St. Paul Public Library offers free programming to celebrate Native American Heritage
St. Paul Public Library (SPPL) invites residents of all ages to join in celebrating Native American arts, culture and stories at local libraries all month long. The events, presented in partnership with Choctaw artist Mark Billy, New Native Theatre and other artists, are free and open to the public – all are welcome to attend. This program series is made possible by the Minnesota Arts and Culture Heritage Fund.
Fallen Star: The Watchoverers Play, presented by New Native Theatre
October 22, 2024, 6-7 p.m. at Rondo Library, 461 Dale St. N.
Join us for a special performance of “FallenStar: The Watchoverers” presented by New Native Theatre. This comic book-inspired superhero play follows three cousins who gain extraordinary powers from a meteorite, blending vibrant Native storytelling with thrilling comic book culture. Part of the national BIPOC Superhero Project, “FallenStar: The Watchoverers” is a family-friendly adventure that explores themes of community, power and identity.
Choctaw singing workshops with Mark Billy
Nov 12 & 14, 6-7 p.m. at Sun Ray Library, 2105 Wilson Ave.
Join Mark Billy, a classically trained opera singer, clarinetist and educator, for an interactive workshop on Choctaw singing. During the program, Mark will guide participants through the pronunciation and musical nuances of the Choctaw language and offers a rare opportunity to explore the intersection of Indigenous culture and classical music. No prior musical experience is necessary, and all are welcome.
Arts & Culture Bearers Concert & Panel Discussion
Tuesday, Nov 19, 6-8 p.m. at Arlington Hills Library, 1200 Payne Ave.
Join us for a vibrant celebration of Native American Heritage Month, showcasing talented Native American performers who honor their cultural traditions while expressing their modern identities through art. This event will blend traditional and contemporary forms, reflecting the powerful ways Native American artists incorporate their heritage into their evolving art. After the performances, there will be a panel discussion and audience Q&A, providing an opportunity to hear directly from the artists about their creative processes and the significance of Native American heritage and culture in their work.
Election Day is November 5
West 7th Community Center will serve as a polling place for this election cycle. The all St. Paul Public Libraries have voter registration forms, and that staff can help locate people’s polling places.