Courtesy of An Opera Theatre
Explore Minnesota lists that our state has 969 museums, galleries, theaters, and performance groups. Performing arts create “collective effervescence,” a term coined by sociologist Emile Durkheim to describe the energy and harmony felt during shared experiences—like a guitarist’s moving solo or a choir’s final number. Opportunities to tap into that spirit can be found all around the state, and many performing arts spaces are available to rent—some even offer on-site options for lodging. Here are just a few of these organizations worthy of support, whether you’re a local or a visitor.
Twin Cities
In the Heart of the Beast Theatre, Minneapolis
Founded in 1973, In the Heart of the Beast Theatre (HOBT) is a puppet theater deeply rooted in Minneapolis’ Powderhorn neighborhood. Best known for the annual May Day parade it launched in the 1970s—which ran through 2019 and is now community-led. HOBT now offers a Puppet and Mask Lending Library, monthly story hours, and art-making activities for children.
Courtesy of World Encyclopedia of Puppetry Arts
Jungle Theater, Minneapolis
Founded in 1991, the Jungle Theater in Minneapolis presents in-house productions and hosts local theater companies. Committed to exploring the human experience through live theater, it’s been recognized with 12 Ivey Awards. Its Greenhouse Play Reading Series nurtures new plays, playwrights, and audiences, offering free readings to the public. The new season includes entertaining and thought-provoking performances, including the return of the critically acclaimed “DINNER FOR ONE,” the world premiere of “FAST FWD MOTIONS,” about Hmong-American women balancing their love for volleyball with life’s challenges, and more.
Courtesy of Jungle Theater
An Opera Theatre, St. Paul
An Opera Theatre (AOT) produces socially relevant works that break down barriers in the classical art form of opera. AOT’s innovative performances address issues like workers’ rights, climate justice, and racial equity. Its popular annual production, “Divas & Drag,” merges two forms of expression in a delightfully clever way. The company’s educational initiatives include immersive residencies in local high schools, promoting cross-cultural exchange and creative expression.
Photo by Biri Photography
Southern Minnesota
Lanesboro Arts, Lanesboro
Offerings through Lanesboro Arts include free youth classes, fine art galleries, internships, performances at the historic Mane Theater, public art opportunities, artist residencies, and placemaking activities. Art is woven throughout the charming town (pop. 754), located in the heart of the Driftless Region. The Lanesboro Arts campus is comprised of buildings that house many forms of art, showcase art in public spaces, and infuse the arts throughout the city. It is nationally known as an example of innovation and revitalization through the arts and culture.
Courtesy of Lanesboro Arts
The Grand Center for Arts and Culture, New Ulm
Since 2009, The Grand has operated in a historic 150-year-old building. It serves as a community hub for the arts in New Ulm. It features a gallery, diverse arts education programs, and The Grand Kabaret, which hosts live music every Friday. Its Arthouse Film Series relaunches this fall.
Northern Minnesota
Grand Rapids Players, Grand Rapids
Founded in 1965, the Grand Rapids Players is a community theater organization focused on entertainment, inspiration, and education. Even during the shutdown, they kept the community engaged with DIY Summer Theatre Camp packages. Upcoming productions include “Dracula,” “A Comedy of Terrors,” and “Murder on the Orient Express.”
