On My Radar 1.7.09 - The Abysmal Winter Edition

 

Who: If You're Looking for Good Old Fashioned Fun

What: Chautauqua

When: Thursday, Jan. 8 through Saturday, Jan 10 8 p.m.

Where: Walker Art Center, 1750 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis

Why: As part of the twenty-first season of the Walker Out There series, the National Theater of the USA presents Chautauqua! The McGuire Theater will be transformed for this vaudeville production, which blends music, dance, debate, circus acts, and even a few scientific experiments. All of these lively performance arts were a central part of the Chautauqua Circuit, an extravagant network of artists, performers, and lecturers who traveled around the country for nearly sixty years in the 1800s. The performance touches on everything American in this reincarnated version of The Circuit, which Theodore Roosevelt called "the most American thing in America."

How Much: $20

Learn More: www.walkerart.org

 

 

 

Who: Rapunzels

What: 2^nd Annual Maple Grove Locks of Love Drive

When: Sunday, January 11

Where: Element Salon, 11395 96^th Ave. N., Maple Grove

Why: In partnership with Element Salon, the Maple Grove Ambassadors will host the second annual Locks of Love Drive. Receive a complimentary haircut and hand massage by donating 10 inches of hair. Those who do not have 10 inches of hair to donate can take advantage of a $25 haircut with all proceeds benefiting Locks of Love. To schedule an appointment, contact Element Salon at 763.425.2977 as space is limited. Locks of Love is a public non-profit organization that provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children under age 18 suffering from long-term medical hair loss from a medical condition called alopecia areata, which has no known cause or cure.

How Much: Free with donation of 10 inches of hair.

Learn More: 763.425.2977

 

Who: Science-Oriented Families

What: Ball-O-Rama

When: November 13-February 1

Where: Minnesota Children's Museum, 10 W. 7^th St., St. Paul

Why: Ball-o-Rama bounces back with a new spin. Children will learn physics skills and concepts by sending golf balls racing down roller coaster ramps to demonstrate velocity, gravity, friction, inertia, acceleration and momentum. At this hands-on exhibit, visitors will understand such mysteries as why people don't fall out of a rollercoaster when riding upside down. Many of the interactive components were modeled after century-old experiments created by Galileo and Newton.

How Much: $8.95

Learn More: www.mcm.org

 

 

Who: Stay-cationers

What: Holiday Flower Show

When: December 6-January 19, 10 am-4 pm

Where: Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, 225 Estabrook Dr., St. Paul

Why: It's cold and dead outside. It's warm and flowery inside.

How Much: a light donation is appreciated

Learn More: http://www.comozooconservatory.org/

 

 

 

 

Who: Artsy Librarians

What: Breaking with Convention: Avant-garde Artist Books

When: December 6-May 24. Check web site for hours.

Where: M.I.A., 2400 3^rd Ave.

Why: The cliché "don't judge a book by its cover" definitely doesn't belong at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts' new exhibit "Breaking with Convention: Avant-Garde Artist's Books." That's for a couple of reasons: first, because some of the books won't even have conventional covers, and of the books that do, several are not in the exhibit because of the covers. Art that's meant to make you go a little crazy must be good.

How Much: Free

Learn More: www.artsmia.org

 

Who: Kids

What: New Year's Eve Sparkle-rama

When: December 31 a.k.a. New Year's Eve, 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

Where: Minnesota Children's Museum, 10 W. 7th St., St. Paul

Why: For the kids, this glitz-and-glamour New Year's Eve family party allows visitors to play in the museum's seven galleries, enjoy live music, and more.

How Much: $10 per member and $14 per non-member.

Learn More: http://www.mcm.org/events-and-happenings/events-and-happenings-2/

 

Who: Retro Peeps

What: Vic Volare's Fabulous New Year's Eve Gala event

When: Dec 31, Wed. at 8:30 pm

Where: Landmark Center, 75 W. 5th St. St. Paul, MN

Why: An upscale retro-feel extravaganza featuring Vic's crooning and swing tunes, free dance lessons, casino games, and a champagne toast at midnight

How Much: $30-$50

Learn More: http://www.landmarkcenter.org/events.html

 

 

Who: If you HATE 2008

What: The Dream New Year's Eve Celebration event

When: Dec 31, Wed. -- 10:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Where: Visage Nightclub, 400 3rd Av. N., Minneapolis
Why: Four dj's spinning hip hop, reggae and old school.

How Much: $25-$40

Learn More: http://www.visagenightclub.com

 

 

Who: Gamblin' Folks

What: Casino Royale New Year's Eve event

When: Dec 31, Wed. -- 9:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Where: Solera, 900 Hennepin Av., Minneapolis, MN

Why: Live music performances, Go-Go dancers, casino tables and choreographed and themed presentations all night.

How Much: $25-$95

Learn More: http://solera-restaurant.com

 

 

Who: Ice, Ice, Babies

What: Ice bar, baby! (and other stuff)

When: The usual...midnight

Where: Chambers, 901 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis

Why: Four areas to party, each room has a different decade's fashion theme. Dress to Impression

How Much: $25+

Learn More: info@simshows.com

 

 

Who: Drinkin wine in '09

What: Moonshine on the Mississippi New Years Eve Gala

When: New Year's Eve, 6 p.m.

Where: St. Anthony Main Event Centre, 219 SE Main Street Minneapolis, MN 55404

Why: html_removed Five-course meal and black-tie gala; live music; silent auction. Proceeds benefit Emergency Foodshelf Network. Dinner begins at 6 pm and tickets are $125. Gala begins at 8 pm; tickets are $75.

How Much: $125

Learn More: http://www.threesonssignature.com/newyearseve.html

 

 

 

Who: The women who carry their toy dogs in Louis Vuitton totes

What: Diva Dogs Book Signing with author Jo Jo Harder

When: Tuesday, November 25 and Wednesday, November 26, both at 12 p.m.

Where: St. Louis Park location on Tuesday and Wayzata location on Wednesday

Why: In Diva Dogs, author and fashion designer Jo Jo Harder takes readers from the exciting world of doggy fashion into the realms of extraordinary canine luxury--high-end doggy spas, elaborate social gatherings, and all the essential elements of petiquette needed to survive in this dog-eat-caviar world. With Diva Dogs, every modern dog owner can begin to discover the fabulous life with a stylish, perfectly pampered, well-behaved pooch in tow.  Meet the Jo Jo Harder, the author, and enter to win a $50 Lulu and Luigi's gift certificate!

How Much: Free

Learn More: www.luluandluigi.com/

 

 

Who: Pet lovers and scrapbook enthusiasts

What: Paw Prints in the Stars Book Signing with author and illustrator Warren Hanson

When: Saturday, November 22 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. and Friday, November 28 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: St. Louis Park location on Saturday and Wayzata location on Friday

Why: Paw Prints in the Stars was created to help one deal with the loss of a beloved pet. The book is written in the voice of the pet that has passed and brings peace and comfort while celebrating life and the lessons learned. There is a place for treasured photos and journal pages for favorite memories as well as a special ribbon to hold collar tags. Cake and coffee will be served.

How Much: Free

Learn More: www.luluandluigi.com/

 

Who: Fashion lovers, shopping addicts, and those who appreciate day time drinking

What: Northeast Minneapolis Holiday Fashion Crawl

When: Saturday, November 22 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Where: Various locations

Why: Get all your holiday shopping done in one spot Northeast Minneapolis' best boutiques are offering 25% off a single item in their store all day long! Participating boutiques include Belle Reve Boutique, Bibelot, gh2, Key North, Melrose Antiques, Pacifier, Parc Boutique and T Lee Fine Designer Jewelry. Enter to win a $500 shopping spree at each boutique and find something for everyone on your shopping list!

 

How Much: Technically, it's free.

Learn More: www.metromag.com/

 

 

Who: Women who love their bling

What: Deborah Gaspar Accessories Trunk Show at StyledLife

When: Thursday, November 20 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Where: StyledLife, 3635 Galleria, Edina

Why: Jewelry and accessory designer Deborah Gaspar will be coming to the new Galleria STYLEDLIFE_® boutique for a very special trunk show. Deborah's sumptuous fall line is inspired by the rich textures and colors of nature. Her one-of-a-kind creations are made from mother of pearl, stone, and sterling silver. She and STYLEDLIFE_® owner Kevin Quinn will be on hand to help accessorize shoppers' looks with Deborah's bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and belts-just in time for the holidays. Deborah's stunning creations will be available for immediate purchase as will the option for special orders. Please join us for this very exclusive event!

How Much: Free

Learn More: www.styledlife.com/  

 

Who: Make-up users and abusers

What: Girl's Night Out at Juut Salon Spa

When: Thursday, November 20 from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Where: At all Juut Salon Spa locations

Why: Celebrate trends and holiday transformations with Juut Salon Spa. Go to any location for an evening of free gifts and beauty. See the season's loveliest looks first-hand, from office sophistication to party chic, and the latest in holiday make-up, lashes, brows, and nails while sipping on pomegranate mocktinis and picking from a mini bite dessert buffet. Plus, purchase any gift set on November 20 and 21, and receive 20% off your additional retail purchases!

How Much: Free, no pre-registration required

Learn More: www.juut.com/

 

On My Radar 11.06.08

  

Who: Fashionistas

What: Belle Reve Grand Opening

When: Saturday, November 8 from 6 PM to 11 PM

Where: 320 E. Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis

Why: Minneapolis' Northeast Hennepin district has become more chic and trendy with this new women's boutique. The store carries feminine modern and edgy pieces that will have you looking fashion-forward for holiday '08 and beyond. Belle Reve has the latest in apparel, jewelry, and shoes from L.A.M.B., Tarina Tarantino, and Na.Be by "Project Runway" contestant Victorya Hong. The event will feature passed hors d' oeuvres, ****tails, and live jazz all night long.

How Much: Free

Learn More: www.bellereveboutique.com

 

 

Who: All the hard working ladies in the Twin Cities

What: Ladies Trivia Night

When: Tuesday, November 11 from 6 PM to 9 PM, trivia starts at 7 PM

Where: Seven Sushi Ultralounge, 700 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis

Why: Lola Red PR is hosting another swanky trivia night just for the ladies! Come and enjoy a delicious spread of appetizers, champagne martinis, and swag. The evening will also feature trivia questions about etiquette, diamonds, and finish schools.

How Much: $10

Learn More: www.lolaredpr.com

 

 

Who: For those who lost their luggage and their lunch

What: "Around the World in A Bad Mood"

When: November 5 - November 16, 7:30 PM show on opening night, check for other show times

Where: Ruby's at The Lab Theater, 701 North First Street, Minneapolis

Why: "Around the World in A Bad Mood" is about veteran flight attendant Rene Foss and her comical adventures in the sky. It debuted at the Fringe Festival and has since received reviews from the likes of Tom Brokaw, the L.A. Times, and the New York Times.

How Much: $27.50 - $29.50

Learn More: http://www.thelabtheater.org/

 

 

Who: History majors and theater enthusiasts

What: Fiorello!

When: Saturday, November 8 at 2 PM or 7:30 PM

Where: Bloomington Civic Theatre, 1800 West Old Shakopee Road, Bloomington

Why: Written by Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick, this 1950s era musical tells a tale of how to survive and thrive while doing the right thing set in the world of New York politics in the 30s. Its based on the life of New York City Mayor Fiorello H. La Guardia who broke the Tammany Hall political machine and reformed NYC politics. This play has won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama along with 4 Tony Awards.

How Much: Adult tickets are $25, senior tickets are $22, group and student tickets are $19. Kincaid's Dinner Upgrade is $31, which includes a three course dinner at Kincaid's - must be purchased five days in advance

Learn More: http://www.bloomingtoncivictheater.com/

 

 

Who: Get your education on in 3D!

What:  Dolphins and Whales 3D

When: Now through December 31, check for show times

Where: IMAX Theatre at the MN Zoo, 12000 Zoo Boulevard, Apple Valley

Why: This awe-inspiring do****entary film will take you from the gorgeous coral reefs of the Bahamas to the warm depths of the waters of the exotic Kingdom Tonga for a close encounter with the surviving tribes of the ocean. You will get an education and be able to explore the many little known aspects of these fascinating and fragile creatures through the powerful IMAX theatre experience.

How Much: $9 for adults, $7 for kids

Learn More: www.imax.com/minnesota/ or call 952.431.4629

 

 

Who: Jazz enthusiasts, horn players, and students

What: Chris Thomson's Bells and Whistles

When: Thursday, November 6 at 8 PM

Where: Antonello Hall, 501 South 2^nd Street, Minneapolis

Why: Support Jazz Thursdays with one of the Twin Cities most innovative horn players Chris Thomson and his quartet of like-minded artists. Thompson describes the ensemble as "a modern jazz quartet playing music as influenced by the sounds of new music of any style and genre as it is by the great jazz heritage of the past."

How Much: $5 - $10

Learn More: http://www.macphail.org/

 

 

 

 

Who: Emo-hipster girls and boys

What: Hotel Café Tour

When: Thursday, November 6 at 7 PM

Where: Varsity Theater, 1308 4^th Street SE, Minneapolis

Why: The Hotel Café Tour is in its fourth successful year, with two widely acclaimed, sold out North American and UK tours. The Hotel Café was once just a small coffee shop and has blossomed into not only one of the premier singer/songwriter venues in the US, but also been labeled "the place that breaks the artists". Since then, it's been made into an internationally successful tour. This year it's all women - Ingrid Michaelson, Rachel Yamagata, Priscilla Ahn, and many more.

How Much: $18, 18+ with ID

Learn More: http://www.varsitytheater.org/

 

 

Who: Creative minds think alike

What: Art Attack 2008

When: Friday, November 7 through Sunday, November 9, check for times

Where: The Northrup King Building, 1500 Jackson Street NE, Minneapolis

Why: Art Attack is an annual open studio and gallery crawl in the heart of the Northeast Minneapolis Arts District. The weekend-long event features hundreds of artists working in ceramics, glass, jewelry, mixed media, painting, mosaics, photography, and more. Visitors can find one-of-a-kind gifts, meet the artists, watch demonstrations and performance paintings, and support the arts. The event will also include a fashion show, live music, and a chance to win $500 in Art Bucks.

How Much: Free

Learn More: http://www.northrupkingbuilding.com/

 

Who: Art lovers

What: Excelsior and Grand Art Fair

When: Saturday, November 8 from 11 AM to 4 PM

Where: Excelsior and Grand Clubroom, 3820 Grand Way, St. Louis Park

Why: The event will feature over 30 local vendors selling their paintings, photos, jewelry, clothing, and other works. This is a great way to jump-start your holiday shopping!

How Much: Free

Learn More: http://www.excelsiorandgrand.com/

 

 

Who: Families

What: Little Red Ball

When: Saturday, November 8 from 5:30 PM to 9 PM

Where: Circus Juventas, Highland Park

Why: Little Red Ball is a family event that includes dinner, fabulous entertainment, interactive stations, silent and live auctions, and more. This event raises much-needed funds to support more than 35,000 children and families served by Children's Home Society and Family Services. Children are encouraged and welcome to attend - events for the kids include face painting, crafts, photo booths, and more.

How Much: $75 for adults, $25 for children

Learn More: http://www.chsfs.org/events

 

 

Who: Fundraisers unite for a good cause

What: Gilda's Club Twin Cities celebrates Saturday Night Live Off 5^th Charity Gala - Imagine A Place

When: Saturday, November 8 at 7 PM

Where: Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5^th, Gaviidae Commons 4^th Floor, 655 Nicollett Mall, Minneapolis

Why: Gilda's Club mission is to create welcoming communities of free support for everyone living with cancer. Their innovative program is an essential complement to medical care, workshops, education and social activities. Gilda's Club first opened in NYC in 1995 and is opening soon in the Twin Cities. The event will include a silent auction, live music, an incredible fashion show offered by Saks Off 5^th, and exceptional tastings from top Minneapolis restaurants.

How Much: $75

Learn More: http://www.gildasclubtwincities.org/

 

 

Who: Picture People

What: Masterpiece Photographs from the Minneapolis Institute of Arts

When: October 4-January 25, Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Where: Minneapolis Institute of Arts 2400 3^rd Ave. S., Minneapolis

Why: Masterpiece Photographs from the Minneapolis Institute of Arts is a collection of the fifty strongest photographs in the museum's collection, honoring Carroll T. Hartwell, the first curator of photography at the MIA.

How Much: FREE

Learn More: www.artsmia.org

 

Who: Sock Hoppers

What:  Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons

When:  Thursday, October 23, 7:30 p.m.

Where: Orpheum Theatre, 910 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis

Why: Frankie performs in the old style of doo-**** to bring back the good days when jukeboxes roared and sock hops were cool. The group has been around since the 60s and has made nearly fifty albums.

How Much: $53-$103.50

Learn More: www.hennepintheatredistrict.org

 

Who: Boys and Ghouls

What: Zoo Boo

When:  Oct. 24-26, 4:30-7:30 p.m.

Where: Como Zoo, 1225 Estabrook Drive, Saint Paul

Why: Proceeds from ZooBoo benefit two of Minnesota's most treasured year-round attractions, Como Zoo and Marjorie McNeely Conservatory.  ZooBoo is a non-scary Halloween fundraising festival for families and young children. For this unique fall fundraiser, the grounds of Como Zoo transform into a world of fairytales and fun! Over 200 live costumed characters interact and entertain children. This magical event offers families a safe trick-or-treating alternative plus many Halloween surprises.

How Much: $6 in advance, $7 at the gate

Learn More: http://www.comozooconservatory.org/supp/ZooBoo.shtml

 

Who: Mash Up Mavens

What: Diplo Concert

When: Friday, Oct. 24, 8 p.m.

Where: First Avenue, 701 1st Ave. N., Minneapolis

Why: This psychedelic electronica band is best known for their knack to mix seemingly unrelated songs into a new sound. They are touring on their Mad Decent Tour with Abe Vigoda, Boy 8 Bit, and Telepathe.

How Much: $14

Learn More: www.first-avenue.com

 

Who: If You Need a Little Positive Politics

What: Fiorello

When: Friday, Oct. 24-Nov 16, see web site for show times

Where: Bloomington Civic Theatre, 1800 Old Shakopee Rd. W., Bloomington

Why: Fiorello is a musical based on the life of New York mayor Fiorello LaGuardia's career fighting corruption.

How Much: $19-$31

Learn More: www.bloomingtoncivictheatre.org

Who: Lil Ghosts and Goblins

What: 2^nd annual Halloween Picture Party

When: Saturday, October 25, 10 am-2 pm

Where: 514 N. 3^rd St., Studio 206, Minneapolis

Why: before you head out to trick-or-treat, bring the little ones in for a complimentary photo shoot. The pictures will be mailed directly to your house. There is a suggestion donation of $20 to benefit the Smile Network

How Much: suggested $20 donation

Learn More: 612 825 7838 or meghan@meghandoll.com

 

Who: Pooches and Peeps

What: Howl-o-ween at Lulu and Luigi

When: Saturday, Oct. 25, 3 p.m.-5 p.m.

Where: Lulu and Luigi, 3699 Joppa Ave., St. Louis Park

Why: Another reason to force Buster into that bumble bee outfit: Pet boutique LuLu and Luigi will be celebrating the opening of its new store with a costume party for both you and your pet. There will be food and drinks for all, whether you have two legs or four.

How Much: FREE

Learn More: RSVP to liz@luluandluigi.com, www.luluandluigi.com

 

Who: If Four Wheels are better than none

What: Northstar Roller Girls

When: Saturday, Oct. 25, 6:30 p.m.

Where: Minneapolis Convention Center, 1301 2nd Ave. S., Minneapolis

Why: They're back and tougher than ever!

How Much: $10-$14

Learn More: http://www.northstarrollergirls.com/

 

Who: Trick-or-Treaters

What: Boo Bash

When: Saturday and Sunday, October 25-26. Saturday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday noon-4 p.m.

Where: Intersection of Grand Avenue and Cambridge Street, St. Paul

Why: Kids can trick-or-treat along Grand Avenue and enjoy a variety of fall themed activities hosted by local businesses on Saturday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Guests can visit the Pumpkin Festival all weekend and enjoy a petting zoo, pumpkin carving, snacks, inflatable bounce houses, a costume contest, and other activities. Bring your jack-o-lantern to add to the pumpkin tower or carve one at the pumpkin carving tent. At dusk on Saturday, there will be a free outdoor showing of "Disney's Halloween Treat" followed by the lighting of the Pumpkin Tower.

 

How Much: FREE

Learn More: www.grandave.com

 

Who: Gourmets

What: Taste of Sample Circuit

When: Wednesday, October 29, 6:30-9 p.m.

Where: Roth Distributing Minnetonka

Why: Enjoy food from 15 area restaurants, over 100 wines, Ketel One vodka, and cooking demonstrations. It's a foodies night out!

How Much: $60-$125

Learn More: www.tasteofsamplecircuit.com