Community Connection – Elise Grabowska – UofMM Coordinator of Student Engagement
Sue Dieter, Communications and Marketing for U of M Morris and Elise Grabowska, the U of M Morris Student Engagement and Events Coordinator came in to speak about the Performance Arts Series this year.
The University of Minnesota Morris announces the 2025–26 Performing Arts Series presented by the Campus Activities Council. This season features performances by Bridge & Wolak with Water Street Dance Milwaukee, Chris Vallillo, Mel Johnson, Jr., and Ball in the House.
Tangorium
Friday, September 19, 7:30 p.m. | Edson Auditorium
Tangorium is a tango-fusion show. You’ll be captivated by Latin American rhythms as Bridge & Wolak with Water Street Dance Milwaukee lead you on an intimate exploration, from the Milongas of Buenos Aires through the evolution of the Tango as an international language. Building on love of classical, jazz, and world music, Bridge & Wolak celebrate life and love, offer an elegant escape into a fantasy world of beauty and grace, and take you on an adventure that delivers the tingling allure of a close embrace.
This performance is free and open to the public, thanks to a generous gift from an anonymous donor. Chancellor Janet Schrunk Ericksen will host a reception prior to the performance.
Forgottonia
Saturday, October 25, 7:30 p.m. | Edson Auditorium
Named after the tongue-in-cheek 1972 protest in which 16 west central Illinois counties declared themselves the independent nation of “Forgottonia” to draw attention to regional neglect. This multi-media production weaves together 35 years of singer-songwriter, folklorist, and former archaeologist Chris Vallillo’s original music with vivid storytelling and striking black-and-white photography to explore the culture, history, and resilience of a place both overlooked and deeply loved.
Frederick Douglass: In the Shadow of Slavery
Thursday, February 19, 7:30 p.m. | Edson Auditorium
A one-man theatrical journey that chronicles Frederick Douglass’s remarkable life; from his childhood in slavery to his perilous escape to freedom, from his intense friendships with Susan B. Anthony, John Brown, and Abraham Lincoln, to his crucial work on behalf of former slaves following the Civil War. Incorporating gripping plantation songs, lush lighting and sound design, the story of Frederick Douglass’ struggle for African American freedom, as performed by Mel Johnson, Jr., star of Broadway and film, is a fascinating evening of theatre.
And Now I See
Saturday, March 28, 7:30 p.m. | Edson Auditorium
An entertaining, informative, and eye-opening show with the a cappella quintet, Ball in the House, celebrating the rich tapestry of African American music, from spirituals, gospel, and jazz to soul, hip-hop, and R&B. The show addresses the impact of racism on musical styles and artists alike, while exploring the immense contributions and influence of African American musicians and their music. This is done through stories and musical examples, along with interactive moments that teach musical concepts like vocal runs, rhythm, and beatboxing.
TICKETS AND MORE
Season and individual event tickets are available for purchase online at z.umn.edu/performing-arts-
