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

ART
Jammers, Blockers, & Pivots

It's not often we associate snarling babes in roller skates and helmets with the genteel and sophisticated world of art. Tonight's show at the Rogue Buddha turns that notion on its ear, however, with an exhibit dedicated to the topic of fierce and fearless female roller derby. Doubling as a fundraiser for the Northstar Roller Girls, this event will most likely be as rowdy as it is visually appealing. And with artistic interpretations by the likes of Jon Langford, Nick Alley, Kali Ciesemier, and Danielle Spradling - we're pretty sure the possible bruising will be well worth it. Runs through December 30th.

Friday, Reception 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., Rogue Buddha Gallery, 345 13th Avenue NE, Northeast Minneapolis, Free.

Also Tonight: Ultimate Landscape 2 @ Gallery 13

THEATER
A Klingon Christmas Carol (Preview Performance)

Due to popular demand, Commedia Beauregard's A Klingon Christmas Carol has tagged on a special Friday preview performance in addition to its sold-out engagement on the 13th. Witness the spectacle of the Dickens classic performed by Klingons - a species not typically associated with inspiring the holiday spirit. This 2nd annual production proves that theory wrong, with enough warrior-style fun and Christmas cheer to lighten the heart of any Scrooge, or Star Trek nerd, for that matter.

Friday, 8:30 p.m., Paul & Sheila Wellstone Center, 179 E. Robie Street, St. Paul, $10 (preview rate)

Also tonight: The Turducken @ Bedlam Theater, Moscow Ballet's Russian Nutcracker @ The Orpheum, The Making of Americans @ The Walker Art Center
 

ART
Free Arts Minnesota Benefit

Leave it up to Art of this Gallery to always do the right thing. Tonight the south Minneapolis art hot spot opens its doors to Free Arts Minnesota, a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing the healing powers of artistic expression into the lives of abused, neglected, and at-risk children and their families. Bid on a wide variety of work from artists such as Wing Young Huie, John Grider, Tara Costello, Nate Reiman and many more, with proceeds going directly to benefit this wonderful program.

Saturday, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., Art of This, 3506 Nicollet Avenue, Minneapolis, $5-$10 door donation

Also tonight: Home for the Holidays @ Nicademus Art,  Family Farm Nirvana @ Umber Studios, Drawing Rally @ Midway Contemporary Art

SPECIAL EVENT
Who Made Who 1st Birthday Bonanza

Notable local screen print artists Miss Amy Jo, Lonnie Unitus, and Tooth aka Who Made Who have made names for themselves throughout the music scene and art community with their sassy rock n' roll sensibilities and deft design skills. After years of churning out amazing posters, graphic work, typography and more, the trio eventually landed in Northeast Minneapolis last year. The Who Made Who workspace and store front gallery will be especially festive today, as the gang celebrates their one year anniversary with steals and deals on a wide variety of collectible treasures.

Saturday, Noon to 8 p.m., Who Made Who, 158 13th Avenue NE, Minneapolis, Free

Also today: 2nd Saturdays/Rox Boutique Opening @ The California Building, Holiday Craft and Bake Sale @ CW Lofts, Finches Holiday Boutique @ 3615 25th Avenue S.

MUSIC
Katie McMahon Celtic Christmas

Forget the traditional holiday fodder and opt for the most lively of performances with Katie McMahon's Celtic Christmas extravaganza tonight. Best known as the sweet, soaring soprano on the original Riverdance single, McMahon has wowed audiences far and wide. Now with a full band as well as her own troupe of Irish dancers in tow, this lovely lass will lend her sparkle and shine to the O'Shaughnessy for a one night only engagement that will surely inspire holiday happiness!

Saturday, 7:30 p.m., O'Shaughnessy Auditorium, College of St. Catherine, 2004 Randolph Avenue, St. Paul, $25 Adults, $20 Seniors, $16 students, $10 Children under 12.

Also Tonight: Murzik @ The Kitty Cat Klub, Arcwelder @ The Turf Club, Heiruspecs @ 1st Avenue.