This Wednesday the new Pink Hobo Gallery in Northeast Minneapolis opens an innovative exhibit featuring three well-respected digital artists: Jer Thorp, James Paterson, and Mario Klingemann. With roots in everything from genetics to interactive design, this trio of rogue creatives are part of a booming new movement that reaches beyond traditional mediums and melds technology and art. Graphic design and digital art has slowly crept into the contemporary art world and established itself as a force to be reckoned with over the last decade, with a considerable jump in mainstream popularity within the past few years. These veteran computational artists use tools such as animation, interactive design and algorithms to create large-scale representations that are both thought provoking and visually intense. All three artists will be in attendance at the opening reception this Wednesday, June 10th from 7 p.m. to Midnight. Show runs through July 20th. Pink Hobo Gallery, 507 E. Hennepin Avenue, Northeast Minneapolis.
Happy kissing season, gentle readers! We here at l'étoile hope your hearts are happy and your minds are dirty, because this weekend is shaping up to be one big hedonistic love fest. The Twin Cities goes above and beyond the standard flowers/candy/dinner concept with a number of outrageous events sure to tantalize both lovers and lonely hearts. Get frisky with sugar coated secret parties, rock shows, and art exhibits -- all designed with amoré in mind. Happy smooching!
Anyone who's ever spent any amount of time debating where to hang a piece of art understands the role space occupies in relation to said art, whether it be symbolic or ironic, void or vast. Tonight's art exhibit hosted by realtor David Abele, is a celebration of this combination of art and space with a expansive display of art work laid out in the penthouse level of Skyscape condos. Curated by Emma Berg, Sean Smuda, Terrence Payne and John Alspach, the event features the artwork of 24 unique local artists including l'etoile faves such as Rudy Fig, Scott Seekins and Issac Arvold, plus a performance by Otto Ramsted and Olive Bierenga of the Body/Cartography Project. Join the artists, experience diversified work and enjoy a beautiful view of the city.
CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM
THURSDAY FEBRUARY 12TH
Life: A Journey Through Time
@ Bell Museum of Natural History 10 Church St. SE Minneapolis
7pm-9pm / $10
Happy birthday Charles Darwin! Thanks for that crazy evolution idea! It’s too bad he didn’t figure out how to evolve into a time-traveler, because this birthday party would blow his mind. Tonight U of M biologists will give quickie presentations using Frans Lantings' acclaimed photographs as a basis. Get smart in no time! Tonight's special event kicks off the exhibit, Life: A Journey Through Time, which features a collection of 62 awe-inspiring color photos paired with specimens from the Bell Museum’s collection. Exhibit runs through April 10th.
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FRIDAY FEBRUARY 13TH
DemiEtoile, Dearling Physique, & Ghostband
@ Club Jager 923 Washington Ave N. Minneapolis
9pm / 21+/ Free
If one of the artists at tonight's show looks familiar to regular Jager goers, it's because he's most commonly known behind the bar, slinging drinks and entertaining the masses. The music of live laptop-rock extraordinaire, Paul Teravskis a.k.a. DemiEtoile, is a nod to the experimental dark wave bands before him (think early Human League). His sound is poetically composed, creating a unique brand of noisecore with emotive undertones. Tonight's event also includes performances by talented locals Dearling Physique and Ghostband.
It is a common fantasy of famous creative types to be forever young, immortalized by a lifestyle based in the theory of “live fast, die young, leave a beautiful corpse.” Tonight's Walker After Party premieres the exhibit Live Forever: Elizabeth Peyton, and offers a glimpse into pop culture history, beginning with Peyton's earlier works capturing such tragic heroes as Sid Vicious and Kurt Cobain, as well as numerous other well-known contemporary artists, historical figures, personal friends and more. In a style inspired by David Hockney and Andy Warhol, Peyton's portraits take an in-depth and intimate look into the lives of modern day icons. Tonight, enjoy complimentary appetizers, a cash bar, karaoke, music by DJ Jake Rudh, and a screening of the film Kurt Cobain: About a Son. And as always, capture the elements of your fabulous evening via the Party People Picture booth. It might not be playing at the actual event, but we guarantee that Alphaville's “Forever Young” will be stuck in the heads of at least half of those in attendance.
CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM
FRIDAY FEBRUARY 13TH
My Bloody Valentine Party
@ Stasius Place 2600 University Ave NE Minneapolis
9pm / 21+ / $5
Ah, here it is again, Valentine’s Day (well, technically V-Day Eve). The time of year dreaded by most and anticipated by few. The time when pink, red and heart shaped objects attack you from every possible direction. Instead of sitting at home and self-mutilating, join the rest of the dispossessed, depressed, and unrequited lonely hearts at Stasiu’s for the My Bloody Valentine party. The music is better suited for blissed-out nodding than sexed-up dancing, but if you're looking for an anti-Valentine's Day soundtrack, this is certainly it. With Strangelights, Luke's Angels, Grey Skies, Basement Apartment, and DJ Christian Fritz & Sara Jean. The possibility of My Blood Valentine covers and mid-nineties nostalgia abound.
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FRIDAY FEBRUARY 13TH
13 Bands Benefit
@ Hexagon Bar 2600 27th Ave. S Minneapolis
9pm / 21+ / Free
On Friday the 13th the Hex will be rocking 13 bands on two stages, each doing 13 minute sets to raise bucks for a much needed new sound system. Featuring the musical stylings of (deep breath) Speeds the Name, Power of Two, Plastic Chord, Marvelle, Economy Team, Zyclon B Cool, The Nina and the Pinta, Nightinghales, Young Brides, Falcon Arrow, Kill To Kill, The Has been, Military Special, and a special guest. Whew! P.S. - We know who it is, we just can't tell you!
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FRIDAY THE 13TH
Street Sounds V: Sea Sounds
@ First Ave VIP Room 701 1st Ave N Minneapolis
10pm / $5 / 18+
If you’re going to call your event “the most romantic Valentine disco dance party ever,” you need to be able to back it up. Luckily, those sweet Burlesque Design boys know how to get our hopes up -- and actually deliver. Tonight’s dance party promises all vinyl, all night! Featuring Attitude City, Mike the 2600 King and Winship: Four boys we totally wish were our valentines!
Sponsored by l'étoile magazine of course!
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COOL LINK: SECRETS OF THE SWEETHEARTS
Ok, so we totally didn't have time to do our annual Valentine's Day "Guide to Getting Lucky" this time around. We've been busy bees! You can, however, still get a lil' dose of what you've come to expect out of us from our kissing cousins over at Secrets of the City. l'etoile editor Kate Iverson (who also happens to be The Rake/Secrets of the City's a+e editor) has whipped together a signature guide full of ideas on traditional and non-traditional gift-giving, romancing, crafting, cooking, and more.
Last year around this time, Umber Studios exhibited work by a couple of lovelorn local boys that stirred up quite a controversy. As if to flip the bird to the male persuasion in 2009, four feisty romantics put their sparkly, girlish spin on art with heart, adding a devilish dose of "evil, love, hate, curiosity, hunger, insanity, wounds, brilliance, quirks, whys, becauses, thoughts and middle fingers." The exhibit includes work by local lovelies DC Ice, Rebecca Sullivan, Jessica Helvey, and Torey Bonar -- four arty gals with snazz and pizzazz. Nibble chocolates, sip red wine, and cross your fingers -- the night is young, the art is good and cupid is loose!
CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM
SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14TH
Rejected Valentine's Party
@ Altered Esthetics 1224 Quincy Street NE Northeast Minneapolis
7pm-9pm / Free
In conjunction with their Rejected Art exhibit, on display now, Altered Esthetics sticks out its tongue at the happy lovers of the world. Head to this Northeast art gallery for an artists’ discussion on the current exhibit, then stick around to tear up photographs, curse names, and maybe even flirt it up with other rejects of love. Indulging in a bit of wine and angst is just the thing to lift your spirits, say we!
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SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14TH
VD09
@ Northrup King Building 1500 Jackson Street NE Northeast Minneapolis
7pm-Midnight / Free
Lame Valentine's Days getting you down? Are you tired of V-Day parties cheesier than a Lifetime movie? Well, we can't promise that tonight's bash won't be cheesy, but at least it will be the kind of cheesy lovefest that all the cool people are at. Blending together multimedia art and a V-Day theme with an unconventional twist, tonight's TwoBetties hosted soiree is the ultimate heart-day art party. DJ Danny Sigelman plays the musical love doctor with hits from Barry White and other musicians sure to lull you into that loving feeling. Indulge your date with chocolates and wine while experiencing awesome visual art and video madness. Don't forget to sign up for the raffle for your chance to win lovable prizes provided by screen-print sweeties Squad 19. Dress sexy, get down, throw caution to the wind and let VD09 take the guess work out of seducing that someone special.
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE VD09 SITE Photo by Mircea Grelus
SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14TH
Dre Day VII: Minnesota Love
@ Varsity Theater 1308 4th St SE Minneapolis
9pm / 18+ / $10
Yeah, hell yeah. Know what I'm sayin? It's Dre Day, and everybody's celebrating! The sassy kids of Burlesque are back with the seventh installment of the biggest and best hip-hop bash of the year -- a birthday party for one of the most prolific, versatile, and influential figures in the rap game, Dr. Dre. Gather yo bitches and hoes, crack a 40 in the name of Dre, and get down with the likes of Muja Messiah, Trama, DJ Jimmy 2 Times, and DJ Espada. Cause Minnesota knows how to party.
SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14TH
Rifted Heart
@ MindriftMN Secret Location St. Peazy
8pm-5am / $16
There's nothing like 4 stages of unabashed electronic musical gems to warm the chambers of your heart this Valentine's Day. For one night only The Rift - a collaboration between Bakpak and UncensoredUS - host an epic dance night jam packed with variety and spice, all the ingredients for a memorable V-Day. If you don't have a Valentine, not to worry. Let the dance floor be your lover and shower it with all the attention it deserves. Tonight's all night bash features a massive, energetic line-up from the best in drum n' bass, dark psy, techno, breakcore and more. No drugs, no trouble, just fun and all the love you can muster.
CLICK BELOW FOR DIRECTIONS TO THE LOCATION
SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14TH
F*ck You I Love Me
@ Sound Gallery 414 3rd Ave N Minneapolis
8pm / 21+ / $5-$12
Come one, come all to a V-Day carnival, with The Battle Royale, Koo Koo Kanga Roo (best. name. ever.) and DJ Loveless Aphrodite. Most importantly, there will be a kissing booth where you can suck face with hot strangers in exchange for cash. Fish for condoms, in case your night goes right, and search for romance while watching bad movies. It’s a benefit for Lamb Lays With Lion, an experimental theater company, which is as good a reason as any to fork over some cash to smooch a random.
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SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14TH
Hotpants Valentine's Souled Out Show
@ Clubhouse Jager 923 N. Washington Minneapolis
10pm / Free
Thank you Mama for making me hot pants! Ok, face it: there is absolutely nothing more danceable than soul and funk music. Nothing. God made it that way. Do the Boogaloo through the room to thank DJ Nick Soule for coming all the way from the Windy City Soul Club to spin for us. These expert 45 spinners have quite the evening planned for you, so go attack that dance floor!
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SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14TH
Bleeding Hearts Romp
@ Bedlam Theatre 1501 S 6th St. Minneapolis
10pm / $7
The scorned and loveless will come out in droves to make out in the unisex bathrooms tonight at the Bedlam. Actually, we think the Bedlam is one of the more romantic spaces in the Cites, so maybe love will be found in between cabaret performances.
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SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14TH
Antony and the Johnsons
@ Pantages Theatre 710 Hennepin Ave Minneapolis
8pm / $31
How can there possibly be tickets still available? Hurry! Get yours! Bringing your sweetheart to this show WILL make them fall in love with you. How can one man’s voice be so beautiful? The most hopeful songs sung by the most beautiful of Brits. Antony leaves us speechless. We love, love, love this magical musician.
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SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14TH
MK3 Valentine’s Dinner
@ Seward Café 2129 E Franklin Ave Minneapolis
6:30pm / $5-15 suggested donation
Nothing is more romantic than dining in honor of accused felons. More reverberations from the RNC are at least prompting fun events -- this time it’s folks from Milwaukee that need some cash for legal costs. A delicious dinner will be served while that upright piano that lurks about will finally have a use. A Paper Cup Band plays in the parlor. (There’s not really a parlor, but it’s going to feel that fancy tonight.)
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SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14TH
Boyz in the Hood
@ Uptown Theater 2906 Hennepin Ave Minneapolis
Midnight / $9
Oh, the early ‘90s. Cutting school, doing drugs, riding in stolen cars...maybe it was the same all over for everyone. This film’s a classic, starring Ice Cube, a young Cuba Gooding Jr. and Angela Bassett. It made director John Singleton the first African-American to be nominated for an Academy Award. A story of three South Central friends and the cycle they’re stuck in. We would quote from the movie here, but there are too many cuss words, and this is a classy blog.
WIN BIG: E-mail kate@letoilemagazine.com with "UPTOWN" in the subject line, along with your full name to be entered to win a pair of tickets to this screening! Winners will be notified by e-mail by Friday, and names will be on a list at the box office for Saturday's midnight screening.
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SUNDAY MUSIC PICK: ASOBI SEKSU
What's a Valentine's Day weekend without a few impromptu hook ups? With a name roughly translated in Japanese to “casual sex,” is it any wonder why the indie band, Asobi Seksu, is gaining popularity. Although they may look and sound cute and innocent, these New York bred shoegazing pop darlings are probably more seeing more action than any of us can even imagine. Singer Yuki Chikudate's high-pitched, songbird vocals and Japanese/English mixed lyrics are often reminiscent of the beautifully indecipherable phonetics of Cocteau Twins' Elizabeth Fraser. Although their first album debuted back in 2004, the dreamy, J-pop incorporated sound of Asobi Seksu was recently featured on television series The L Word's season 5 soundtrack, proving their style is still relevant and seamlessly catchy.
Bonus: Be hypnotized by the poppy mayhem as Asobi Seksu plays live at the 7th St. Entry March 7th.
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE ASOBI SEKSU MYSPACE
SUNDAY FEBRUARY 15TH
Gastro Non Grata
@ Triple Rock Social Club 629 Cedar Ave Minneapolis
6pm / Free
Let's cover all the food groups tonight: rock and roll, cupcakes, meat, and beer. Yep, that’s it! We love this idea! Snack on treats from the Modern Café, listen to the likes of Gospel Gossip, suck on a Duvel beer, and reward yourself when you win the meat raffle with one (or two) of Miel y Leche’s much-lusted-after cupcakes. Plus, it’s free. FREE! Bring your Valentine’s day hanger-ons with you and make it a two-day date!
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MONDAY FEBRUARY 16TH
Snowball War!!!
@ Powderhorn Park Minneapolis
Noon-4pm / $5 donation
If there’s still any snow by Monday, prepare your arm for a killer snowball war/Capture the Flag game. It’s not all just for giggles though, this is serious biznass. Not only is it a fundraiser surrounding RNC arrests (What cool thing isn’t these days?), but you can win prizes from Tatters, Arise Bookstore, and the Black Dog Cafe, whilst traipsing through the park, snatching their flags and defeating the other team. Game on!
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TUESDAY FEBRUARY 17TH
JagerCon: V The Miniseries
@ Clubhouse Jager 923 Washington Avenue N. North Loop
10pm / 21+ / Free
Join hosts Kate Iverson (l'etoile magazine, Secrets of the City) and Beth Hammarlund (l'etoile magazine, A Tiny Machine) every Tuesday Night for JagerCon! JagerCon is a weekly sci-fi party at Clubhouse Jager featuring screenings of classic nerdy movies and television shows such as Buffy, Firefly, V, Star Trek, Blade Runner, Forbidden Planet and more -- topped off with 2-4-1 cocktails all night served by Star Captain Paul! Tonight watch as much V: The Miniseries as you can possibly handle!
Who knows, you might meet a new valentine:
Me: Black trench coat with Star Fleet emblem embroidered on the breast, sullenly sipping a Mike's Hard Lemonade and muttering about samurai swords in the corner.
You: Giving off a sexy medieval wench vibe, animatedly debating your friend about which Doctor Who is the hottest.
I thought I felt our psychic ESP matrixes click, was I dreaming? I couldn't help but notice the sideways look you gave me when they were playing the deleted scenes from "Serenity." I wasn't sure if you had something in your eye, or if my Darth Vader heavy-breathing impression was creeping you out. Either way, I've got enough limited edition Batman comic books to line our marriage bed ten times over.
I'll be at the V screening next week, if you're nasty.
GUEST BLOGGER: A TINY MACHINE
Our fave sci-fi/beauty blogger talks Shakespeare!
An Evening at the Theatuh
I was a theater major in college, which means three things: I am extremely critical of acting and lighting design, I have a great passion for Henrik Ibsen, Jean-Paul Sartre, John Webster, and Christopher Marlowe, and I love me some William Shakespeare. Though he's not my favorite playwright, he is certainly one of the most talented and prolific. And I'm amazed at how relevant his stories remain today. Whether it's super serious (my college's production of Measure for Measure set in apartheid South Africa) or super light (10 Things I Hate About You), I'm a sucker for pretty much any re-imagining of Shakespearean stories. Enter the Guthrie with their production of the classic romantic comedy The Two Gentlemen of Verona, set in a 1950s retro television show.
The Two Gentlemen of Veronaruns through March 29 on the Wurtele Thrust Stage. To take advantage of a slick discount, attend a Sunday, Tuesday or Wednesday show. Just call the Guthrie Box Office at 612-377-2224 and use code "A74." Instead of the usual $29-$55 price tag, you'll be able to attend the show for a meager $20. This offer isn't valid online, on Area 1 seating, or on previously purchased tickets. But it's a fantastic deal. And in these depressing economic times, I think we could all use a little of the bard's romantic whimsy.
Keep in mind that Edward Albee's classic A Delicate Balance is running through March 1, and A Raisin in the Sun will open on March 12. It's the revolutionary play's 50th anniversary, so it's definitely a production not to be missed.
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GUEST BLOGGER: LE PETIT CONNAISSEUR
Fashion blogger extraordinaire Le Petit Connaisseur updates us on local fashion! Local Fashion Preview: New Land of Milk & Honey
One of my favorite local clothing designers Annie Larson of Swank Dollar and equally-excellent jewelry line SisBro are joining forces in late spring for a fashion event/performance, and they've just released a preview of the line on which they're collaborating, New Land of Milk and Honey.
Annie tells me there will be "ten-ish looks all together, with a good portion of it being sweater knit pieces on the knitting machine I just bought with Erin Smith (of SisBro)." I, for one, am excited for these knit pieces, and the designs depicted in the sketches make it clear that Annie is one of the few Twin Cities designers really pushing fresh, new design concepts. While it's clearly not for everyone, I can see at least a few pieces that I can see myself wearing.
What else we can expect: "The premise for the performance is that it is an expose on a peaceful commune of people that resides in Wisconsin, and in anticipation of the future they construct their lives around the use of Segways (you know, those little gyrscope scooter things)." There will actually be Segways in the performance, showcased on a futuristic landscape designed and constructed by Brett and Erin Smith of SisBro. The show, location and date to be confirmed, will also include a variety of other visual artists, musicians, and projection artists.
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What's What Editor: Kate Iverson Contributing Writers: Lacey Prpic Hedtke, Robyn Lewis, Juleana Enright, Kate Iverson Contributing Bloggers: Beth Hammarlund, Jahna Peloquin
New Year's Eve: the social occasion of the year. Where will you go? What will you wear? Who will you kiss at midnight? We've got a few ideas of our own concerning that last part, and hopefully you do too! Thanks to our double agent at Secrets of the City, we're "re-printing" excerpts from their extensive New Year's Eve Guide. Click HERE to check out even MORE New Year's Eve events!
Prix Fixe dinner 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Live music at 11 p.m. Cost: Free
A laid back New Year's party with live music from Brad Senne and Gabe Barnett. Giveaways, complimentary appetizers, drink specials, free champagne toast at Midnight. Hosted by Secrets of the City and The Red Stag!
Early Seating at 5 p.m., party at 8:30 p.m. Cost: Free
Join our friends at Jazz 88 and The Times Bar this New Year's eve! Early seating at 5:00pm with Maud Hixson & Rick Carlson in a tribute to Irving Berlin. Celebration seating at 8:30pm with the Twin Cities Hot Club. Music begins at 9:45pm.
Scrimshaw Brother's New Year's Spectacular & Martini and Olive's New Year's
Scrimshaw Bros at 7 p.m. and 11 p.m. Martini & Olive at 9 p.m. Cost: $20 for Scrimshaw, $25 for Martini and Olive
Sketch comedy team The Scrimshaw Brothers entertain into the new year with an early show and a late show. While Martini & Olive fill in the middle with "new year's booty shaking" and lots of laughs.
This free party will feature live music from Military Special and The Invincible Kids, a disco dance party, meat raffle, and a French champagne toast at Midnight.
Music at 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Cost: $8 Advance (available at Jager) or $10 door
A special New Year's edition of Transmission with DJ Jake Rudh featuring new wave, '80s, electro, and punk. Complimentary hors d'ouevres and champagne toast at Midnight.
Featuring live music from Mark Mallman, E.L.nO and Lucy Michelle and the Velvet Lapelles. Look for special guests and surprises in true Mallman fashion. 18+ event.
Featuring local bands covering classic rock bands. Vampire Hands (as the Rolling Stones), Daughters of the Sun (as Led Zepplin), and STNNNG (As the John Spencer Blues Explosion), DJ Winship plays between sets.
Chill out in the Caterpillar Lounge with live DJs Nik E. Gunz, Fourfeet, and DJ Ack playing house, disco and soul. Additional sound, decor and lighting. Free Champagne toast at Midnight.
Doors at 9 p.m. Cost: $10 email jp@secrettechno.com for location
Another killer throw-down at the Lock Inn. This secret location soiree will feature techno DJs, a champagne toast, magical surprises, and cool visuals.
Dance with 9 other cities live via satellite as DJ AM and Travis Barker perform live from Los Angeles. Gourmet passed hors d'oeuvres and food stations, champagne upon arrival and at midnight. On site entertainment from local DJs and performers.
The Spirit of '09
@ The Loft above Barfly Doors at 8 p.m. Cost: Advance $30 ($45 Door) VIP $70 ($80 Door)
Probably the hippest NYE party in Minneapolis. Internationally loved DJs Hercules & Love Affair, Le Castle Vania, Klever, and a performance by local electro rockers Solid Gold. Complimentary appetizers, champagne and chocolate at midnight, giveaways, multimedia installations and more. 18+ Event.
A New Year's dance party featuring DJs Roy Freedom, DJ Smitty, Mike the 2600 King, and Too Much Love's Soviet Panda. Hosted by Ian of Drinking with Ian. 18+ event.
In the Entry: Eyedea & Abilities In the VIP: The One Love Movement
Doors at 9 p.m. Cost: $60 (finger printed VIP and Pre-Sale) $75 Door
An evening of provocative indulgence. Featuring complimentary appetizers, premium open bar, live performances, surprises, global countdown and champagne toast. Music from Richie Rivera, Phil Martinez, and DJ Fresco.
Music starts at 7 p.m. Cost: $25 General, $75 w/ Dinner
Enjoy three fully themed rooms with over 20 of the Twin Cities finest electronic, dance, hip-hop, and mash-up DJs. General admission includes late night appetizers, champagne toast, and a gift bag from Grey Goose.
Doors at 7 p.m. Cost: $45 General, $95 Dinner & Show pkg, Add $25 for Open Bar pass
All four levels of Solera will be transformed into a James Bond themed extravaganza. DJs, casino games, fire dancers, aerialists, bond villains, and bond girls!
As the holiday spirit infuses every nook and cranny of American media, so come inevitable holiday shows, sales, and festive hijinx. This weekend is as merry as ever with a slew of events aimed to tickle your gift-giving bone. From craft-o-ramas to daring holiday fashion, the Twin Cities has you covered. So make your list, check it twice, and buy local - it's a win-win situation! And not to be overshadowed, the abundance of dance parties and live shows ensure you'll party as hard as you shop, and we can't argue with that.
xo-l'étoile
THURSDAY DECEMBER 4TH
First Thursday
@ The Northeast Arts District Various locations Northeast Minneapolis
5pm-9pm/free
We say it every month: Get thee down to Northeast’s First Thursdays! There’s a reason everyone in the world runs across the river the first Thursday of every month—those uber-talented artists that have holed up in their studios all month fling open the doors to show off what they’ve been doing. In terms of allure, this is sort of like when Willy Wonka opens up his chocolate factory.
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE NEMAA SITE
THURSDAY DECEMBER 4TH
Ruby3 Progressive Holiday Trunk Show
@ Miyagi Salon 411 E. Hennepin Avenue Minneapolis
7pm-11pm / Free
A daring headpiece from fashion scene mover and shaker Anna Lee's Ruby3 line ought to be a staple in every stylish dame's wardrobe. These sprightly and whimsical creations are pure art for the noggin, with curling velvet, sparkling beads and unexpected twists galore. Tonight's trunk show will feature Anna Lee's latest collection of cocktail hats, as well as cold weather wear. The sugary sweet design team of Calpurnia Peach rounds things out with sexy screen-printed legwear. Stick around and be privy to a live photo shoot with our pal Jayme Halbritter as he captures the fashionable creations on models styled by the talented team at Miyagi Salon. After you satisfy your fashion tooth, head to the free after party at our fave hangout, The Red Stag, for live music courtesy of recently rejuvenated rockers, Faux Jean.
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE RUBY3 SITE Photos by Nic Marshall/Styling by Eclecticoiffeur
THURSDAY DECEMBER 4TH
MAEP Artist-Led Tour
@ MIA 2400 Third Ave. S Minneapolis
7pm-9pm
A model is never supposed to be a direct representation of a structure. Rescaled and minimalist, it is an obvious mock-up. But the models in The Minnesota Artists Exhibition Program exhibit, Journey to the Surface of the Earth, are so well constructed and mathematically designed that under intensified light and photographed in high detail, their images confuse our perception of realness. In this artist-led tour exhibit, Margaret Pezalla-Granlund and Max Schollett use ubiquitous objects (paper and magazines) to reconstruct everyday structures (parking ramps and ladders) and explore the space between what is real and what we can be swayed into believing is real.
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FRIDAY ART PICK: THOMAS ALLEN
Native Minnesotan photographer Thomas Allen constructs witty and clever dioramas using figures cut from the covers of old pulp paperbacks. Using pulp art covers of the '40s and '50s from such classics as "I Married a Dead Man" and "Marihuana Girl", Allen constructs one set of pictures up close while obscuring another, and in the process creates a different context. Each piece is given a brand new storyline, though never quite strays from their cheeky origins. Pick up a copy of Allen's book Thomas Allen: Uncovered for more funny, provocative and at times out right sexy pulp culture masterpieces.
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FRIDAY DECEMBER 5TH (THROUGH SATURDAY)
No Coast Craft-o-rama
@ Midtown Exchange 2901 Chicago Ave S Minneapolis
3pm-8pm / Free
Our first tip: bring plenty of cash. Second tip: prepare to be really proud/excited/envious of all the crafters the Midwest offers up. Not only can you buy handmade for everyone on your list, but you can meet Kelley Deal of the Breeders; eat some food from around the globe; watch an “Upcycle Craft-a-thon," and know, in a lot of cases, you’re buying green. And with a lot of gifts under $20, you win! Through Saturday, December 6th.
BONUS: Be sure to seek out l'étoile bestie Papernova who will be shilling her handmade greeting cards, quirky shadow box art and other weird/cool wares all weekend.
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE NO COAST SITE
FRIDAY NOVEMBER 5TH
Rare Affections Opening Reception
@ Gaviidae Common II 555 Nicollet Mall 2nd floor Minneapolis
4pm-7pm / Free
Showing up at a holiday soirée in the same dress as someone else is a giant fashion faux pas every girl tries to avoid. By buying from local designers you not only steer clear from that mishap and arrive in a stunning one-of-a-kind garment, but you're supporting local fashion (which always gets you on l’étoile's good side)! The “Rare Affections” collection unveils itself today featuring the beautiful, atypical designs of Voltage designers and local fashion buzzworthies. The eclectic collection showcases something for everyone's taste. From the urban street-wear of Voltage designer Calpurnia Peach to Lolita styles of Blasphemina's Closet, to the gorgeously asymmetrical and eccentric designs of Laura Fulk, and flashy displays from Ra'mon-Lawrence - the only issue you may encounter while wearing your chic frock is running into the designer at the party you wear it to. Other designers whose sales will be on the racks today are Max Lohrback, Ivan Idland, Princess Warrior, Red Shoe Clothing Co., Ruby3 and Veronica DelCarmen Gomez Whitney. So, forget the MOA and rush downtown to the MNFashion Holiday Boutique. Your closet will thank you for it.
Bonus: Find the perfect dress and the perfect fit all in one day as the designs will be on the scene and available for any alterations you might need.
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR MORE INFO Sketch by designer Samantha Rei
FRIDAY DECEMBER 5TH (THROUGH SUNDAY)
Grainbelt Holiday Gala
@ Grainbelt Bottling House 79 13th Avenue NE Minneapolis
Friday Reception: 6-10pm, Sat: Noon-8pm Sun: Noon to 4pm
The Bottling House will be rockin' this Friday as over 40 artists kick off a weekend-long extravaganza brimming with film, photography, painting, sculpture and more. Tonight's opening reception is a multi-media event with music from the likes of Peter Lochner, Eliza Blue, Acoustic Death Orchestra, and The Vicious Alive. No doubt snackings and libations will be available as well; it is an art opening after all.
In a culture where Christmas is synonymous with Consumerism, Altered Aesthetics Happy Holidaze explores the dazzling daze of annual celebrations that are taken over marketing. From Christmas to Easter, Valentine's to Halloween, artists take a look at the meaning behind holiday marketing and consumerism. As an extra creative twist, Altered Esthetics is also conducting an online survey asking guests questions about their favorite and least favorite holidays and memories. The results will then be displayed in innovative ways around the exhibit.
CLICK THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM Art by Brandon Kuehn
FRIDAY NOVEMBER 5TH
Hotel
@ Kitty Cat Klub 315 14th Ave. SE Minneapolis
10pm / +21/ Free
While some motels might claim to “leave the light on for you,” Jonathan Ackerman and friends always leave the party going for you at Hotel. That's right, it's time for another fabulous installment of Dinkytown's favorite dance night. Tonight, Spanky Masterson, Phep Sheddibone and NYC's own My Cousin Roy join Ackerman to tear up the floor just for your dancing gratification. And Hotel's no cover access means more cash to spend on other necessary things (ahem* drinks* ahem). That's what we call a dance night that fits all your economic needs!
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR MORE INFO
FRIDAY NOVEMBER 5TH
Get Cryphy
@ First Ave VIP Room 701 1st Ave. N Minneapolis
10pm / 18+/ $3
You don't have to settle for a mediocre night at a frat saturated club to get your rap anthem fix. Get Cryphy's got your banging beats in true gangster rollin' VIP style. Laying down the club standard for ghetto, bass, electro and funk, DJs Jimmy 2 Times and Plain Ole Bill start their sets tight and end them tight for a hands-in-the-air all night affair. This evening, the Cryphy boys are joined by Doomtree's Paper Tiger for some extra hip-hop flavor. Brace yourself and do not attempt to adjust the bass.
BONUS: Come back to First Ave tomorrow night for the official Doomtree Blowout IV.
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE GET CRYPHY SITE
FRIDAY DECEMBER 5TH
Black Christmas Party
@ Blacklist Vintage 2 E 27th St. Minneapolis
9pm / Free
It’s not every vintage store that invites you to play a game of tabletop Ms. Pacman. If that’s not enticing enough, how about partying in a vintage store? Everything is 10% off, DJ Jake Rudh from Transmission spins, they’ll have food to eat and mistletoe to catch your crush under. Tres chic.
We love radical history. This collection of shorts, experimental and documentary films and videos sums up the last 150 years of Chicago’s struggle. Ranging from guerrilla television, 60’s radicalism, the Black Panthers and Haymarket, the works share a DIY attitude. Since this collection of films is practically being delivered to your doorstep, find out what sort of activism Chicago can take credit for.
CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM
COOL LINK: SECRETS OF THE CITY
Shhhhh...We have a secret to confide - We have an addiction. Every day we have to check the Secrets of the City page. Recently, The Rake joined forces with MNSpeak to let the denizens of our city in on more than a few juicy secrets. From an open forum to witty articles, let Secrets of the City be your own little secret.
BONUS: Subscribe to the Secrets of the Day newsletter to get schooled on the coolest daily events by l’étoile editor Kate Iverson (who just so happens to also be the Secrets of the City A+E Editor)!
For some the past is just a distant memory, others live in its firm grasp, but what about those who simply refuse to even acknowledge its existence? This is the issue artist John Diebel explores in the exhibit Sketchy Past featured at Rosalux Gallery. His sinister and controversial drawings reveal a “notorious local past that reeks of dirty money, illicit liquor, social upheaval and cheap perfume” as overlooked by authorities and citizens of that era. In the same exhibit, artist Greg Priglmeier juxtaposes his real life employment with his fantasy-wished jobs in a unique art combination of ink work and paneled paint applications. Both artists encourage the viewer to glimpse inside a world thought best kept hidden. While you're there, visit another opening reception in the lower level Pocket Gallery, displaying the whimsical work of artist Terrence Payne in his exhibit, Powder Room.
CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM The Hoodie Made Me Do It by Terrence Payne
SATURDAY DECEMBER 6TH
Juried Art Show, Sale and Auction
@ Weisman Art Museum 333 E River Pkwy Minneapolis
7pm-10pm / $50
Ooooh, a gala event. This semi-formal event promises Minnesota artists, both emerging and established, hors d’oeuvres and wine by D’Amico, and an auction of Best of Show pieces. Proceeds benefit the free after school arts enrichment and tutoring program at Urban Arts Academy, which, if you haven't heard, is quite amazing. Tonight is the perfect excuse to get gussied up for a good cause: Art!
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE URBAN ARTS ACADEMY SITE
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 6TH
Doomtree Blowout IV
@ First Ave 701 1st Ave N. Minneapolis
6pm / 18+ / $10
The Midwest's hardest working hip-hop crew is back for round four of their annual Blowout. Expect to see stellar performances by Cecil, Dessa, Sims, P.O.S. Mike Mictlan, Turbo Nemesis, Paper Tiger, MK Larada, and Lazerbeak (whew!) passin' the mic with no openers and no downtime, along with live art by some of Minneapolis' finest visual artists. This year's Blowout promises to be even more rewarding than the last; a DVD, which includes the 2006 show in its entirety, will be available at the show. Be sure to buy tickets in advance, the Blowout always sells out!
BONUS: Dessa has written a short collection of essays titled Spiral Bound. The book won't hit shelves until January 6th, but fans can purchase advance copies at the show.
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE DOOMTREE SITE
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 6TH
Vicious Vicious
@ Turf Club 1601 University Ave St Paul
9pm / 21+ / $6
You might have noticed that we have a thing for catchy, danceable pop with a sugary cherry on top. Vicious Vicious know how to whip crowds into a dancing, sing-a-long frenzy with their sultry jams and funk-infused, bluesy beats. Front man Erik Appelwick makes us (and every female in the Twin Cities) swoon with his flirty lyrics and breathy delivery that serves as the perfect soundtrack for wooing that one-night stand, reminding listeners just how sexy and sweet the thrill of the chase can be. The Story of the Sea will perform the opening duties.
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE VICIOUS VICIOUS SITE
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 6TH
Nomad Cabaret Noir
@ Nomad World Pub 501 Cedar Av. S. Minneapolis
7:30pm / 21+ / $10
Musical style cabaret is currently enjoying a big resurgence, and the Nomad has lined up the perfect evening of olde world faire headlined by Nicki Jaine, a genuine cabaret chanteuse complete with a deep, honeyed voice and musical saw! Expect the unexpected; it should be an interesting night, with menaces to sobriety The Dregs also set to perform intoxicating ballads and sea shanties that'll have you three sheets to the wind! So, pour yourself a cold one and get ready for a stomping, clapping, spitting, swearing, mug-swinging, good time!
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE NOMAD SITE
SATURDAY DECEMBER 6TH
My Neighbor Totoro
@ Uptown Theatre 2906 Hennepin Ave Minneapolis
Midnight / $9
Japanese Anime from the 80’s! If you’ve only seen this on VHS, or haven’t yet had the pleasure, see it at midnight on the big screen! This is the film that made the world aware of anime, and hasn’t stopped being cute since then. This film is full of spirits, magical creatures and giant cats with umbrellas. What else would you rather be doing at the stroke of midnight, really?
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE UPTOWN SITE
SUNDAY MUSIC PICK: SALEM
It only takes one memorizing note to realize that Salem is unlike any band you've experienced before. Just released on Acephale records, Salem's new EP has elements of southern rap, goth, electronic and ambient, pushing them into uncharted territory. In fact, some music blogs have been forced to make up a label for their unique genre; Summer Lover's Unlimited calls them “goth shoegaze.” The eerie mix of male and female vocals jump from distorted, often alien sounding to haunting choruses, reminiscent of a children's choir. Salem's stylized angst music gets under your skin with personalized intensity, making them a bit overwhelming to listen to for long periods of time. But this band is definitely worth a listen for any die-hard Cocteau Twins fan, or simply for anyone who loves music you can't categorize. Whether or not the band's name is a reference to the infamous witch-hunts, the dark and sinister mood of the music leads you to believe it could easily be the town's anthem.
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE SALEM MYSPACE
SUNDAY DECEMBER 7TH
Handmaiden's Craftmas
@ Uptown VFW 2916 Lyndale Ave S Minneapolis
10am-5pm / Free
We’re lucky to have so many craft fairs this weekend. This ensures you will get your holiday shopping done with, you’ll feel good for having supported local artists and crafters, and you might find a thing or two for yourself. Handmaiden's shows are always a blast-you can drink a beer and shop at the same time!
Our hearts are breaking into a million tiny pieces! One of our absolute favorite ladies is leaving the snowy tundra of Minnesota for the bright lights and pleasant temps of Austin, TX. We suppose we have to appreciate the fact that we were able to hang onto this fierce Twin Cities music icon for as long as we have, though we still wish we could lock her in our closet to keep her close! For those very rare few of you who are saying, "Who's this Lori Barbero character?" we'll indulge you. Lori first won our hearts as teenagers in the early 90s as the dread-headed drummer of totally rockin' and influential band, Babes in Toyland. Widely credited with bringing the "riot grrrl" scene to fruition, Babes in Toyland made a huge impact on the local, national and international music scene - and on us personally. Through the years Lori has kept her fingers in the scene, nurturing local talent, playing in other bands and DJing the coolest parties in the city. We are proud to say we count Miss Lori as a friend and we'll miss the hell out of her; but on the bright side, we'll have a couch to crash on in Austin. So, head down to Grumpy's in Roseville tonight, where friends have commandeered an entire party room in Lori's honor, and pay homage to this legendary scene shaper and amazing, kind-hearted, funny, and wonderful lady! l'étoile loves you Lori, good luck in Austin!
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR MORE INFO
A TINY MACHINE MONDAY
Another post from our fave sci-fi/beauty blogger, a Tiny Machine. For more posts click HERE.
One Degree of Separation, Sometimes Two
I was watching an old episode of How I Met Your Mother the other day, and while giggling at the helmet-headed news anchor Sandy Rivers, I realized how familiar the actor looked. As the credits rolled, I recognized a name in the guest star roster. Alexis Denisof as 'Sandy Rivers.' Yep, Sandy Rivers is also Wesley from Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel. So I started thinking about the many links between HIMYM and the Whedonverse, and here's what I came up with:
- (Obviously) Alexis Denisof appears in Buffy, Angel and HIMYM.
- Alexis Denisof is married (and having a baby!) with Alyson Hannigan, who played Willow in Buffy and plays Lily on HIMYM.
- Alexis Denisof and Alyson Hannigan are godparents to Joss Whedon's son. Whedon created Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel and Dollhouse.
-Neil Patrick Harris plays Barney on HIMYM and played the title character in Doctor Horrible, Whedon's made-for-the-web musical.
-Amy Acker was a regular on Angel (And the last season of Alias. Not relevant, but just saying), guest starred on HIMYM, and is now a cast member of Whedon's new series Dollhouse.
-John Cho, who guest starred on HIMYM, played Harold in the Harold and Kumar movies, which also featured Neil Patrick Harris. And Kal Penn, who played Kumar, had a small role in a season four episode of Buffy.
And I'm out of connections.....for now. Mainly, because I'm too lazy to do any internet research.
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE TINY MACHINE SITE
TUESDAY DECEMBER 9TH
Silver + Gold
@ Clubhouse Jager 923 Washington Ave. North Loop
Every Tuesday / 21+ / 10pm / Free
Join DJ Jonathan Ackerman and l’étoile magazine for an evening of sly winks and sideways glances every Tuesday at Clubhouse Jager. Create some mystery, sip 2-4-1 cocktails with pretty people, and dance the night away to electro, pop, and so much more.
BONUS: Flirt up a storm then visit letoilemagazine.com on Wednesdays for "missed connections" from the night before!
To request an event listing on letoilemagazine.com, or to inquire about advertising, e-mail kate@letoilemagazine.com
To send a promo or press release for consideration through U.S. mail:
l'etoile magazine
628 4th Street NE
2nd Floor
Minneapolis Mn 55413
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