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.
January 27, 1993 - MPR’s Beth Friend reports on Penumbra Theatre play King of Coons. The play is a portrayal of Black film comedian Stepin Fetchit.
August 27, 1993 - MPR’s Cathy Wurzer interviews playwright Rebecca Rice about Penumbra Theatre production of Waiting in Vain. Rice talks about Sudeka Linda Harrison and youth in the arts.
November 25, 1993 - MPR’s Liz Hannon interviews director Brian Grandison about the play "Everlasting Arms," with a cast dramatization.
January 22, 1994 - MPR’s Chris Roberts talks with American composer Dominick Argento about his opera The Dream of Valentino, a chronicle of the life of silent movie star Rudolph Valentino.
January 24, 1995 - MPR’s Greta Cunningham talks with Lou Bellamy, artistic director at Penumbra Theatre, about playwright August Wilson and his latest play Seven Guitars.
August 26, 1995 - MPR’s Chris Roberts interviews playwright and actor Mark Broyard about his play Inside the Creole Mafia. Broyard discusses the racial aspects of play.
September 22, 1995 - Lou Bellamy directs Big White Fog at the Guthrie Theater. Bellamy talks about the racial issues in play that are still in the contemporary culture. Feature includes clips from play.
October 9, 1995 - Part one of a Voices of Minnesota segment featuring interview with Garland Wright, actor and the long-time artistic director at the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis. Wright talks of his theatrical career.
October 9, 1995 - Part two of a Voices of Minnesota segment continues an interview with Garland Wright, actor and the long-time artistic director at the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis. Wright talks of his theatrical career.
February 1, 1996 - Joe Dowling, Guthrie Theater's new artistic director, visits the Minnesota Public Radio studios to discuss the new season of Guthrie plays and the theater world in general. Dowling also answers listener questions.