Event highlights this week include:
April 5 - May 25, Lanesboro Holmes and Watson
April 4-20, Minneapolis Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival
April 20, Glenwood Killer Vees - Classic Country
April 20, Longville Easter EGGStravaganza
April 19-21, Duluth Cirque Du Soleil: CRYSTAL
Southern Minnesota
April 5 - May 25, Lanesboro Holmes and Watson Don't miss this twisting, tantalizing mystery! Sherlock Holmes has been dead three years when Dr. Watson receives a message from a mental asylum: three patients are claiming to be Sherlock Holmes. Did the world's greatest sleuth fake his own death? Who's the real detective and who are the impostors? Find out in this gripping, witty, intelligent thriller. Commonweal Theatre Company. 507-467-2525
April 11-20, Mankato The Hunchback of Notre Dame The musical begins as the bells of Notre Dame fill the famed cathedral in 15th-century Paris. Quasimodo, the deformed bell-ringer, observes all of Paris reveling in the Feast of Fools. Held captive by his devious caretaker, Dom Claude Frollo, he escapes for the day and joins the boisterous crowd, only to be treated cruelly by all but the beautiful gypsy, Esmeralda. Minnesota State University Theatre & Dance. 507-389-2118
April 19, Austin Austin ArtRocks Open Jam Session Enjoy an open jam session for musicians to meet and play with other musicians. A house band will set the stage and host the event. Players can bring their guitars, basses, horns, sticks, keyboards, washboards, etc., and singers and songwriters bring themselves, their words and their voices. ArtRocks events are open to friends and family members of jammers, as well as the public. No need to play or perform -- listening is an art too! Austin ArtWorks Center. 507-434-0934
April 20, Mankato Viva Vivaldi! Free Family Series This performance features musicians, actors, storytelling and musical activities. The entire venue and its surroundings are filled with numerous child-friendly activities. Come to the concert an hour early and enjoy free admission to the Children's Museum! Children's Museum of Southern Minnesota. 507-625-8880
April 26-28, Marietta Salt Lake Birding Weekend The 42nd Annual Salt Lake Birding Weekend offers birders a chance to view over 140 species of birds. Volunteers will guide birders around Salt Lake, Big Stone Refuge, and the lakes, wetlands and native prairies of Lac qui Parle, Yellow Medicine and Big Stone counties. This event is free and open to all who are interested. No pre-registration is required. 952-595-9265
April 27, Faribault Aretha - Honoring the Queen of Soul Power vocalists Mary Lieser and Dianna Parks return to the Paradise stage after back-to-back sell-outs with their Linda Ronstadt and fABBAulous shows. Joining them will be LaSonya Natividad from the band KnuFunk. The legendary Aretha Franklin is honored and remembered in this special tribute backed by Incognito, several times voted Rochester's Favorite Band. Paradise Center for the Arts. 507-332-7372
April 27, Wabasha Eagle Viewing Field Trips Learn about bald eagles in the Upper Mississippi River Valley and enjoy great views of bald eagles in the wild on guided tours with expert naturalists. Little walking is required - just step on and off the bus. Field trips return to the National Eagle Center for light refreshments and a chance to share photos and stories from the day. Field trips conclude by 5 p.m. National Eagle Center. 651-565-4989
May 2-5, Winona 100 Mile Garage Sale Residents and stores clean out their attics, garages and basements to create the most spectacular garage sale imaginable! A trail of distinctive colored ribbons will identify participating garage sales along Hwy 61 from Red Wing to Winona. Numerous cities along the Mississippi River. 507-452-0735
Minneapolis-St. Paul Area
March 1 - Sept. 28, Chanhassen Mamma Mia! One mom. One daughter. Three possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you'll never forget! Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. 952-934-1525
March 22 - April 30, Apple Valley Farm Babies Come out and enjoy the sights and sounds of spring at the Wells Fargo Family Farm. There's nothing cuter than baby chicks, piglets, lambs, calves, goat kids and bunnies! Minnesota Zoo. 952-431-9200
April 4-20, Minneapolis Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival The 38th Annual Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival presents bold, exciting and moving works by emerging and veteran filmmakers with more than 250 new films from around the globe! Socials, discussions and special events will also be offered. St. Anthony Main Theatre. 612-331-7563
April 18-20, Minneapolis Wicked Wenches Present Sherlock Holmes Wicked Wenches Cabaret presents yet another comedic Vaudevical--this time tackling the escapades of Sherlock Holmes! Enjoy this new take on an old classic filled with comedy, circus arts, fire and more! Minnsky Theatre. 612-930-1517
April 20, Roseville Earth Day Celebration Celebrate spring and celebrate the planet during the Earth Day Celebration at the Harriet Alexander Nature Center. Check out the exhibits inside the building, visit the Eureka recycling truck in the parking lot, take a guided tour of the marsh along the boardwalk, watch "The Lorax" movie, join a walking parade and take part in other spring games and activities. Since this is also the nature center’s 29th birthday, enjoy free music and birthday cake! Harriet Alexander Nature Center. 651-792-7012
April 20, Medina Funky Brew Medina Beer Festival Funky Brew Medina is a craft beer festival, named after a play on words of the infamous Tone Loc song: "Funky Cold Medina!" This event will feature local breweries, showcasing their products and knowledge, to expose guests to the world of craft beer. There will also be live music and activities to participate in throughout the festival. Medina Entertainment Center. 763-478-6661
April 20, Lino Lakes Family Earth Day Celebration Enjoy a free fun-filled family-oriented Earth Day celebration. Learn about Wargo’s unique offerings and activities, make your own earth art project to take home, listen to live music, explore the trails and enjoy light refreshments and the lovely spring weather. Also be sure to visit the Earth Day Fair, where local organizations will provide information and businesses will showcase earth-friendly products. Wargo Nature Center. 763-324-3350
April 20, Minneapolis The Prince Legacy Tour: Sights & Sounds of Minneapolis Join us as we honor the life of one of Minneapolis's favorite sons, Prince. Offered on special commemorative dates (or by private booking), this fun, exciting bus tour will take you to all the important sites that played a role in creating the rock icon he eventually became. Minneapolis Visitor Information Center. 612-750-9898
April 26, Minneapolis PRINCE: In Concert on the Big Screen See newly remastered and never-before-released audio and video of Prince accompanied live on stage by an all-star ensemble of musicians who performed alongside the icon throughout his storied career. The live concert experience will showcase Prince in his inimitable sound and style, highlighting the incendiary energy he brought to each perform. The Armory. 612-315-3965
April 26-27, Chanhassen The Best of Burt Bacharach Henry Duncan Matthews (HDM) features three legendary award winning vocalists together in tribute to the music of the one and only Burt Bacharach. The Best of Burt Bacharach will feature HDM backed by a quintet of world-class musicians performing new arrangements written especially for this show. Each of these vocal titans has a history of commanding the stage with magical solo performances - and when they synthesize their talents, the sum is greater than its parts. Hear songs like "What the World Needs Now," "The Look of Love," "What's New Pussycat," "Do You Know the Way to San Jose?," "I Say A Little Prayer For You," "Promises, Promises," "Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head," "I'll Never Fall In Love Again," "That's What Friends Are For" and many more! Chanhassen Dinner Theatre's Fireside Theatre. 952-934-1525
April 26-28, St. Paul Minnesota Horse Expo The Minnesota Horse Expo is Minnesota's largest equine trade show with over 700 trade show booths in five State Fair buildings and lining the streets of the Expo grounds. This easy-access marketplace is for anyone wanting to find merchandise related to horses and their owners! Also enjoy numerous speakers and demonstrations. And be sure to attend the daily Barnes PRCA Rodeos at the Coliseum. Veterans get free admission to matinee Rodeo performance on Sunday! Minnesota State Fairgrounds. 952-922-8666
April 27, Hastings Earth Day Birding Festival Celebrate the many birds of Minnesota at the 6th Annual Hastings Area Earth Day Birding Festival. Attend classes and demonstrations on raptors, birding and bird banding, and take guided bird trips throughout the Hastings area. Reservations required. Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center. 651-437-4359
April 27, Buffalo Ladies Day Out - Birthplace of Occasional Shoppe Buffalo, the birthplace of the occasional sale concept, hosts over 20 unique specialty shoppes with some open only one weekend a month. Ladies Day Out is a great opportunity to hit all the Shoppes open with special happenings and promotions for guests all day long. Downtown Buffalo. 763-682-4902
April 27, Minneapolis An Evening with David Sedaris David Sedaris returns to the State Theatre for his annual engagement, and to introduce his new book: Theft By Finding Diaries 1977-2002. With sardonic wit and incisive social critiques, David Sedaris has become one of America's pre-eminent humor writers. The great skill with which he slices through cultural euphemisms and political correctness proves that Sedaris is a master of satire and one of the most observant writers addressing the human condition today. Historic State Theatre. 612-339-7007
April 28, St. Paul Women Who Influence Festival This event creates an environment where women can learn from one another’s experiences. The day will include appetizers and drink, inspiring conversation, educational topics, Instagram-worthy photo ops, shopping local and some extra special surprises. Attendees will spend their day learning from motivational guest speakers from a broad range of backgrounds and enjoy time to connect with other creatives. You’re entering a community of like-minded boss babes who know that together we can accomplish far more than apart. Urban Growler Brewery. 651-340-5793
Upcoming Twin Cities' concerts and performances include: Dave Chappelle at Varsity Theater in Minneapolis, April 14-17 Hello, Dolly! at the Historic Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, April 16-28 Ariana Grande at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, April 17 The Oak Ridge Boys at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Prior Lake, April 18 Alice in Chains at The Armory in Minneapolis, April 19 The Magic of Adam Trent at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, April 20 Godsmack at The Armory, April 22 Beth Hart at the Pantages Theatre in Minneapolis, April 23 An Evening with David Sedaris at the Historic State Theatre in Minneapolis, April 27 Bill Engvall at Treasure Island Resort & Casino in Welch, April 27 Stadium Rock with the Fabulous Armadillos at Ames Center in Burnsville, April 27 Andy Grammer - Dream 2019 at The Armory in Minneapolis, April 27 Jo Koy at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, April 27 La Doble Moral El Musical at the Historic State Theatre, April 28 WWE Presents NXT Live! at Roy Wilkins Auditorium at St. Paul RiverCentre, April 28 Double Dare Live! at the Historic State Theatre, May 1 Jessie James Decker at the Historic State Theatre, May 2 Overkill at Varsity Theatre in Minnepolis, May 3 Stars on Ice at the Xcel Energy Center, May 3 Garth Brooks at the U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, May 3-4 ABBA - The Concert at Treasure Island Resort & Casino, May 4 P!NK: Beautiful Trauma Tour at the Xcel Energy Center, May 5 The 1975 at The Armory, May 7 The Play That Goes Wrong at the Historic Orpheum Theatre, May 7-12 An Evening with 98 Degrees at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, May 10 RBRM: Ronnie, Bobby, Rocky & Mike at The Armory, May 10 David Crosby at the Pantages Theatre, May 10 The Twin Cities Ballet of Minnesota: Narnia at Ames Center in Burnsville, May 10-12 Chicago at Treasure Island Resort & Casino, May 11 Ira Glass - Seven Things I've Learned at the Historic State Theatre, May 11 Griz at the Armory, May 17 Sammy Hagar & The Circle at the Mystic Lake Ampitheater, May 17 Celtic Woman - Ancient Land Cher: Here We Go Again Tour at the Xcel Energy Center, May 18 Jim Jefferies at the Historic Orpheum Theatre, May 18 Tickets are available through Hennepin Theatre Trust and Ticketmaster
Central Minnesota
April 5-20 (Friday, Saturday & Sunday), St. Cloud Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat This irresistible story of Joseph and his coat of many colors comes to vibrant life in this delightful musical parable. The toe-tapping score is full of unforgettable songs, including "Any Dream Will Do," "Close Every Door," and "Go, Go, Go Joseph." This is the show most requested by audiences! Paramount Center for the Arts. 320-259-5463
April 19-20, Alexandria 9 Circles - Stage Play A psychological thriller based on actual events, 9 Circles tells the story of an American soldier on trial for his life. Follow this astonishing soldier on a tour de force journey to a shattering conclusion in which the infinite size and tremendous power of a young man’s soul is revealed. The show contains adult language. Fire Pit Productions. 320-815-7664
April 20, Glenwood Killer Vees - Classic Country "Classic Country" is a musical celebration of the great hits from the golden age of country music featuring a cast of all-star musicians and singers. Central Square Cultural & Civic Center. 320-634-0400
April 27, Fergus Falls I Am... He Said: A Neil Diamond Tribute Matt Vee Family & Friends Present I Am, He Said With songs like Cracklin' Rosie, Song Sung Blue, and Sweet Caroline, Neil Diamond sold over 100 million records worldwide, and produced musical hits spanning five decades. Diamond penned songs recorded by everyone from Elvis Presley to Deep Purple and, of course, the Monkee's classic, "I'm A Believer." Join Matt, Jeff and Tommy Vee (nephew and sons of the legendary Bobby Vee) for a celebration of this amazing music icon. Historic Fergus Theatre. 218-736-5453
April 27-28, St. Cloud Midwest Handmade MN Maker Fair Don't miss this large indoor handmade-only arts and craft fair featuring more than 75 makers and artists from throughout the Midwest. Enjoy lunch and refreshments at the concession stands. Admission is free. River's Edge Convention Center - Door D. 320-428-0410
May 3, St. Cloud Church of CASH - The Johnny Cash Show Whether you are an old-timer that grew up listening to Mr. Cash or someone who loves the classics, the Church of Cash will deliver the music of Johnny Cash with style and energy. Church of CASH is loyal to Johnny's song and the message, and performs his music with a youthful spirit that engages all audiences. Pioneer Place on Fifth. 320-203-0331
May 4, Nisswa KFAN Golf Opener Tent Party: Live Music by Rock Godz Attend the annual KFAN Golf Opener Tent Party and enjoy great food, beer and live music outside, under a large tent. Grand View Lodge Spa & Golf Course. 218-963-2234
Northwest Minnesota
April 19, Mahnomen Chris Janson Concert at Shooting Star Casino Chris Janson is famous for his song about a simple man fantasizing about winning big and buying a boat -- perfect for the Shooting Star Casino stage! Also enjoy all of his other soulful American, chart-topping country rhythms. Shooting Star Casino. 800-313-7469
April 20, Longville Easter EGGStravaganza Head to Common Grounds in downtown Longville for a free Easter Egg hunt for the youngsters. Every child will get Easter eggs and a gift. Special eggs contain special prizes, plus there will be drawings for more gifts! Be sure to bring your camera for photos with the Easter Bunny. Common Grounds. 218-363-2630
April 20, Nevis Nevis Easter Egg Hunt The Nevis Easter Egg Hunt is an annual tradition with a chance to find eggs and maybe win a bike! Roughly 10,000 eggs with special surprises will be spread throughout the park. Muskie Park in downtown Nevis. 218-652-3115
April 20, Crookston Easter Egg Scramble & Vendor Fair Children will enjoy free Easter eggs filled with prizes, as well as food, fun activities, pictures with the Easter Bunny, face painting, arts and crafts! Crookston Sports Center. 218-281-4320
April 25 - May 18, Moorhead Theatre B Presents "Cry It Out" Three new moms from different backgrounds bond over parenting babies. Seem simple? Well, friendship, marriage and careers are anything but simple in Cry It Out, a comedy with dark edges. Cry It Out takes an honest look at the absurdities of navigating women's choices, family life and job security in modern day America. Theatre B. 701-729-8880
April 26-27, Bemidji Pine to Prairie Fiber Arts Trail Tour Don't miss this tour where fiber enthusiasts can visit studios, watch demos, have fun making small projects, see a trunk show and shop for fiber arts goodness! In addition, the Watermark Art Center will be the site of a textile themed exhibit. 612-961-1601
May 3, Detroit Lakes Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Big Bad Voodoo Daddy blends a vibrant fusion of classic American jazz, swing and Dixieland, with the energy and spirit of contemporary culture. After 25 years together and countless appearances on film and TV, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy will show you that it's still cool to swing! Historic Holmes Theatre. 218-844-7469
Northeast Minnesota
April 14-28, Duluth Sister Act Based on the 1992 movie, this glorious disco musical follows Deloris on her madcap escape from the clutches of corruption, as gritty Philadelphia meets the sanctuary of the church. Marshall Performing Arts Center/Weber Music Hall. 218-726-8561
April 19-21, Duluth Cirque Du Soleil CRYSTAL Cirque du Soleil's unique arena production, CRYSTAL, showcases synchronized, freestyle and extreme skating alongside circus disciplines such as swinging trapeze, aerial straps, balancing on chairs and hand-to-hand. AMSOIL Arena. 218-722-5573
April 20, Chisholm Family Discovery Day: Ore and More Delve into mining. What is "ore?" How do we find it? How do we mine it? How do we extract metal from it? What do we make from it? Explore the process with hands on activities and displays for kids. Minnesota Discovery Center. 218-254-7959
April 26 - May 4, Duluth Renegade Theater Presents: Birds of a Feather Birds of a Feather recounts the story of Roy and Silo, the two Central Park Zoo chinstrap penguins who partnered, adopted an egg, hatched and raised a chick together. Roy and Silo are no strangers to the spotlight. In 2005, they were the subject of a widely contested children's book, And Tango Makes Three, by Peter Parnell and Justin Richardson. The book, temporarily pulled from school bookshelves in Loudoun County, became one of the most banned books in America. Zeitgeist Teatro Zuccone. 218-336-1417
April 28, Grand Rapids World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra With its unique jazz sound, the Glenn Miller Orchestra is considered to be one of the greatest bands of all time. The present Glenn Miller Orchestra was formed in 1956 and has been touring consistently since, playing an average of 300 live dates a year all around the world. Reif Performing Arts Center. 218-327-5780
April 28 - May 5, Duluth Duluth Homegrown Music Festival The Homegrown Music Festival is an annual celebration of the original and diverse music of Duluth. What started as a birthday party with just five acts, has blossomed to a regionally recognized, 180+ local act, community-wide music, arts and film extravaganza. Weeklong passes are $30. Venues in and around Duluth. 715-790-6335
May 3-5, Sandstone Women's Wellness & Adventure Weekend Located on the shores of Grindstone Lake, the Audubon Center of the North Woods’ 535 acres of beautifully varied landscapes provide the perfect setting for this complete holistic adventure. Spend this weekend with your friends or take the opportunity to get away by yourself, meet new people, and learn new skills. Choose from a variety of mind, body & spirit activities, enjoy a massage, schedule a private reading or healing touch session, or just relax and take in nature. Audubon Center of the North Woods. 320-245-2648
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