Event Series 2024-25

UMN Conversations at Northrop is a collection of lectures, panel discussions, and other talks presented by numerous University of Minnesota departments and held at Northrop. This new initiative gathers multiple regularly scheduled speaking events presented by the varied departments under one series name, making them easy to find, follow, and attend from fall to spring semester and year to year.

The UMN is dedicated to pursuing excellence in education, research, and outreach to produce discovery and innovation that improves the lives of individuals and communities throughout our state and world. Each year, multiple colleges, departments, and units present lectures, panel discussions, and conversations at Northrop, and other UMN venues, focused on important and timely issues. Distinguished speakers are invited by faculty, students, and staff to participate in a diverse range of events throughout the academic year to enrich the UMN community.

The University of Minnesota Spotlight Series is a collaborative partnership between the Institute for Advanced Study and Northrop to present conversations, performances, and exhibits around timely topics of interest throughout the academic year.

The 2024-25 series will focus on cosmic justice and include discussions about dharma, identity, and the role community plays in imagining a just society. Events may be attended in Northrop’s Best Buy Theater or online via Zoom. The series is free, open to the public, and Q&A sessions will follow each event.

From electrifying dance legends and fresh takes on familiar classics, to bold, breathtaking storytelling and new works by acclaimed choreographers, this dance series invites you to connect, transform, and be inspired. Witness one story ballet accompanied by a live full orchestra; one world-premiere performance set to live, unique percussion instrumentation; a powerful piece performed in an on-stage “boxing ring;” a Relaxed Matinee; and two enthralling Northrop Centennial Commissions–one making its world premiere.

Be inspired by joyful and moving choral concerts from revered local talents. Immerse yourself in the vast range and sonic majesty of Northrop’s revered historic pipe organ at the first public performance of the new Northrop Organist. Enjoy virtuoso displays by an international rising star, a renowned favorite, and more.

Experience silent films as they were back in their heyday—accompanied and embellished by live music! Two masterpieces of the silent cinema era, one slapstick comedy and one intense drama, are brought vividly to life by the colorful stylings of the Northrop Aeolian-Skinner Opus 892 pipe organ in the hands of two acclaimed organists. Add on one-of-a-kind pairings from the Liquid Music | Northrop Series for a combination of stunning music and films combinations! 

Mind-bending, category-defying, boundary-pushing, the Liquid Music | Northrop Series promises to expand your idea of how live music flows through genres, dance, film—and beyond. The four events in the series will pair distinctive voices in sublime ways for immersive experiences sure to transcend the norm, enthrall, and inspire.