October Arts Roundup

Theater Latté Da Artistic Director Justin Lucero envisioned a 2026-27 season that asks, “what happens when art confronts the forces that seek to silence it?” The season-opener kicks off that vision at full-force with “Indecent.”

A story about artists determined to tell the truth in the face of suppression—an urgent reminder of the enduring relationship between art, censorship, and cultural memory.

Justin Lucero, Theater Latté Da Artistic Director

In a play about a play, audiences get to know a troupe of Yiddish performers who are determined to stage a work that is deemed “indecent.” If a tale of artistic censorship seems too far-fetched, just know that it is inspired by the true story of Sholem Asch’s play, “God of Vengeance,” and the 1923 obscenity trial for daring to display a romantic relationship between two women.

Depictions of antisemitism, homophobia, and prejudice, paired with period-specific discriminatory language are not for everyone. In fact, the show is recommended for teens and adults “prepared to engage with complex historical themes and emotionally powerful subject matter.” If you can grapple with the heavy topics, this Theater Latté Da production is sure to make for an unforgettable night out.

Few children’s stories relate to the LGBTQ+ experience quite like Pinocchio. His yearning to be recognized as a “real boy” is a powerful metaphor for self-creation, bodily autonomy and shedding societal expectations to live an authentic truth.

That said, this isn’t the pop culture version we’re used to. In CTC’s production, a group of theatre painters use their brushes, scaffolding and wallpaper rolls to retell Pinocchio’s journey. Be prepared for a unique take on a classic cultural touchstone.

Get a whiff of nostalgia with the children’s classic Beatrix Potter tales about furry friends and their constant struggle to survive in Mr. McGregor’s Garden. This new musical incorporates original songs to encourage us to find strength in community and stand up for what’s right. If your child’s class isn’t taking advantage of the weekday matinees, it is certainly worth planning an evening or weekend family outing.

You may think you know the true-crime case of Lizzie Borden, who, in the summer of 1892, was the prime suspect in murdering her parents in their own home. You may even be able to recite the grim nursery rhyme. But you’ve never heard the story quite like this.

Open Eye Theatre presents a punk-rock reimagining that explores the heated events leading up to the trial-turned-media sensation. Described as “a suspenseful, queer, and rebellious new musical laced with political depth and a mischievous sense of humour,” this hits the stage just in time for Halloween. The show sold out when Open Eye Theatre staged it last year, so get your tickets early!

Fashion lovers, rejoice! Parisian luxury is coming to Minneapolis with this special exhibition, featuring more than 80 haute couture masterpieces from the renowned Palais Galliera, the Paris Fashion Museum. The showcase spans pieces from the late 19th century to the Spring 2026 runways and offers a unique opportunity to experience some of the most extraordinary garments ever created, up close and in person.

“This exhibition makes a clear case for haute couture as one of the defining art forms of the modern era,” said Katie Luber, Nivin and Duncan MacMillan Director and President of Mia.

With pieces drawn from one of only a few major institutional couture collections in the world, “Paris Couture” offers access rarely seen in the United States, particularly in the Midwest. This is your chance to explore couture, with iconic fashions from Dior, Chanel, Balenciaga, Schiaparelli, Balmain and more. See the pleats, stitches, beads and feathers that define couture at its highest level. Take a slow stroll through the galleries for a perfect date night or weekend outing.

The campy cult classic whodunit comedy returns to the Orpheum. Based on the board game and subsequent 1985 film, audiences follow along and try to solve the murder at Boddy Manor. This show will have you dying of laughter (pun intended) all the way through the final plot twist.

Meet Lunga Kunene: a no-nonsense, Black caregiver without much patience for privilege or hubris. Now imagine his dismay at providing in-home care for Jack Morris, a celebrated (and stubborn) white actor facing a life-changing diagnosis while he rehearses for a new role.

Using Shakespeare’s “King Lear” as a structural model and reference point, John Kani’s new play finds common ground across race, class and politics in post-apartheid South Africa. Kani serves as both author and performer for this production.

You read that right: Three Girl Scouts try to keep their St. Paul community safe during the zombie apocalypse. Oh, and the zombies know kung fu! This world premiere from playwright Saymoukda Duangphouxay Vongsay concludes her Kung Fu Zombies trilogy.

This is not your grandparents’ opera. Based on the best-selling graphic novel of the same name, this world premiere from Kamala Sankaram and Minita Gandhi is infused with elements of Konnakol, Raga and EDM. The goddess of Death is cast down to Earth to live as a mortal named Laila Starr, blurring the boundaries between divinity and humanity. Watch as she begins to see the world through fresh eyes.