Lorraine/Laurence through his transition from the 1950s to the mid-1990s. Learn more at tctwentypercent.org
Friday, May 24
Midnight Paddle
WHAT: Full Moon Canoe
WHERE: French Regional Park, Medicine Lake, Plymouth
WHEN: 7:30 p.m.
It’s probably not a great idea to take to the water in the middle of the night alone. But with a guide, well, why not? Let the full moon light your watery path on Medicine Lake as your guide points out wildlife along the shores and regales you with stories of full-moon antics. Learn more at threeriversparks.org
Saturday, May 25
Shaw, Joseph Scrimshaw
WHAT: Obsessed: James Bond Special
WHERE: Bryant-Lake Bowl, Minneapolis
WHEN: 9:30 p.m.
Comedian Joseph Scrimshaw isn’t shy about his obsessions. In fact, he rather enjoys flaunting them, both on his podcast as well as in live shows, like this one. Here, he’s joined by playwright/screenwriter Jeffrey Hatcher, comedian Bill Corbett (Mystery Science Theater 3000), and a never-ending supply of martinis as the trio talks spy gadgets, favorite Bond moments, and borderline unhealthy man crushes. Learn more at bryantlakebowl.com
Saturday, May 25
Open the Gates
WHAT: Historic Fort Snelling opening weekend
WHERE: Fort Snelling, St. Paul
WHEN: 10 a.m.
After hibernating for the winter, Fort Snelling is reopening this Memorial Day Weekend with new exhibits (African American history in Minnesota) and old favorites (cannon and musket firings, hearth cooking, costumed actors). On Monday, the fort commemorates Memorial Day with special large-scale military demonstrations and reenactments of different eras throughout military history. Learn more at historicfortsnelling.org
Sunday, May 26
Hip, Hip, Hooray
WHAT: Tip One Back for the Southern
WHERE: Alexis Bailly Vineyard, Hastings
WHEN: 1–4 p.m.
A few years ago, rumors were being whispered that the Southern Theater was doomed; extinction was neigh. Those gossiping obviously didn’t realize the power of the arts. The community rallied, and today the theater remains a top venue for avant-garde shows and artistic feats. This third-annual fundraising event is just one of many ways to support the theater: wine tasting, bocce ball, raffle prizes, lunch, music, and performances for just $15. Learn more at southerntheater.org
Sunday, May 26
Bust a Move
WHAT: Soundset
WHERE: Canterbury Park, Shakopee
WHEN: 12 p.m.
If for no other reason than to say you saw Snoop Lion before he evolves yet again (Snoop Rhino? Snoop Raptor?), Soundset is worth the $46 ticket. Other reasons to get your hip-hop on: Atmosphere, Busta Rhymes, Brother Ali, Juicy J, P.O.S., and whatever the heck Kid Koala is. Learn more at soundsetfestival.com