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

ART
Dennis Dumm “Final Exhibit” 

While in the early stages of a new photography project, cyclist and local artist Dennis Dumm was tragically struck and killed by a semi truck on his daily commute. In honor of his work and as a memorial exhibit, Dumm’s friends and family are proceeding with his photography in a show titled, “Final Exhibit.” Dumm’s experimental film method of cross processing uses texture and vivid colors to create a subtlety of organic imagery, reflective of Minneapolis subculture. Admission to the exhibit is free and is being held at NE Thai restaurant Sen Yai Sen Lek, with all sale proceeds benefiting charities -- particularly Transit for Livable Communities. “Final Exhibit” pieces will be displayed at Sen Yai Sen Lek until September 25th. 

7-9 p.m., Sen Yai Sen Lek, 2422 Central Ave. NE., Minneapolis, MN, Free 

SPECIAL EVENT
Victory44 Grand Opening

Venture North this evening for a sampling of snacks and sips at the recently opened "gastro pub," Victory44. What is a gastro pub, you ask? Well, despite sounding relatively un-appetizing, the term comes from merry ol' England where the words "gastronomy" and "pub" were merged to describe a joint that serves upscale food in a casual, pub-like setting. Tonight's official grand opening celebration will include complimentary samples of their famous burgers, reubens and fish n' chips plus a wine tasting and a selection of ice cold all-American brews. Enjoy the summer breeze on the patio and toast to this fantastic new addition to the evolving landscape of North Minneapolis.

6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Victory44, 2203 44th Avenue North, Minneapolis, Free

PERFORMANCE
Queertopia

Kick off Pride Weekend the right way -- with lots of LOVE! Tonight's Queertopia Cabaret is a delightfully raunchy romp that will probably make you blush and will definitely get you in the mood...for this weekend's fantastically gay festivities! Join a number of local artists for this bold and sassy celebration of queer love featuring performances by Karen Sherman, The Wreck Family, Jaime Carrera, 20% Theater Company, Tish Jones, Empowered Expressions, Xavier Rice, and a film by Tyler Jensen. Curated by Jeffry Lusiak and hosted by feisty dames Maren Ward and Molly Van Avery, Queertopia is a can't-miss concoction of love, grace, artistry, pizzazz, dramatics, and of course, whole-hearted pride.

Thursday & Friday, 7:30 p.m., Bedlam Theater, 1501 S. 6th Street, West Bank Minneapolis, $8-$10 (pay what you can)

Extra: Bedlam is hot this weekend, with late night dance party, Bomp on Friday after Queertopia, and The Dirty Queer Show on Saturday.

Extra, Extra: Check out Secrets of the City's comprehensive guide to Pride 2009 by clicking HERE!