Minneapolis is heaving a cultural renaissance this summer with Water Works Park at the epicenter of a creative explosion, offering a smorgasbord of free, artistic indulgences for the community. Take, for instance, the new theatrical presentation "Calypso", which delves into the seldom-explored emotional landscape of a minor character from Homer's Odyssey. It's a refreshing shift from the male-dominated narratives of yore and it's happening right here in our backyard, with performances slated for July 20, 21, and 26 at 7 pm and a matinee on July 21 at 2 pm. Find out what happens when a goddess realizes she's not built for solitude after all – and for free, no less.
Bend and stretch towards nirvana with the Minneapolis Bouldering Project hosting free yoga sessions every Sunday through September 29. Yoga enthusiasts of all skill levels can grace Water Works Park from 10-11 am for a serene start to their Sabbath. And let's give a round of applause to Owamni by the Sioux Chef, which is celebrating its third year of serving culture and cuisine, on July 19. Festivities, which will run from 5-10 pm, include drummers, an Indigenous pop-up market, and scrumptious food and beverages available for purchase, for those who fancy more than a nibble, tickets for a special event on the terrace are on offer.
Then, there's Barb Ryman – a singer-songwriter with a voice clear as a bell – who will be enchanting audiences on July 22 at 7 pm with her contemporary folktale melodies. If you're impressed by corporate America’s melodic side, don't skip The Target Spots, a choir from Target Corporation, that's determined to spread good vibes through song on July 25 at 7 pm. Finally, Jimmy Gefroh will wrap up the music series with his upbeat tunes on July 29 at the same time, promising an engaging end to a month brimming with harmonies.
The Minneapolis Aquatennial is set to dazzle with its flagship Fireworks event on July 27 from 6-10 pm. Billed as a spectacular evening, families and fun-seekers alike can bask in a spectrum of locales' summer flavors, with activities that cater to all - be it in the kid zone, on the skateboarding ramps, or while grooving to the live music. With an array of food trucks and local businesses pitching in, the walk-up bar at Owamni will be serving libations to those looking to toast the city's vibrancy by the Mississippi Riverfront.
For more details on these events – and to have your questions answered about "Calypso", yoga sessions, or anything else happening at Water Works Park – drop a line to [email protected]. Meanwhile, if your browser bookmarks are looking for neighborhood love, bookmark the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation bulletin for instant updates on local goings-on. Don't say you weren't informed when Minneapolis turns into the cultural hub of summer fun. You read it here first.
