Shannon Fitzgerald here with Episode 7 of the Underground Arts Club, an arts-focused series for the readers of Minneapolis Voices. The club is a recommendation, not a review. My goal is to introduce you to all of the Twin Cities art that you haven't yet discovered.
THE MUST-SEE
The Luminary Society Inaugural Cocktail Party
When: May 17, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Where: IDS Center
Who: Rethos
In the true spirit of the Underground Arts Club, I’m excited to bring you an event that will actually lead you underground and also get you in the door for the beginning of something exciting.
The folks at Rethos (behind the phenomenal Doors Open Minneapolis – it's the same weekend, so also go to that) are starting The Luminary Society: An Exclusive Key to Extraordinary Spaces. First of all, who doesn’t want to be part of something called The Luminary Society?
From their invite:
Some doors aren’t easily opened—but The Luminary Society holds the key.
Celebrate the launch of The Luminary Society with a glamorous 1970s-inspired evening atop the IDS Center at Windows on Marquette—the very building that framed Mid-century Minneapolis. Sponsored by the Marquette Hotel, this stylish gathering features elevated beverages, skyline views, and stories exploring architect Philip Johnson’s modernist legacy.
Upgrade to The Skyline Passage VIP experience: a private tour with Dr. Heidi Swank from rooftop to sub-level, including hidden tunnels and a fabulous hotel suite. Toast the night with champagne and nostalgia, honoring the city’s architectural icons and the spirit of an era that made history stylish.
Things to know
- Parking: Parking downtown isn’t always the easiest or cheapest, but usually at night around Nicollet Mall there’s plenty of both street and less expensive ramp parking available.
- Dining: I love a post-cocktail party diner burger. The Nicollet Diner is just down the street and open 24 hours on Saturdays.
- Accommodations: Want to just stay the night and order room service? Discounted room rates available at the Marquette Hotel located in the IDS Center.
- Attire: The invite says 1970’s cocktail. I tried to pick a photo, but it truly runs the gamut. Think Mary Richards in a satin romper.
THE DISCOVERY
Check out the Film Score Fest happening this Saturday, April 26 at The History Theater in St. Paul. The festival pairs filmmakers and composers to create an original short film in four months or less. Artists are randomly paired, with composers writing music in response to their partner's film. There are 24 total films to be seen over two separate performances - the top eight feature in both.
If you’re a composer and interested in film scoring, there’s apparently a monthly meet-up for you in St. Paul. How great is it to live somewhere that has enough composers for a monthly meet-up?
FIELD NOTES
Before moving to the Twin Cities 10 years ago, I spent 20 years in a temperate climate on the Central Coast of California – no winters. I wouldn’t go back, and one main reason is what I call Green Day (if you can come up with a better name, PLEASE send it my way). Green Day is that day in the spring when suddenly, everything is green –I know you know what I mean. The feeling of joy and hope that Green Day brings is never felt when every day is the same, even if every day is 72 degrees. Is it like hitting yourself over the head with a hammer because it feels so good after you stop? Maybe. But I don’t care.
Green Day isn’t the same day for everyone. It depends on where you live and even the plants growing in your yard. But it’s coming for you, probably this weekend if it’s not already here. I hope you embrace it.
