Performing Arts Archives - Central Lakes College /category/performing-arts/ Central Minnesota College We Build Futures Tue, 30 Jun 2026 14:06:46 +0000 en-US hourly 1 /wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Icon91Թ.jpg Performing Arts Archives - Central Lakes College /category/performing-arts/ 32 32 91Թ Performing Arts Center Announces Summer Kids Club /2026/06/30/clc-performing-arts-center-announces-summer-kids-club/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 14:06:46 +0000 /?p=77146 The Central Lakes College Performing Arts Center is bringing summer fun to the big screen with itsSummer Kids Club – three Wednesday mornings of family-friendly movies paired with live pre-show entertainment from local artists. Screenings take place in the Chalberg Theatre on 91Թ’s Brainerd campus on July 8, July 15, and July 22. All shows...

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The Central Lakes College Performing Arts Center is bringing summer fun to the big screen with itsSummer Kids Club – three Wednesday mornings of family-friendly movies paired with live pre-show entertainment from local artists. Screenings take place in the Chalberg Theatre on 91Թ’s Brainerd campus on July 8, July 15, and July 22. All shows start at 10:30 a.m.

Summer Kids Club Schedule

July 8 — A Minecraft Movie

Featuring a pre-show performance by The Lakes Area Music Festival

July 15 — The Little Mermaid

July 22 — Zootopia 2

Featuring a pre-show performance by magician Hudson.

Tickets

Tickets are $6 per person and include the pre-show entertainment, the feature film, and a snack pack (popcorn, fruit snack, and a drink). All ages welcome. Tickets are available ator by calling the Central Lakes College Performing Arts Center Box Office at 218‑855‑8199.

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The Grapes of Wrathcomes to life at 91Թ through community collaboration /2026/04/27/the-grapes-of-wrath-comes-to-life-at-clc-through-community-collaboration/ Mon, 27 Apr 2026 15:22:04 +0000 /?p=76349 This spring, the Central Lakes College Performing Arts Center, via its’ Brainerd Community Theatre series, is bringing The Grapes of Wrathto the stage – not just as a theatrical production, but as a campus- and community-wide exploration of one of America’s most enduring stories. Frank Galati’s Tony Award-winning adaptation ofThe Grapes of Wrathwill be performed...

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This spring, the Central Lakes College Performing Arts Center, via its’ Brainerd Community Theatre series, is bringing The Grapes of Wrathto the stage – not just as a theatrical production, but as a campus- and community-wide exploration of one of America’s most enduring stories.

Frank Galati’s Tony Award-winning adaptation ofThe Grapes of Wrathwill be performed April 30 through May 3 in the Chalberg Theatre. Set during the Great Depression, the story follows the Joad family as they leave Oklahoma in search of work and stability in California, confronting hardship, displacement, and the fragile promise of a better life.

While the narrative is rooted in the 1930s, the Central Lakes College production connects those themes to present-day issues through a wide-ranging collaboration across campus and the broader Brainerd community.

“As we started working on this story, I kept coming back to howcurrentit feels,” said Joey Yow, Director of the 91Թ Performing Arts Center and director of the production. “We are living through our own period of technological, cultural, and environmental upheaval, and this story creates a deep sense of empathy for people trying to build a better life in a world that has become harder to navigate. The perseverance of the Joad family stayed with me, and I was proud to get the chance to bring this show to our stage.”

To deepen student engagement, the Performing Arts Center partnered with 91Թ faculty to integrate the production into coursework across multiple disciplines during the Spring 2026 semester via a cross-curricular project. Similar to the academic project audiences may remember from the 2023 91Թ production ofSilent Sky, 91Թ students explored the historical, economic, and environmental dimensions of the Great Depression, and their research has been transformed into display pieces for audiences to experience alongside the performance.

These installations will be on view in the lobbies of both the Chalberg Theatre and the Dryden Theatre before each performance. The displays draw connections between the Dust Bowl migration and its ripple effects, including how similar economic and environmental pressures have shaped communities in Minnesota.

In addition, 91Թ students and former 91Թ faculty member Cory Johnson will be offering a free pre-show presentation on The Grapes of Wrath at 1 PM on Saturday, May 2, and Sunday, May 3 before the 2 PM matinees performances of the show. This presentation offers audiences the opportunity to learn more about the history of the novel, the stage adaptation, and the research undertaken by 91Թ students in this cross-curricular project.

Community partnerships have also played a central role in the project. The Brainerd Public Library hosted a public book club centered on the novel, while the Crossing Arts Alliance supported a Community Art Project inviting local artists to respond to its themes. Three selected works will be displayed in the Chalberg Theatre lobby during the run of the show.

“This is a big, ambitious show,” Yow said. “It’s the kind of piece that can feel a little intimidating at first. In fact, I had approached other directors about leading the show and was turned down due to the and challenges of the piece feeling insurmountable. There’s a large cast, live music, and the Joads’ truck to bring to life – it’s an epic and audacious show, and that’s what makes it exciting to work on. Seeing our local theatre community step up to meet that challenge has been incredible.”

He added that the collaborative spirit of the cast has been central to the production. “I always think of theatre as an ensemble art form, but this group really leaned into that,” Yow said. “People brought ideas into the room, helped solve problems, and built moments together. This show is a shared creation.”

The cast features returning and new local performers, including Amelia Mauro, Arsen Engles, Barb McColgan, Blake Lubinus, Brad Kohl, Emma Hilgart, Erin Caswell, Gus Sjostrand, Henry Hultberg, Jacob Becker, Jenny Kiffmeyer, Lorri Jager, Lynn Ellison, Mackenzie Papillon-Renford, Mark Ford, Mark Oehrlein, Marlowe Cotariu, Nicole Rothleutner, Phyl Bell, Rebecca Aanerud, Seth Sjostrand, Sharron Hartley, Tom Sjostrand, and Watson.

Behind the scenes, the production team includes stage manager Shawn Sylvester, set designer Tim Leagjeld, lighting designer Heidi Eckwall, costume designer Rebecca Aanerud, and a team of local carpenters, technicians, and students from 91Թ and ISD 181.

“This is one of the most technically demanding shows we’ve taken on,” Yow said. “The scale of the set, the way we’re using the space – even moments like rain on stage – it all comes together to create something immersive. I think audiences are going to be really surprised by what they see.”

This activity is made possible, in part, by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Arts Experience and Operating Support grant, as well as a grant from the Five Wings Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

Performances ofThe Grapes of Wrathwill take place April 30 through May 3 in the Chalberg Theatre on the Central Lakes College Brainerd campus. Performances are held at 7 PM on April 30 through May 2, and 2 PM on May 2 and 3. Pre-show talk with Cory Johnson and 91Թ students will be held at 1 PM on May 2 and 3 in the Dryden Theatre. Tickets are available through the 91Թ Performing Arts Center box office at (218) 855-8199 or online at.

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“The All-New Wizard of Oz on Ice” comes to Brainerd /2026/04/17/the-all-new-wizard-of-oz-on-ice-comes-to-brainerd/ Fri, 17 Apr 2026 15:29:53 +0000 /?p=76094 The Central Lakes CollegePerforming Arts Center is pleased to presentThe All-New Wizard of Oz on Ice, aFamily-friendlyclassicbringsthatOlympic talent and Cirque du Soleil-style spectacleto the local stage.Thisone-of-a-kind family eventhappensThursdayApril 23at the Gichi-ziibiCenter for The Arts in Brainerd. The lobby will be open to the public at 6pm, seating begins at 6:30pm and show starts promptly at...

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The Central Lakes CollegePerforming Arts Center is pleased to presentThe All-New Wizard of Oz on Ice, aFamily-friendlyclassicbringsthatOlympic talent and Cirque du Soleil-style spectacleto the local stage.Thisone-of-a-kind family eventhappensThursdayApril 23at the Gichi-ziibiCenter for The Arts in Brainerd. The lobby will be open to the public at 6pm, seating begins at 6:30pm and show starts promptly at 7pm.

Audiences will follow Dorothy on her unforgettable journey through the Land of Oz, meeting the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion along the way. This reimagined production combines the magic of storytelling with breathtaking athleticism, transforming Frank L. Baum’s classic tale into a thrilling live ice entertainment experience.

Featuring Olympian, World Medalist, and three-time Canadian national championShaun Sawyer, alongside a cast of elite performers, from all over the world, including; Cirque du Soleil artists, style skaters, trick skaters, and championship pair teams, the production delivers world-class entertainment rarely seen in the region.

Produced byAlexWilfandof Ice Creative Entertainment Group, an internationally recognized leader in live entertainment known for collaborations with Disney, Amazon, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, and more, this productionredefines what audiences expect from a live theatrical experience.

“From a personal perspective, The Wizard of Oz was the first show I performed in as a teen,” said Joey Yow, Director of the 91Թ Performing Arts Center. “I fell in love with the story and continued to be a part of our annual community theatre production for years.I think the book and film’s lasting appealis due to the incredible friendship that forms between the characters and their quest to brave unknown dangers to help one another – we call it a classic, butit’sreally a timeless story told in a beautiful way. Seeing it now reimagined as an ice show was as fun for me at 40 as it was being a part of the stage show for the first time at 14. If you are fond of the movie,you’lllove this reinvention. Ifyou’reintroducing it to someone new, I thinkyou’llfind them completely delighted by the experience.”

Designed to delight generations—from grandparents who cherish the original story to children discovering Oz for the first time,Wizard of OzonIce – Reimagined Like Never Beforepromises a night of magic.

Group Rates

Group discounts are available for parties of 8 or more ticketspurchasedin a single transaction. These rates are ideal for businesses, clubs, organizations, schools, and large family groups looking to enjoy a performance together. To take advantage of group pricing, please contact or visit our box officein-personto complete your purchase.

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91Թ Performing Arts Center Announces Expanded Winter Arts & Community Events /2026/01/13/clc-performing-arts-center-announces-expanded-winter-arts-community-events/ Tue, 13 Jan 2026 19:49:37 +0000 /?p=74970 Central Lakes College Performing Arts Center (91ԹPAC) will present six performing arts and cultural engagement events across January and February, featuring theatre, live music for families, global dance, and two community initiatives. Jan. 23, 7 p.m. — Martin McDonagh’sThe Pillowman(Dryden Theatre, Central Lakes College – Brainerd Campus) Directed by Rebecca Timmins and featuring community actors...

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Central Lakes College Performing Arts Center (91ԹPAC) will present six performing arts and cultural engagement events across January and February, featuring theatre, live music for families, global dance, and two community initiatives.

Jan. 23, 7 p.m. — Martin McDonagh’sThe Pillowman(Dryden Theatre, Central Lakes College – Brainerd Campus)
Directed by Rebecca Timmins and featuring community actors Joey Yow, Patrick Spradlin, Jesse Brutscher, Baird Brutscher, Erin Caswell, Marc Oliphant, and Samantha Laughery, this staged reading of the award-winning play brings sharp dialogue, dark humor, and suspense.Free admission; registration at 91ԹPAC website is encouraged.Recommended18+due to mature content.

Jan.26–28 — ConnectEffect (Dryden Theatre, Central Lakes College – Brainerd Campus):
Hosted bytwo-time Emmy-nominated director/producer Riaz Patel, ConnectEffect returns as a community conversation experience at noon and 5 p.m. on Jan 26–28. The program builds intergenerational connections and empathy– learn new ways to connect with your neighbors in less than an hour.

Jan 31, 3 p.m. — The Okee Dokee Brothers (Gichi-ziibi Center for the Arts):
The Grammy-winning duo brings Americana folk music praised by NPR, PBS KIDS, and Netflix. Their acoustic sing-along sound celebrates friendship, nature, and everyday adventure forkids and grown-ups alike.

Feb 5 at 12 p.m. — Cultural Thursday: Portugal: Exploring the World with New Eyes (Chalberg Theatre, Central Lakes College – Brainerd Campus):
SpeakerJan Kurtzreturns from Portugal to guide audiences through history, food, language, and perspective-shifting travel insights. Part of 91Թ’s monthlycultural literacy speaker seriesfor students and the wider community.Free admission.

Feb 12–15 — Sandy Rustin’sThe Cottage(Chalberg Theatre, Central Lakes College – Brainerd Campus):
Directed by Amy Borash and featuring community actors Travis Chaput, Rachael Kline, Brian Rhett, Abby Pratt, Matt Hill, and Natalie Topete, this fast-paced 1923 British farce reimagines Noël Coward-style comedy for modern audiences. A bold, clever,laugh-packed winter comedyfull of ridiculous secrets, betrayal, and love.

Feb 19 at 7 p.m. — Ragamala Dance Company (Chalberg Theatre, Central Lakes College – Brainerd Campus):
A globally touring, mother-daughter-led Bharatanatyam company founded by Ranee and Aparna Ramaswamy, hailed for its imaginative, rhythmic, and intercultural storytelling on the world’s biggest stages.

Tickets can be purchased at the 91ԹPAC Box Office, open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., by phone at 218-855-8199, or online at.

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PAC presents Marshall Charloff & The Purple xPeRIeNCE– The World’s Premier Tribute to Prince /2025/11/03/pac-presents-marshall-charloff-the-purple-xperience-the-worlds-premier-tribute-to-prince/ Mon, 03 Nov 2025 22:06:24 +0000 /?p=74195 The Central Lakes College Performing Arts Center invites the community to experienceMarshall Charloff & The Purple xPeRIeNCE, the world’s most celebrated tribute to Prince, onSaturday, November 15, 2025, at 7 p.m.at theGichi-ziibi Center for the Artsin Brainerd. The performance is part of the 91Թ Performing Arts Center’sCultural Arts Series, which brings artists from across the...

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The Central Lakes College Performing Arts Center invites the community to experienceMarshall Charloff & The Purple xPeRIeNCE, the world’s most celebrated tribute to Prince, onSaturday, November 15, 2025, at 7 p.m.at theGichi-ziibi Center for the Artsin Brainerd. The performance is part of the 91Թ Performing Arts Center’sCultural Arts Series, which brings artists from across the state and the country to perform in the Brainerd Lakes area.

Formed in 2011 byMarshall CharloffandMatt “Doctor” Fink(keyboardist from Prince & The Revolution),The Purple xPeRIeNCEwas created to honor the artistry and legacy of Prince with the highest level of musicianship and authenticity. Every show is performed 100% live and completely untracked, capturing the electricity and soul of Prince’s legendary performances.

Over more than a decade of touring across the U.S. and internationally, the band has performed for over half a million fans, including a performance at theWorld Expo in Dubaias part of the USA Pavilion. The group was officially licensed by thePrince Estatein 2019 and continues to earn acclaim from audiences and critics alike.

Minneapolis-nativeMarshall Charloffis known for his uncanny vocal and instrumental resemblance to Prince, his masterful guitar and piano skills, and his ability to channel both the energy and emotion of the late icon. In addition to leadingThe Purple xPeRIeNCE, Charloff has fronted more than 25 symphony orchestras across North America performing the music of Prince, headlined a Las Vegas residency with his one-man showPurple Piano, and been featured in two PBS concert broadcasts, including one filmed at the famed Red Rocks Amphitheatre.

Charloff’s all-star band features accomplished musicians who have performed with artists such as theNew Power Generation,The Rembrandts,Christina Aguilera, andSoul Asylum. Together, they bring a powerhouse live show that celebrates the timeless songs, style, and spirit of Prince.

Tickets forMarshall Charloff & The Purple xPeRIeNCEare available now atclcperformingarts.comor by calling 218-855-8199. This activity is made possible, in part, by the voters of Minnesota, through a grant from the Five Wings Arts Coucnil and the Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

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PAC presents The Music of Billy Joel and Elton John starring Michael Cavanaugh /2025/09/29/pac-presents-the-music-of-billy-joel-and-elton-john-starring-michael-cavanaugh/ Mon, 29 Sep 2025 17:42:50 +0000 /?p=73203 The Central Lakes College Performing Arts Center will presentThe Music of Billy Joel and Elton Johnstarring Michael Cavanaugh on Friday, October 10 at 7:00 PM at the Gichi-ziibi Center for the Arts. TheMusic of Billy Joel and Elton Johnfeatures the greatest hits of these two great rock piano legends.Songs include:Piano Man, Rocket Man, Bennie and...

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The Central Lakes College Performing Arts Center will presentThe Music of Billy Joel and Elton Johnstarring Michael Cavanaugh on Friday, October 10 at 7:00 PM at the Gichi-ziibi Center for the Arts.

TheMusic of Billy Joel and Elton Johnfeatures the greatest hits of these two great rock piano legends.Songs include:Piano Man, Rocket Man, Bennie and the Jets, Movin’ Out, I’m Still Standing, My Life,and many more.PollStar, one of the leading websites about the touring music industry,ranked this show in the Top 50 touring Acts/Shows the last two years.

The concert features Michael Cavanaugh, who was handpicked by Billy Joel himself to star in the Broadway musical Movin’ Out. Described by Billboard as “The New Voice of the American Rock and Roll Songbook,” Cavanaugh brings a deep familiarity with the music and a dazzling, high-energy performance. He formed his first band at age 10 and began performing in local venues throughout his youth. After a long-running engagement at a piano bar in Orlando, Florida, Cavanaugh was invited to perform in Las Vegas, where a chance encounter with Billy Joel in 2001 changed the trajectory of his career. Joel joined him on stage, and within two songs, decided to cast him in Movin’ Out. Cavanaugh soon moved to New York City to help develop the show alongside Joel. Over the course of three years and more than 1,200 performances, he earned widespread recognition and received both Tony and Grammy Award nominations for the role. BroadwayWorld referred to Cavanaugh as “The New Piano Man”, and Reuters named CavanaughEntertainer of the Year.

 

“Amazing”– The New York Times

“Cavanaugh sings in a high, almost boyish tenor. His sound is reminiscent of Joel’s early recordings, and his interpretations of Joel’s tunes, both vocally and at the piano, are part homage and part his own take. He brings tremendous energy to very moment he spends on stage.” –Elaine Schmidt, Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel

“Brilliant”– Variety Magazine

Tickets are available now ator by calling the 91Թ Box Office at 218-855-8199.

This activity is made possible, in part, by the voters of Minnesota, through a grant from the Five Wings Arts Council and through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

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Hadestown: Teen Editionopens June 24 /2025/06/17/hadestown-teen-edition-opens-june-24/ Tue, 17 Jun 2025 14:31:11 +0000 /news/?p=11296 This June, the Central Lakes College Performing Arts Center invites audiences to journey to the underworld and back withHadestown: Teen Edition, a moving reimagining of the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice told through a sweeping, folk-infused score. Featuring over 25 rising stars from across the Brainerd Lakes Area, this youth-led production runsJune 24–27 at 7:00...

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This June, the Central Lakes College Performing Arts Center invites audiences to journey to the underworld and back withHadestown: Teen Edition, a moving reimagining of the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice told through a sweeping, folk-infused score. Featuring over 25 rising stars from across the Brainerd Lakes Area, this youth-led production runsJune 24–27 at 7:00 PM, with a finalmatinee on June 29 at 2:00 PMat the Chalberg Theatre. AnASL-interpreted performance will be offered on June 25.

Set in a mythical world that feels both ancient and modern,Hadestownfollows the poet Orpheus on a quest to rescue his love Eurydice from the depths of Hades. As the lovers struggle against poverty, fear, and fate itself, audiences are reminded of the power—and cost—of hope. The Tony Award-winning musical by Anaïs Mitchell blends American folk, jazz, and blues in a uniquely theatrical experience that resonates across generations.

Directed by Amy Borash, with vocal direction by Kennedy Niska, the production starsBrody Schultzas Orpheus,Gwendolyn Bowenas Eurydice,Randall Mitchellas Hades,Teagan Johnsonas Persephone, andColton Armbrustas Hermes. The cast also features an ensemble of passionate student performers, many making their stage debuts or returning after standout local performances.

In the role of Orpheus,Brody Schultzmakes a powerful final bow before heading off to Luther College this fall. Known locally for standout performances inThe Sound of MusicandRent, Schultz brings sensitivity and passion to the music and message of the show. Opposite him,Gwendolyn Bowenmakes her theatrical debut as Eurydice in one of the production’s most demanding roles. Bowen’s performance captures the heart and grit of a young woman caught between survival and love.

“This cast dove headfirst into one of the most emotionally and musically demanding scores in contemporary theatre,” said Producer Joey Yow. “And this group of teens—every one of them—rose to the challenge.”

The production is directed byAmy Borash, with vocal direction byKennedy Niska, and features a seasoned creative team, including Assistant DirectorNoah Barnhart, Stage ManagerTravis Chaput, and designersHeidi Eckwall(Lighting),Rachael Brutscher(Costumes), andTim Leagjeld(Scenic Design).Hadestown: Teen Editionis presented through special arrangement with Concord Theatricals.

This project is made possible in part by the voters of Minnesota through grants from theMinnesota State Arts BoardandFive Wings Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

Tickets are on sale now ator by calling218-855-8199. Come see what happens when young artists bring an epic story of love, loss, and resistance to the stage.


Performance Dates:
June 24–27 at 7:00 PM
June 29 at 2:00 PM
ASL Performance: June 25
Location: Chalberg Theatre, Central Lakes College, Brainerd, MN

Tickets ator 218-855-8199

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91Թ Performing Arts Center presents The Exonerated /2025/04/29/clc-performing-arts-center-presents-the-exonerated/ Tue, 29 Apr 2025 15:20:18 +0000 /news/?p=11270 The Central Lakes College Performing Arts Center presents The Exonerated, a powerful and haunting documentary play by Jessica Blank and Erik Jensen, running May 22–24 on the Central Lakes College Dryden Theatre stage. First produced in 2002,The Exoneratedis based on the true stories of six individuals who were wrongfully convicted of crimes and sentenced to...

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The Central Lakes College Performing Arts Center presents The Exonerated, a powerful and haunting documentary play by Jessica Blank and Erik Jensen, running May 22–24 on the Central Lakes College Dryden Theatre stage.

First produced in 2002,The Exoneratedis based on the true stories of six individuals who were wrongfully convicted of crimes and sentenced to death, only to be later exonerated and freed. Their accounts—drawn from interviews, court records, and personal testimony—are shared through a series of interwoven monologues and scenes that expose the devastating personal cost of a flawed justice system.

The play received wide acclaim for its emotionally searing storytelling and its unflinching look at systemic failure, earning the Drama Desk Award and the Outer Critics Circle Award. In the decades since its premiere,The Exoneratedhas been credited with bringing national attention to the issue of wrongful convictions, sparking public conversation around the death penalty, racial bias, and accountability in law enforcement and the courts.

This production was selected after local actor and director Rebecca Timmins brought the script to the attention of 91Թ Performing Arts Center leadership.

“I’ve long been fascinated by documentary theatre,” said Director of the 91Թ Performing Arts Center and the play’s producer, Joey Yow. “One of the first plays I ever participated in wasThe Laramie Project, a play crafted from interviews with residents of Laramie, Wyoming after the murder of Matthew Shepard, and the experience of telling that story has stayed with me for over 20 years. Theatre has the power to confront hard truths in a way that invites empathy and understanding rather than blame. Rather than attack the judicial system,The Exoneratedgives voice to people whose lives were deeply affected by errors in that system. We’re presenting this story not to point fingers, but to hold space for reflection on how justice can sometimes falter, and how we as a community—together with our institutions—can improve.”

Following each performance, the audience is invited to stay for a talkback featuring representatives from Lakes Area Restorative Justice. These conversations are designed to encourage community focus and introspection—creating space for dialogue that acknowledges both the complexity of our justice system and the shared desire for fairness, accountability, and public trust. By including a range of voices, including those who serve within the system, these discussions aim to deepen understanding, bridge perspectives, and foster respectful, community-centered engagement.

For Timmins, “This story has been meaningful to me since I saw it staged many years ago. It speaks to my own fear of the possibility that our system could execute an innocent person.” Timmins also shared that she was thrilled to be working with “some of the best actors in the area,” including Baird Brutscher, Rachael Brutscher, Erin Caswell, Micah Hudson, Rhoda Jackson, Jenny Kiffmeyer, Nick Kory, Blake Lubinus, Mark Oliphant, Cash Robinson, and Preston Stumpf. The show is stage managed by Melissa Peterson. Lighting design is by Joey Yow. Photography is by Sheila Boldt at Pine Haven Photography.

Tickets can be purchased online ator by calling the Box Office at 218-855-8199. Please note that this production contains mature themes and is recommended for ages 16 and up.

The Exoneratedis presented by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service. The 91Թ Performing Arts Center is supported by the Minnesota State Arts Board and the Five Wings Arts Council.

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Grammy-winning artist Kathy Mattea to perform at Gichi-ziibi Center /2025/04/15/grammy-winning-artist-kathy-mattea-to-perform-at-gichi-ziibi-center/ Tue, 15 Apr 2025 15:39:31 +0000 /news/?p=11260 The Central Lakes College Performing Arts Center proudly presents Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Kathy Mattea at the Gichi-ziibi Center for the Arts at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 2. This special performance is part of 91Թ’s Cultural Arts series, dedicated to providing the Brainerd lakes community with diverse, high-quality arts programming. Mattea’s appearance in Brainerd is...

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The Central Lakes College Performing Arts Center proudly presents Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Kathy Mattea at the Gichi-ziibi Center for the Arts at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 2. This special performance is part of 91Թ’s Cultural Arts series, dedicated to providing the Brainerd lakes community with diverse, high-quality arts programming.

Mattea’s appearance in Brainerd is part of a limited three-city engagement in Minnesota, including performances in Grand Rapids on May 1 and Red Wing on May 3. This brief Minnesota tour precedes her return to Nashville’s legendary Grand Ole Opry on May 31, where she’ll participate in the Opry’s centennial celebration, “OPRY 100.”

For more than three decades, Kathy Mattea has been a defining voice in American country, folk, and roots music. With two Grammy Awards, four Country Music Association Awards, and a distinguished collection of chart-topping hits, Mattea has earned acclaim for her lyrical storytelling and richly nuanced performances. Her best-known singles include the timeless classics “Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses,” “Where’ve You Been,” “Goin’ Gone,” “Come from the Heart,” and “455 Rocket,” songs that have cemented her place in country music history.

Throughout her celebrated career, Mattea has consistently pushed artistic boundaries, seamlessly blending country, folk, and bluegrass traditions. Inspired by the storytelling traditions of country legends such as Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, and Emmylou Harris, she brings deep emotional resonance and authenticity to her music. Her 2008 albumCoal, which explores Appalachian heritage and environmental themes, received critical praise for its powerful portrayal of coal-mining culture and community. Similarly, her 2012 albumCalling Me Homecontinued to explore Appalachian traditions with songs reflecting on themes of home, family, and the interconnectedness of life.

A frequent collaborator and advocate for social and environmental issues, Mattea uses her musical platform to raise awareness and inspire change. Her extensive contributions to country music extend beyond recordings and performances, including hosting nationally broadcast programs such as Mountain Stage Radio and mentoring younger generations of musicians.

Ahead of her performance, local fans will have the opportunity to hear Kathy Mattea speak about her storied career, creative process, and upcoming show. She will join Bill Satre on B93.3 between 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. as well as Tess Taylor and Eric Grant on WJJY’s Community Focus radio show at noon on Wednesday, April 23, offering listeners insight into her influences, her life as a touring musician, and her continued passion for music and storytelling.

Event Details:

  • Who:Kathy Mattea
  • When:Friday, May 2 at 7 p.m.
  • Where:Gichi-ziibi Center for the Arts, Brainerd, MN
  • Tickets:Available at the Box Office at 218-855-8199 or online at

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Performing Arts Center presents RENT, Jonathan Larson’s revolutionary rock musical /2025/04/07/performing-arts-center-presents-rent-jonathan-larsons-revolutionary-rock-musical/ Mon, 07 Apr 2025 15:52:01 +0000 /news/?p=11245 The Central Lakes College Performing Arts Center proudly presents RENT, Jonathan Larson’s revolutionary rock musical that changed the landscape of Broadway. Performances run April 10–19 on the Chalberg Theatre stage. Marking nearly 30 years since its Broadway debut, RENT remains a cultural touchstone for a generation of theatre lovers. With its electrifying score and raw,...

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The Central Lakes College Performing Arts Center proudly presents RENT, Jonathan Larson’s revolutionary rock musical that changed the landscape of Broadway. Performances run April 10–19 on the Chalberg Theatre stage.
Marking nearly 30 years since its Broadway debut, RENT remains a cultural touchstone for a generation of theatre lovers. With its electrifying score and raw, compassionate storytelling, the show captures a year in the life of young artists and musicians struggling to survive in New York City’s East Village amid the HIV/AIDS crisis. Themes of love, loss, community, and resilience resonate now more than ever.

Audiences follow aspiring filmmaker Mark and his best friend Roger, a struggling musician searching for purpose after losing his girlfriend to suicide. Their lives intertwine with Mimi, an dancer battling addiction; Angel, a vibrant performer living with AIDS; Collins, a philosophy professor; Maureen, a performance artist staging a protest; and Joanne, Maureen’s high-powered lawyer girlfriend. Former roommate Benny, now a landlord, complicates matters as he threatens eviction. Together, this group of friends and lovers must navigate a world defined by poverty, illness, and shifting relationships—all while clinging to joy, hope, and art.

This production features a cast of local and student performers, many of whom have dreamed for years of bringing RENT to life. Several cast members cite this show as a “bucket list” production or one that has had a lasting impact on their lives.

“Our cast brings so much heart and honesty to this show,” said Joey Yow, Producer. “Many of them have held RENT close since they first discovered it. For some, this is their first time on stage. For others, it’s the opportunity for a dream role. Watching this ensemble build their own version of Larson’s East Village has been deeply moving.”

91Թ students feature prominently throughout the production. From lead roles to ensemble standouts, these young artists bring fresh energy and authenticity to the stage. As one student shared, “It’s been a very positive experience. I came in here only knowing two people and now I feel really good talking to everybody here and making friends and being myself…it’s a very welcoming environment. It’s very positive.” Their involvement in the arts not only enhances their technical skills but also builds confidence, connection, and community.

“Supporting student performers is at the core of our mission,” Yow added. “RENT challenges them vocally, emotionally, and artistically—and they’ve risen to that challenge beautifully.”

The production is directed and choreographed by longtime collaborator Amy Borash, with musical direction by Kennedy Niska, Director and Manager of the Legacy Chorale of Greater Minnesota. Set design by Tim Leagjeld, costume design by Rachael Brutscher, and lighting design by Heidi Eckwall. Photography is by Sheila Boldt at Pine Haven Photography. The cast includes:

Zachary McIlravy as Angel
CJ Nichols as Benny
Al Carney as Collins
Nicole Rothluetner as Joanne
Noah Barnhart as Mark
Sarah Larson as Maureen
Ahni Perez Krueger as Mimi
Layton Carlson as Roger

Ensemble:
Abi Swenson, Abby Pratt, Amalia Hancock, Andy Ellison, Ava Viola Branstner, Brady Davison, Brody Schultz, Deanna Renea Schlagel, Hailey Schmitt, Jae Hoeschen, Kenzy Pratt, Levi Mark Trygstad, Lydia Jendro, Lynn Ellison, Natalie Topete, Phylipe Bell, Samuel Schlagel, Shae Shanks

Cast member Brady Davison shared, “RENT is more than just a show. It is a celebration of love, resilience, and the power of community. Set during the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, it gives voice to those who were silenced and reminds us why it’s so important to keep telling these stories. Being part of RENT allows me to embrace who I am, to stand in my truth, and to share a message of hope and acceptance. Getting to bring this story to life for our community is an honor, proving that ‘no day but today’ truly matters.”

Whether you’re a longtime fan or experiencing RENT for the first time, this is a show that stays with you.

“I remember seeing RENT as a college student,” said Yow. “It was one of those shows that haunted me—in the best way—for days. I hope it lingers with you, too.”

Tickets can be purchased online atwww.clcperformingarts.comor by calling the Box Office at 218-855-8199. Please note this show contains profanity and adult themes and is recommended for ages 16+.

RENT is presented by special arrangement with Music Theatre International. The 91Թ Performing Arts Center is supported by the Minnesota State Arts Board and the Five Wings Arts Council.

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