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Minneapolis has won the regional Tony 3 times, more than any other city except Chicago (which has won 4 times). Boasting more live theater per capita than any other major metropolitan are in the United States outside of New York, Minneapolis is the third largest theater market in the country. If you're in town on vacation, relocating to the area, or already live there, here are 4 venues of the theater you will not want to miss:

• Minnesota Fringe Festival. An event which claims to be the largest fringe festival in the United States and if 2009's figures are accurate it just might be. 46,189 tickets were issued to an estimated 15,100 patrons, for a gross box office revenue of over $ 330,000. Performing everything from Pinter to children's plays, the Minnesota Fringe Festival will win your heart with its boundless exuberance for all things live theater.
• Children's Theater Company. Winner of the 2003 regional Tony, the Children's Theater Company is one of the leading professional theater companies for young audiences in the country. Children's Theater Company is known for premiering new works by nationally recognized playwrights such as Nilo Cruz and Willie Reale. It has partnered with another giant, Seattle Children's Theater to create its own play licensing firm, Plays for Young Audiences. Children's Theater Company serves between 275,000 to 350,000 children and their families annually. Its focus is on stage productions, new play development, community partnerships, theater arts training, and an annual regional tour. Their plays are equally enjoyable for adults as for children, so be sure to take your kids if you're in Minneapolis with family.
• Brave New Workshop. Their shows have zany titles such as "Shedding Light All Over Your Good Black Skirt," and "On a Clear Day You Can See Your Mother." Founded in the mid-1950s by a circus star, Brave New Workshop was one of the first theaters in the country to dedicate themselves exclusively to the art of improvisation. Notable alumni have gone on to MADTV and other well-known television programs. Catch the next generation of comedians before they become stars at this year's locally famous holiday show.
• Guthrie Theater. One of the most eminent players in the American theatrical landscape, the Guthrie offers formidable programming and performances each year. It premieres works by nationally recognized playwrights, and partners with the University of Minnesota's acting department to foster young talent. More than 32,000 people hold subscriptions to the Guthrie's season each year. Strive to be one of them.

The great American theater director Paul Sills once said that theater is about community. One of the best ways to participate in the city of Minneapolis' community is by attaching the theater, and by getting involved in the dialogue of the arts and culture scene. As a native, transplant, or tourist to the city you will not get a real taste for Minneapolis unless you do.

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Source by Lisa Marie Brown