Minnesota is a cultural treasure trove, with vibrant artistic experiences that span the entire state. These arts and entertainment venues promise to inspire and captivate, with something for everyone in the upcoming season.
Photo by Travis Anderson
Minnesota Orchestra
The Minnesota Orchestra’s 2024-25 season, led by Music Director Thomas Søndergård, brings a dynamic range of performances to Orchestra Hall. With a spirit of collaboration, Søndergård will lead concerts showcasing his unique democratic approach to music. Season highlights include performances of Puccini’s “Turandot,” Mahler’s “Titan” Symphony, and the return of the Composer Institute, which 
celebrates emerging American composers. The season also features a Lunar New Year Celebration and a performance of Beethoven’s Violin Concerto, with Concertmaster Erin Keefe.
What sets the Minnesota Orchestra apart is its commitment to both artistic excellence and community engagement. Known as “the Minnesota Orchestra,” it serves the entire state, with concertgoers from every county in Minnesota. The Orchestra has represented the state globally, performing in over 600 cities across 20 countries, including notable tours to Cuba and South Africa. Locally, it reaches tens of thousands of young people annually through educational programs, including Young People’s Concerts and This Is Minnesota Orchestra broadcasts, which are televised across the state.
In addition to its traditional performances, the Orchestra strives to create inclusive, multisensory experiences. From classical music to yoga classes and sensory-friendly concerts, there’s something for every audience. First-time visitors can enjoy ticket discounts and learn about the music through program magazines, making the experience accessible and enriching.
Visit minnesotaorchestra.org/tickets to purchase tickets. The Orchestra offers discounts for those under 40, students, seniors, and families, along with a Hall Pass program that provides free tickets for kids and teens.
Photo by Dan Norman
Theater Latté Da
Theater Latté Da offers an exciting winter season with performances that range from the regional premiere of “School Pictures,” named Best Play of 2023 by New York Magazine, to the local premiere of the Tony Award-winning “Fun Home.” As the only nonprofit professional theater in the Twin Cities dedicated exclusively to musical theater, Theater Latté Da has earned critical acclaim for its bold and inclusive productions.
Highlights include 96 Mainstage productions, 17 world premieres, and its national tours and off-Broadway production of “All is Calm.” The theater is known for creating powerful connections between music, story, and audience, presenting musicals that explore new ways of storytelling. For an unforgettable theater experience, visit latteda.org to purchase tickets, including the new FLEXPack, offering five tickets to use flexibly throughout the season.
Photo by Dan Norman
Chanhassen Dinner Theatres
Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, one of the oldest and largest dinner theaters in the U.S., offers a winter season filled with exceptional live entertainment. On the Main Stage, enjoy the timeless classic “Grease the Musical,” a fan favorite for decades. In the Playhouse Theatre, local icons Nancy Nelson and Don Shelby star in the limited-run two-person play “Love Letters.”
For a fun night out, Stevie Ray’s Comedy Cabaret offers interactive improv every weekend, while tribute concerts in the Fireside Theatre feature performances from acts like the Eagles and Michael Bublé. What sets Chanhassen apart is its unique combination of dinner service with world-class live theater, ensuring guests enjoy high-quality entertainment in an intimate, cozy setting. Founded in 1968, Chanhassen continues to provide memorable experiences, from Broadway-style musicals to corporate events and weddings. Tickets are available via the Box Office or online at chanhassendt.com.
Photo by Jennifer Bischoff
MacPhail Center for Music
MacPhail Center for Music is the nation’s largest center for music learning and performance and one of Minnesota’s top 10 arts organizations. Since 1907, MacPhail Center for Music has been providing meaningful opportunities for people and is committed to transforming lives and strengthening communities through music learning experiences that inspire. Each year, MacPhail offers programming to 15,000 students of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities, at locations in Minneapolis, Chanhassen, Apple Valley, Austin, and Madeline Island, Wisconsin, as well as 103 community partnerships across the Twin Cities.
An industry leader in online music education, MacPhail’s Live Online and Online School Partnerships programs have reached students for the past 10 years. MacPhail has a 115-year history of excellence, promoting lifelong learning, and building long-term relationships between students and teachers.
Photo by Twin Cities Ballet
Twin Cities Ballet
Twin Cities Ballet proudly presents the world premiere of “Romeo & Juliet: The Rock Ballet,” an electrifying fusion of Shakespeare’s timeless story with the iconic music of Queen. With live music by local band, Mark Joseph’s Dragon Attack, it is more than just a show—it’s an unforgettable, high-octane, emotional ride that you won’t want to miss.
Artistic Directors Denise and Rick Vogt, the innovative duo that created Pink Floyd’s “The Wall: A Rock Ballet,” have reimagined Shakespeare’s tragic love story for a new generation. Set in a dystopian future where rival gangs battle for survival and dominance in a post-apocalyptic urban wasteland, this visually stunning production takes Romeo and Juliet into a bold, modern world with breathtaking choreography, fantastic dancing, original sets, costumes, lighting, and captivating multimedia projections. Tickets on sale now!
Photo by Rochester Art Center
Rochester Art Center
Explore the unique intersection of design and play at the “Mini Golf & Chairs: Where Design Meets Play” exhibition at the Rochester Art Center, running through May 4, 2025. Curated by Zoe Cinel, this exhibition features 20 architect-designed chairs from the private collection of Ruth and Dave Klawiter, alongside a creatively designed mini golf course by regional artists. Experience how modern chair design influences art and everyday objects, while enjoying a fun, interactive twist as mini golf holes are inspired by these iconic pieces, offering a playful and engaging exploration of form, function, and creativity.
Photo by St. Catherine University
The O’Shaughnessy at St. Catherine University
The O’Shaughnessy, located in St. Paul’s Highland Park, provides a unique cultural experience in a spacious venue with a capacity of 1,800 patrons and free parking. Its programming focuses on women’s leadership, social justice, and inclusive excellence, showcasing performances and art that highlight women’s and BIPOC voices. With a mission-driven approach, the venue hosts world-class events, including the upcoming show “The Right Honourable Dame Jacinda Ardern” on March 7, 2025, offering thought-provoking performances that resonate with diverse audiences.
