I do wish that I’d caught word of this at the beginning of the summer because this has been on tour all over the cities since the end of July. But you’ve still got time for this mash-up of current artists playing in a 1950’s set singing Mozart’s version of a Greek story. The production travels to parks, yards, farms, vineyards, and gardens, creating a family (and sometimes dog)-friendly evening. 

If you’ve avoided opera or are looking to introduce the kids to something new, this is the way to do it. Pack a picnic and bring a blanket or some chairs and check out a relaxed version that just might make you fall in love with the art form.

Website: https://mixedprecipitation.org/summer-2025/

Who: Mixed Precipitation

When: 7 more performances ending September 14

Where: 7 different outdoor locations

Things to know

Varied locations mean varied parking and accessibility, but Mixed Precipitation has got you covered. Check out the show page before you go to get detailed info about transportation and parking. Some locations would be most appropriate for a bike or walk over to soak up our late summer weather.

Dining: Thanks to the Mpls Parks Department for some ideas on where to get a picnic to bring along for a build your own dinner and a show! 

The Discovery

Back to school is one of my absolute favorite times of the year. I love a summer that is chaotic and messy, but I’m always relieved to find my way back to the structure and schedule of fall. It’s been a few years since back to school shopping was a necessity, but I still find myself walking through that section in the back of Target, buying highlighters and index cards that I absolutely don’t need. 

If you don’t have kids but need a little back to school class of your own, check out the new classes and workshops over at Open Book (disclaimer: I’m on the board over there, so I’m a big fan and will be giving you regular updates).

Minnesota Center for Book Arts: Printing, papermaking, boxmaking, design, and so much more

The Loft Literary Center: Writing, writing, writing: Poetry, nonfiction, memoir, novel, digital storytelling, etc, etc, etc.

I’ll look forward to seeing you there!

Field Notes

Twin Cities, this has been a rough week. I hope you’re all looking out for each other, reaching out if you need help, and finding some peace in the art that is the world around us.