I AM MPLS! is an annual variety show celebrating and connecting passionately creative people from Minneapolis. Now in its third year, the multi-facted event integrates comedy, music, fashion, and art to form an entertaining evening based on locally grown creative pride. I AM MPLS! is about celebrating who we are, what we do, and the common bond that ties us to our fair city.
I AM MPLS! was conceived by local fashion stylist, Sarah Edwards, a Minneapolis transplant, who, within a few short years of living here, has become an inspiring advocate for the city. She sees Minneapolis as a place brimming with possibility, passion, and artistic energy. After recognizing and embracing the potential within the Minneapolis creative community, Edwards took leaps and risks to make something new happen…and IAMMPLS! was born.
A portion of the proceeds from I AM MPLS! are being donated to Public Functionary, a brand new exhibition and community art space opening in Jan 2013 in the Northeast Minneapolis Arts District. Public Functionary will engage the community with contemporary art that responds to current technology, communication, and culture. The 2000 sq ft space is slated to be an innovative and creative social space, a gallery, and a research and education center. Public Functionary will take a fresh approach to arts engagement and young collector development; it will push boundaries in exhibit design and digital presentation and will respond thoughtfully to the evolving nature of a modern, forward-thinking art space.
This year, I AM MPLS! moves to an exciting new venue, The Varsity Theater. As always, the participants include an eclectic mix of both locally known and unknown personalities. The night includes a fashion show, live music and comedy segments. This year’s show is hosted by Jade Tittle of 89.3 The Current. Doors at 7pm and show starts promptly at 8pm.