Written by Mike Mullen
This spring, some people are seeking distraction from the news of the day through entertainment, food or socializing. Others are finding purpose by uniting with their neighbors and giving back to their community. We at the Capri say: Why not both? These next couple months offer a string of opportunities to contribute to good causes, have fun and make new friends — all at the same time.
Don’t hesitate to snag tickets for the 3rd Annual PCYC Gala @ the Capri on Saturday May 10. Come for top-notch food and storytelling, and stay for the chance to bid on some fabulous auction items — from wine tastings to a Mexican vacation — for a good cause. Gala tickets are going fast but are still available at pcyc-mpls.org.
We’re also still looking for volunteers to assist with setting up, clearing out, and day-of commitments in a variety of roles. Join us May 8, 9, 10 or 12 to help bring together one of the Northside’s premier social and community events of the season; time commitment varies by position. More information at pcyc-mpls.org/gala2025/.
On Saturday, May 31, bring the whole family for a fun, free day of cultural enrichment at the Capri Plaza Palooza Arts Festival. Attendees can make art, join voices in a sing-along at 2 p.m. (led by J.D. and Fred Steele), hop around in a bounce house, do some Double Dutch, chow down on free lunch at noon, and dance all day. The All City Music Dance & Drill Drumline will perform at 1 p.m., and the R Factor band is on at 3:30 p.m.
Note that registration and tickets are required for lunch, and there are a limited number of lunch tickets available. Register now for food and fun at thecapri.org/plazapalooza. And, the Palooza needs your help to make it a success: We’re looking for about 40 volunteers that day, working in two shifts. To volunteer and for more info go to thecapri.org/events/palooza.
Legends @ the Capri returns in early June, this time with “Arias in Paradise” an intimate showcase in the Paradise @ the Capri, featuring a hugely talented quarter of local vocalists. Their pedigrees proceed them: Alannah Garnier recently sung with the LA Opera, Anna Hashizume and Ann Michaels have both performed regularly at Chanhassen Dinner Theaters, and Josh Eidem has toured Brazil twice. Showtime is 7 p.m. on June 5, 6 and 7 (Thursday-Saturday), followed by a 3 p.m. matinee Sunday, June 8. Tickets are $20 for groups of 10+, $25 for others, and $30 at the door, available at capri.simpletix.com.
First Thursday Films @ the Capri is coming fast this month. Join us on May 1 for a screening of The Book of Clarence. The 2023 film stars an ensemble cast including Lakeith Stanfield, Alfre Woodard and Benedict Cumberbach. Showtime is 7 p.m., followed by a conversation led by beloved local comedian Fancy Ray McCloney.
Entrance to First Thursday Films is free for Northside residents; others can obtain $5
tickets at mspfilm.org.
In upcoming rentals, teen poets, their families and fans are coming to the Capri for the “Be Heard MN Youth Poetry Slam Finals” at 7 p.m. on April 25. Contestants have successfully made their way through preliminary rounds, and this night’s performances will narrow down the field to a group of six winners. Tickets are $7 for students and $10 for adults, available on Eventbrite through thecapri.org.
On April 26, the “Excellence Festival” showcases African American creativity, skill and entrepreneurship including music, fashion, health and wellness, and social justice work. Organized by Rebound Inc., this event features opportunities for education, networking, mentorship and more. The Excellence Festival runs all day, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. The Community Festival, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., is free. Tickets are $50 for a gospel brunch (9-11:30) and $100 for the festival concert (5-7:30), and can be found at Eventbrite through thecapri.org.
Highly Favored Productions presents “Smooth Jazz and Hilarious Laughs,” with headliner and celebrated saxophonist Randy Scott, on Friday, May 2. In between Scott’s tunes, enjoy the comedy stylings of Mic Larry, Jeremiah Frazier and Melvin Bender. Doors for this “pre-Mother’s Day” event open at 6:45, with showtime at 7 p.m. Tickets are $40 and available on highlyfavoredproductions.com.
On May 3 (4-5:30 p.m.), experience the harmonies of the Kaleidoscope Quartet, one of the Twin Cities’ finest a capella groups. In their “Cerulean” concert, these vocalists will offer their spin on ‘70s and ‘80s classics, folk songs and brand-new local tunes. Tickets are $30 for adults, $25 for 65-and-up, and free for 12-and-under.
And stay tuned to thecapri.org for updates and more announcements on upcoming events. The Capri is located at 2027 W. Broadway. For details and ticket info visit thecapri.org.