‘Arts’ Archives
2020 Vision
Plagued by uncertainty and stress? It’s our never-ending story. When will l gather with my community in joy instead of fear? I’m constantly anxious and questioning who will still be here. “Be palatable or the token to survive” seems like nothing about this lived-experience is fair. Though some are blinded by greed and hatred while others are naive; I, however, still see it clear. Even when they question the validity of my citizenship, I still see it clear. As I deal with the everlasting trauma that comes with being unequivocally Black… I still see it clear. Through all of their cruel and divisive tactics, I still see it clear. How could I not? How could I ever lose focus or get distracted when society generously reminds us of their hatred for our complexion? I’m tired of drowning in oppression and fear. For once, I’d love to float effortlessly and enjoy the stillness of life. But instead, I’m trapped in the current; while still trying to see [...]
Bug Ballet
By ORREN FEN Set in South Minneapolis on the windowsill of a recently deceased Grandmother’s home, Bug Ballet is a large puppet and dance spectacle told through movement and original music, centered on the creeping, otherworldly, and often overlooked creatures we share our lives and homes with. Bug Ballet takes inspiration from the virtuosity of ballet form, but throws many of the typical rules and structures out the window, replacing them with giant puppets and theatrical dance. What will happen when we are gone and our homes sit empty, deteriorating, decomposing? Maybe if we are lucky they will become grand stages for the Bug Ballet! Performed at the Southern Theater1420 S. Washington Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454More information and tickets available online at Southerntheater.org Event dates & timesFriday, March 6thSaturday, March 7th (Masks Required Night)Sunday, March 8thThursday, March 12thFriday, March 13th (Masks Required Night)Saturday, March 14thAll [...]
The Silent Star of South Minneapolis
By BRAD TROM A winter sun hangs low and cold,Above the stories left untold.On Wednesday next, the news broke wide,With nowhere left for grief to hide.A daughter, mother, neighbor, friend—A life that met a reckless end.They governed for the camera’s lens,To satisfy their own amens.But sensational sparks leave ashes behind,And fear is a harvest of a bitter kind.In Minneapolis, the sirens cried,For Renee Nicole, who shouldn’t have died.A Promise in the FrostThe Governor speaks with a heavy heart,“They will not tear our homes apart.”Though headlines chase the conflict’s fire,The North Star State aims something higher.Not in the streets with stone and flame,But in the courts, they’ll speak her name.The Day of UnityOn Friday, when the air was still,A different force began to fillThe parks, the pews, the quiet halls—A grace that answers duty’s calls.A moment held in silence deep,For promises we mean to keep.A Hand Extended: Through acts of care.A Shared Breath: In the [...]
