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Arts & Culture

Italian culture is steeped in the arts, architecture, music, cinema and food. Italy has given rise to a number of architectural styles and design movements. Opera has its roots in Italy and many famous operas are still performed all around the world in the native language. As a cultural center, we connect our community to Italian art in all forms.

Check out our calendar of events by clicking the links  on this page.

Join our email list to receive the latest information on all events and special opportunities to celebrate Italian culture with other local Italians and italophiles.

As an independent, non-profit organization, our cultural programming initiatives depend on the support of our member base. Please consider supporting the ICC and its programs by signing up as a volunteer or becoming a member today.

Vi aspettiamo!

Upcoming events

    • 28 Sep 2023
    • 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Traffic Zone Building 250 N Third Avenue Suite#625, Minneapolis, MN 55401-6th Floor
    Register

    Grand Opening of the Rudi Vecoli Library at the Italian Cultural Center

     Thursday, September 28

     6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

    We are thrilled to invite you to the grand opening of the Rudi Vecoli Library at the Italian Cultural Center! Join us for an evening dedicated to celebrating knowledge, culture, and community as we unveil this remarkable literary resource.

     Free Admission

    (with possible free will donations)


    Rudi Vecoli was a distinguished historian known for his dedication to Italian American history. To honor his memory and large contributions of material, we have established the Rudi Vecoli Library as a space for exploration, learning, and appreciation.

    The Italian Cultural center has a deep commitment to fostering understanding, appreciation, and enjoyment of Italian language, literature, history, and culture. We hope to propagate our goals with the Rudi Vecoli Library.

    Guest Speaker: John Andreozzi

    Join us in honoring the legacy of Rudi Vecoli with a special 15-20 minute presentation by John Andreozzi. John, a respected figure in the realm of Italian American history, will share memories of Rudi Vecoli and his significant contributions to our community.

    Be a part of this momentous occasion and experience the wealth of knowledge within the Rudi Vecoli Library. Discover new insights, connect with fellow members, and celebrate our shared cultural heritage.

    We extend our gratitude to Michael Sancilio and Pieranna Garavaso for their tireless efforts in bringing this library to fruition. Their dedication and hard work have made the Rudi Vecoli Library a reality.

     

    We look forward to welcoming you on Thursday, September 28th, for an evening of literary and cultural exploration.

     


    • 12 Oct 2023
    • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Traffic Zone Building 250 N Third Avenue Suite #625 Minneapolis, MN 55401
    • 0
    Join waitlist


     APERITIVO & CARTE Returns!


    Date: Thursday, October 12th

    Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM



    Join us for a delightful evening of Italian card-playing as we bring back APERITIVO & CARTE! Discover the art of playing cards the Italian way, specifically the beloved game of Briscola.


    We have a brand new game this year 


    Learn Briscola: Whether you're a novice or an expert, this event is for you! Italian native Ileana will guide you through the game in English, making it accessible to everyone.

    Immerse yourself in the Italian culture of "aperitivo." Savor authentic Italian appetizers and drinks while enjoying the game.



    Dive into the history and essence of Briscola, one of Italy's most cherished card games. Gain insights into its origins and how it has evolved over time.

    Briscola is a captivating Mediterranean card game played with a standard Italian 40-card deck. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the game, it promises hours of fun and excitement.

    This event warmly welcomes both ICC members and non-members. Whether you come alone or with a partner, you're in for an engaging evening of camaraderie and competition.


    Gather your friends and be part of this Italian tradition. Don't miss out on APERITIVO & CARTE! Reserve your spot now for an evening of cards, culture, and community.




      Bring your friends and register now!


    Minimum number of participants: 10
    Maximum number of participants: 16


    All events must be cancelled 72 hours in advance to receive a refund, less administrative fee.

    • 19 Oct 2023
    • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Traffic Zone Building 250 N Third Avenue Suite #625, Minneapolis, MN 55401
    • 24
    Register


    MUSICA ITALIANA

    A Journey through Italian Pop Music

    Mina 

    In English


    Date: Thursday, October 19th

    Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

    Location: Italian Cultural Center


    Unveil the Legend: After the resounding success of our first two sessions delving into the 1950s and 1960s, we are thrilled to present our next captivating session, "Italian's Most Iconic Pop Artists." Join us on a melodic adventure into the world of Mina!

    About Mina:

    Mina, the enchanting Italian singing sensation, has left an indelible mark on the world of music. Her illustrious career has spanned decades, making her one of Italy's most beloved musical treasures. With a voice that effortlessly transcends genres, Mina has captivated audiences worldwide. Did you know she has sold over 150 million records globally, solidifying her status as the best-selling Italian musical artist?


    Let our native instructor, Ileana Tamberlani, guide you through the highlights of Mina's illustrious career, all in the comfort of English.

    Aperitivo Elegance: As you embark on this musical journey, indulge in an authentic Italian aperitivo – the perfect complement to an evening of enchanting melodies.

    For Music Enthusiasts: This event is designed for music aficionados, offering a unique opportunity to explore Italy through its timeless tunes. It's not a language class; it's a harmonious celebration of Italian music and culture that welcomes all curious minds and music lovers.


    Reserve Your Seat: Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the world of Mina and Italian pop music. Secure your spot for this musical voyage and join us at the Italian Cultural Center.





     




    Minimum number of participants: 10
    Maximum number of participants: 25

    All events must be cancelled 72 hours in advance to receive a refund, less administrative fee.



    • 08 Nov 2023
    • 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
    • Open Eye Theater 506 E 24th St #3732, Minneapolis, MN 55404
    • 87
    Register



    OPEN EYE THEATER
    Minneapolis, Nov. 8, 2023
    7:30 PM

    In Italian with English captions projected above the stage


    Prepare to be transported to a world of captivating storytelling and mesmerizing artistry as we proudly present an enchanting evening with Gaia Mencagli, a renowned Italian-Danish theatrical artist. Gaia's journey through the world of theater is nothing short of extraordinary, and on November 8, 2023, she returns to the illustrious Open Eye Theater with her latest masterpiece, "Storie di uova e farina" (Stories of Eggs and Flour).

    Thanks to eggs, flour, and an apron, Rosa tastes one more time the scent of her life. She travels in time, and the space around her transforms. Between handfuls of flour, Rosa relieves some of the most significant moments of her life, accompanied by music, objects, and people from that time. She goes through the times of World War II and those of a child in the house of rich people. A moment later she is a mature woman in the countryside, then a young lover, and finally she becomes the grandmother, Nonna Rosa. All this while making fettuccine.

    The seed for “Stories of Eggs and Flour,” an original solo show by and with Gaia Mencagli, was planted in 2018 during a storytelling project, and back then it was called Nonna Rosa. When the world shut down in spring 2020 and we were all forced into isolation, Rosa started making pasta again, again, and again until she found her way to an audience on the 13th of December 2021.

    This event is presented on the occasion of the 8th edition of the Week of Italian Cuisine in the World, by the Italian Cultural Institute of Chicago, in collaboration with The Italian Cultural Center of Minneapolis / St. Paul. The Week of Italian Cuisine in the World is a yearly initiative promoted by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. The theme selected in 2023 is "Dining with the Italian cuisine: well-being with taste.”


    7:00 PM: Social Time and Concessions
    Enjoy a delightful pre-show gathering with fellow enthusiasts and indulge in delectable light refreshments.

    7:30 PM: Introduction and Performance
    Gaia will grace the stage with her spellbinding performance, promising an unforgettable evening of theatrical brilliance.
    In Italian with English captions projected above the stage

    8:30 PM to 9:00 PM: Social Time with Gaia Mencagli and Concessions
    Meet Gaia and the talented dancers, share your thoughts, and savor the moment with like-minded art connoisseurs.


    PLEASE NOTE:

    While tickets to this performance are free, we kindly invite you to consider making a donation. Your generous contributions enable us to continue our mission of promoting Italian language and culture right here in Minnesota. Grazie 



    Gaia Mencagli's artistic journey has taken her from Italy to Denmark and California, and from 2018 to 2020, she shared her talents right here in Minneapolis. During her time in the city, she collaborated with numerous theater companies, leaving an indelible mark on the local arts scene. Her debut solo performance, "It's Red!" at the Open Eye Theatre, was a testament to her exceptional talent and creativity.


    Now, you have the magnificent opportunity to witness Gaia's triumphant return to the Open Eye Theater with "Storie di uova e farina." Prepare to be enchanted, as this performance promises to be a mesmerizing blend of artistry, emotion, and storytelling.


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250 Third Ave. N, Suite 625
Minneapolis, MN 55401
(612) 295-4111

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