Recently, one of my friends said to me, "I've never been to an opera."

I said, "Let's change that." And we did! We got dressed up (optional!) and made our way to the Minnesota Opera's The Barber of Seville, which will be onstage at the Ordway from May 3-18, 2025. If you don't have a lot of opera experience or know someone who could use a friendly introduction to the art form, this production is the perfect way to dive in! 

The Barber of Seville, at the Ordway Music theater in Saint Paul, is packed with comedy, colorful characters, and music you’ll recognize even if you’ve never seen an opera before. The story is easy to follow (with English super titles projected above the stage), the energy is infectious, and the performances are both playful and impressive. It's approachable for newcomers while still delighting longtime opera fans. I've seen this opera at least once before and this production is one I won't forget.

I have a lot of favorites from this experience, but I want to point out the scenery, the costumes, the beautiful music and the comedic physical acting of Don Basilio (played by Stefan Egerstrom when I saw the show) as especially delightful.

Just a reminder that my blog posts are reflective of my experience! I'm not paid to review shows, but I do (like in this instance) receive free tickets. Please check out my colleague Rob's experience here at the Stages of Minnesota blog: The Barber of Seville is a Comedic Delight at the Minnesota Opera:

Cast
Rosina – Katherine Beck (May 3, 8, 11, 17)
Rosina – Kara Morgan (May 4, 10, 18)*
Count Almaviva – Lunga Eric Hallam (May 3, 8, 11, 17)
Count Almaviva – David Walton (May 4, 10, 18)˚
Figaro – Takaoki Onishi (May 3, 8, 11, 17)
Figaro – David Wolfe (May 4, 10, 18)*
Doctor Bartolo – Matthew Anchel (May 3, 8, 11, 17)
Doctor Bartolo – Andrew Wilkowske (May 4, 10, 18)˚
Don Basilio – Stefan Egerstrom
Berta – Katherine Henly
Fiorello – John Mburu*

Please support artists and arts organizations with your attendance and your donations. This is an important time to come together as a community. 

So, if you aren't familiar with this show yet, it is set during the aesthetic craze of the late 1800s, which I was not familiar with by name. Although, I am familiar with Oscar Wilde. (who, according to the program, was a fan of this show!) Patience hilariously pokes fun at trends and fads. It follows two rival poets, Reginald Bunthorne and Archibald Grosvenor, who are adored by a chorus of swooning young women obsessed with all things “aesthetic.” Both poets, however, have their sights set on Patience, a sweet, no-nonsense milkmaid. Meanwhile, the chorus of women have abandoned their military suitors and the men's chorus then try to win them back by adopting the poets’ over-the-top aesthetic style—leading to plenty of ridiculous moments.

As someone who grew up singing in choirs, I especially loved the gorgeous harmonies and lively musical numbers. The cast’s vocal performances were top-notch, with beautifully blended ensemble singing and standout solos. The live orchestra did a tremendous job and it really added to the full opera experience.

The bright, Victorian-era costumes and the playful garden set design added to the fun, while the satire still feels surprisingly relevant. The show pokes fun at the way society latches onto trends—something we can definitely still relate to today! One of my favorite moments was a garden fountain that, when an actor manually cranked it, created the illusion of water flowing—a charming and whimsical touch that made me giggle at the cleverness. There was a lot of giggling during this performance!

If you love Gilbert & Sullivan’s sharp wit and catchy music or you’re just looking for a fun night  or afternoon out, this production is a treat. With its satire, silly romance, and memorable tunes, Patience offers plenty of laughs, great music, and a little Victorian flair. It’s light, delightful, and a perfect way to experience live theater!

Artfully,

Life of Pi (the three time Tony Award® winning production) at the Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis is a mesmerizing theatrical experience that pulls you right into Pi’s incredible story of survival. Having never read the book or seen the film, I was completely captivated as the story unfolded through stunning puppetry, evocative lighting, and immersive scenery. There are six puppeteers in the show. Pretty much every actor in the show does some kind of puppetry

The play follows sixteen-year-old Pi as he recounts his harrowing journey after a shipwreck leaves him stranded on a lifeboat with a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, and a Bengal tiger—brought to life by masterful puppeteers. Set within a hospital room with flashbacks to his family’s ill-fated voyage, the show explores resilience, the complexities of belief, and the raw realities of survival with nuance and depth. The ending took me by surprise, and I was deeply engaged from start to finish. If you’re looking for a theater experience that’s both visually stunning and thought-provoking, this is one to see!

My one recommendation would be to purchase theater seats as close (as possible) to the center of the theater for this show as I was seated house left and some of the projected words and even the actors were out of my site line. I thought it was nice that the theater patrons near me started whispering the projected text down the rows so the people further to the side could still participate. 

I was supposed to attend a media event this week to meet the tiger....but the snow storm ruined the fun. That's life in Minnesota for ya. Life of Pi at the Orpheum Theatre runs now through March 9, 2025. 

Artfully,

Please note that Hennepin Arts provided me with two theater tickets to this event. ​I want to keep things transparent! If you want to become a Twin Cities Theater Blogger and help Minnesota arts organizations share their important work with more people, reach out to the group on Facebook.

This winter I was very excited to hear that Theatre in the Round Player's (TRP) was staging Legacy of Light by Karen Zacarías (author of The Book Club Play, Native Gardens, and Destiny of Desire). And I was even more excited because after seeing their 2024 performance of Silent Sky by Lauren Gunderson, I was hoping for more historical women and STEM on their arena stage!

I attended the opening night performance of Legacy of Light, directed by Kari Steinbach, and I had a great time. Theatre in the Round Players is the longest-running community theatre in the Twin Cities, located in the Seven Corners neighborhood in Minneapolis. I find the shows to be high-quality and thoughtfully produced, and this show was no different.

The story alternates between two timelines, both centering around an accomplished scientists trying to manage their dedication to their work and to their families. Or as the title of the play phrases it, their "legacies." In  many ways this six-member cast performed deftly, weaving in and out of time and place, as an effective ensemble. However my favorite parts of the play revolved around the character Émilie du Châtelet, a mathematician and scientist in 18th century France, played by Rachel Postle.  Other stand out performances by David Denniger as Voltaire and Emma Tonn as Millie/Pauline. 

I don't want to say too much about the story as it shifts and builds in the first act and really comes together for a satisfying act two. The script brings both humor and intellectually intriguing ideas to some very relatable characters - much like The Book Club Play. Also, I appreciate this performance calling out the dire need for maternal health advancements and access to reproductive healthcare. 

Overall, it was a great night at the theater. My theater partner was, "pleasantly surprised" with their first ever Theatre in the Round production. And shout out to the lighting in the show! There is some beautiful light work incorporating the scientific themes and that was a joy to watch.

I recommend you add this show to your calendar. Invite a friend! Make a night (or afternoon) of your art adventure.

Local theater is so important right now. Support artists! Support community events! Your participation is needed and I truly believe that participating in live art makes you feel connected and a part of something big and important. Our stories. Our legacies?

Artfully,

Legacy of Light
Written by Karen Zacarias

​Dates: February 21 to March 16, 2025
Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30pm | Sundays at 2:00pm
​
Tickets: $20-29

Audio-Described performance: Sunday, March 16
Assisted listening and individual captioning devices are available for check-out.

Content Warning: Flashing lights. Sexual Situations and adult themes. Best for ages 14+

I'm a big fan of improvised musical comedy. So when I received an email from one of my very favorite Twin Cities improv groups, the Shrieking Harpies, about an upcoming show Leave Room for Jesus featuring the group's Hannah Wydeven and Lizzie Gardner, I was intrigued! I reached out and Hannah was kind enough to agree to chat with Artfully Engaging readers about her upcoming show, how the show came about, and why comedy is important in our current political climate.

Thanks to Hannah Wydeven for taking the time to share this behind-the-scenes information. Enjoy Hannah's interview, get your tickets to the show, and since social media is a bit...complicated right now, please consider signing-up for the Shrieking Harpies email list so you can get notified for upcoming shows.

​Artfully,

Hannah, tell us about Leave Room for Jesus! 

Hannah: Leave Room for Jesus is a parody show really playing on evangelical ideals of chastity and purity, as well as the fame-mongering of both men and women in mega-churches. More than anything it’s super goofy and fun, and doesn’t take itself seriously in any way. The show is also musical and uses a lot of audience interaction, so it will feel very much like a sermon (gone awry).

How did this show come to be?

Hannah: Every year I do a one off musical show around Valentine’s Day weekend that explores some facet of love and lust. It’s an opportunity for me to bring in some really talented friends and play a character I want to explore. It’s also a chance for me to just let it rip and do somewhat offensive and intensely stupid improv for a night. There are so many really thoughtful and poignant and emotionally driven improv shows being done in the twin cities (that are incredible), and this just isn’t one of them. Every piece of it was designed to just make people laugh their asses off.

Make your own question (what do you want to share about this process? Or something fun?)

Hannah: This show started with my idea for the main character Marla Hope, and every additional character has been someone else being like “what if this character showed up.” I’m really excited to share what everyone else is bringing to the table.

Here are some photos of Lizzie, Hannah (and Taj!) doing their thing as the Shrieking Harpies:

In a time when so many people feel disconnected or overwhelmed by the political climate, art—especially comedy—can be a powerful way to bring people together. How has your work in comedy and improv helped you build community?

Hannah: Oh man this question is so spot on. Behind the scenes I try to always be inclusive when I teach and when I direct, or produce or even when I invite people to play with me. I’ve been particularly enmeshed in bringing more queer voices and women’s voices to the front in comedy and that’s really important to me. When I teach I always offer sliding scale or free spots in classes/ workshops so people can come without issue. I try to keep ticket prices low and pay the people that perform with me as much as I can. 

Shows like this can really help people vent and get some shit off their chest, including me. I hope the audience walks away from this feeling like they got a chance to punch up in a really cathartic way. 

What’s next for you after this production? Any upcoming projects or performances we should know about? (Also how to find out about future work)

Hannah: This will for sure be a one night only thing which is what makes it special for me, but I continue to produce solo work under Sad Songs for Happy People (see @funnyladypants on Instagram for more). I’m also doing shows with Mayhem (feat. Butch Roy) and Shrieking Harpies (feat. Taj Ruler, Lizzie Gardner and Justin Nellis). Follow @shriekingharpies for more there. ​

Date:
Thursday, February 13, 2025
7:30 - 8:30pm CST

Ticket Price:
$15.08 (with fees)

Venue:
Strike Theater
824 NE 18th Ave
Minneapolis, MN 55418

I had a wonderful time at Irving Berlin's White Christmas at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. It was the perfect mix of popular Irving Berlin music, lively dancing, and a great night out with dinner and drinks. The show featured “Blue Skies,” “Sisters,” and of course, “White Christmas.” The cast really brought the music to life, and the dancing was so fun to watch—it had the whole audience smiling, tapping their feet, and singing along!

The evening started with a yummy dinner, and with holiday themed drinks in hand, we settled in for a festive holiday show - in October! The cast, including Michael Gruber as Bob Wallace and Tony Vierling as Phil Davis, gave energetic performances that made the night very enjoyable. The dazzling choreography (Tamara Kangas Erickson) and the vibrant costumes (Rich Hamson) added an extra layer of excitement and joy to the entire musical - the dancing and costumes truly create a magic atmosphere in the musicals at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres!

But you can't have a musical without the music (music direction by Andy Kust), and while the entire cast delivered strong vocal performances, the women truly stood out with their energy and presence. Ann Michels as Betty Haynes, Andrea Mislan as Judy Haynes, and Michelle Barber as Martha Watson brought incredible vitality to the stage and really made the night for me! Performances in songs like "Sisters," "Love, You Didn't Do Right By Me," and "Let Me Sing and I'm Happy" were memorable highlights that left a lasting impression on the audience. 

The costumes were vibrant, the choreography was upbeat, and the whole production was pure holiday magic. If you’re looking for a fun night out with great food, drinks, and a show that’ll get you into the holiday spirit, White Christmas is a must-see. Make sure to grab your tickets while they last!

Disclosure: I received complimentary press tickets, dinner, and drinks to attend Irving Berlin's White Christmas at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. Just wanted to keep things transparent! If you want to become a Twin Cities Theater Blogger, reach out on Facebook.

We are ten days into the 2024 Minnesota Fringe Festival! It's not through and I'm still seeing shows and volunteering, but I wanted to stop and shot out some of my absolute favorite shows that I recommend. Catch them if you can for the remaining festival and make sure to follow these fantastic artists.

By Rogues Gallery Arts 
Created by Blackout Improv

@ HUGE Improv Theater in Uptown

Wow! I really enjoyed this show. It wasn't a surprise because Blackout Improv has had some great performances in the Twin Cities but this was maybe my favorite. It's improv so every performance is different but the performance I saw has a special guest: comedian and musician  Devhon Bland. Lots of laughter during his set. I've seen him around town at standup performances but again, this was an especially great performance. My performance also had a bit with Destiny Davison a.k..a Dolly who did a very heartfelt and charming puppet improv with the rest of the cast. (Last year Dolly's show Dolly Who was my favorite Fringe show! Check out my shoutout last year.) And the show ended with a few rounds of the swag hat which was improv suggested by the audience, which after some conversation with the performers became some shenanigan inducing improv! Five Kitties! Ten Kitties! All the Kitties.

More about the show: Blackout Improv, Minnesota's premiere all Black performer improv group returns to the Fringe bringing guests and our renowned approach to comedy which mixes humor, and heart with a social Justice bent.

By Pretend Productions
​Written by Allison Vincent
​@ Phoenix Theater in Uptown

​By far the most moving and absolutely impeccably crafted and performed piece I have seen this year at the Minnesota Fringe Festival. I sobbed through this performance but still felt uplifted and connected during Allison VIncent's engaging storytelling about her own experiences with caretaking for her father. Stunning.

More about the show: Daddy Issues is a solo show recounting Allison Vincent's caretaking for her father while also negotiating their complicated relationship and the demise of his memory and her childhood home.

​

By Vulva Va-Voom & Company
Created by Vulva Va-Voom
@ Mixed Blood Theater in Minneapolis

What's a Fringe festival without some song and dance? Especially when it's well performed and includes some meaningful stories that definitely made me tear up. ​Vulva covered important issues and entertained with song and dance. I couldn’t believe the show was ending at curtain call—the time flew by! I highly recommend this clever and well-performed cabaret.

More about the show: Hardships, meet hilarity. "TragiComic transgender-identifying true confessional" & "obscene, maniacal burlesque star" sound incompatible...but this gritty nightclub headliner combines stranger things onstage.

By Lauren Hance of Out of Mind ProdcutionsDirected by Amelia Peterson & Cathy Lam-Patrie

Holy O is like the pick your own adventure of the Minnesota Fringe 2024. Artist Lauren Hance emerges from a pile on the floor where the stage (an Uptown coffee shop) is littered with clothes. Lauren's character Vera asks the audience (we were all wearing handmade gold pipe cleaner headpieces and playing saints!) to choose a piece of clothing and then we get to hear a story. The piece is a combination of the sacred and sensual. I loved it. Check out the Artfully Engaging artist interview with Lauren. Also whenever I think of this show I can't stop singing Madonna's "Like a Prayer." Coincidence?

I've seen a lot of great shows this Fringe! I'm headed out the door for another full day of theater, dance, magic, improv, and music. Every show I attend I am in awe of the effort and bravery it takes for these artists to take the stage and make live art happen. Not every show hits perfectly every time for every audience member. That's okay! Every person has different preferences and is in the mood for different art at different times. Make sure to check out the Minnesota Fringe website to look for shows that interest you. The show pages also have audience reviews, so take a look!

Kendra

P.S. Check out my last blog post, Minnesota Fringe 2024: So It Begins, to learn more about the Minnesota Fringe and how to participate through August 11, 2024. Also please read more Fringe coverage by other Twin Cities Theater Bloggers: Cherry and the Spoon, The Stages of MN, and Single White Fringe Geek.

Holy O 
Lauren Hance: Writer/Performer
Amelia Peterson: Developer/Director
Cathy Lam-Patrie: Co-Director

How do you strike a balance between humor and depth when discussing topics like sexuality in the show?
​
Lauren: I often take the mantra of make 'em laugh, make 'em cry. Laughter, in its best form, is incredibly unifying. When we laugh together, it is an auditory and physical sign that says, "Oh, you too!" Laughter bonds people together. When you laugh together, it opens the door for you to get a little deeper and maybe even cry together. Part of creating a safe space is bringing some laughter into the mix.

Additionally, from the opening of the show, I begin in a very vulnerable state. I take on the brunt of the jokes and the unease, which creates a space for others to feel safe going on the journey with me. Holy O is interactive, and to get people to participate, I have to be vulnerable myself. The show is carefully crafted that way on purpose.  

When people feel safe, they can broach the more difficult subject matters. Holy O broaches some complicated subject matters such as assault, abuse, and suicide, and the stories are told in such a way that they begin with a more light-hearted stance. And the seriousness of the subject matters is never treated with judgment, but simply "this is how it is." It makes the difficult moments easier to get through. While the Holy O does not end with a tidy solution, it does point to hope, which helps audiences process the complex subjects they've just encountered.

Describe your show in three words or less.
​
​Lauren: ​Laugh. Cry. Orgasm?

One of my favorite parts of your podcast What the Fringe?! is how you are building community and creating conversation with fringe artists. You had a great discussion with other producers from the 2024 Fringe Festival Timothy Kelly from Melancholics Anonymous and Jake Mierva and Danylo Loutchko of an alleged Theatre Company on your recent podcasts. How do you think platforms like Minnesota Fringe support our arts communities and why are they so important?

Lauren: Interviewing these three artists was so eye-opening to the value of Fringe to local production companies. Participating in Fringe was the beginning of both of these companies, and without Fringe, these two companies may not be doing what they are doing now. Both Melancholics Anonymous and an Alleged Theater Company produce quirky shows. Fringe has given them a place to try out their ideas and see if people are into it - and they are! Fringe is such a low financial stake that companies can really get experimental to see what might work in their season lineup. Additionally, Fringe helps local artists, like these two companies, build an audience base, which in turn helps them build a stronger year-round company.
​
I am a touring artist, and when I first started doing Fringe, I was a little put off by some fringes allocating large percentages of the lineup to local talent and much smaller percentages to touring artists. After a few years of hitting the fringe circuit, I get it. Fringe can be a space for local artists to grow, discover who they are, and build a loyal following that will support them throughout the year. Plus, local artists draw crowds that will not only see their friends' shows but will then try out other shows at the Fringe.

The US fringe is unique in its emphasis on local artists. Fringes in Canada and Australia emphasize country artists and touring shows, while Edinburgh is all about bringing the world to the city. I cannot say if one system is better, but I celebrate what each type offers.

Lauren Hance is a playwright, producer, director, and actress. Lauren’s plays have been produced across the country, including Chicago, Minnesota, Texas, New York, New Orleans, and California. She has worked as a writer and director at Southern Rep Theatre in New Orleans in the 6x6 and 3x3 Playwriting programs. Lauren is a proud member of the Dramatist Guild of America and has been published through Mushroom Cloud Press. Lauren is the founder of Out of Mind Productions, a small production company with the mission to present stories that stir the heart, and served two years as the Director of Theatre & Theology at CITA. Lauren’s most recent project is the podcast What the Fringe?!, where each week, she sits down with a fringe artist to talk all things fringe theatre. Lauren holds a BFA in Directing from Abilene Christian University and a MAT in Arts and Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary. She resides in Houston with her husband and two daughters. www.LaurenHance.com

It's the first weekend of the 2024 Minnesota Fringe Festival, the Midwest's largest celebration of the performing arts! Over 500 performances are happening in Minneapolis through August 11, 2024. Though I'm a long-time fan of #MNFringe, this festival has been happening long before I came onto the theater scene (for 31 years!) and I want to thank everyone who helped build this amazing community arts festival into the dynamic experience that it has grown to become!

I'm actually on the board of directors for the Minnesota Fringe Festival. I am serving my third year on the governance committee, where I work to keep the festival on track for future generations to explore adventurous art! Hit me up if you are interested in learning more about board service; I'm happy to talk with you about my experiences and what nonprofit board service has been like for someone who hasn't done anything like that before.

I attended four shows at all four time-slots yesterday, volunteer ushered for the first time in a long time, and helped run the social media for the Twin Cities Theater Bloggers. A lot is happening and I want to take a moment to invite you to join in the fun and adventure! There are lots of ways to participate in the Minnesota Fringe but the best way is to experience it for yourself. Grab a friend and head to a theater. Check out minnesotafringe.org and reach out to the staff or volunteers if you have any questions! Hope to see you at the theater.

Artfully,

Kendra

Single show tickets are $20. More Ticket Information available on their site.
2024 Collectible Minnesota Fringe Festival Buttons are $5. Every attendee needs a button to enter.
The theater venues are in various Minneapolis neighborhoods. Minnesota Fringe has lots of venue Information, so I recommend taking a look to see theater near you.

Watch out Brave New Workshop! Interact Theater's Hell is Empty and All the Devils are Here... Again! is a vibrant musical satire, delivering both political and social comedy alongside fun original music. This collaborative production features an ensemble of actors, singers, and dancers (with and without disabilities), showcasing the power of diversity and community. I was impressed with the quality of this professional show: a live band, beautiful large projections, and great lighting and sound. 

As someone impacted by chronic migraines, the show's disability-inclusive choices, including an 80-minute intermission-free show with ASL interpreters and comfortable seating, significantly enhanced the experience. These are just some of the thoughtful considerations that reflect Interact's commitment to creating a more inclusive environment for patrons. The pre-show light and noise warnings demonstrating their awareness of potential triggers and I felt at home in the audience.

Hell is Empty kicks off with the Devil, dissatisfied with the current state of affairs, returning to humanity to wreak havoc, navigating modern challenges from online manipulations to political figures and artificial intelligence. Through sketch comedy and song, Interact's actors provide a thought-provoking and giggle-inducing theatrical performance. Running through November 18th at the Luminary Arts Center in Minneapolis, Hell is Empty invites audiences to share in a communal laugh at the absurdities of contemporary life. Director Jeanne Calvit's belief in the inclusivity of art for everyone resonates  powerfully in Hell is Empty and I recommend checking out an Interact performance.

After more than three years, Frank Theatre has made a brilliant return to Twin Cities theater with the world premiere of Trista Baldwin's new play, FETAL. I've always been a fan of Frank Theatre's audacious and socially relevant theater. Their comeback (after three challenging years) exemplifies why ongoing support for small local theater companies is crucial. Theater serves as a communal space for us to collectively explore significant issues and narratives. I walked away from the show grateful for the reminder that we are not alone during difficult social challenges. Tickets are very limited for these mostly sold-out performances.

FETAL unfolds in a Texas abortion clinic on the day Roe v. Wade was overturned by the United States Supreme Court. The intimate theater immersed me in the very realistic set (by Rick Polenek) and I felt like I was in a doctor's waiting room with the actors. Baldwin's script weaves the stories of Lucy (Carolyn Pool), a corporate mother; Cass (Julia Valen), a graduate student exploring her sexuality; Liv (Elena Yazzie), a conflicted teenage girl; and Anne (Kate Beahen), a clinic worker. As the Dobbs decision looms, their choices are scrutinized, revealing the complexity of their decisions to terminate pregnancies.

Playwright Trista Baldwin, a former resident of the Twin Cities and now based in Seattle, describes FETAL as a love song to the body and a howl for freedom amid diminishing reproductive rights. The play delves into overlooked childbirth risks as Anne's story emerges, adding depth.

The climax reveals the court's decision, erasing the notion of choice. Baldwin's storytelling guides a collective realization—the only choice left is for the women to unite in adversity.

Baldwin, a Jerome Fellowships recipient, McKnight Advancement Grant awardee has a distinguished career. FETAL serves as a poignant commentary on reproductive freedom, shedding light on the complexities of women's choices. Learn more at tristabaldwin.com.

Frank Theatre's next show hasn't been announced yet, but it will be at the Gremlin Theatre in January of 2024. Get your tickets early -- before they have another sell out!

Frank Theatre
Ivy Building for the Arts
2637 27th Ave S #208
​Minneapolis, MN 55406, USA

Cherry and Spoon: "Fetal" at Frank Theatre

Read more at Cherry and Spoon

Play Off The Page:  Review of H.M.S. Pinafore

Read more at Play Off the Page

Its the 30th annual celebration of the Minnesota Fringe Festival! The 2023 Minnesota Fringe Festival is August 3-13, 2023. With over 600 artists involved this year, the performing arts community is bouncing back to live performances, and there are lots of improvised shenanigans, beautiful music & movement, and original performances now taking the stage.

What you need to know:
2023 Festival Button required for admission ($5 and available at the door) to the festival and additionally a ticket is needed for each show. More info at the Minnesota Fringe Box Office website.

​It's already five days into the festival and I've seen a bunch of shows. I recommend checking out the reviews on the Minnesota Fringe website to see what other folks are thinking about the current shows.

Greeting, outlaw and theater enthusiasts! Step into the world of Old West legends as we sit down with Angela Timberman, a talented local theater artist, who shares her experience playing Zerelda, Jesse James's mother, in the musical production of The Defeat of Jesse James, at the History Theatre from April 29 through May 28, 2023. This production offers a unique fusion of rock 'n roll, country, gospel, and pop music, while exploring the Minnesota connection to the notorious outlaw. In my conversation with Angela, we discuss her role, the importance of addressing controversial characters and issues in theater, and how this blend of musical genres influences her performance.

Join us in uncovering the rich and immersive experience of live theater and the lessons we can learn from deconstructing the stories of notorious figures like Jesse James, whose daring 1876 Northfield, Minnesota bank robbery continues to captivate our imagination. Read on to discover Angela's insights and to get a tantalizing glimpse of this high-energy production.

Artfully,

Tell us about your role in The Defeat of Jesse James at History Theatre!

Angela: I am playing the role of Jesse James's mother, Zerelda. She was one tough cookie.

She respected the white patriarchal construct of her world, but she expected the men in her life to be as tough as she was. Frank and Jesse felt the pressure of her expectations as did her 3 husbands. She was also a staunch supporter of the Confederacy. She resented the South's defeat in the Civil War and the way they suffered in the aftermath. I believe that's where most of her pride and expectations for Frank and Jesse came from. She saw their violent lives as noble and the masculine thing to do in response to the "Northern aggression" and she defended her boys to a fault.  
 
Can you share your thoughts on the importance of addressing problematic characters and controversial issues in theater?

Angela: We're fascinated by stories about people who do extraordinary or infamous things. But we have a problem contextualizing heroes and villains. Humans are rarely one or the other. A person with a noble cause can do terrible things.

Jesse's story is tied to issues that we STILL struggle with in our country today. Race and gun violence are the two big ones. That's why his story is important, because for a long time his story was one of the badass hero. And it's not true. We can learn from deconstructing or retelling these stories. And they spark important conversations.

The show is described as a blend of rock and musical theater. How has this unique fusion influenced your performance?

Angela: I think the style in which we're choosing to tell our story is effective in a kind of paradoxical way. As an actor, I may be performing a character from a different era, but I'm playing her for a modern audience in a modern setting.

It feels satirical and the audience can digest the atrocities in an oddly less emotional way. BUT, at the same time the modern sound and setting can sometimes make us even more connected emotionally. This keeps the audience on their toes. Because one minute you're laughing and the next you're sad. Or comfortable and then uncomfortable. Sure and then unsure.

What do you hope audiences will take away from The Defeat of Jesse James, and how does it contribute to the ongoing conversation about America's history and its diverse experiences?

Angela: Society creates heroes and villains, and we curate their stories into myths according to the sensibilities of the times we live in. People who do extraordinary things wake us up and speak to our own plights as humans. They are braver and bigger than our ordinary selves. Sometimes in a good way, sometimes in a bad way, sometimes in a way we don't understand but the "wow" factor is there regardless. Their lives are a kind of spiritual or moral touchstone. And when we come back to their stories, we not only re-evaluate them we re-evaluate us.

I hope the audience leaves thinking something they didn't think before they saw this play. Maybe it will be something about themselves.

Content warning:
Strong language, haze, fog, gunshot sound effects, and strobes.

"[Angela Timberman] is always dynamite in the roles that she plays, and she's especially so as Jesse's hardened mother. She has a great song called House Full of… (a-holes) that had the audience hooting with laughter."
~Play Off The Page

"Hilarious Angela Timberman as one tough mother..."
~Cherry and Spoon

"The incomparable Angela Timberman..."
~Life In Revue

​5 by JuCoby Johnson, a co-production between Trademark Theater and the Jungle Theater, is a timely and thought-provoking play that explores the complex relationships between friendship, and a community facing gentrification of their neighborhood. I was excited to see this production because of the local talent involved, it's directed by H. Adam Harris and has a great cast. 5 plays at the Jungle Theater in Uptown until April 16, 2023 and has been highly applauded by local reviewers and community members who have seen the show. 

5 takes place at a gas station in a rapidly gentrifying neighborhood, where best friends Jay and Evan are faced with a tough decision that puts their friendship to the test. When a real estate developer offers to buy their store, the two are faced with a tough decision that puts their friendship to the test. As the pressure to sell mounts...you'll have to see the show because I don't want to give away spoilers. The play's strength lies in its depth and authenticity of the main characters and the nuanced exploration of some weighty themes. 5 is a testament to the importance of supporting new works in American theater, providing playwrights with the opportunity to develop and refine their stories before they are seen by audiences. The result is a play that is both timely and timeless with touches of magical realism sprinkled through all aspects of the show and it gets weird — in a good way, cause that's how I like my theater.

The journey of how 5 got to the stage showcases the importance of supporting new works in American theater, providing playwrights with the opportunity to develop and refine their stories before they are seen by audiences. 5 by JuCoby Johnson began as a commission by Trademark Theater in 2020, as part of their new-works-to-production pipeline. Johnson worked on the play internally before its first workshop in partnership with the Playwrights' Center and Trademark Theater in 2021. The play was then named a finalist for both the 2021 O'Neill NPC and Seven Devils competitions before undergoing a workshop in collaboration with the Jungle Theater in 2022. Currently, 5 is in production for its world premiere at the Jungle Theater in 2023. Trademark Theater, founded in 2017 by Tyler Michaels King, invests in extensive development and workshop processes for each production due to their commitment to telling bold new stories.

The staging and design of 5 are also noteworthy, with the Jungle Theater's intimate space utilized to great effect. The gas station set is very realistic and the use of sound and lighting adds to the increasing sense of unease and foreboding as the play progresses. 

In this Artfully Engaging blog interview, we hear from Samantha Grimes, an award-winning singer-songwriter, who believes in writing impactful, well-written, and genuine music. Samantha shares her experiences of collaborating with other artists and how it has influenced her music. She also talks about her upcoming solo performance and what the audience can expect. Additionally, she discusses her involvement with organizations like the Minnesota Music Coalition and the Midwest Country Music Organization that have impacted her career positively. Furthermore, Samantha shares her love for creating music and the inspiration behind sharing her songs with the world. Finally, she offers some advice to aspiring musicians who are starting out in their careers.

Samantha's passion for music shines through in every performance, and she loves nothing more than sharing her music with people. After reading this interview you can find out more about Samantha and her music on her website at samanthagrimesmusic.com and follow her on Facebook and Instagram at @samanthagrimesmusic. Enjoy this Twin Cities behind-the-scenes interview!

Artfully,

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Your music covers a range of emotions and experiences, from love to loss to hate. How do you approach songwriting to convey these complex feelings? 

Samantha: I suppose I never have considered there to a be an approach to my songwriting. I generally hear something clever or catchy as I am noodling around on guitar or piano, and it elicits an emotion. From that feeling, I know I am on to a great song if it writes itself rather quickly. I have been chastised by some people for being too "wordy" in my songs - but sometimes a story or feeling needs more explanation.

I believe in my heart that the music I create is impactful, well-written, and genuine. I also tend to believe that it is good - which these awards also validate. The impact these awards have on my music honestly boils down to just the desire to create more.

Collaboration is often an important aspect of creativity. Have you collaborated with any other artists in the past, and if so, how did that influence your music?

Samantha: I consider most any music I make with other people to be a collaboration. For instance, Jon Larson who has played bass for me, was instrumental in the writing of "Red String Theory." I started writing that song when I was 11 years old. I had only created the guitar riff, and could never find words that went well with it.  One day, Jon comes around and has the perfect bass line and I wrote the entire song that evening.  After twenty-odd years of toying with it. I also feel the relationship I have with my producer, J. Christopher Vaught, has influenced my music heavily. More often than not, I have the song 99% done. I'll send him my demo that I create at home, and he takes it, listens, advises, sometimes adds or detracts items from the score, and then mixes and masters it. If that isn't a collaboration, I don't know what could possibly define it!

What can audiences expect from your upcoming performance at Arts+ Rec with special guest Allison Dyg? 

Samantha: I'm fortunate to know my audience very well.  People love a good plethora of different musical themes.  People know that I dabble in pop, country, rock, alternative, singer/songwriter, etc.  The beauty of the upcoming show at Arts + Rec Uptown is that I'll be playing all of my music solo.  Audiences will get to hear each song as I wrote them - which is a special experience all its own.  And Allison Dyg - let me tell you.  She has pipes.  She is a fantastic singer, and her original music aligns very well with what I am doing.  She reminds me a little of Tori Amos - and she holds this tremendous soul-monster inside her that can envelop an entire room. 

How has your involvement with organizations like the MN Music Coalition and the Midwest Country Music Organization impacted your career as a musician?

Samantha: I often credit both organizations, and also the International Singer/Songwriters Association, with my growth these past few years. The MN Music Coalition is an organization I joined when I was looking for an entertainment lawyer. Someone recommended them because they network and have affiliations with law firms and could negotiate a discount. Not only was that 100% true, they also have facilitated numerous bookings for me and provided opportunities I can never thank them properly for. I was playing guitar in the heart of the Mall of America thinking HOW COOL IS THIS. The MN Music Coalition did that for me.

I'm relatively new to the Midwest Country Music Organization. I always thought of myself leaning towards the rock/pop side of the genre spectrum. Then I saw Sarah Morris (another singer/songwriter) had a deep connection to them. I have listened to a great number of her songs, and I never thought they were entirely country. I'd say, at the heart, they are singer/songwriter mixed with some Americana, a little country twang here and there. But after seeing her grow her music with that affiliation, I thought well heck - I can be a part of it too then! So I became a member. The people I have met so far through the Midwest CMO have been the salt of the earth - the most wonderful people. I am so excited to attend the Midwest CMO Awards April 22nd down in Iowa. I can't wait to see my music family!

Your website and social media pages feature a lot of original music. What inspires you to keep creating new songs and sharing them with others?

Samantha: I just can't stop I suppose! Music has been with me since I was five years old. I was writing songs about my pet albino rat Skippy and sending them to National Geographic. My set, unless announced otherwise, is 100% original music. I love that I've been able to cultivate this passion of mine into a full-blown side hustle. I can share my own soul-monster with the world and have it received in a positive light. I will continue to create and share music until I can no longer physically do so. 

What advice would you give to aspiring musicians who are just starting out in their careers?
Samantha: This is tough - because I know so many incredibly gifted musicians that are just getting going that do not do the original music thing. To them, I always say to play with folks that are better than you and keep growing.

However, to the original music singer/songwriters - I have some different advice. Grit your teeth, dig in, and know your demographics. I know, for a fact, that my music would not be well received at a Primus concert. So, I won't reach for a booking that doesn't resonate with my style (like opening for Primus). If your set is 45 minutes of original music, and you do not want to rely on covers (a lot of places won't let you play covers anymore regardless) don't book a four-hour gig. Be smart about who and when you approach people for bookings, and then, put your all into it. Be tenacious. Show every venue that you are as invested as they are in putting on a great show. 

Songwriter Rounds Presented by WFNU: Three songwriters singing and performing original music
Sat, April 8 @ 6:30PM
Yellowbird Coffee Bar
1168 Selby Ave, Saint Paul, MN

St. Croix Valley Riverboat Music Festival: Three full days of music! 
Fri, June 2 - Sun, June 4 Saint Croix Falls, WI

Thanks to Arts + Rec for sponsoring this post! If you have upcoming events to promote, local Twin Cities businesses to advertise, or want to support these conversations please reach out.