Arts’ Nest, Phoenix Theater, and Fledgling: Where Artists Are Reborn

Nestled somewhere in the mess of construction that is currently Uptown Minneapolis (just kidding, it’s on Hennepin and 26^th so it’s not that bad) is a vibrant artistic haven where creativity, community, and passion converge. Three intertwined organizations—Arts’ Nest, Phoenix Theater, and Fledgling—form a dynamic artistic trifecta. Phoenix Theater was a favorite of mine back when I lived in Whittier, but after first becoming a St. Paul girlie and then a COVID-hermit, I lost touch with this gem of a theater.

After a few especially alluring programming emails hit my inbox, I took the bait and reached out to Project Manager, Eric Cohen, to chat through what is happening at Phoenix these days. They gave me a glimpse into how Phoenix Theater, Arts’ Nest, and Fledgling all work together. They also walked me through some of the theater’s upcoming and recent performances.

Arts’ Nest is the backbone of the trifecta. “Arts’ Nest is a non-profit, arts services organization that exists to nurture and support emerging artists and arts professionals – through creating access and opportunities for learning, connections, and visibility,” says Cohen.

“In short, Arts’ Nest is the company, Phoenix Theater is the venue,” explains Cohen. Phoenix Theater is a black box theater with over one hundred seats. There are three rehearsal rooms in the building as well, which are all available for rental. The lobby, which doubles as an exhibit hall for local artists, is also available to rent. Keeping with the overarching phoenix theme, the art displayed here can be submitted through the “Plumage” program and is refreshed every three months or so.

These rental spaces are “all available for theater- and arts-related events at rates subsidized by our fundraising,” according to Cohen. The space serves as a launchpad for numerous performances, providing a platform for both established and emerging artists.

Fledgling is “a production assistance and coaching program designed for individuals new to producing or the Twin Cities theatre community,” says Cohen. This program, which accepts applications on a rolling basis, helps emerging artists or theater companies learn the ins and outs of producing with hands on experience.

Arts’ Nest sets aside three two-week periods for Fledgling performances at Phoenix each year. Aside from having a project in mind when applying, constraints are few – performances can be theatrical, performance or visual art, or music.

The past year has been a vibrant period for Phoenix Theater. In June, the venue closed Arms and the Man, Queered, the latest in its Queered Classics series produced by Glowing Ember, the theater’s in-house performance company. This series reimagines classic works through a modern, queer lens, adding depth and relevance to timeless stories.

The theater has also hosted three shows from NerdDoms, a company that performs burlesque interpretations of classic tales. Productions so far have included Nutcracker Noir, Wonderland, and Like, Totally Peter Pan.

Earlier this year, Phoenix Theater welcomed Phantom Chorus Theatre’s Jabberwock. “Phantom Chorus blends puppetry, physical theater, and practical effects to create a unique and haunting atmosphere,” says Cohen. “We’ll be partnering with them this coming winter, [too].” That show will be an adaptation of Dealing with Dragons, a fantasy novel by Patricia Wrede.

Beyond theater, Phoenix regularly hosts creative content of all kinds. “We also have regular improv and comedy shows, concerts and album release parties, as well as plays and musicals of all sorts,” says Cohen. There is always something new and exciting for audiences to experience.

Phoenix Theater’s calendar is a testament to its commitment to diversity and inclusivity – and often features favorites of theater nerds everywhere. From July 11th to 21st, the theater will host Jackdonkey Productions’ The Complete Works of Shakespeare (abridged), which Cohen describes as “an hysterical script”. First performed in the late 80s, this is a highly popular comedic retelling of Shakespeare’s repertoire.

“We always have a variety of programming at Phoenix Theater,” Cohen notes. “One of our regular companies is Transcendence Cabaret, a trans-cabaret performance.” Transcendence, which has been in the Twin Cities since 2016 has a primarily BIPOC cast of trans, non-binary, and two spirit artists. Transcendence has several upcoming performances at Phoenix on July 13th, 20th, and August 24^th. Those performances will be at 8:00 PM and 10:30 PM.

The BE Experience will be at the Phoenix for the first time on July 28th and August 18th at 7:00 PM. “BE bills themself as a black, non-binary, alt-pop composer, producer, singer, songwriter, dancer, [and] entertainer,” says Cohen.

In addition to these performances, Phoenix Theater will once again be a venue for the Minnesota Fringe Festival, which runs from August 1st to 11^th this year. The Fringe is, of course, known for its eclectic mix of performances, offering audiences a chance to experience a wide array of theatrical works. “We never know what’s going to be on our stage for Fringe, but it’s always fun to see,” says Cohen.

Phoenix Theater is more than just a venue: it’s a community for creatives. “It’s our goal to bring together all the people and resources needed to give everyone a chance to make their art,” Cohen says. Not only does it platform a diverse range of programming that reflects its mission to support and showcase artistic talent, it also provides invaluable resources to creatives behind the scenes.

This includes tangible things like renting space at Phoenix for rehearsals and performances. It also includes the more intangible: community building and information sharing both in person and through the Kindling section of their website. Arts’ Nest even offers tax services for artists.

Arts’ Nest is an amazing resource for creatives who are new to the city or the scene. Whether you are a performer looking for a supportive environment or an audience member seeking unique and engaging experiences, Phoenix Theater has something to offer. “Creatives, you’re always welcome here,” says Cohen. “Whatever you want to do, we’ll do our best to help you do it. Patrons, we don’t always know what you’ll see here, but it’s always a good time.”

www.phoenixtheatermpls.org