Minnesota Orchestra Hall

Orchestra Hall originally opened in 1974 and features a large variety of concerts during the year. Now I know what you’re thinking, classical music? Maybe it’s not for you and that’s ok because Orchestra Hall doesn’t play just that. They often will put on Film Concerts where audience members will watch a movie but with the live orchestrations being played. These movies range from your favorite Disney classics to the magical world of Harry Potter. Let me say you don’t know how epic it is watching Star Wars until you hear a live orchestra playing the Imperial March right in front of you.

Orchestra Hall is also the premiere spot in the Twin Cities to see concerts by some of your favorite Broadway singers. A few years ago I saw Leslie Odom Jr., yes from Hamilton, perform a concert and it was one of the best experiences I’d ever had there!

The Jungle Theater

One of my personal favorite theatres in Minneapolis is located right off Lyndale in the incredible Uptown neighborhood. The Jungle Theater focuses primarily on telling stories that matter, with deep care and attention to detail. Last year I saw A Doll’s House, Part II and it remains today to be one of my favorite local performances I’ve ever seen. In my mind, great theater is not only there to entertain but also help challenge societal views and spark a conversation on challenging topics which the Jungle does flawlessly.

Don’t take my word for it, check out the numerous awards they’ve won over the years. They clearly know what they are doing. Tickets for the intimate 150-seat theater typically run between $40 and $50, which is a steal for the quality and caliber that these performances are. Before or after you go to a show, check out Lynlake Brewery located directly across the street!

LOCAL TIP: The Jungle Theater is right off of busy Lyndale Avenue which means parking can be a bit of a pain. There is a lot behind the theater you can pay. If you’re looking for free street parking, there is plenty around and you can take a nice stroll, weather permitting of course.

Theater Latté Da

Theater Latté Da's home is in the intimate Ritz Theater in the heart of Northeast Minneapolis. As the only nonprofit professional theater in the Twin Cities that exclusively produces musical theater, Theater Latté Da presents work that's bold, inclusive and collaborative. The troupe is going on its 26th season.

Twin Cities Gay Men's Chorus

Recently celebrating their 43rd season, the Twin Cities Gay Men's Chorus is one of the largest LGBTQ+ arts organizations in Minnesota. Through the power of music and inclusivity, they continue to confront homophobia and intolerance so that they can affect positive social change. Not to mention they are just fantastic. TCGMC performs all across the state and has such a wide array of programming. Be sure to stay up to date on their calendar by visiting their website. You can also buy their music to bring the concert straight to you by purchasing their music online!

Drag Brunch through Flip Phone Events

The Drag Brunches that are usually hosted on Union Rooftop and produced by Flip Phone Events have quickly grown to be a queer staple in Minneapolis. These brunches have also expanded to places like Crave and more. There is a wide variety of themes from specific artists to pop culture moments and even TV shows. They’ve done everything from Disney Villains to Schitt’s Creek. Yup, that’s right. Ever wanted to enjoy your breakfast with Moira Rose giving her infamous fruit wine monologue because you totally can. Be sure to bring some singles to tip these hardworking, creative and entertaining drag queens. Queens that make reappearing performances include, but are not limited to, RuPaul’s Drag Race contestants Utica and Mercedes Iman Diamond, Julia Starr, and Tygra.

These events typically sell out, sometimes within hours of going on sale. Their brunches often help raise money as well for OutFront Minnesota which is a local nonprofit committed to providing LGBTQ excellence and advocacy work for MN.

So You Think You Can Drag?

Wednesdays at the Gay 90’s

Hosted by the hilarious Alotta Shots, this amazing talent show is hosted at the Gay 90’s every Wednesday. It’s an open stage contest is open to all drag artists and experiences and often includes guest appearances by other established artists. Many of the largest drag queens in the city got their start at the historic Gay 90’s and in competitions just like this. Bring your friends, grab a drink, laugh a lot and enjoy these fantastic performances.

LUSH Lounge & Theater

Tucked away in Northeast Minneapolis, LUSH is a premier destination for live music, comedy, drag, burlesque and much more. Check out the LUSH event calendar to find your next drag show, trivia night or dance party! You can also order a wide selection of savory bites and cocktails to enjoy while you take in the show.

Guthrie Theater

The Guthrie Theater was created in 1963 as a way to highlight local talent and provide the audience with a captivating story. It was less commercial and produced at a lower cost than some of the larger Broadway shows of the time. Yet with three different stages each with a unique audience perspective, it was possible to shape and mold the way an audience viewed a performance. Today, the Guthrie not only provides outstanding performances with a variety of plays and concerts, but it offers classes and workshops for those just starting out or looking to live out their passion.

Hennepin Arts

Owning the State, Orpheum and Pantages theatre along Hennepin Ave, Hennepin Arts helps bring Broadway to the Twin Cities. Every year they bring an incredible line up of touring Tony-award winning Broadway shows like Wicked, Dear Evan Hansen, The Book of Mormon, Hamilton and more. Hennepin Arts also brings a lot of standup performances to the State and Pantages theater, including Chelsea Handler, Ali Wong and the hilarious Kathy Griffin.

After you’re done seeing a show at any one of these historic theatres, the Saloon is just a short walk away for you to enjoy in some more quality entertainment, drink and a late night snack. Try the chicken fingers, you’ll thank me later.

Roxy's Cabaret

When you visit Roxy's you get to see Minneapolis’s most glamorous drag queens star in an immersive entertainment experience featuring world class celebrity and female impersonators. Enjoy their signature cocktails and a full menu of food to keep you sustained for the entire show. Live shows happen five nights a week starring Nina DiAngelo, Monica West and RuPaul’s drag race winner BeBe Zahara Benet and don't miss the Drag Brunch every Sunday! For show times or tickets visit their website.

Northrop

See some of the best concert dance at the University of Minnesota's Northrop Auditorium. The theater hosts stellar dance companies from around the country and the world, like Dance Theatre of Harlem and American Ballet Theatre. Each season features famous dance legends, fresh takes on familiar classics and bold new works by acclaimed choreographers.