Author: Kate Iverson

FRINGE FESTIVAL

The Chasm: Two Prevailing Winds of Gabriela Mistral

Based around the work of one of Latin America’s most respected poets, Gabriela Mistral, Disquietude Theater Company
takes us on a lush journey that brings her poetry to life. This story
of "the chasm between sorrow and hope" includes a visual feast of
projected collage that illustrates the almost manic depressive nature
of the production, along with fluid, unexpected movement – all set to
the backdrop of a minimalist, post-rock score. Created through
collaboration, The Chasm: Two Prevailing Winds of Gabriela Mistral ,
is a battle of mood, passion, light and dark wrapped up in a cloak of
beautiful words. Want to make an evening of it? After the play, head
over to the nearby West Bank’s Bedlam Theatre aka "Fringe Central", for eats, drinks and Fringe-y recappin’ with like-minded folks.

7pm, The Ritz Theater, 345 13th Avenue NE, Northeast Minneapolis, $12 (Plus $3 Fringe Button)

SPECIAL EVENT

Theater Talk



It’s no secret that our very own Guthrie Theater is one of the most
respected theaters in the country, or that our fine state boasts
the most theaters per capita outside of New York! Aren’t we lucky? This
evening’s highly impressive panel discussion will feature Midwest theater
leaders Guthrie Director Joe Dowling, Children’s Theatre Company Artistic Director Peter Brosius, Chicago Shakespeare Theater Artistic Director Barbara Gaines and Steppenwolf Artistic Director Martha Lavey. It will also mark the very first time long-running PBS television program Theater Talk has been filmed anywhere other than New York City. Cool, eh? To get in on the taping hit up The Guthrie website and order online or call the box office at 612-377-2224 a.s.a.p. to snap up your tickets before they disappear!



BONUS: This fall, keep your eyes peeled for not only tonight’s episode to air on PBS, but also an entire additional episode of Theater Talk featuring an inside look at The Guthrie along with an informal interview with Joe Dowling.



7:30pm, Guthrie Theater, 818 2nd Avenue S., Downtown Minneapolis, $15-$35





MUSIC

The Ting Tings



The pure cuteness that is The Ting Tings
make a not-to-be-missed cameo at the The Varsity Theater tonight! Fresh
off this past weekend’s Lollapalooza bonanza in Chi-town, this sassy British duo will make you dance, jump, bounce, bop, stomp, romp and shake that ass
all night with their energizing and catchy electronic pop anthems.
Perhaps best known for their super-fun hit tune "Shut Up and Let Me Go"
that was featured in an equally fun ipod/itunes commercial, the Tings remind me of a sexier version of Bow Wow Wow crossed with Ethyl Meatplow
– worthy of not only booty-shaking, but fist-pumping as well. The
perfect pep-up for an otherwise mundane Monday. Hometown heroes Solid Gold open the show.



6pm, Varsity Theater, 1308 4th Street SE, Dinkytown, $10

FRINGE FESTIVAL
Dying in Public Places


Lust. Terror. Violence. Outbursts of Song. All of these can happen when
stuck in an invisible box… cannibalism too. Dying in Public Places: a
darkly comic new musical, written by Keith Hovis and directed by Jenna
Papke, premieres August 1st at 10:00 pm as part of the Minnesota Fringe
Festival. 60 minutes of new musical hilarity ensue as five strangers find
themselves trapped in an invisible box. They soon learn that they must
discover what they have in common if they want to survive. And as the
minutes tick by, each person becomes more desperate and tries to find
another way of escaping, no matter how devastating or bloody the
results may be. –Andrew Newman

FRINGE FEST ROCKS: This is just ONE of 156 plays showing over the next 11 days as part of
the Minnesota Fringe Festival. Make sure to get out and see some independent theater this week!

Dying in Public Places performs on Friday, August 1st at 10pm; Saturday, August 2nd at 1pm; Sunday, August 3rd at 7pm; Monday,
August 4th at 10pm and an audio-described performance on Sunday,
August 10th at 7pm.

Minneapolis Theater Garage, 711 Franklin Avenue, Minneapolis, Tickets available at www.fringefestival.org

To read brief reviews of 19 other Fringe shows, click here.

ART
The Revolution Will Not Be Televised

The biggest global and political issues of today will be responded to
through artwork when The Revolution Will Not Be Televised opens tonight at Altered Esthetics. Continuing its mission of proclaiming
artists as the historical voice of society, the nonprofit community
gallery accepted submissions from the artists whose work will be on
display in the gallery through August 30th. -Andrew Newman

SAVE THE DATE: On Thursday, August 7th join your pals at The Rake for a special edition of Gallery Grooves at Altered Esthetics as part of the Twin Cities Pan African Fest featuring The Revolution Will Not Be Televised exhibit, as well as art by African Sculptor Rabi Sanfo, live jazz and more.

Friday, Reception 7-10pm, Altered Esthetics Gallery, 1224 Quincy Street NE, Northeast Minneapolis, Free

FILM
Political Scenes Series: Mr. Smith Goes to Washington

Take a siesta from ranting about the election to simply enjoy this
politically charged outdoor film series at the St. Paul Central
Library. Political Scenes screens each Friday throughout August and
includes a classic lineup of award winning flicks that will entertain
lefties and righties alike. Tonight will feature Frank Capra’s classic comedy-drama Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, a
story of a naive man, who on a lark, is appointed to fill a vacancy in
the U.S. Senate. Want to make it a date? Grab a pre-flick bite and pint
at nearby Great Waters Brewing Company where their numerous handcrafted beers and eclectic menu will delight most anyone with taste buds.

Friday, Dusk, Central Library Courtyard, 90 4th Street West, Downtown St. Paul, Free


FESTIVALS
Loring Art Festival

While the Powderhorn Art Fair is in full swing over in South, and the Uptown Art Fair
takes over Lake & Hennepin, my personal recommendation would be a
jaunt over to Loring Park for less pomp and more local sass. You’ll not
only be near such cool post-art nosheries as Bar Lurcat and Nick
& Eddie, but the vibe at the Loring Art Festival
has the right balance of quality, originality, and gypsy-esque pizazz
to entertain serious art buyers and starry-eyed youngsters alike. Be
sure to stop by the Somi Tileworks
booth to visit with fun mother-daughter team Norma Hanlon and Kirsten
Walstead whose thoughtfully handmade ceramic tile art is as pretty as
it is functional. Want to hit all three art fests? Jump on the
Target Art-Hop bus for free, air conditioned transport to and fro.

Saturday, 10am-6pm and Sunday 10am-5pm, Loring Park, Hennepin & Oak Grove Street, Minneapolis, Free


ART
Off Register

Forgive
me for being such an art-pusher this weekend, but I just can’t help it
– the city is bustling with an over-abundance of art-activity that I think you simply must
know about! Tonight stop in the hip art spot that is Umber Studios
for yet another super-fly show that will give you a glimpse into how
graphic design and fine art intersect in the most aesthetically pleasing
ways. Featuring print-work by a bevy of brilliant local,
national and international artists who are connected through the
professional practice of print design, but do not consider themselves
printmakers. This
traveling exhibition, put on by L.A.’s Foundation Project,
explores the artists’ relationship with design and how fine art and the
commercial trade play off each other. While you’re there, make sure to
check out the amazing work of locally-based design group WeWorkForThem!

Saturday, Reception 8pm, Umber Studios, 3109 E. 42nd Street, Minneapolis, Free


SPECIAL EVENT

Caffetto Craft Fair



The highest concentration of uber-cool handmade wares this Sunday
isn’t at one of the many big art fairs, it’s on the busy corner of
Lyndale & 24th in Uptown. Some of the city’s most talented hip kids
lay out their cute and kitschy items for public perusal and purchase.
Expect crafty delights such as bicycle accessories by Amber Jensen;
urban bags by nommetric 8; comic books and prints by Roger Loontine;
plus jewelry, artwork, book art, and tons more by local designers,
crafters and artisians. However, the most tempting to me is Annie Larson, whose super-pastel hand-dyed shoes, socks and backpacks are perfectly confectionary. And if it’s art you’re after, make sure to check out the cool cats of Hardland/Heartland, whose charmingly bizarre work is definitely on my Minneapolis Top 10 list.



Sunday, 10-5pm, Caffetto, 24th & Lyndale, Uptown Minneapolis, Free

THEATER

Caviar on Credit



Caviar on Credit, directed by Marcela Lorca (The Secret Fall of Constance Wilde),
casts 14 players in the comedic mystery of swindler Walter Jackson
Junior. A case of masked identity and repeat suckers, the actors take
turns playing the protagonists, lending a Bourne Identity feel
to it all. Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the show, which was
written by the cast itself, is the physicality: Each member has equal
billing in dance numbers, most of which are cleverly choreographed, not
campy, borrowing moves from eras long (and not so long) ago. With a
heavy film noir influence, Caviar on Credit has fun playing
with time period (jaunty fedoras, but also cell phones). Keep an eye on
Laura Esposito who plays (among other characters) the
spiritually-wandering Feta Karakas. A master of Cheri Oteri-like
cuteness and facial contortion, Esposito doesn’t disappoint, even when
focus is meant to be elsewhere on stage. Runs through August 3rd. -Jill Yablonski



SPECIAL TICKET OFFER: The Guthrie is offering Rake Readers a special 2-for-1 ticket deal on performances of Caviar on Credit tonight at 7:30pm, Saturday at 1pm, and Sunday at 1pm. Call the Guthrie Box Office at 612-377-2224 and quote price code "HR".



7:30pm, Guthrie Theater, Dowling Studio, 818 2nd Street N., Downtown Minneapolis

DISCUSSION

Solutions for the Other 90%



If you missed last year’s Solutions event,
which was pretty amazing, here’s your chance to educated yourself on
the latest ideas in sustainable design in the realms of water, energy,
education, health care, and
transportation shortages. Billed as an evening of "short, rapid fire,
media-rich presentations" by a number of innovators
in their fields, this presentation will bring to light thoughtful
solutions to many problems that affect 90% of the worlds population. In
conjunction with the Walker’s exhibit Design for the Other 90% and curated by bright minds Troy Gallas and Colin Kloecker, Solutions will make you think twice and may even have you changing the way you use our resources. Not to mention, it’s Target Free Thursdays
at the Walker so admission to the museum is free, and if you stick
around after the presentation, free food, drinks and music will abound.
All in all, the perfect "solution" to an otherwise bland Thursday
evening at home.



7pm, Walker Art Center Cinema, 1750 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, Free (Tickets available in the Bazinet Lobby starting at 6pm)





PERFORMANCE

Raven’s Manor



A haunted mansion on the Louisiana bayou plagued for 200 years. A girl
in search of love, knowing that she is cursed to lose it. Three
malevolent spirits who will do anything to make sure that no one in the
house marries for love. The legends of New Orleans have inspired the
Circus Juventas to create Raven’s Manor,
a Cirque du Soliel-style
production that will have audiences on the edge of their seat. A young
girl wants to marry, but her family was cursed many years ago;
any girl who marries for love will lose her groom to the house.
Determined to break the curse, the girl calls on all the spirits of the
house in a thrilling event to banish the evil. Incorporating thrilling
new acts, including a wall trampoline, the
production will also feature the talents of Peter Ostroushko,
continuing his collaboration with Circus Juventas, and local actor Ansa
Akyea. -Andrew Newman



July 31st-August 17th, Showtimes vary, Circus Juventas Big Top, 1270 Montreal, St. Paul, $20 Adults, $15 Children, $25 VIP, Click HERE to order tickets online.

MUSIC

CSS & The Go! Team

Tonight First Avenue welcomes Brazilian provocateurs CSS aka "Cansei De Ser Sexy"
– which in Portuguese means "tired of being sexy," though by the looks
of them seems to mean the opposite. A fiery electro-rock quintet of
vampiric fashion plates, CSS quickly gained notoriety in the first wave
of the hipper-than-thou music blogsphere
phenomenon, thanks not only to remixes of their songs by some of the
hottest producers around, but also some pretty dance-floor burning
remixes of their own. Their latest album, Donkey,
is a pop-tastic beat-fueled ride that will appeal to music fans of many
genres, and although tonight’s show will most likely have a high ratio
of lenseless glasses
paired with gold medallions and designer sneaks, I’d still recommend it for anyone interested in fresh tunes, even if you’re not a
flashy dresser. With The Go! Team, Matt and Kim, and Natalie Portman’s
Shaved Head.

8pm, First Avenue Mainroom, 701 1st Avenue N, Downtown Minneapolis, $20

MUSIC

Karaoke at Pi Bar



Who knew lesbians loved their karaoke so much? Well they do, and every
Monday and Wednesday you can join in the fun at this sassy
night hosted by hot babe TeA.
There are plenty of joints around town where one can indulge in the
embarrassing act of karaoke but personally, I wouldn’t be caught dead
singing in public. But I do really love to watch other people having fun and making asses of themselves,
and Pi Bar in South Minneapolis is a great place to do just that. While
you’re there, you might as well get a bite to eat since Pi boasts a yummy menu
of upscale bar food such as mini-burgers, chimichangas, and even a mock
duck philly sandwich for those of the vegetarian variety. Not to
mention, plenty of lip-loosening booze for potential rock
stars, lesbian or not.

9pm, Pi Bar and Restaurant,
2532 25th Ave S, Minneapolis, Free

MUSIC

Sommerfest: Chamber Music III: Korngold’s Piano Quintet



I won’t pretend to know everything about classical music. In fact,
I know very little – I am a child of the here and now after all.
Honestly, I’d probably swap a flute for a circuit-bent Speak-and-Spell,
or perhaps opt to have my eardrums blown out with some thrashy
crust-core in a basement. However, that doesn’t mean I can’t appreciate
the beauty of classical music, especially when matched with the
ambiance and acoustics of Orchestra Hall. My mother was one of those
people who considered arts and culture the most important part of a
child’s education thankfully, so the appreciation of it all and a
wistful nostaligia for the sound of the Orchestra tuning up will
probably always be ingrained in me. The Minnesota Orchestra’s Sommerfest is
one of the most heralded music events of the summer, with samplings of
work by brilliant composers from around the world. Tonight’s
performance will include a string quartet performing work by composer Felix Mendelssohn, topped off with the sweet sounds of Erich Wolfgang Korngold – as performed by pianist Andrew Litton and members of the Minnesota Orchestra.



7:30pm, Orchestra Hall, 1111 Nicollet Mall, Downtown Minneapolis, $20

SPECIAL EVENT

Legislatin’ Sexy Party ’08

On Tuesday, the 29th of July, the votes will be tallied and the people
will have spoken, singling out the King and Queen of Minnesota politics
and bringing an end to the heated debate over who is truly the most beautiful at the Capitol.
And while the answer to this question that burns with the fire of a
thousand orange juice soaked cold sores will be posted on The Rake for
all to see, there’s another option for those who want to be the first
to know. The Rake is holding a party
at The Liffey starting at 5 p.m. tonight, complete with the
all-important drink specials, where the winners will be crowned with
proper pomp and circumstance. – Rich Goldsmith



5-7pm, The Liffey, 175 7th St W, St Paul, Free

MUSIC

9 Nights of Music: The Red Rock Swing Band

Those
of you who fell asleep in history class on a regular basis will
certainly perk up for tonight’s edition of the Minnesota History
Center’s 9 Nights of Music. This fun series, now in its 12th year,
spotlights the vibrant and diverse Twin Cities cultural music scene
from polka to salsa to big band swing ever Tuesday evening through
August. Tonight dust off your dancin’ shoes for an evening of Big Band
classics with the 17-piece ensemble, The Red Rock Swing Band. Don’t
know how to swing? No problem! Tapestry
Folkdance Center instructors will be
on hand to give you advice on how to turn those two left feet around.
Once you’ve got the swing out of your system take a meander through a
World War II encampment recreation on the History Center’s terrace,
then peruse displays of vintage clothing, uniforms and equipment from
days gone by. Zoot suits welcome.

6:30-8pm, MN History Center, 345 W. Kellogg Blvd, Downtown St.Paul, Free

FAMILY

Paddleboat River Rides

I’m
sure you already know about this, being loyal Twin Citians and all, but
after taking a late night cruise on the Mississip myself this past weekend,
I felt compelled to remind you of this leisurely summer activity! The Padelford Boat Company has been ferrying sightseers up and down the river since 1969. Jump on board one of their huge, authentic sternwheelers for a breezy cruise down the river complete with historic commentary, fresh air and splendid sights. Choose between a Noon or 2pm ride, or for all you romantics, opt for a sunset dinner cruise.
I’m not sure that river water is exactly an aphrodisiac, but either way
you’ll probably score points in the thoughtful and charming
departments.

Noon, 2pm, 7pm, Padelford Boat Company, Harriet Island, Saint Paul, $15 Day Cruise, $36 Sunset Dinner Cruise

SPECIAL EVENT
Hüsker Dü J.C. Memorial EP Release Party &
Film Exposé

Snap up a lil’ piece o’ Twin Cities music history tonight at
Grumpy’s! Minneapolis’ own original punk rock royalty, Hüsker
Dü, are releasing a super special, super limited edition EP containing three
live songs recorded in 1982-1983. Why here, why now you ask? Well, Hüsker Dü
recently lost a dear friend, J.C., and as tribute they’ve released this little
gem. A pretty epic memorial if you ask me! You’ll also get to rub elbows with Grant
Hart, who will have not only EP’s for ya’ll, but limited edition posters for
the event designed and numbered by the man himself. Add in a little old-school
Hüsker Dü video footage put together by Mr. Rick Fuller, lots of cool people,
some artery-clogging bar food (here’s lookin’ at you, Cream Cheese Burger), and
you’ve got yourself one hell of an evening. Maybe if you ask nicely, Grant will
even sign
your chest. It’s worth a shot!

10 p.m., Grumpy’s Bar
Downtown, 1111 Washington Ave., Downtown Minneapolis,
Free

PERFORMANCE
An Evening with Marion Ross Hosted by Nancy
Nelson

Did you know the Mom from Happy
Days is from Minnesota? I didn’t. Did you also know that after Happy Days Marion Ross went on to rock
the Broadway stage and make a ton of movies? I didn’t know that either. Well,
despite my obvious lack of knowledge when it comes to Minneapolis noteables, I
still know a cool event when I see one. Tonight you’ll see clips of Marion’s
work – and not just the ones of her making the
Fonz a sandwich! The real highlight will be listening to her tell
stories about growing up in Minnesota and her long career in the TV and Film biz. Not only a fun tidbit of Minnesota fame and fortune found, but also an
inspiring recount of one sucessful woman’s amazing journey that will appeal to
aspiring actors and the general public alike. Oh yeah, and Happy
Days fans too.

7pm, McPhail Center for Music Auditorium, 501 South
2nd Street, Downtown Minneapolis, Free

ART
The Alice Project: An Installation of Curious
Proportions

We all need a bit of whimsy in our lives, and the folks over at
Steven’s Square Center for the Arts know it! In celebration of the 150 year
anniversary of Lewis Carroll’s dark fantasy tale, Alice in Wonderland, the SSCA delivers a charming visual
exploration that will delight art appreciators of all ages. Over a dozen artists
lent their creativity to this imaginative project that features
clever interpertation of Caroll’s original vision. Wander through a maze of
giant Alice-inspired props created by the artists and learn a bit of the history
behind this well-loved tome. Want to make an evening of it? Whether you’re with
the fam or a date, reasonable (and nearby) eatery Salsa a La
Salsa is always a cute stop for some Monday night Mexican. The Alice Project runs through August
17th.

1-5pm,Steven’s Square Center for the
Arts , 1905 3rd Avenue S., Minneapolis, Free

ART

The Throw Up Vol. 4 Release Party



Elusive Minneapolis art duo, Pop Vomit,
celebrates a number of things tonight! Not only can you get a last
glimpse of a very cool exhibit at the closing reception for the Altered
Esthetics Resident Artists show, featuring Pop Vomit’s installation entitled "Operation: Vomit Boy," but they’ll also have new sticker sets, cool merchandise, surprise projections, and of course, the brand new edition of their collectible art book, The Throw Up Vol. 4. The Throw Up features over 100 pages of black and white print, with work by a number of artists including Mark Vomit, Tony
Kephart, Kate Iverson (yes, that’s me!), Justin James Sehorn, Katrin Snider, Jeff Evrard,
Scott Johnson, Jesse Draxler and Coy Douglas Larson. What started as
a self-released "scrapbook" has turned into a medium for unknown
artists to gain exposure, a visual candy store for those looking for
something unique, and an ongoing collector’s series.



Friday, 7pm-11pm, Altered Esthetics, Q.arma Building, 1224 Quincy Street NE, Northeast Minneapolis, Free





BENEFIT EVENT

Jazz for Peace



You can’t argue with peace. Especially when it’s backed up by world class jazz music. Hit the cool, cool spot that is the Artists’ Quarter tonight for an evening of sultry sounds all in the name of a good cause. Pianist, vocalist and composer Rick DellaRatta has been the shining star behind the Jazz for Peace
program, touring the world to raise money and awareness for causes that
promote a better world – including providing musical instruments for
under underprivileged youth. Considered by those-in-the-know to be one
of the top jazz pianists and songwriters of today, Rick DellaRatta will
thrill the audience with his unique sound and Chet Baker-esque vocal
stylings. Not to mention, if you haven’t been, the Artists’ Quarter is
an absolute must-go for anyone who considers ambiance to be an art
form.



Bonus: Want a later night? Debbie Duncan takes over the AQ at 9pm on both Friday and Saturday!



Friday, 6pm-8:30pm, The Artists Quarter, 408 St. Peter Street, Downtown St. Paul, $25

FAMILY

Wild West Frontier Fest



Attention buckaroos, cowboys, wranglers, varmints, gunslingers, and cowpokes! This weekend at Harriet Island indulge your inner villian/hero at Wild West Frontier Fest, where your mustache twirling and Clint Eastwood impression
won’t creep anyone out. A perfect family day or a fun adventure for any
history buff, this outdoor fest will feature paddleboat rides, a Tom
Sawyer Fence Paintin’ Contest, old-fashioned photos, costumed
characters, exhibits, demonstrations, plus live music and performance
on four stages! Have dinner with Mark Twain or watch a silent movie, then
learn about the Wild West and the culture and history surrounding it.
Just leave your pistol at home.



Saturday-Sunday, Noon-10pm, Harriet Island, Minneapolis, Tickets $12 per day, $20 for both days




COMEDY

Bill Maher



Maybe the best thing about Maher is his refusal to be pigeonholed, his
keen negotiation of the difference between unorthodoxy and hypocrisy.
He’s variously proclaimed himself a libertarian and voted for Ralph
Nader for President (after supporting Bob Dole in 1996), aligned
himself with PETA and NORML, and was the first to bring Ann Coulter
into the limelight via his Politically Incorrect show-which became a
victim of our post 9/11 hysteria when Maher was vilified and PI
cancelled when he said lobbing cruise missiles from 2000 miles away was
more cowardly than flying airplanes into the World Trade Center. That’s
Maher, for better and (occasionally) for worse a fearless slayer of
shibboleths of all persuasions, at once a notorious skirt-chaser who
was a regular at the Playboy Mansion, a staunch supporter of gay
marriage and an unremitting critic of the Catholic Church for looking
the other way while pedophilia was taking place within the clergy.
Along with Jon Stewart and a few others, he’s in the vanguard of a
current wave of social commentary that is simultaneously hilarious and
astute, as anyone who checks out Real Time with Bill Maher on HBO
already knows. He’s also extremely topical, so expect a few zingers on
the stories in this week’s newspapers-and perhaps a few words about his
friend and mentor, the late George Carlin. – Britt Robson



Saturday, 8pm, Orpheum Theater, 910 Hennepin Avenue, Downtown Minneapolis, $81-$112





FESTIVALS

Bearded Lady Motorcycle Rally



For the third year in a row, the Bearded Lady Motorcycle Rally
takes over Northeast Minneapolis! This years’ festivities will be the
biggest and freakiest yet, with the addition of a block party. Catch up
on your people watching along 13th Avenue this afternoon as bikers,
weirdos, and carnival folk show off their brawn, bikes, and
bizarreness. Register your own bike at 3pm, or simply watch the
ever-popular bike judging event, where tricked out motorcycles will compete against each other for cool points. Then, chow down on food from Pizza Luce
while listening to live music from the likes of The Corpse Show Creeps,
The Rockford Mules, The Evening Rig, Tim Rally Gold, The Brass Kings,
and Al’s Rock-a-Billy Quartet, as well as enjoying performances by Le
Cirque Rouge Cabaret & Burlesque, Miss Honey Combs and Ballet of
the Dolls. The block party rocks from Noon to 6pm, at which point the
party will travel indoors to the 331 Club and the Ritz Theater. Bonus
points for bearded ladies!



Saturday, Noon-6pm Block Party, 6pm-2am Indoor Music, 331 Club, 331 13th Avenue NE, Northeast Minneapolis, Free





MUSIC

Muja Messiah CD Release Party



Muja Messiah’s new album, Thee Adventures of a B-Boy D-Boy, cycles through a medley of styles. The production ranges from the jazzy slow jam to the upbeat to the downright krunked,
the rhymes from egotistical to introspective. And Muja effortlessly
navigates from track to track, rapping convincingly over the varied
beats – it’s not just like he wrote a rhyme and a producer made a beat
and they synced them up and smashed them together; rather his flows
seem actually to be linked with the rhythms. Overall, his style has a bit more of an edge than most Minnesotan
rappers’. Just when I thought the local scene was as saturated as it
could possibly be – this is a small city to have as many big names as we do – Muja is able to inject it with something that, if not completely new, is at least new to us. – Max Ross



Read the full review of Thee Adventures of a B-Boy D-Boy by Max Ross HERE.



Sunday, 8pm, First Avenue Mainroom, 701 1st Avenue N, Downtown Minneapolis, $10

SPECIAL EVENT

IFP 20th Anniversary Party



I don’t know about you, but I can peg a film geek from a mile away.
It’s kind of like gaydar, except for filmmakers. The look often
entails square framed glasses, a ratty baseball cap, possibly a beard,
and if you get close enough, an air of over-confidence along with an
over abundance of knowledge pertaining to any given genre of film and
the ability to talk about it for hours on end. Luckily, I
find this endearing and clever. And luckier still, Minnesota’s
independent film scene is positively bursting with creative activity,
more so than ever before – thanks in part to the wonderful resource
that is IFP.
Now in its 20th year (hence the 20th Anniversary theme), IFP has been
assisting and supporting independent filmmakers, photographers and
screenwriters in their quest for filmmaking glory. Tonight’s swanky soirée
at the Varsity Theater will include a live auction, special musical
guests, and of course, film. Choose to go to either the 8pm party with
all the rest of the riff raff, or rub elbows with the elite at the VIP
dinner at 6pm.



6pm VIP Dinner, 8pm Party, Varsity Theater, 1308 4th Street SE, Dinkytown, $250 Dinner, $35 Party

LECTURE

150 Years of Music Making by the River



Who knew a lecture could be so rockin’? Tonight get schooled by Chris Osgood, co-founder of Twin/Tone Records and legendary front man of Minneapolis seminal punk band The Suicide Commandos,
as he talks at length about the Twin Cities music scene. Osgood is the
unofficial "Godfather of the Minneapolis music scene", and for good
reason – not only does he have the personal street cred to back up the
title, but his professional track record
is one of epic proportions. From Minnesota State Arts Board appointee
to his current gig as VP of Organizational Development at McNally Smith
College of Music, Osgood is certainly qualified to teach you a thing or
two. Listen as he weaves the vibrant history of influential local
musicians and movements throughout the ages, from 1950s folk music, to
Bob Dylan, Prince and Babes in Toyland. You must register to attend, as space is limited.



7pm, Minneapolis Central Library, Pohlad Hall, 300
Nicollet Mall, Downtown Minneapolis, Free, RSVP Required by calling
612-630-6155 or by clicking HERE





SPECIAL EVENT

Movies and Music in District del Sol

When I was in high school I used to roll with many different crowds,
most of them unsavory in one way or another. The West Side of St. Paul
was the stomping grounds for a particularly rowdy gang of Latino thugs
I somehow found charming in all their butterfly-knife
carrying, weed smoking ways. Under their rough exteriors lurked a sort
of ingrained wisdom, warmth and level of respect that you don’t come
across every day. The West Side itself mirrors that description. Maybe it’s something about familia, maybe it’s culture, but definitely it’s community – and this weekly summer series
in Castillo Park proves it. Each week, the event explores different
cultures through art, music and movies, and tonight celebrates Africa
with a mask-making art activity by Stepping Stone Theatre, the
energizing sounds of Marimba Africa, and a screening of The Gods Must
Be Crazy.

6:30pm, music at 7:30pm, Film at Dusk, Castillo Park, 149 Cesar Chavez Street, West St. Paul, Free

FESTIVALS
Midsummer
Festival

Come party with The Center for Independent Artists at this
creativity-fueled neighborhood festival tonight! Fun for kids and adults alike,
the Midsummer Festival is not your average art fair;
with Afro-Cuban art and drumming performances, welding demos, a creative
invention exhibit, a make-your-own-t-shirt studio, fire dancing, live MC’s from
Hope’s Art of the MC, free ice cream and tons more. Don’t forget to stop by the
Artist’s Yard Sale where you can snap up deals on useful wares such as art
supplies, books, and original artwork, or simply bring a picnic and set up camp
for some great people watching. If anything, tonight is the perfect opportunity to get your friends and
fam some hands-on art time doing something that truly embodies the term
"independent arts".

6-9pm, Bancroft Meadows Park, 42nd & Bloomington,
South Minneapolis, Free

SPECIAL
EVENT
Aquatennial Torchlight Parade

Make an
appearance at this annual tradition, now in its 69th year, tonight
on Hennepin Ave. Join the tank-topped and flip-flopped masses as they line the street in
anticipation of this grand event, which will play off the theme, "Always There,
Through the Generations", an homage to the 150th b-day of our fair state. Many
would agree that summer in MN is synonymous with baseball, so who better to
Grand Marshall the parade than the Minnesota Twins? Representing the past will be
Twin’s great, Tony Olivia and representing the future will be the feisty
youngsters of the T.C. Bears, Minnesota Twins RBI and Rookie League Programs.
Show up early to secure a primo viewing location because you definitely won’t
want to miss the long cavalcade of sparkling floats and energetic performers –
all honoring our lovely land of 10,000 lakes. The parade starts at the Basilica
and ends at 5th and Hennepin.

8:30pm-10:30pm,
Hennepin Ave, Downtown Minneapolis, Free


DANCE
9 x 22 Dance Lab

Every 4th
Wednesday of the month, the Bryant Lake Bowl is taken over by grace,
experimentation and exploration. Named after the dimensions of the BLB’s small
stage, 9 x 22
Dance Lab features three choreographers of various style and skill level each month. Get an up close and personal view
into the world of choreography as curator Laurie Van Wieren takes you on a journey through
each piece, giving the audience and choreographer alike the opportunity to react
and delve into the meaning of each individual work. Known as a place where pros
and newbies alike can present their latest work in an informal setting and
receive valuable feedback, 9 x 22 Dance Lab is the perfect Wednesday night
destination for those who have always wondered where inspiration for this
amazing art form comes from. Featuring SUPERGROUP, Judith Howard, and Charles
Campbell.

7:30pm, Bryant Lake Bowl Theater, Lake & Bryant Ave,
Uptown, $6-$10 (pay what you can)

WINE & DINE

Taste of the Twin Cities Originals



Are your eyes bigger than your stomach? Put it to the test tonight at the Taste of the Twin Cities Originals
extravaganza where there will be so much to try that you may not be
able to handle it. Over 30 of the Twin Cities finest restaurants and members
of Twin Cities Originals team up for this annual foodie fest, where
guests are invited to peruse a wide variety of vendor booths laden with
morsels, tidbits, bites, nips and mouthfuls of savory samples. Some
stand out vendors (according to me at least) are Spill the Wine, Luci
Ancora, and the Sample Room. I suppose the only thing I could compare
this to would be a gourmet version of the State Fair in a much cuter
location – with free booze. Get there early if you want to be on
speaking terms with your stomach later on tonight – the crowd will be huge and you don’t want to miss a single bite!



6-9pm, Nicollet Island Pavilion, 40 Power Street, Minneapolis, $35 Advance or $45 door





SHOPPING

Blacklist Vintage



Ok, well, perhaps this is not technically an event, but it is
a secret (for the moment anyway) and I thought I’d be nice enough to
let you in on it. Just over a week ago the lucky Twin Cities became
home to Blacklist Vintage – a sassy new shop located near the bustling intersection of 27th and Nicollet. Run by two lovely ladies who adore all things fashionable and retro, Blacklist is not only your one-stop-shop for a snazzy party suit,
it’s also a clever place to pick up fancy vintage decor to spice up
your Ikeaed-out abode. Don’t worry gents, Blacklist carries menswear as
well so stop with the eye-rolling. Want to make it an excursion? Shop
your lights out, then head over to Jasmine 26 on Nicollet and 26th for
a cocktail with an umbrella in it and perhaps some of their signature
coconut cream cheese wontons? For a recent Rakish review on Jasmine 26 by Jeremy Iggers click HERE.



Hours 11am-7pm Tuesday-Sunday, Blacklist Vintage, 2 East 27th Street, Minneapolis

MUSIC

Marc Cohn



Minnesota Zoo regular and songwriting treasure Marc Cohn will perform live tonight in support of his first album in nine years Join the Parade. Perhaps best know for the classic "Walking in Memphis," Cohn has an impressive musical resume that spans back to the early
nineties and includes a number of well-received albums packed full of
his soulful stories. On Join the Parade Cohn weaves
themes from the devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina to the 2005
incident in which the singer was left with a gunshot wound to the head
after a carjacking in Denver. Part personal reflection and part social
commentary with a fleck of spiritual inspiration, Cohn’s new album is a
look at life through the eyes of someone whose seen plenty of it.
Performances on the 22nd and 23rd.



7pm Tuesday & Wednesday, MN Zoo Ampitheater, 13000 Zoo Blvd., Apple Valley, $43