It might not be the most pleasant topic to think about, but it is a part of life: we are all going to die. But how can we die better? Many Americans are reflecting on this question and recognizing that their carbon footprint extends past death, shunning traditional burials in the process. Over half (53.8%) … [ Read more]
Back to the Earth: When it comes to after-death care and burials, green is the new black
September 30, 2019 by
Living Outside the Box: A Q&A with pianist, activist, and musical auteur Lara Bolton
August 20, 2019 by
Lara Bolton’s impressive array of performances, creations, and occupations defies any attempt at being clearly labeled, and her work—imbued with sparkle and elan—can be relied upon to trigger something of the unexpected in those who experience it. Recently praised by the Star Tribune for her “heroic presence at the piano,” Bolton is known for her versatile … [ Read more]
Art for the People: Local groups are changing the way art is consumed by putting it in the hands of the community
March 26, 2019 by
In the quest to make art more available and accessible to the public, artists are continually thinking outside the box—the box being, in many cases, the limitations of a literal, physical building. “There are 50,000 people who travel just on Hennepin Avenue alone on any given day,” says Joan Vorderbruggen, who oversees the largest public … [ Read more]
‘Out There’ Experimental Performances: A Q&A with Philip Bither, performing arts curator at the Walker Art Center
January 10, 2019 by
Rising visa costs, international airfare and freight, scouting and booking artists from around the world: these are essential obstacles for Walker Art Center senior performing arts curator Philip Bither to overcome when piecing together the annual Out There festival. “There are so many shared ideas and energy these days that it feels like keeping [the … [ Read more]
Liquid Music: Former ballet dancer’s alt-classical series is on point
December 5, 2018 by
Curatorial dynamo Kate Nordstrum launched The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra’s Liquid Music series—now in its seventh season—to international acclaim. From her years training as a dancer to curating concerts across the country, music inspires Kate Nordstrum to action. “As a dancer, you relate to music viscerally,” says Nordstrum. “You think about how it feels in your … [ Read more]
Pop music and classical opera meet picnic-on-a-farm with Picnic Operetta
August 30, 2018 by
Unlikely pairings can lead to uniquely satisfying outcomes: whiskey chased with pickle brine, Lady Gaga duetting with Tony Bennett, cronuts. This concept is familiar territory to Scotty Reynolds, who has not only embraced it but created an entirely new artistic enterprise from it in Picnic Operetta. Juxtaposing classical music, pop music, a five-course picnic, and environmental … [ Read more]
