MN Shortlist: Songs, Stories and Spells – six selections for October 25-29

From indie pop to on-stage memory, this week is packed with art that lasts long after the lights go out. Whether you’re hearing the final notes of a local musical or hearing new voices emerging from St. Paul’s literary scene, there’s magic in the mix.

Jeremy Messersmith – October 25

Jeremy Messersmith brings his love of the spooky season to the Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul For a variety show for Halloween This is equal parts smart and convenient. Expect cameos, outfits and those critically acclaimed songs that make him one of Minneapolis’ most beloved indie pop exports. Messersmith has taken his music all over the country — even once opening for Barack Obama.

“Once on This Island” – until October 26

It’s Artistry in Blooming’s final weekend to showcase its flamboyant style "Once on this island," Caribbean novel by "Little mermaid" Which delves into love, class and colouring. Rooted in folklore and set to the unforgettable tunes of Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, this musical finds magic where heartbreak and hope intertwine.

Curator’s lecture: “Cambodian Masterpieces from Phnom Penh and Paris” – October 26

Art and archeology meet In this special conversation Associated with “Royal Bronzes: Cambodian Divine Art” at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts. Pierre Baptiste of the Guimet Museum in Paris explores Khmer bronze art and the discoveries that reshape its story. Home to more than 45,000 works of art from 17 countries, the Guimet Museum remains one of the world’s greatest treasures of Asian art.

Thiago Rodriguez: “By Heart” – October 28-29

Portuguese playwright Thiago Rodrigues turns memorization into an act of defiance “by heart,” An illuminating piece unfolds with 10 audience members learning the sonnet together on stage. At the McGuire Theater at the Walker Arts Center in Minneapolis, it’s part storytelling, part ritual. Now the artistic director of the Avignon Festival, Rodriguez continues his lifelong study of what we choose to remember.

Author readings: “Illuminations” — October 29

Next Chapter Books in St. Paul is hosting an evening of readings "Illuminations," Selections from the Calendar of Saint Paul XIV Showcasing Minnesota voices in prose and poetry. Expect warmth, contemplation, and a few surprises when contributors share their work directly. The book’s cover, by Twin Cities artist Ta-coumba T. Aiken, glows with the same spirit the collection celebrates.

“Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812” – October 29-November. 22

Elgin Theater lights up Crystal with Dave Malloy’s electropop opera "Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812," A dazzling novel of only 70 pages of “War and Peace.” After Natasha’s grief and Pierre’s quiet heroism, this room-level staging maintains the focus where Ellison shines best — on women’s voices and emotional truth.