The daily digest of Twin Cities culture | Secrets of the City

ART
Tales from the Black Lodge Opening Reception

Were you a Twin Peaks junkie? Shed tears over The Elephant Man? This month Altered Esthetics honors David Lynch's signature surreal body of film and television creations with a show inspired by his creative genius. The exhibit features over 30 artists from around the world working in their preferred medium; be it wood cut, sculpture, painting, photography, poetry or Lynch's preference--video. The Friday night Opening Reception for this show - Tales from the Black Lodge - runs from 7pm to 10pm and is a definite must-see. Shake off the spookiness of the VP debate and get creepy with dozens of artists inspired by the man who brought us Eraserhead and Blue Velvet. Show runs through October 30th. Happy early Halloween. -Jill Yablonski

Opening Reception Friday, 7pm-10pm, Altered Esthetics, 1224 Quincy Street NE, Minneapolis, Free

ART
New Work by the MCBA/Jerome Fellowship Artists

No one knows the crème de le crème of contemporary book artists like the MCBA. This exhibit of Jerome Foundation Book Arts Fellowship Artists showcases the work completed during the 2008 fellowships. Regula Russelle and CB Sherlock spread 5,000 letterpress keepsakes throughout urban Twin Cities neighborhoods forming a "community book" of prints. Sarah Peters explores the Arctic as a space of mythologies, while Brian Aldrich's boiled "Art Balls" installation recalls Fluxus art. After checking out the show, head next door to romantic spot Spill the Wine for a glass or two of vino, some tasty appetizers and an chance to discuss the art while it's still fresh in your mind. The Jerome Fellows exhibit runs through January 10th. -Lacey Prpic Hedtke

Friday, 6-9pm, Minnesota Center for Book Arts, 1011 Washington Avenue, Minneapolis, Free


DANCE
Groundbreaker Battle 2008

Calling all b-boys, b-girls and those who wish they were! Today's funky dance ruckus at the Minnesota Shubert Center is the place to be if you've ever had the yearning to learn the body rock, the reverse airbaby or the handglide freeze! Over 30 dance crews will be busting sweet moves at this all-day outdoor breakdancing competition that comes complete with breakin' workshops, a graffiti art installation, an open dance floor, a panel discussion and positive vibes! As the grand finale, watch popular b-boy crew The Battlecats, who've been poppin' and lockin' since 1993, perform their latest choreographic phantasm, Revolution! Presented by the Minnesota Shubert Performing Arts and Education Center, a home for dance and music that honors tradition, nurtures innovation and encourages exploration through many different programs.

Saturday, 1pm-7pm, MN Shubert Center Parking Lot, 528 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, Free

SPECIAL EVENT
Black & White Bash

Show support for the local creative community and have fun doing it tonight at the Gremlin Theatre! Local thespians, Theatre Pro Rata, christen their new home in St. Paul with a festive bash that will appeal to all types. The first part of the evening features a posh party (black tie dress code encouraged!) that includes a silent auction, music, food, wine, live mannequins and plenty of glitz and glam, followed by the inaugural performance of Killer Joe, the company's latest production. After the curtain closes, stick around as the party does a 180 with a "white trash" theme that promises 40 oz. beers and Cheetos, along with a rockin' performance by experimental indie group Prozac Rat. So, dress to impress (whether that means a tux or a "Taz" t-shirt) and make your way over to this hip new theater. The event is a sliding scale benefit, so pay what you can, but feel free to flaunt your fabulous generosity in the name of art!

Saturday, 6:30pm, Gremlin Theater, 2400 University Avenue, St. Paul, $5-$500


BENEFIT EVENT
Red, Hot & Blues

The Saint Paul Conservatory of Music hosts its annual gala affair to benefit music education, namely, The Merit Scholar Award, which is given to a student who embodies the core mission and values of the Conservatory. The 2008-09 recipient will be announced at the Gala, and funds for next year's recipient will be raised - so open your pocketbooks, because the sound of supporting the arts is music to everyone's ears, literally! Hosted by sweet soprano Maria Jette, you'll be invited to mingle with Conservatory staff, faculty and students and learn about their wonderful programs. Bid your heart out in the silent auction, then take in some bluesy sounds while nibbling treats and sipping champagne - Sunday never looked so snazzy!

5:30pm-9pm, The University Club (Downtown), 340 Cedar Street, St. Paul, $100 (tax-deductible)