The Minneapolis/Saint Paul area is known for its awesome artsy and cultural side, and this is definitely reflected in its wealth and variety of performing arts venues. Here are a few of the very best.
The Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis is highlighted by its superb riverfront setting, three stages and acclaimed regional theatre that has received Tony Awards in the past. The venue also offers group tours and even acting courses, for those attendees wanting to channel their dramatic talents.
Another experiential offering is provided by the Brave New Workshop, an improv troupe that puts on performances and also works with groups in special workshops. The Minneapolis CVB recently hired the company to deliver a keynote speech at their annual meeting and reports that it was a smash hit. The troupe’s headquarters, the snazzy Experiential Thinking Centre in downtown Minneapolis, is another plus, and it can be configured for various affairs ranging from banquets to conference-style meetings.
Minneapolis Northwest offers the Yellow Tree Theatre, a small company offering an art gallery and quirky plays that break away from the tried-and-true. For fair-weather visitors, the Town Green Maple Grove (www.maplegrovemn.gov) showcases a waterside bandshell with terraced seating for up to 300 and ample rolling lawns for folding chairs or lying back on a blanket.
For groups that believe in the power of laughter, the Joke Joint in St. Paul is an intimate venue offering free admission for its Wednesday open-mic nights. For big-name comics, turn to Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy at the Mall of America, hosting comedians such as David Alan Greer and Kevin Nealon, with Rob Schneider slated for a visit this fall.