Theater arts has been at the center of the creative atmosphere within Minnesota for decades. The varied array of local venues have both fostered talent through the years and brought world-renowned individuals to present their artistic approaches to our Minnesota stages. The theater scene has also been integral in social dynamics within our communities…from social issues, race, to gender.
The likes of The Guthrie, Mixed Blood, Penumbra, Park Square, Stages Theater, History Theatre, Theater in the Round, Duluth Playhouse, and so many more have drawn audiences in and left an indelible mark.
Collected here are a selection of interviews, performances, critiques, and profiles of those behind and in front of the curtains.
December 2, 1982 - MPR’s Nancy Fushan reports on Black Magic production at Mixed Blood Theatre. The play counter points Hollywood image of blacks throughout the 20th century with a more human and realistic portrait as portrayed by the music of black composers.
January 15, 1983 - MPR’s Stephen Smith profiles Edgar Allan Poe with stage actor Jake Esau. Segment includes interview with Esau and reading from Poe’s work.
July 2, 1983 - MPR’s Kevin Burns interviews George Franklin Wade, founding director of Shakespeare and Company. Wade describes the experience for audiences attending the only outdoor classical repertory theater in Minnesota.
August 6, 1983 - Minneapolis playwright John Olive details the purpose of Midwest Playwrights Program Conference at College of Saint Catherine.
April 20, 1984 - On this Midday program, Twin Cities community theater is discussed by Lyn Lohr, co-founder of the History Theatre in St. Paul, Minnesota; and Jack Reuler, director of Mixed Blood Theater.
December 10, 1984 - Carolyn Levy, director of Women's Theatre Project, discusses Red Light, Green Light, a play being performed at the Cricket Theatre.
June 10, 1986 - Garland Wright, new artistic director of the Guthrie Theater, discusses his plans for the Guthrie Theater. Topics include managing through artists, play selection, and the architecture of building. Wright also answers listener questions.
July 30, 1986 - MPR’s Beth Friend reports on staging of John Olive's Short Stories and Tall Tales. The performers, Kevin Kling and James Lawless discuss the work.
August 27, 1986 - MPR’s Beth Friend interviews renowned actor Hal Holbrook about his experience in portraying American writer and humorist Mark Twain on the stage.
September 20, 1986 - Dudley Riggs, producer and director of the Brave New Workshop, reflects on the entertainment business in the Twin Cities, and development of the Brave New Workshop Comedy Theatre. Riggs also answers listener classes.