Mike Dragosavich
Brady Drake Brady@SpotlightMediaFargo.com
Kim Cowles
Ty Betts Amanda Frost (Folkways) and Ashley Morken (Unglued) Kellen
Paul Hoefer
Paul@SpotlightMediaFargo.com
Al Anderson Al@SpotlightMediaFargo.com
Austin Cuka
AustinCuka@SpotlightMediaFargo.com
Matt Purpur Matt@SpotlightMediaFargo.com
ClientRelations@SpotlightMediaFargo.com
Jessica Ventzke
Tyler Duclos
Missy Roberts
John Stuber
rt isn’t just about spectacle or accolades; it’s a way for people to find common ground. In Fargo, the city’s creative scene does more of that work than you might expect. From neighborhood murals to late-night open mics, arts and entertainment serve as practical meeting points where different
ages, occupations, and backgrounds intersect and recognize each other.
You don’t have to look for grand statements or bigticket headlines to see it. A community theater production brings together young people, retirees, and families who buy the tickets;
a gallery opening prompts conversations between people who otherwise cross paths only at the grocery store; a free concert draws a crowd that mixes toddlers, college students, and folks who’ve lived here for decades. Those encounters don’t always change policy or launch careers, but they build familiarity and curiosity.
Over time, that daily proximity makes a neighborhood more cohesive and gives creative projects the breathing room they need to grow.
This issue of Meet Fargo looks at those entry points. We take a look at the people who open doors, the venues that stay nimble, and the projects that bring the community together. These stories show an arts scene oriented toward participation. It’s a model that doesn’t demand unanimous agreement about what “counts” as culture; it simply
makes culture visible, usable, and relevant to more lives.
If you’re curious about getting involved, start small. Stop by a neighborhood show, visit a daytime gallery opening, or volunteer for a festival.
The arts here aren’t a remote institution, they’re one of the clearest ways people in Fargo find each other.
Brady Drake Meet Fargo Editor
Diamonds
Make
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The nervous system consists of two primary branches:
1. The sympathetic nervous system (“fight, flight, or freeze”)
2. The parasympathetic nervous system (“rest, digest, and repair”)
A healthy nervous system constantly shifts between these states. Dysregulation occurs when these systems lose flexibility, often becoming stuck in chronic activation or suppression.
Modern life puts a lot of pressure on the nervous system. And because the nervous system controls every organ and tissue, even small disruptions can create widespread symptoms. Contributing factors can include:
• Chronic emotional or environmental stress
• Inflammation
• Trauma
• Repetitive strain or joint dysfunction
• Poor posture
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Long hours sitting
• Lack of sleep
By Dr. Jake Grinaker, Owner, Strive Chiropractic
If you’ve been feeling stuck in stress mode, overwhelmed, ridden with anxiety, have almost constant muscle tension or pain, digestive problems, or have trouble sleeping, your nervous system may be dysregulated. Okay, great, I’ve been fed that on social media too, but what does it even mean?
The answer is simple: chiropractic care at Strive Chiropractic! We actually have the tools at Strive to measure how well your body, in its current state, is adapting to, handling, and managing stress. This allows us to create individualized care plans based on your body’s specific needs.
Generally speaking, chiropractic adjustments play a key role in nervous system regulation by:
• Stimulating parasympathetic activity, helping the body shift into a calmer, more regulated state.
Chiropractic care works best when paired with healthy daily habits. In addition to adjustments at Strive, our team may recommend:
• Improving spinal alignment and mobility so the brain and body communicate clearly.
• Reducing sympathetic (stress) overload by relieving tension and improving posture.
• Enhancing proprioception, your body’s awareness of movement and position, which helps the brain feel safe and grounded.
• Supporting stress recovery often leads to better sleep, easier breathing, and improved overall well-being.
• Gentle mobility exercises
• Breathwork or stress-reduction techniques
• Posture and ergonomic guidance
• Nutrition and lifestyle support
Our goal is to help you build a nervous system that’s more adaptable, resilient, and balanced, so you can feel and function your best.
Nervous system dysregulation is increasingly common in modern life, but there are simple, affordable solutions to course correct! By addressing the spine, improving neuro-musculoskeletal balance, and supporting the body’s natural regulatory processes, chiropractic care at Strive plays a valuable role in restoring harmony to the nervous system. When combined with mindful lifestyle practices, it becomes a powerful tool for enhancing resilience, reducing stress, and improving overall well-being.
By Brady Drake | Photos provided by Oxbow Country Club
At Oxbow Country Club, it's easy to feel at home. For members, it’s a place where the course is pristine, the summers revolve around the pool, and the club becomes an extension of their daily lives. For Executive Chef Scott Motschenbacher, who recently celebrated both his ninth year at Oxbow and the ninth anniversary of its award-winning clubhouse, that feeling runs even deeper.
“People really treat this place like a second home,” he said. “Food touches
every single part of that experience, and I couldn't be more proud of the opportunity for that to be recognized at this great event for charity."
Oxbow Country Club has long been known for its championship-level course that offers a sweeping, beautifully redesigned layout created by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. With rolling terrain, signature water features, and elevated greens that challenge all skill levels, Oxbow offers members a golf experience on
The Chef Behind the Mac
par with the country’s finest private clubs.
But the club goes far beyond golf. Its resort-style pool complex draws thousands each summer. Families spend entire days lounging, dipping, and ordering from dedicated poolside menus. Beverage shacks on the course serve specialty snacks alongside a full bar. Event spaces host weddings, corporate gatherings, and community celebrations.
If Oxbow is a second home, Scott is the one running the kitchen.
Executive Chef Motschenbacher’s resume spans nearly every corner of the industry: hotels, high-volume restaurants, banquet operations, ownership of multiple local establishments, and leadership at Fargo staples like Beefsteak Club, Pounds, the Avalon, and Spitfire. But nine years ago, Oxbow became the place where he could finally settle in.
“It was a part of the industry I’d never done,” he said. “With clubs, you have this unique, captive audience, and a more affluent clientele, so you get to elevate everything. We were about to move into the new clubhouse, and I thought, ‘This is my chance to take it over the top.’”
One of Scott’s latest highlights is earning top honors at the United Way of Cass Clay's second annual Cheesy for Charity local mac and cheese competition.
“The problem with mac and cheese at these events is they get transported and dry out,” he said. “I cooked the noodles and sauce fresh and kept everything hot as I went. That’s it.”
But the flavor profile is all Scott:
• Smoked Gouda as the base
• Gorgonzola for tang
• Cheddar and Parmesan to round it out
• Crispy bacon on top
You can find worldclass food at Oxbow Country Club!
2025 United-Way of Cass Clay's Cheesy for Charity Winner!
When you’re the chef at a country club, you don’t get the luxury of a narrow specialty.
“You have to be good at steaks, sushi, pizzas, chicken strips—everything,” he said.
Members might order wood-fired pizza for the kids, handcrafted sushi for a date night, or a meticulously prepared steak for a business dinner. During the summer, the kitchen serves 22,000 orders of chicken strips at the pool!
But those chicken strips also make something else possible.
“They allow me to order things like A5 Wagyu beef in the winter,” Scott said. “Or to bring in fresh black truffles. Or to fly in overnight fish from Honolulu.”
Yes, Honolulu. Oxbow flies in fish directly to Fargo to ensure seafood dishes are as fresh as possible, an unheard-of level of quality for a midwestern club.
“We bring in the highest-quality products we can to serve the membership here,” he saod. “We really pride ourselves on our steaks and seafood.”
Cheesy for Charity at the Holiday Inn in Fargo is one of United Way of Cass Clay’s most beloved community fundraisers—a simple, joyful idea that brings people together over great food for a powerful cause. Each year, local restaurants, and community partners team up with United Way to serve up creative mac and cheese dishes, all to support programs that help kids and families thrive in Cass and Clay counties.
ASK THE EXPERT:
Fiberglass insulation is made from spun glass fibers and comes in batts, rolls, or loose-fill. It’s widely available, affordable, and non-combustible, with newer versions now free of formaldehyde. However, it can allow air leakage if not paired with proper air sealing and may irritate the skin or respiratory system during installation. It’s best suited for attics, walls, and floors where keeping costs low is a priority.
Spray foam insulation is an expanding foam that both seals gaps and insulates. It provides excellent air sealing, blocking drafts, allergens, and pollutants, and offers a high R-value per inch— especially in closed-cell form, which also acts as a moisture barrier and adds structural strength. However, it comes with a higher upfront cost, requires professional installation, and can off-gas during curing. It’s best used in attics, rim joists, basements, and other areas prone to leaks.
Cellulose insulation is made from recycled paper treated with borates for fire and pest resistance. It’s eco-friendly, offers excellent soundproofing, and fills gaps more effectively than fiberglass batts. However, it can settle over time, reducing its effectiveness, and may absorb moisture if not properly sealed. It’s best suited for existing walls, attics, and areas where sound control is important.
Rock wool (or mineral wool) insulation is made from spun volcanic rock or industrial slag. It’s naturally fire- and water-resistant, provides excellent sound absorption, and doesn’t promote mold growth. However, it tends to be more expensive than fiberglass and may be harder to find in some markets. It’s best used in fire-resistant applications, for sound control, and in basements.
Rigid foam board insulation (EPS, XPS, or Polyiso) consists of solid foam panels with varying densities and thermal properties. It offers a high R-value per inch, resists moisture, and is often used as continuous exterior insulation. However, it can be more expensive and labor-intensive to install in existing homes. It’s best suited for foundation walls, exterior sheathing, under-slab applications, or areas where space is limited.
By Brady Drake
Walk into any gym, scroll TikTok for five minutes, or join a conversation among serious runners, lifters, or weekend warriors, and you'll be sure to hear about peptides.
These short chains of amino acids, which are essentially the building blocks of proteins, have exploded in popularity not just for weight loss or anti-aging, but for healing, inflammation control, tissue repair, muscle recovery, gut support, and even hormone balance.
At the clinic level, the buzz is real. But so is the confusion. With peptides becoming wildly accessible online,often at suspiciously low prices, patients are pouring into clinics asking the same question:
What should I actually be taking, and how do I do it safely?”
To get a clearer picture of what’s legitimate, what works, and why clinical oversight matters, we sat down with Dr. Arden Beachy and Crystal Amundson of Everest Regenerative Medicine, where they integrate peptide therapy into treatment plans for athletes, active adults, and patients looking to optimize healing or recovery.
While peptides aren’t FDAapproved, they are backed by an expanding body of research and decades of clinical observation. Their appeal is simple because they work quickly and target specific biological pathways.
“Peptides have actually been the biggest thing to get people closer
to their goals fastest. More than ozone, stem cells, or other longevity interventions,” Amundson said.
Why? Because at their core, peptides are signaling molecules. They tell the body to perform a very specific job—like repairing tissue, stimulating growth hormone release, lowering inflammation, improving mitochondrial function, or accelerating weight loss.
BPC-157
The inflammation and recovery powerhouse.
This is easily the most widely used peptide in athletics and rehab settings. It supports tissue repair, reduces inflammation, speeds healing, and has become famous among CrossFit athletes, runners, and anyone dealing with chronic pain or nagging injuries.
“Athletes notice the difference quickly. Especially those who switch from oral peptides to injectable— shoulders, knees, and soft-tissue injuries respond much faster.” Beachy said. “When I used it, my inflammation dropped significantly.”
TB-500
Often paired with BPC-157 for enhanced healing of ligaments, tendons, and muscles.
GHK-Cu
The skin-hair-nail optimizer.
This copper peptide supports collagen production, elasticity, healing, and tissue regeneration.
“When I took it, my hair stopped shedding, my nails were incredible, and my skin stayed consistently strong,” Amundson said.
CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin
Growth hormone support for recovery, sleep, and performance.
This combination stimulates natural growth hormone release without shutting down your body’s own production. It’s popular for people seeking deeper sleep, better muscle recovery, fat loss support, and improved overall vitality.
Clinics also monitor IGF-1 levels when using these peptides, something you cannot do at home.
GLP-1 Triple Stack Peptides
A newer wave of peptides supporting weight loss.
These offer an alternative to semaglutide-based medications, giving patients metabolic support without the same intensity of side effects.
Other specialized peptides they offer:
• Epitalon (longevity)
• MOTS-C (mitochondrial function and metabolic health)
• DSIP (deep sleep)
• AOD-9604 (fat-burning fragment)
1. Quality & Sterility
The inflammation and recovery powerhouse.
Legitimate peptide vendors provide documentation proving:
• sterility
• contamination-free status
• accurate dosing
• proper compounding
These certificates—CoAs—are critical. Online vendors often skip them entirely.
"We source from qualified compounding labs with sterility, authenticity, and contamination testing,” Beachy said
2. Proper Dosing Matters
Peptides are powerful. The wrong dose can mean:
• no results
• wasted money
• side effects
• worsened inflammation
• hormone disruption
3. You Need Objective Oversight Some peptides require lab monitoring. Others require cycling. Others must be paused to evaluate progress.
4. Clinical Guidance Prevents Misuse
For example: Injecting at the injury site vs. systemically can produce different results—something you won’t know without guidance.
Peptides also interact with gut health, inflammation patterns, scar tissue, training style, and recovery cycles.
1. Athletes & Active Adults
They recover faster and feel the improvements immediately.
2. People With Chronic Pain or Old Injuries
Especially tendon, ligament, or joint issues that never fully resolved.
3. Individuals With Poor Gut Health
Injectable peptides bypass digestive barriers.
4. Patients Seeking Healthy Aging
Better sleep, skin, energy, hormone balance, recovery, and mental clarity.
5. Those Trying to Lose Weight or Balance Metabolism
GLP-1 stacks and metabolic peptides are major accelerators.
Welcome to our Arts & Entertainment issue of Meet Fargo, a celebration of the people and places that keep our culture rich. From gallery walls and small stages to live music and everything in between, we believe that it's arts and entertainment that make life so special. So, we will be celebrating that in the following pages.
By Brady drake
By the mid-2000s, Larry, who you have probably heard over a PA system at local track meets, had already been doing voiceover work since the early 2000s. Like most modern VO pros, he found gigs online through a subscription platform that works like a clearinghouse where producers post projects with pay, length, and the kind of voice they want, and voice actors submit quick auditions. Sometimes the listings are vague on purpose. No company name. No product. Just a general description and a script.
That’s exactly what happened here.
One listing simply said it was for a sports play-byplay sound for a video game. No brand. No hint it was the Madden. Larry read the sample, sent it in, and moved on. When you’re auditioning a dozen times a day, you don’t have the emotional bandwidth to fall in love with any one shot.
Two weeks later, a producer reached out and told him the role was for Madden, and asked if he would he be interested?
Larry’s answer was immediately yes.
The audition that got him in the door was tiny—about 22 seconds. But it was enough for EA’s team to fly him to Orlando for a short in-studio test. They wanted to hear that voice in their space, on their gear, through their pipeline.
The session wasn’t some high-pressure boot camp. Larry described it as casual, laid back, the way most VO sessions are when the producer trusts the talent to bring their own instincts to the mic. After the test, they showed him around the Orlando facility, put him in a hotel, handled the transportation, and sent him back home.
Soon after, the call came, and Larry was hired.
Here’s the part that still feels a little wild.
Larry’s Madden work wasn’t done in Orlando. It was done in Fargo, in a downtown studio that, by his own description, wasn’t fancy. At that time he had an office above the Old Broadway building—literally above the wildest dance floor in town. He used to walk in Monday mornings and find books knocked off shelves from the weekend bass thump.
That studio is where Madden happened.
Four mornings a week, around 9 a.m., EA producers would call him. They were writing fresh scripts daily, sending them over, then recording in real time over the phone. Larry would read while they listened live, occasionally stopping him for a tweak on
“third and a Mile”… or “third and a ton”
One of the cooler details is how collaborative those sessions were. Larry wasn’t just a talking head reading copy; he was part of shaping what made it into the game.
He remembers one line in particular. The script read: “It’s third and a mile.”
Larry paused. That phrasing sounded too close to Al Michaels’ “third and a mile,” and the producers agreed. They asked, 'what would you say?'
Larry answered instantly saying, “third and a ton.”
That’s the line that made it into Madden.
It’s a small moment, but it shows what EA was going for with this experiment—something that felt more like a hometown radio call than a polished national TV booth.
Larry had never done live playby-play in his life and doesn’t pretend otherwise. This wasn’t about recreating the real-time rhythm of a broadcast. It was about recording thousands of standalone pieces of language so the game could build commentary on the fly.
A lot of what he recorded weren’t full sentences. They were just short phrases or partial lines. The game engine would stitch those fragments together dynamically based on what was happening in your matchup. Doing it this way reduced mistakes (four words are easier to nail than fifteen), and it gave Madden the flexibility to generate endless combinations during gameplay.
But there was one huge wrinkle.
To make the system work, Larry had to record every NFL player’s name—around 1,700 of them at the time. And not once. Three times each.
Each pass had a different emotional style:
1. Hometown excitement — the “that’s my guy” tone when your team makes a play.
2. Neutral call — descriptive play-by-play.
3. Opponent reaction — feel when the other team does something big.
That alone was a huge chunk of the workload. And some names were brutal.
Larry laughs remembering having to hunt down pronunciations. One that sticks out was Amobi Okoye. Okoye was drafted in 2007, and Larry and the producers had to stop and track down the correct pronunciation before recording it three different ways. It’s the kind of detail nobody thinks about while playing, but it’s what keeps a game from sounding fake.
The first year took about 71 hours of recording. The second year was far less, more like corrections, tweaks, and updated names—maybe 15 to 20 hours.
continued >
Larry wasn’t credited in the game. His name never appeared in the usual places. And while the work itself was a blast, the experiment didn’t last long, about three years.
His understanding is that Madden’s team built the “hometown radio announcer” option to mimic a real NFL viewing experience. Think about NFL Films highlights—how often they overlay radio calls on top of game footage. EA saw that as an element missing from the Madden feel.
But the audience wanted the big national booth voices. Fans wanted to hear the recognizable stars—John Madden and Al
On the automotive side alone, he’s recorded the DVD owner’s manual for Corvette, and that relationship led to additional work for Ford through the same Detroit-area producer he’s stayed close with. He’s also done commercial work for household-name giants like McDonald’s, Microsoft, and even the U.S. Marine Corps, the kind of credits that tell you a voice is
her kids had the game, and it was “awesome” to hear his voice.
Then she added, "now your voice is in my house all day, every day."
Larry’s response was perfect. “There’s a volume button on that controller, you know.”
Madden might be the flashpoint in Larry O’Brien’s story, but it sits inside a much larger body of work that shows how wide his range really is. Over the years, he’s voiced projects for major national and global brands, often landing them the same way he landed Madden—through constant auditions, consistency, and being ready for
His football résumé goes deeper than Madden too. Larry has voiced a promo for the NFL Network, and he recorded material for the NFL Players Association, aimed at rookies during their annual symposium—basically the league’s “welcome to the NFL, here’s what you need to know” moment. Those are smaller roles compared to Madden, but they’re the kind that put you right in the bloodstream of the sport.
Then there are the projects that show his character chops. He recently voiced a Disney World promo—only to discover weeks later he’d been cast as a Hispanic grandfather in the spot. That surprise is pretty emblematic of Larry’s career. He walks into sessions blind, then finds out he’s become someone completely different. He’s also voiced campaigns for Huel, a UK-based nutrition/energy brand expanding into North America, and he regularly takes on quirky, character-driven ads—like a talking-dog-style spot for Nebraska Crossing that leans hard into comedy and personality.
Some of his most fascinating work is the stuff you hope never gets used. One job had him recording a calm emergency announcement for an offshore oil rig—the warning that would play if everything went wrong. Larry jokes about hoping nobody ever hears it, but it’s also a reminder that voice actors sometimes carry serious, highstakes responsibility in unseen ways.
Through all of it, Larry’s career has been defined by volume and versatility. He auditions constantly, records daily, works with clients from Fargo to Los Angeles to the UK, and keeps building a body of work that’s way bigger than any one game—no matter how iconic that game is.
Submitted by the Jade Presents Team
2025 was a significant year for us±—we executed nearly 100 live events across five states, ranging from packed concerts and comedy sets to live podcast recordings and free community events that brought people (and puppies) together. We tried new ideas, upcycled shipping containers, brought favorites old and new to the Fargo-Moorhead area, and even saw a few sellouts along the way. While summer concert season typically takes center stage, 2025 proved that live events are year-round.
Here are ten standout shows, as they unfolded throughout 2025.
FEBRUARY 16
BLIND PILOT WITH KACY & CLAYTON AT THE AQUARIUM
Indie-folk charm filled the intimate upstairs club above Dempsey’s as Blind Pilot delivered a heartfelt set— capped by a surprise proposal that turned the night into a truly unforgettable moment.
APRIL 26
BECKY ROBINSON: MEMBERS ONLY TOUR AT THE FARGO THEATRE
Becky Robinson packed the historic Fargo Theatre for two high-energy shows, bringing her viral Entitled Housewife persona and quick-hit chaos to downtown Fargo in a night that felt big, loud, and wildly fun.
APRIL 26
PODCAST AT THE SANCTUARY EVENTS CENTER
North Dakota’s own charttopping true crime podcast delivered a gripping live taping at Sanctuary Events Center, drawing fans eager for their signature storytelling. Good news: they’re set to return in January 2026.
JUNE 10
ZZ TOP: THE ELEVATION TOUR 2025 WITH THE WALLFLOWERS AT BLUESTEM AMPHITHEATER
After years in the making, seeing this show finally hit the Bluestem Amphitheater stage—the Red River Valley’s 2024 Best Live Entertainment Spot—felt iconic against a picturesque background.
JULY 15
Our first free community event at UP District Festival Field brought together more than 500 people and their pups for an evening of adoptable dogs, microchipping, training demos, and pure joy to raise money for Homeward Animal Shelter.
JULY 28
A JP staff favorite, Sierra’s stunning stage setup, ethereal vocals, and warmth created one of the year’s most enchanting nights—we were able to offer kids 12 and under free admission to the show, making it magical to see many experience their first concert at Fest Field.
AUGUST 30
THE AVETT BROTHERS WITH THE MILK CARTON KIDS AT BLUESTEM AMPHITHEATER
On a perfect night at Bluestem, The Avett Brothers delivered their signature joy and soul, while The Milk Carton Kids stunned the crowd with flawless harmonies—a pairing that felt genuinely unforgettable.
SEPTEMBER 16
A blast from start to finish, this one had everyone rocking out to the Melvins in the Harold’s parking lot—a perfect example of how fun it is to collaborate with a local favorite. Hope to do more of these!
MARGO PRICE WITH OCTOBER 29
NOVEMBER 6
GRAVY WITH PERTINENCE AT THE FARGO CIVIC CENTER
Our first show back at the Fargo Civic Center since the COVID-19 pandemic, Yung Gravy turned the room into a full-on party — flipping pancakes onstage and bringing the vibes back to the room as if no time had passed.
2025 isn’t over yet—we’ve still got more shows before year-end, with planning for 2026 already taking place. To stay in the loop on everything coming next, visit jadepresents.com and join our Email and Text Club for first access to news. We can’t wait to share what’s ahead and continue to keep music live & local.
If you’re driving southbound on University Dr. N–passing Chub’s Pub, The Edge Artist Flats, and the familiar hum of everyday Fargo–you’d never guess that just a few blocks east sits one of the city’s newest and most imaginative outdoor music venues. Tucked quietly into the Unicorn Park District at 1329 5th Ave N, UP District Festival Field transforms what was once a vacant, unutilized lot into a lively cultural destination. Now, on summer nights, music, camaraderie, and community pride drift beyond the surrounding neighborhood streets, signaling that something special is happening behind the unassuming edges of UP District. Born from Jade Presents’ long-held mission to enrich the community through exceptional live events, the venue was designed with intention: a flexible event space built for connection, sustainability, and unforgettable shared experiences. Today, UP District Festival Field stands as a testament to what thoughtful vision–and a little Unicorn magic–can add to Fargo.
Once the permit for the space was approved by the City of Fargo, the march was on. While the exterior footprint of the venue took shape–most notably through the installation of upcycled shipping containers painted in bright, playful colors to bring a whimsical flair to the industrial surroundings—the Jade Presents team began developing the operational backbone of the venue. Marketing, ticketing, production workflows, event staffing, vendor coordination, facilities planning–every piece of the live-event ecosystem was built
creativity, and community to a once-unused lot and to offer something for every kind of concertgoer. Whether fans prefer standing at the barricade close to the stage, relaxing on their blanket or lawn chair in general admission, or opting for a premium experience in the Boxcar section with a dedicated bar, restrooms, and elevated platforms, UP District Festival Field is designed as a choose-yourown-adventure for all ages and all budgets.
The very first show at UP District Festival Field–’90s country queen Jo Dee Messina–brought its own set of challenges. Opening night was a sold-out event in a brand-new space, and the team had only one chance to get it right. But that pressure also offered a unique advantage: real-time learning. Staff were able to test crowd-control strategies, refine line-flow patterns, and adjust front-ofhouse operations on the fly, turning opening night into essential data for future events. And those improvements were put into practice immediately. By the time blues powerhouse Grace Potter took the stage for the venue’s second show, processes were already evolving. Fans noticed quicker entry, smoother line movement, and a more intuitive wayfinding throughout the venue. With each show that followed, UP District Festival Field settled further into its identity–nimble, responsive, and deeply committed to delivering a better patron experience every single show day.
The remainder of the 2024 season saw nine additional concerts at UP District Festival Field, welcoming a wide mix of artists that showcased the venue’s range. Indie-rock mainstays Band of Horses brought soaring, cinematic melodies; Shakey Graves filled the field with his signature blend of Americana grit and charm; Pierce the Veil delivered a highenergy night for modern rock fans; Atmosphere gave hip-hop lovers a soulful, introspective performance; and Spoon shared the stage with electro-rock duo Phantogram, creating a genre-bending night that drew both longtime indie fans and new
That diversity was matched by a growing audience of all ages–thanks in part to the decision to make select shows free for kids 12 and under with a ticketed adult. Many children experienced their very first concert on these grounds, often greeted by the warm welcome of Hornelius the Magical Inflatable Unicorn, the venue’s playful mascot and a wink to its home in Fargo’s Unicorn Park. Each show also featured a local nonprofit partner—something Jade Presents is committed to continuing for seasons to come, using the natural opportunity to highlight organizations doing meaningful work in the community and a chance to connect with new audiences.
Between the end of the 2024 season and the start of 2025, UP District Festival Field entered a period of thoughtful refinement. The goal was clear: continue expanding amenities across all price levels to ensure the venue remained accessible, comfortable, and customizable for all audiences. General admission guests saw the addition of new bleachers–an affordable seating option with an elevated, attractive sightline–while Boxcar guests were greeted by a newly built three-tier structure, further defining the venue’s top-tier premium experiences. Fresh gravel surfacing allowed for a wider variety of food vendors, and improvements to ingress and egress made arriving and leaving even smoother. The 2025 season also introduced the venue’s first free community events, including Pawchella, a dog-friendly evening benefiting Homeward Animal Shelter, and Tacos & Two-Wheel, fueled by Harley-Davidson of Fargo, celebrating local bike builders and taco vendors–further proving the multipurpose potential of the space.
The 2025 season proved to be equal parts fulfilling and challenging. The talent was bigger than ever, with twelve shows and community events unfolding on the grounds–ranging from the high-energy bluegrass of Trampled by Turtles to the spellbinding vocals of Sierra Ferrell, a sold-out night with Sam Barber, and powerhouse performances from Chase Rice and Fitz & The Tantrums. Over 500 dogs made an appearance at the first Pawchella, and nearly 1,000 attendees cast votes for the title of Best Taco at Tacos & Two-Wheelers. But the season wasn’t without obstacles: stretches of heavy rain rendered the grounds
continues to grow, evolve, and shine even brighter with each new season.
To stay in the loop on upcoming concerts, head to our websites and follow us on social media. Also, be sure to join our Email and Text Club located on our websites for event announcements sent right to your inbox.
By Brady Drake | Photos provided by The Cellar
When Lindsey Templin first started booking comics at The Cellar, she wasn’t sure Fargo would embrace a full-scale comedy scene. Seven and a half years later, the laughter spilling out of the basement venue proves just how wrong she was.
“We’ve been around long enough that I think most people know us now,” she said, “but I still hear people say, ‘So it’s just local comedians?’ I always have to explain—no, these are legit comics. They fly in from New York or L.A. just to perform here for the weekend.”
The Cellar feels like something you’d stumble upon in Chicago or Brooklyn with close tables, low lights, brick walls, and lots of laughs.
“We’ve had people perform here who later blow up and become household names,” she said. “My job is to pay attention to the comedians who are right on the edge of making it big. A lot of them perform here in front of 90 people, and a year later, they’re too big to ever play a room that small again.”
Over the years, The Cellar has hosted some of the biggest names in comedy, including Tim Dillon, Louis C.K., and rising star Geoffrey Asmus, whose sold-out performance Templin still describes as one of the funniest nights in the club’s history.
“Geoffrey’s been here five times,” she said. “He loves coming to Fargo. Comedians tell us all the time that the audiences here are just… nice. They’re fun, friendly, and really receptive. It’s different from New York or L.A.”
This year is the The Cellar’s first-ever full comedy season, running every weekend from September through May.
“For the first time, we’re fully committed to hosting shows every weekend,” Templin said. “It’s a big undertaking, but we’ve built enough of a following that it finally feels sustainable. I want people to know that it’s something they can count on. Any weekend, they can say, ‘Hey, should we check out a comedy show?’ and know we’ll have one.”
With just 90 seats, every laugh, pause, and punchline feels immediate and shared.
“It’s a chance to see big comedians in a really intimate setting,” Templin said. “You’re not hundreds of feet away like in a theater. You’re close enough to see every expression, every moment.”
Beyond bringing in national talent, The Cellar also invests deeply in local comedians through its weekly open mic nights.
“It’s really cool to have a place that brings such a variety of people together over a common interest like stand-up,” Templin said. “You get to watch people improve over time, but also see friendships form between people who might never have met otherwise.”
That sense of community has become a defining part of Fargo’s comedy culture. Each week, new and veteran comics test material, share feedback, and support each other’s growth.
And that community extends to the main weekend shows, too—where national headliners share the stage with local openers. “Every weekend we feature local comedians,” she said. “We always have a local host and a guest set. It’s our way of giving Fargo talent the same platform as the pros.”
"If someone had never been to the show before, I'd say they can expect a broad variety of local comics and different walks of life coming together to have a fun night together as a community. You'll get to see an interesting cross-section of Fargo made up of creative people getting to express themselves in a judgment-free environment."
| @nath_roe
"The energy at the cellar is always electric, and the crowds are eager to have fun! Whether you’re there for a Wednesday night open mic or a ticketed weekend show, it’s a guaranteed blast. It’s a great space with a fun vibe, and the crowds are always happy to be a part of it."
| @rubyyyrichard
"The Cellar’s style and setup make it a perfect room for comedy. The low ceilings and close environment makes it great to connect with the audience, and it’s a great size room. The vibes rule!"
| @bethanyabeln
"I may be biased because it’s my home club, but The Cellar at Front Street has a special vibe to it that other places don’t have. The crowds are always in such a good mood right as they walk through the doors. The low ceilings and layout of the room make it an intimate vibe and give off an aura that makes performing there one of my favorite places to tell jokes."
| @blaiser.kautz
| @blaiserkautz
BLAISE KAUTZMAN AND MARQUAY BELCHER HAVE A PODCAST TOGETHER CALLED " I WOKE UP FOR THIS ". CHECK IT OUT ON ALL STREAMING PLATFORMS!
DEC 13 - LIZ MIELE DEC 19 & 20 - ROBERT BARIL JAN 3 - MAGGIE FARIS
"There are many reasons to go to a show at The Cellar. Aside from topnotch comedy from nationally touring acts and the local Open Mic scene, many talented comedians perform here. When touring comics like Tim Dillon or Mike Rainey come through, they mention the club's intimate feel. It's a small room, but the laughs are big; everybody whose headshot is on the wall loves this place, it's always memorable, and we get calls about coming back. At the open mic, we can't accommodate everyone, though we wish we could. The Cellar is truly special. I hear it from everyone who attends. I've never heard anyone complain; every show I've been part of is full of laughter. Some sets are goofy, some political, some about life, but always funny."
| @marquayquay
"Front Street is the rare kind of comedy room where everyone— audience, comics, and staff— genuinely wants to see each other win. From day one, the environment is welcoming, supportive, and drama-free, giving new comics real opportunities to grow. If you show up and put in the work, Front Street puts you on stage, keeps you in the rotation, and gives you the stage time you need to develop. Despite Fargo’s size, comics here have gone on to open for major acts and work nationally, thanks in large part to the encouragement and connections that start in this room. In bigger cities, you can wait forever just to get a few minutes; here, the staff stays late just to make sure everyone gets up. It’s a small scene with a big heart—and a place that genuinely builds comics rather than competing against them."
| frontstreettaproom.com/ comedyinthecellar | /cellarcomedyclub | @thecellarfargo
The Fargo–Moorhead–West Fargo region is home to an amazing arts scene filled with creative energy, independent makers, and community-run galleries. Whether you’re looking for a conversation-starting piece for your home or simply love exploring the local art world, the metro has no shortage of places where you can view and actually purchase original artwork.
Gallery 4 is a cornerstone of the local arts community and one of the country’s longest-operating artist cooperatives. Founded more than 50 years ago, this downtown gallery is owned and staffed by the artists themselves. The space showcases an ever-changing mix of paintings, photography, glasswork, pottery, and jewelry, all crafted by local artists. It’s a relaxed, welcoming environment ideal for new collectors and gift shoppers alike.
| 115 Roberts St N, Fargo, ND 58102
| gallery4fargo.net
| /Gallery4Fargo | @gallery4fargo
Dakota Fine Art offers another artist-owned collective experience within Fargo’s historic Dakota Business College building. The gallery highlights a diverse range of media from painting, pottery, sculpture, jewelry, glass, printmaking, and photography—all created by regional artists who often rotate through the space. Many of the artists have active studios nearby, and visitors are encouraged to chat with them about their creative process.
Dakota Fine Art is particularly suited for anyone interested in buying original work straight from the source, with prices ranging from modest prints to major statement pieces.
| 11 8th St S, Fargo, ND 58103
| dakotafineart.com
| /dakotafineart
| @dakotafineart
For collectors who appreciate traditional gallery presentation and professional framing, Underbrush Gallery is a long-standing favorite. Family-owned and operated, Underbrush carries a broad selection of work by local, regional, and national artists. The gallery also houses a respected custom framing studio, which means you can choose artwork and have it beautifully framed all in one stop. This is the place to find framed landscapes, fine-art photography, and one-of-a-kind gifts that feel distinctly “Midwestern.”
| 1450 25th St S #142, Fargo, ND 58103
| underbrushgalleryfargo.com
| /underbrushgallery
| @underbrushgallery
Across the river in Moorhead, The Rourke Art Gallery + Museum occupies a stately former post office and stands as one of the area’s most important cultural landmarks. While much of its exhibition space functions as a museum, The Rourke also offers artworks for sale, particularly on its main floor and during special events such as benefit auctions. Visitors can expect a mix of contemporary paintings, sculptures, and ceramics from regional and national artists. It’s an excellent destination for collectors who enjoy pairing their purchase with an educational or curatorial experience. Before visiting, check their current open hours, as they occasionally adjust schedules around exhibition rotations.
| 521 Main Ave, Moorhead, MN 56560
| therourke.org
| /RourkeArts
| @rourkemuseum
Fargo’s Plains Art Museum is primarily an exhibition space, but its museum store is a hidden gem for those looking to bring art home. The Store at Plains Art Museum features small-scale original works, limited-edition prints, handmade jewelry, art books, ceramics, and gifts—all created by regional artists and artisans. Proceeds from sales support the museum’s education and community programs, so every purchase goes directly back into fostering local creativity.
| 704 1st Ave N, Fargo, ND 58102
| plainsart.org
| /plainsartmuseum
| @plainsartmuseum
Inside West Acres Mall, Aptitude Creative Studios brings the artist’s studio experience to the public. This partnership between The Arts Partnership and West Acres provides rentable studio spaces for local artists, who open their doors to visitors most Saturdays and during select events. Shoppers can browse and buy artwork directly from the artists—ranging from paintings and prints to ceramics, jewelry, fiber art, and photography—while also seeing the creative process firsthand. Aptitude is one of the best ways to meet the people behind the region’s art scene and build personal connections with working artists. You’ll find it in the Aquarium Court area of West Acres, near Best Buy.
| 3902 13th Ave S, Fargo, ND 58103 | theartspartnership.net
From downtown stages to suburban patios, Fargo-Moorhead’s live music lineup delivers something every weekend. Rock, folk, alt, jazz, DJs, or dance bands. Here’s your go-to guide for the local spots that keep the amps buzzing and the crowd moving.
(above Dempsey’s)
An intimate upstairs club with outsized bookings, The Aquarium has been a launchpad for touring indie and alt acts while giving locals a proper stage. Past headliners span Father John Misty, Bon Iver, The Melvins, Band of Horses, and Built to Spill. While most shows tilt 21+, they occasionally go all-ages depending on the bill.
| 226 Broadway N, Fargo, ND 58102 | theaquariumfargo.com | /TheAquariumFargo | @aquariumfargo
A high-energy, three-nights-a-week dance-band hub, The Windbreak books Thursday–Saturday lineups that skew country, rock, and party bands, with blackjack and pool rounding out the late-night vibe. It’s just off I-29 by the Flying J, which makes it a convenient stop for touring bar bands and a reliable “where’s the band tonight?” answer for locals.
| 3150 39th St S, Fargo, ND 58104
A downtown mainstay at 614 Main Avenue, the Front Street Taproom doubles as a live-music hub and community hangout. The upstairs taproom features 30 local craft beers on tap and mixes a warm beer-hall feel with a creative edge. According to their event schedule, they host open-mic nights every Monday (8 pm sign-up at 7:30)—inviting musicians, comedians, poets, and all forms of performance.
| 614 Main Ave, Fargo, ND 58103
| frontstreettaproom.com
| /FrontStreetTaproom
| @frontstreetraproom
Sidestreet Grille & Pub
Located at 404 4th Ave N in downtown Fargo, Sidestreet Grille & Pub has quietly carved out a niche as a live music favourite for both locals and visitors. Known for its extensive rotating beer list (about 50 taps) and the “best wings in Fargo” claim, the venue brings serious jamsessions and jazz nights into a comfortable pub setting.
| 404 4th Ave N, Fargo, ND 58102
| sidestreet-fargo.com
| /SidestreetFargo
| @sidestreetfargo
| /cowboyjacksfargo
| @cowboyjacksfargo
Tucked into historic downtown Moorhead at 814 Center Ave, Swing Barrel Brewing Co. started with a dual passion: craft beer and communitydriven music. The founders explicitly position the taproom as “a place for new and old friends to gather, to listen to live local music, and to toast to the future with a few well-crafted pints.”
| 814 Center Ave A, Moorhead, MN 56560
| swingbarrelbrew.com
| /SwingBarrelBrew
| @swingbarrelbrew
Located at 2721 Main Avenue in Fargo, Rick’s Bar has been “part of Fargo since 1979.” It bills itself as a sprawling saloon—with an adjacent liquor store—featuring live music, bar bites, game-area fun (pool, darts), and a full-
| 2721 Main Ave, Fargo, ND 58103
| ricks-bar.com
| /RicksBarFargo
Harold's On Main's 6(66)th Anniversary Party
Located at 1330 Main Ave, Moorhead MN, Harold’s on Main has clearly established itself as one of the region’s go-to spots for live music— whether for touring acts, local bands, or events that draw a broader crowd.
| 1330 Main Ave, Moorhead, MN 56560
| /HaroldsOnMain
| @haroldsonmain
Located at 3330 Sheyenne St., Suite 116, this sports-bar-meets-
VFW Post 7564
A community-focused bar and banquet hall at 444 Sheyenne St., this VFW post doubles as a live-music hub. The venue runs recurring dance-music nights (old-time dances, band nights) and weekly events that draw in locals for live performance plus full bar service.
| 444 Sheyenne St Suite 101, West Fargo, ND 58078
| vrfw7564.com
| /VFW7564.org
| @westfargovfw
At 3140 Bluestem Dr., Pub West is a large neighborhood bar & grill with one of the largest patios in town and a consistent roster of live-music and patio-party nights.
| 3140 Bluestem Dr, West
When Lewis arrived, FMCT was still in the Emma K. Herbst Playhouse in Island Park. Her first show here was A Christmas Carol in 2019, and during that production, the roof failed.
A major beam cracked. The building was declared unsafe. FMCT had to evacuate, then the pandemic hit on top of it.
What came next was a call from Moorhead Mayor Shelly Carlson. “She asked if we wanted to build a theatre in the ‘Hjemkomst’,” Lewis said.
Construction is underway at the new theatre!
by Perry Rust
FMCT moved into the Hjemkomst Center’s large exhibit hall and built out two stages. The main space seats 191 people in a black-box style setup.
“It’s intimate. There’s no bad seat in the house,” Lewis said. “Row one is five feet from the edge of the stage. You’re in it with whatever is happening.”
She also loves the sound, which is the result of a lucky collision of cinder-block walls and heavy curtains that makes performances feel close and full.
FM Opera has used the stage. So have pageants and other arts groups. FMCT keeps rental rates low enough that smaller organizations can afford to create.
“People are doing great things, but they don’t have money to pay for places to do those things,” Lewis said. “I want to keep managing this space even after we move into the new building.”
That new building is rising in downtown Fargo on NP Avenue as part of The Avery development. Groundbreaking was in May 2024, and the project will include a 400-plus seat theatre, classrooms, and a shared complex with housing and parking.
The theatre portion is currently projected to open in fall 2026.
Lewis said FMCT expects to own the “cold dark shell," basically the finished exterior, by late December 2025, with roughly ten more months of interior build-out after that. (Construction timelines can shift, she noted.)
FMCT is about to launch a “seat drive.” The idea is simple: donors can buy a physical seat for the new theatre, have their name attached to it, and get first crack at tickets for that exact seat before every show.
“It’s a nice perk,” Lewis said. “Forever.”
She’s also starting a penny drive, which is part fundraiser, part art project. With
pennies no longer being minted, FMCT plans to polish donated coins, use them to spell out donor names on a floor pathway to the donor wall, and seal the whole thing in epoxy.
“It’ll be a path made in pennies,” she said. “Beautiful.”
Looking ahead, Lewis is calling next year “the director’s season.”
She’s planning ten shows built on unit sets as a smart way to keep production moving while staff split time between the Hjemkomst and downtown construction. But the bigger goal is leadership.
The region has plenty of acting talent. Directing is harder to recruit, and Lewis wants to grow that bench. She’ll select ten directors, give them a slate of options, and let each choose which show they want to lead.
“It’s a totally different skillset,” she said. “And it’s the most important piece of each puzzle.”
She’s also been steadily nudging audiences toward plays, not only musicals. Musicals sell fast here. Plays take trust.
Over the past few seasons, FMCT’s straight-play ticket sales climbed from about 400 to 800 to full capacity at roughly 1,200, which proof that audiences will follow if the work is sharp and the experience is good.
Lewis has a clear rule for that experience: keep it moving.
“You strap in like a roller coaster,” she said. “It should be compelling from the moment it begins till it ends.”
The festival that makes the world smaller
Asked what else people should know, Lewis jumped to her favorite thing FMCT does, which is the 10-Minute Play Festival.
They cap submissions at 200 and get entries from around 35 countries. FMCT staff read all of them, narrow to 50, then to 24. Ten newer directors each pick four plays to stage. The festival runs two weekends and is livestreamed worldwide, so even playwrights who weren’t selected can watch along.
For Lewis, it’s theatre doing what theatre does best.
“It makes a giant world smaller,” she said. “No matter where we’re from, we laugh at the same things. We cry about the same things.”
's
by Kensie Wallner
Managing Director Monika Browne
Theatre B is now entering its 23rd season, but it started the way a lot of good things in this region do, with handful of friends who wanted more.
Founders Carrie and David Wintersteen, Lori and Scott Horvik, Amber Barnhardt, and a small circle of fellow artists were hungry for work they weren’t seeing elsewhere. They were drawn to scripts that were thoughtprovoking, contemporary, and sometimes uncomfortable. They built a company around that gap, slowly inviting additional artists into what became an ensemble.
That ensemble model still shapes the company today. Rather than existing just to “put on shows,” Theatre B has a resident group of artists who return season after season and help shape everything from what plays are chosen to how they’re staged.
Artistic Director
Jon Micheels
Leiseth
Over the last eight to ten years, that circle has widened. “We’ve been hiring from outside of the B ensemble more and more,” Monika said. The artist pool now includes:
• Young professionals fresh out of Concordia, MSUM, and NDSU
• “Displaced professionals” who used to work in bigger markets and have landed in Fargo-Moorhead
• Long-time theatre folks in their 50s, 60s, 70s
• Creatives from other fields trying something new—like the professional DJ who designed sound for Romeo and Juliet
Training levels range from self-taught to graduate degrees. What they share is a desire to explore, not just show off what they already know.
If you assume a small nonprofit theatre is picking shows a few months ahead, think again.
Jon oversees a season-selection process that starts at least a year out, often longer.
Scripts are read and discussed by staff and ensemble members; Jon looks for threads that will tie the season together—emotionally, thematically, and practically.
They’re always balancing three questions:
1. Does it fit the mission?
Will this story genuinely spark conversation and potential transformation, not just entertain for two hours?
2. Can we pull it off?
Do we have the time, people, and money to do it well?
3. How does it sit in the year as a whole?
Over four mainstage shows (plus their annual collaboration with HOPE Inc.), they want variety in tone and topic.
Their season typically runs fall through late spring, with each production staged across multiple weekends, which is a longer run than most theatres in the region. That gives artists time to deepen the work and gives audiences more chances to find a night that works.
Theatre B's production of Pride and Prejudice
by Scott Thuen
If you really want to understand what Theatre B believes about people and art, look at Adaptive Theatre.
For the last five years, the company has partnered with HOPE Inc., a local nonprofit that provides adaptive recreation for people of all ages with physical and cognitive disabilities.
More than half the participants are HOPE clients. Theatre B brings in teaching artists—actors, directors, designers who also know how to teach—to guide the work. Some years it’s a fully staged script (Alice in Wonderland, Winnie the Pooh); recently, they’ve moved into adaptive improvisation, building a showcase from character and story “elements” rather than a traditional play.
“It’s changed us as much as it’s changed them,” Monika said. “You get this living reminder that anyone can do theatre”
continue >
by Scott Thuen
Over two decades, Theatre B has built a catalog of titles that aren’t often seen on other
Monika sees two kinds of “defining” productions:
These productions might look modest on the surface, but they hit deep and stick around in
• Cry It Out – A small-cast play about new parents wrestling with parental leave, work, and the value we place on caregiving.
• 1984 – A sold-out run that brought Orwell’s dystopia uncomfortably close to home.
• What the Constitution Means to Me – A political, deeply personal tour through citizenship and rights; Jon directed Theatre B’s production in 2024.
• The Majority – A politically charged piece that they turned into a hybrid in-person/ streamed show during the pandemic.
• Blackbird – A searing look at sexual abuse and power that sparked heartfelt, sometimes painful audience responses.
These are the shows that generate emails, letters, and hallway conversations weeks, months, and sometimes years later.
2. The Visually Inventive, “How Did They Do That?” Shows
Some productions stand out for their staging creativity:
• The Moors – A whole eerie, Victorian world built around a single sheet of Mylar hung across the stage.
• Small Mouth Sounds – A play about a mostly silent meditation retreat, staged with a set made almost entirely out of paper.
• The Majority – Again, notable not just for content but for how they used technology and streaming to keep the theatre alive midpandemic.
• Romeo and Juliet – A recent collaboration with Theatre NDSU, complete with a traveling set and lush costumes that moved from campus to Theatre B’s black box.
The next excuse to rediscover Theatre B is Birthday Candles, by Noah Haidle, opening December 5 and running three weekends, Friday through Sunday.
It follows one woman, Ernestine, across roughly 90 years of birthdays Each scene jumps forward in time to another birthday; through it all, Ernestine keeps the ritual baking a birthday cake. During Theatre B’s production, actor Crystal Cassette Knight actually bakes a cake onstage every night as the people who shape Ernestine’s life drift in and out of her kitchen.
Looking ahead, Theatre B will also stage Perfect Arrangement by Topher Payne, currently slated for February–March 2026 and Every Brilliant Thing by Duncan Macmillan and Johnny Donahoe, May 117th, 2026.
Set in 1950 at the height of the Red Scare, it follows two State Department employees tasked with rooting out “sexual deviants” in their ranks—while hiding the fact that they themselves are gay and have married each other’s partners as cover. Inspired by early LGBTQ+ rights history, it starts out like a bright, sitcom-style comedy and slowly tips into something sharper and more heartbreaking.
Behind the scenes, keeping this little engine running is no small feat
Roughly a third of Theatre B’s budget comes from grants, another third from individual donors, and the final third from things like ticket sales, sponsorships, and rentals—with ticket revenue making up the biggest piece of that last category.
Like every small arts nonprofit, they’re feeling the pinch. Operating costs are up across the board, including rent, lumber, paint, wages, and insurance.
One-time gifts are wonderful. But a base of people giving a manageable amount every month—$10, $25, $50—lets them plan. It keeps the lights on, pays artists on time, and buys the fabric, wood, and scripts that turn into the experiences audiences love.
| theatreb.org
| /TheatreBFargo | @theatreb
Expanding Access, Reimagining Engagement, and Building a Museum for the Next Generation
Plains Art Museum has always held a unique place in Fargo’s artistic identity. It’s simultaneously a community hub, a teaching center, a nationally recognized institution, and an anchor for downtown culture. But under the leadership of Director and CEO Erin Shapiro, the museum is stepping into an era defined by accessibility, education, and deepened regional connection while planning one of the most significant facility expansions in its history.
“People sometimes think they need a background in art to enjoy a museum,” Shapiro said. “But this space is for everybody. We’re open seven days a week, we’re completely free, and we want people to treat us like a public resource. Pop in on a lunch break, walk through for twenty minutes, come back whenever. There should be no barrier—financial, educational, physical, or emotional—to being here.”
That belief is evident in every part of the museum’s programming, from family art days to high-level exhibitions borrowed from national institutions. And with a major capital campaign underway, the Plains Art Museum is preparing to expand both what the public sees, and what the public understands, about how an art museum operates.
One of the most defining characteristics of the Plains Art Museum is that general admission is free, always, and the museum is open seven days a week.
Inside, visitors can move freely through exhibitions that match the caliber of major metro museums, including recently installed national shows on women artists, Edo-period Japanese art, and modernist masters like Andy Warhol and Jasper Johns. Tucked among these is the museum’s ongoing commitment to Indigenous artists and regional creators, ensuring local culture is never overshadowed by celebrated national names.
Yet the exhibitions are only half the story.
Across the skybridge, in The Katherine Kilbourne Burgum Center for Creativity, the museum runs one of the most robust community arts education programs in the region. From ceramics to printmaking, early childhood classes to advanced painting workshops, the Center is nearly always active, and crucially, scholarships are available for both youth and adults.
“We have financial assistance for classes, and it’s first come, first served,” Shapiro said. “We really want people to take advantage of that. Art shouldn’t only belong to people who can afford tuition.”
Alongside structured classes, the museum offers:
• Open Studio memberships in ceramics, giving makers independent access to studio and kiln space.
• Family programming nearly every week.
• Kid Quest, a free community staple held the first Saturday of every month during the school year, drawing more than 100 children for hands-on arts activities.
• Thursday night events, featuring extended hours until 9 p.m., curator talks, community conversations, or guided tours.
The museum also hosts sensory-friendly Sundays, provides sensory backpacks, and creates all gallery text at a fourth-grade reading level.
“People want accessibility,” Shapiro said. “They want to feel like this is their museum. Our job is to make that true.”
If you’ve ever wondered how exhibitions are selected, or why they seem to arrive with the precision of a calendar, the answer that the museum programs two to three years in advance.
Right now, the Plains Art Museum is booked through 2028.
As North Dakota’s only accredited art museum, Plains is able to borrow from institutions across the world, something most people don’t realize. Accreditation requires strict environmental controls, conservation standards, and security measures, but it also opens doors to galleries trust Plains with priceless works from major collections.
“We want the same caliber of exhibitions that people expect from places like the Walker or the Minneapolis Institute of Art,” Shapiro said. “We might be on a smaller scale, but the quality is on par.”
Some exhibitions originate from the museum’s own curatorial vision; others come from major traveling shows; many merge global artworks with Plains’ own regional collection. The current exhibition Women Artists: Four Centuries of Creativity is a perfect example because it pairs iconic names like Mary Cassatt with works by women artists from the Plains permanent collection.
And while most visitors see the art on the walls, what they don’t see is equally important.
The museum houses more than 6,000 artworks, but only 1–3% are on view at any time. To change that, a transformational project is underway.
Art classes art at the Plains Art Museum for all ages!
Museum Hours
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Behind every gallery wall is the quiet backbone of the museum, its permanent collection. This is the work future generations will inherit, long after exhibitions cycle in and out. But until now, almost no one has ever seen where or how that collection is stored.
That’s about to change.
The Plains Art Museum is currently in the non-public phase of a major capital campaign—one that will expand and modernize collection storage, introduce a groundbreaking open-storage gallery, and create a new welcome center that completely reshapes how visitors enter and move through the museum.
The first major element of the project is doubling the square footage of the museum’s climate-controlled vault. With more than 1,000 works accessioned in the past year alone, growth isn’t slowing, and improved storage is crucial for stewardship.
The new design doesn’t just solve a logistical need. It transforms the museum’s relationship with the community.
Only 18% of U.S. art museums have open-storage collections. Plains Art Museum will soon join that elite group.
A floor-to-ceiling glass wall will allow visitors to view portions of the vault — a transparent look into how a museum preserves history, culture, and creativity. Objects will rotate regularly so the public can see more than the typical 1–3% that fit in gallery exhibitions.
For many visitors, this will be the first time they understand what a permanent collection truly is.
“It’s educational,” Shapiro said. “The average person doesn’t get to see the behind-the-scenes work museums do. This will change that.”
The campaign also includes a redesigned welcome center between the main museum and the Center for Creativity. The space currently opens into a utilitarian alley corridor. The renovation will turn it into a bright, inviting, historically respectful entryway that improves circulation between buildings and creates a cohesive visitor experience, especially from the parking-lot side of the campus.
Construction is expected to begin summer 2025. While renderings are currently private, the scope of the project is substantial enough to shift how the museum functions daily.
For donors, it offers something tangible. For visitors, it signals a modernized Plains Art Museum that’s ready for the next 50 years.
Also opening in the spring is Know Your Treaty, a significant, research-based exhibition developed with support from the Smithsonian Institution.
The project involves:
• Funding to pay Indigenous researchers
• Collaboration with the Treaty Museum in Park Rapids
• Work guided by Tyrell Iron Eyes, archivist for the Standing Rock Reservation
• Historical and contemporary Treaty research specific to our region
• Text panels and storytelling created directly from this research
• Artifacts from Plains Art Museum’s permanent collection
• Contemporary works purchased from Native American artists
After its run in Fargo, the show will travel to schools and cultural centers throughout the region, ensuring the work reaches the communities it documents.
For all the museum’s ambitious expansions and highprofile exhibitions, the strongest message Shapiro hears from the community is surprisingly simple: Make it accessible. Make it ours.
Accessibility means far more than free admission, though that remains one of the museum’s most powerful commitments. It also means:
• Physical access: clear pathways, open hours, zero-cost entry.
• Educational access: text written at a fourth-grade reading level, programs that welcome non-experts.
• Cultural access: exhibitions and classes that represent the full spectrum of people who call this region home.
• Sensory access: Sensory Sundays, sensory backpacks, and spaces adapted for neurodivergent visitors.
• Financial access: scholarships available for both youth and adult classes.
“Museums can feel intimidating to people,” Shapiro said. “We’re constantly working to eliminate that. We want this to feel like your museum—a place where you belong, no matter who you are or what background you come from.”
That philosophy shows up in the artist roster, in the programming, in the tone of wall text, even in the way staff are trained to greet visitors.
It’s also shaping the museum’s physical future. When the new welcome center and open-storage gallery are complete, the Plains Art Museum won’t just be easier to navigate, it will be easier to understand. Visitors will see the collection; they’ll see how it’s preserved; they’ll see the museum’s responsibility to steward cultural history.
If You Haven’t Visited the Plains Art
There may be no better time to rediscover it.
1. Free Admission, Every Day
No tickets, no pressure. Walk in and explore, whether you have 20 minutes or two hours.
2. Big-Museum Quality Exhibitions
From major national loans to Indigenous art to contemporary regional voices, the caliber rivals far larger city museums.
3. The Center for Creativity
Ceramics and printmaking classes, painting and drawing workshops, early childhood programs, and free or scholarship-supported options.
4. A Museum That Meets You Where You Are
Whether you’re a parent, a working professional squeezing in lunch-break visits, a student, a practicing artist, or someone who “isn’t really an art person,” the museum is designed so you always feel welcome.
5. A New Era on the Horizon
The upcoming capital improvements—from expanded collection storage to a new welcome center—will fundamentally transform visitor experience and museum transparency.
For Shapiro, the Plains Art Museum isn’t just keeping up; it’s leading. Not in scale, but in intention. Not in size, but in purpose.
By Ashley Morken, Owner, Unglued
The pottery of Jay Gaare of MudPuddle Pottery will make your life full of whimsy with a touch of magic and total fun. We have loved following the work Jay has been creating— from a retro TV planter to earrings to duck key holders and more—all through ceramics! Learn more about this local maker today!
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I was born and raised in northern Wisconsin, just across the border from Duluth, MN, in a small rural town. Lake Superior being just a stone’s throw away shaped my childhood, my worldview, and my current artistic practice. I don’t think it's just a coincidence that I’d convince my parents to let me take home natural clay from Lake Superior shores so I could continue playing with it. Currently, I live in Moorhead. I moved here just two years ago after attending Minot State University for a Bachelor of Fine Arts. Apart from ceramics and my day job, I spend my time fiddling with crafts while watching TV, (apart from re-watching Bob’s Burgers, my fiancé and I have gotten quite into Bones) caring for my animals (a crotchety cat, high-energy dog, and an axolotl), or playing video games.
Describe what type of products you make under MudPuddle Pottery?
Mostly things that I would want in my home, too. A mix of functional houseware
to purely decorative, but everything skews towards the silly side. The type of ceramics I make are for the kind of person who enjoys something a little weird, whimsical, and handmade.
Tell us how you got started with your ceramic business?
I’ve wanted to be an artist nearly my whole life. I guess I’m fortunate that I’ve always known it was my calling. Unfortunately, however, art is something that is severely undervalued as a career, never mind without it we wouldn’t be human. I’ve sold ceramics off and on throughout the years at local gift shops, art shows, and to friends, but I’d say MudPuddle Pottery became official in January of 2025. It’s been something I’ve been working towards for years, and really I’m just in the beginning stages, juggling a full-time job, a parttime job, and my ceramic business as well. I’m making baby steps towards the goal of opening a communityfocused studio and working full-time as a ceramic artist.
You mostly work with handbuilding— what is your favorite type of item to create with that process?
My favorite type of item to make is larger sculptural pieces with coilbuilding or pinch-pot techniques.
What was one of your most difficult pieces you've created?
For my senior capstone exhibition in college, one of the pieces I created was a 24 inch by 26 inch wall hanging of a large anthropomorphized flower. It weighs a lot, and had maybe one or two inches of wiggle room fitting into the kiln.
What is your most popular item you sell currently?
It depends on the location where I’m selling. Currently, my best selling pieces online are Key Critters, my wall-hanging key holders; while in-person at markets it’s been the tiny sculpted creatures that go the fastest.
Where does your inspo come from for new pieces?
I’m largely inspired by ancient pottery and the whimsy of children’s artwork. To translate that into my own work, I have a few sketchbooks that I use to
doodle in. Sometimes I’ll sketch out specific ideas for pieces, but mostly I enjoy trying to take a two-dimensional drawing to a three-dimensional artwork.
What is something you've enjoyed the most about doing this handcrafted business?
Sharing joy through my art. When they turn a little creature over to find a butt and can’t help but laugh, or being told that one of my pieces has become a household staple to them. It makes me happy to be able to share a little joy through art.
What is the most challenging thing?
Time and money. If I could, I’d work on my ceramics full-time, but making art your career is difficult. So for now, I play a balance game between my fulltime job to fund everything, part-time studio work to stay active in the local art community, and selling my work online and in-person to start building my business.
I hear you love Bob's Burgers (SAME)! What character do you consider yourself most like?
Nat the limo driver. Weird, animal lover, ready for whatever.
What advice would you give to someone else looking to start a handcrafted/maker business?
Don’t make doing what you love into a chore. You really have to balance making things to sell with making things because you like to and want to. Once it starts to feel like a duty instead of a hobby, you have to switch things up a bit.
What advice would you have given yourself five years ago?
Practice on the wheel more.
Being that this will be deep into the holidays—bonus question: How do you recharge when things feel crazy?
Steeping a cup of herbal tea, and cuddling up with my cat Bean to watch a scary movie.
| @brennamandco
| @pottery.mudpuddle
By Ashley Morken, Owner, Unglued
provided by Ashley Morken
Looking ahead to craft markets in 2026 is a friggin’ delight as we get excited for new makers to be discovered and returning makers to show all their crazy talented creative work to the community!
It’ll be our 16th Annual Unglued Craft Fest March 6-7, 2026 at West Acres Mall and each year we have a different artist design the annual fest poster from Punchgut last year with a crafty chaos scene of a cat crafting to Natasha Machacek a few years ago creating an unhinged unicorn with butterflies and star patches.
Drumroll….this year our Fest designer is Christina Lang of See Lang Design (woo!). It’ll be a mash up of her intricately designed paper quilling and her hand lettering and sketching skills! She has taken the Fargo crafty world by (paper) storm and also shared her love of handmade with a variety of craft classes. While you won’t get a sneak peek until January, you can get to know the creative mind of Christina below!
You'll be our 2026 Unglued Craft Fest poster designer! Where is some of your inspo coming from to design it?
That's easy, Unglued. If you've ever stepped in the shop, you can see the magic visually with all the art and smells of candles and candy. And if you've ever been to a class, retreat, or camp you can feel the Unglued magic. Now I just have to try to capture that in paper.
You both quill and doodle/ handletter—plus do graphic design and so much more! How did you nail down quilling as your focus for a handcrafted small
teach and then we moved to Fargo where it really took off. I found my niche and my people.
What is one of your most popular items you sell at craft markets?
I would say state shapes—ND is a great shape for quilling. A cute lil rectangle with a hip pop where Fargo is, because let's be honest we are the most fun.
What is something people can look forward from you in 2026 and See Lang Design?
Hopefully quilling in some large scale installations. I did a large installation this summer
What do you enjoy most about doing craft markets?
I love when someone falls in love with a piece, and then when they adopt it I know it's going somewhere where it’ll be loved and going to bring magic to someone's space.
The 16th Annual Unglued Craft Fest
West Acres Mall
March 6–7, 2025
Thursday 4–8 p.m. | Friday 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Now in its sweet sixteen year, the Unglued Craft Fest continues to be one of Fargo’s most joyful traditions. Every spring, West Acres Mall fills with more than 70 makers, artists, and small creative businesses from across the region that bring their one-of-a-kind wares, from ceramics and prints to quirky gifts and handmade treats.
What is the most challenging thing?
The Business side of all the creative fun...it's something we don't talk about enough and that makes it seem so scary and daunting to us on the creative side.
How do you stay inspired through all these years you've done so far as a handcrafted business?
It's in my blood, it's a love that is just part of me. I was made to create and inspiration is literally all around. It can be in pop culture, or a pattern in a sweater, or a field of crops I see art and inspo everyday... which is why my sketchbook is always in tow.
What is one word that describes you?
Extra, but like guacamole... totally worth it.
Beyond shopping, it’s an experience with live music, interactive workshops, pop-up installations, and a contagious energy that celebrates creativity in all its messy, colorful glory. Whether you come for the art, the people, or the good vibes, Unglued is the ultimate kick-off to Fargo’s handmade season.
Brewhalla Summer Craft Market
Brewhalla, Fargo Sunday, June 7, 2025 Noon–6 p.m.
Nothing says summer like a cold beer and a local market. The Brewhalla
Summer Craft Market returns in June with an easygoing, festive atmosphere that pairs Fargo’s maker magic with its love of craft brews. Wander through Brewhalla’s vendor lineup while sipping something local, find new favorites, and meet the makers behind every handmade treasure.
From vintage-inspired goods to art prints and locally made snacks, it’s the perfect Sunday outing that's casual, creative, and unmistakably Fargo.
What advice would you give to a newbie in the craft market world?
Just get out there. I failed so many times before I made one sale. And do what you love. If you love it and believe in it the rest will follow...
How do you craft up your booth display you do? Any tips for first timers?
Keep it simple. Iif you focus so hard on display you can forget the important steps, like pricing and sharing your contact info. I try to keep my background neutral and let the art do the work. Oh and wear good shoes.
| See Lang Design
| /SeeLangDesignND
| @See_Lang_Design
| @See_Lang_Design
Brewhalla Fall Craft Market
Brewhalla, Fargo
Sunday, October 11, 2025
Noon–6 p.m.
When sweater weather arrives, Brewhalla’s Fall Craft Market brings the cozy vibes in full force. Think handmade candles, autumn décor, pottery, knitwear, and all things warm and homey. It’s a celebration of the season, the artisans who make it special, and the community that loves to support them.
Brewhalla Very Merry Holiday Craft Market
Brewhalla, Fargo
Sunday, December 13, 2025
Noon–6 p.m.
Close out the year on a festive note at the Very Merry Holiday Craft Market—a jolly explosion of creativity and cheer. Brewhalla transforms into a winter wonderland filled with handmade gifts, sparkling lights, and holiday spirit. Grab a drink, browse the booths, and let Fargo’s local makers help you finish (or start!) your shopping list with something truly unique. Unglued
BY AMANDA FROST, MARKETING COORDINATOR, FOLKWAYS
What is your favorite Folkways event?
My favorite event is the Renaissance Night Bazaar. I love all of the themed costumes and performances. The community really gets into the theme by dressing up and expressing their creativity. It really transports you into another world and allows you to get into character.
What is your favorite non-Folkways event?
As a person who loves putting together costumes, one of my favorite events to attend is the Plains Art Museum Gala. The themes are always fun, and they go all out with the performances, food, and decorations. Their gala is an immersive experience that incorporates art into every turn. It's also for a great cause, supporting the museum as a fundraiser.
olkways is known for bringing imagination, connection, and creativity to the Fargo community—but behind every market, bazaar, and immersive experience is a team of people who love this city just as much as the audiences they serve. We asked
members of the Folkways staff to share their favorite events, both within the organization and out in the wider community.
What is your favorite Folkways event?
I adore the Night Bazaars! It's always so cool to see everyone come dressed in their themed costumes, and it's such a great display of creativity from both vendors and visitors!
What is your favorite non-Folkways event?
I love Paradox's Nerdy Rummage Sale! It's so cool to see all the memorabilia folks have collected over the years, as well as the incredible crafts put together by some of our talented local artists!
What is your favorite Folkways event?
Circus Night Bazaar is lways at the height of summer (July). The Circus Bazaar is full of energy, action, and fun. I love to book programming for this event because you can really stretch the limits and engage with a wide variety of talent. I enjoy seeing folks show up in costume, and watching guests take in the experiences with fresh eyes and ears.
What is your favorite non-Folkways event?
The Fargo Film Festival offers a great selection of short and feature films. The camaraderie among movie attendees and the format of a film festival have always appealed to me!
What is your favorite Folkways event?
I love Saturday mornings at the Red River Market. The Market is what made me fall in love with Fargo, so there's a special nostalgia I feel each time I'm there. Now, getting to help make the magic happen for thousands of others to experience adds a little extra sweetness to my Saturdays, July through October.
What is your favorite non-Folkways event?
Tempo events, like the Blade Rave that just happened, are so much fun. One thing about me, I love to dance, and the dance floor at any Tempo function is sure to be a good time.
What is your favorite Folkways event?
My favorite Folkways event has to be the Renaissance Night Bazaar. As the first outdoor night bazaar of the season, it’s such a joy to celebrate being outside with the community after months of winter. I love how wholeheartedly everyone embraces the theme; seeing people arrive in costume truly brings the atmosphere to life. The roaming performers are another highlight; their playful characters add a touch of whimsy and make the entire evening delightfully silly and fun.
What is your favorite non-Folkways event?
One of my favorite local events that I look forward to each year is the Junkyard 5k in August. This race is very accepting of all skill levels, and I just love the energy of a supportive and energetic run. Hanging out afterwards at the brewery is also so much fun, and they give out really great prizes. It is a lowstakes race, and the route is along the Red River, which is so beautiful.
What is your favorite Folkways event?
My favorite event is the Renaissance Night Bazaar. I love all of the themed costumes and performances. The community really gets into the theme by dressing up and expressing their creativity. It really transports you into another world and allows you to get into character.
What is your favorite non-Folkways event?
As a person who loves putting together costumes, one of my favorite events to attend is the Plains Art Museum Gala. The themes are always fun, and they go all out with the performances, food, and decorations. Their gala is an immersive experience that incorporates art into every turn. It's also for a great cause, supporting the museum as a fundraiser.
