August 3, 2023
The Institute for Advanced Study, Northrop, and partners are thrilled to announce the return of two special series—the Spotlight Series and Amplifying Solidarity! In 2023–2024, these programs will shine a light on the University of Minnesota campus and local community while using the arts to explore racial and social justice.
The Spotlight Series is a collaborative partnership between the Institute for Advanced Study and Northrop to present lectures, conversations, performances, exhibits, and other events focusing on racial and social justice. The 2023–2024 offerings explore the theme Moving Through Injustice and include conversations delving into the roots of jazz and tap dance; the historic and artistic implications of percussion as an embodied practice in the American South—plus a silent film experience examining Black family and community life in South Minneapolis post-World War II. Guest panelists include Ayodele Casel, hailed as a “tap dancer and choreographer of extraordinary depth” (The New York Times), acclaimed local Hip-Hop artist Truth Maze, independent filmmaker Ralph L. Crowder III, and others. Spotlight Series events may be attended in Northrop’s Best Buy Theater or online via Zoom.
A collaboration between Northrop, Institute for Advanced Study, Multicultural Student Engagement, School of Music, and Welcome Week, Amplifying Solidarity is a set of five free outdoor events on the Northrop Plaza Stage featuring BIPOC, Queer, and Womxn+ artists. This year’s lineup includes a Hip Hop celebration with TruArtSpeaks, local sensation Nur-D, innovative North American taiko with TaikoArts Midwest, eight-piece band The Smitty Pit, and the celebrated UMN Gospel Choir. In case of inclement weather, these performances will be moved indoors.
Looking for the Fall 2023 IAS Thursdays schedule? The full IAS Thursdays series will be announced in mid-August. Stay tuned!
Fall 2023 Spotlight Series
Spotlight Series: The Black History of Jazz
Thu, Sep 28, 3:30 pm CT
In-person / Online
Northrop, Best Buy Theater
It is impossible to see jazz without acknowledging its African roots, evolving over centuries as musicians and dancers alike used the form as an outlet for the expression of Black identity, culture, language, struggle, and joy. Join for a rich conversation about the history of jazz and tap, and how these rhythms came to be heard all over the world today.
Spotlight Series: Drumfolk and the Stono Rebellion
Wed, Oct 11, 3:30 pm CT
In-person / Online
Northrop, Best Buy Theater
When the Stono Rebellion cost Africans the right to use their drums, the beats found their way into the body of the people—the Drumfolk. Join for a lively conversation about the historic and artistic implications of percussion as an embodied practice in the American South.
Spotlight Series: The Lost Negroes of North America: A Silent Film Experience
Thu, Nov 2, 4:30 pm CT
In-person / Online
Northrop, Best Buy Theater
The decade following the conclusion of World War II is a rich period in American history and progress, but is also a time when African American contributions to family, education, social institutions, and collective wealth are often overlooked. Rare silent film footage, accompanied by live performances and a panel with the director, offers a different perspective and reflection on northern family and community life.
Amplifying Solidarity: TruArtSpeaks
Wed, Aug 30, 12:00 pm
Northrop Plaza
Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop with a stage performance curated by TruArtSpeaks. Featuring Derrick Gichaba, Cecil “VIRGO” Neal, Nakara Forjé, Tish Jones, Desdamona, MaLLy, ShaVunda, and DJ Just Nine.
Amplifying Solidarity: Nur-D
Wed, Sep 6, 12:00 pm
Northrop Plaza
Enjoy a DJ set from Nur-D, one of the fastest-rising stars in Minnesota—with soulful sounds, powerful energy, and pop culture punchlines wrapped up into a show that everyone can enjoy.
Amplifying Solidarity: TaikoArts Midwest: Ensō Daiko
Wed, Sep 13, 12:00 pm
Northrop Plaza
Ensō Daiko offers loud, energetic performances that combine music, dance, culture, and pure athleticism—adding their unique voice to the expanding canon and innovation of North American taiko.
Amplifying Solidarity: The Smitty Pit
Wed, Sep 20, 12:00 pm
Northrop Plaza
Join eight-piece band The Smitty Pitt for an afternoon of R&B, pop, funk, and neo-soul vibes.
Amplifying Solidarity: University of Minnesota Gospel Choir
Wed, Sep 27, 12:00 pm
Northrop Plaza
Join the University of Minnesota Gospel Choir for a wide-ranging performance of musical styles filled with joy, love, and peace.