Arts & Performance

Catch a glimpse of the Mendelssohn household in the early 1800s: the two oldest children, Fanny and Felix, were equally brilliant, talented, and educated by the greatest music teachers of the day. And yet, Felix was supported to become a leading musician of his age, while Fanny was strongly discouraged from pursuing a musical career. This program is dedicated to Fanny’s life and the astounding quality and range of her compositions.

Actress Jennifer Baldwin Peden will read from letters and contemporary accounts highlighting Fanny’s life and her close relation to her brother.

This New York hit condenses all seven Harry Potter books into 70 minutes of pure fun, with all your favorite characters, dragons, songs and, of course, magic. Ages 6+. Prices vary. Times vary. Pantages Theatre, 710 Hennepin Ave., Mpls.; 612.455.9500;

The Youth Performance Company acts out the story of four young African-Americans in North Carolina in 1960. It’s well known that lunch counters are for white people only, but these four decide to sit there and start a movement that changes history. Recommended for 4th grade and up. $7-$15. Times vary. Howard Conn Performing Arts Center, 612.623.9080.

This new musical based on the book by Jessica Lind Peterson follows the story of Allison and Jake: newlyweds whose lives are torn apart by a tragic accident. It’s a story of the uncertainty of life, human resilience and the power of choice. Recommended for adults. $23-$27. Times vary. Yellow Tree Theatre, 763.493.8733

This program teaches you how to track revenues and expenses, make projections and more to help you make your artistic ventures financially successful ones. This event is put on in collaboration with Springboard for the Arts and Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. Adults. Free. 2-4:30 p.m. 612.543.5669

Enjoy great family entertainment at the 66th annual Edina High School POPS Concert. The theme for this year’s performances is “The World of POPS.” Audiences will be taken on a traveling musical adventure. Talented EHS student musicians will showcase their talents and creativity with instrumentals, singing, dancing, comedy performances and more. In a time honored tradition, the band will close with “On the Mall” by Edwin Franko Goldman which will leave attendees whistling and singing long after the show. A silent auction will be held after each performance to benefit the Edina Band program.

Learn about artists who teach, at a PechaKucha Sunday, Jan. 20, 6pm. Art Force will host the free, open-to-public event at 1400 Van Buren St. NE. In this fast-paced format, artists show and explain work with 20 slides in 20 seconds each.

Nineteenth-century superstar pianist Franz Liszt was fascinated with Catholicism throughout his life. He became increasingly drawn to a spiritual life, and eventually took minor holy orders in the Catholic church. Join virtuoso pianist Richard Tostenson as he performs some of Liszt’s most impressive secular and spiritual works in the stunning atmosphere of the Basilica of Saint Mary.

Sonata in B minor
“Pensée des morts” from Harmonies poétiques et religieuses Vexilla regis prodeunt
Richard Tostenson, piano

Hear iconic songs like “Honeysuckle Rose,”  “Sweet Sue,” and “Ain’t We Got Fun” alongside instrumental selections, as this program takes you back to America’s most transformative and mythical era.

Jazz band:
Jerry Rubino, piano; Greg Keel, saxophone; Paul Babcock, drums; Tom Pieper, bass

Vocalists:
Andrea Leap and Joey Clark

Tickets may be purchased by calling 612.767.5250.

Edina High School’s premiere performing ensembles present the 6th annual “Winter Jubilee.”  Themed “A Joyful Celebration of the Season,” this festive program features seasonal favorites from individual and combined ensembles and showcases the many talents of the EHS Performing Arts Department.  Performances by the Concert Choir, Concert Band, Concert Orchestra, and Edina Thespians are sure to fill the heart and warm the soul.