ARTS & CULTURE THEATER & PERFORMING ARTS Where to See Live Theater By Devon Cox Guthrie Theater Minnesota ranked #1 for public arts spending in 2024, which explains the quality, breadth and depth of the state’s theater landscape. From live theater and opera to dance and comedy, Minnesotans are never at a loss for a show to see. No matter your taste (or age), there’s a theater producing work tailor-made for you. Broadway National Tours across three historic theaters in downtown Minneapolis. At the edge of downtown, the Walker Art Center features an eclectic mix of experimental theater, dance, music and live performances from across the globe. In St. Paul, The Ordway is the fl agship arts venue. Hosting a vast array of music and theater productions, it’s also home to The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra , Schubert Club and Minnesota Opera . GUTHRIE THEATER Not only is the Guthrie Minnesota’s fl agship theater and a feat of modern architecture; it’s the birthplace of the American regional theater movement. Founded in 1963 on the principle that the highest-caliber theater shouldn’t require a trip to Broadway, the Guthrie clinched the regional theater TONY Award in 1982. In 2006, the theater moved from its Loring Park home to a brand-new, 285,000-square-foot facility on the Mississippi River, designed by famed French architect Jean Nouvel. IMPROV THEATER & COMEDY CLUBS Did you know that Minneapolis is home to the oldest sketch comedy club in the country? Founded in 1958, Dudley Riggs’ Brave New Workshop (now stewarded by the Hennepin Theater Trust) has been making Minneapolitans laugh for over half a century. Love stand-up? See what’s happening at Comedy Club Underground or ACME Comedy Club , which often books big-name comics. Prefer improv? Check out ComedySportz . REGIONAL PRODUCTIONS In the Northeast Minneapolis Arts District, Theater Latté Da is the spot for intimate, award-winning musical theater spanning well-known favorites and bold new work. BROADWAY & TOURING THEATER Minneapolis-St. Paul is a hub for major productions. The Hennepin Theater Trust is Minnesota’s largest organization hosting 36 | EXPLORE MINNESOTA .COM
Explore Minnesota Travel Guide 2025 Explore Minnesota Travel Guide: Page 36
