This article was written by Anne Ulseth
It’s almost time for the 16th Annual FLOW Northside Arts Crawl, and this year the Capri is celebrating our next generation of artists at the newly remodeled theater, at 2027 W. Broadway.
On Friday, July 29 at 6 p.m., Sprayfinger Graffiti Arts Education program brings a Guest Artist Talk with New York-based graffiti writer, “Tkid170,” inside the theater, along with Briauna Williams’ art exhibition in the Carlson Family Foundation Art Gallery. Outside on the plaza, attendees can drop by the weekly Broadway Farmers Market from 3-7 p.m.
On Saturday, July 30 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., FLOW visitors can check out Mike the Car Guy’s Cool Car Show, and the Youth and Arts Market on the plaza. KBEM-Jazz 88 will be providing a dynamic soundtrack for all to enjoy. FLOW is a three-day arts excursion in North Minneapolis hosted by the West Broadway Business and Area Coalition. All events are free.
A few days later, the community is invited to cool down inside the Capri with the Summer Camp Capri scholars and their staging of the musical, THE WIZ Jr. This adaptation of the classic The Wonderful Wizard of Oz story by L. Frank Baum will be presented at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, August 3 and Thursday, August 4.
With an amazing mix of rock, gospel and soul music, THE WIZ Jr. is a vibrant take on Dorothy’s adventures through the Land of Oz. The fun, family-friendly musical includes exciting dance numbers which blend traditional movement from African culture with ballet, jazz and modern dance.
The 60-minute show features the talents of 20 local middle school students who have been participating in the five-week arts-inspired, adventure-filled program. The scholars have been learning from some of the best artists in the biz, including directors Dennis Spears and Greta Oglesby; Diane Robinson from Hollywood School of Dance; musical director Kimberly Keaton; percussionist Chico Perez; theatrical costumer and crafter Julie Acton; and company manager Jennifer Whitlock.
THE WIZ Jr. tickets are free but registration is requested at caprithewizjr.eventbrite.com.