The Center for Performing Arts (CFPA), a longstanding pillar of South Minneapolis’ creative community, is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a lively evening of music, dance, and community connection at its annual Fall Festival on Saturday, September 6, from 6:00–9:00 PM.
Located at 3754 Pleasant Ave in the Kingfield neighborhood, CFPA’s campus will transform into a vibrant hub of celebration, showcasing some of Minnesota’s most dynamic performance artists alongside local food and a silent auction. Sliding-scale tickets are available, making the event accessible to all.
This milestone event highlights CFPA’s legacy as a home for artists and neighbors to gather, create, and share in the joy of performance. “This festival is not just about performances—it’s about honoring the many voices and cultures that make South Minneapolis such a rich place to live and create,” said Abe Haillasellise-Mankelklote, CFPA’s Communications Director.
A Lineup that Reflects the Spirit of CFPA
Attendees can expect a mix of rhythmic energy, heartfelt melodies, and cross-cultural expression:
- Acoustic Soul – Louisiana native LaSonya Natividad and guitarist Rocky Schultz blend gospel, jazz, and soul in a powerful acoustic set of reimagined R&B and pop classics.
- Uptown Swing – International Lindy Hop champions Peter Strom and Naomi Uyama light up the floor with their infectious love for swing dance.
- Kizomba Mpls – A vibrant local dance group bringing the soulful rhythms of Angola to life through community-based dance and performance.
- Duniya Drum & Dance – Led by master drummer Fodé Bangoura, this ensemble delivers the rich traditional rhythms and dances of Guinea, West Africa.
- CAOTH Butō Club – Founded by Masanari Kawahara and Lelis Brito, this new collective introduces audiences to Butō, a Japanese expressionist dance form rooted in ritual and resistance.
Beyond the stage, the festival will include a marketplace of local food and auction items, inviting the broader community to connect over shared tastes and artistry.
A Home for the Arts in South Minneapolis
The Center for Performing Arts has long been a cultural cornerstone in the neighborhood, offering space for artists to rehearse, perform, and grow. With a mission focused on inclusivity, mentorship, and supporting marginalized voices, CFPA has evolved into more than just a venue—it’s a community builder.
This year’s festival is supported by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, made possible by a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.
Whether you're a seasoned arts enthusiast or just curious about what’s happening in your neighborhood, CFPA’s Fall Festival invites you to experience the creativity and connection that has defined its past 30 years—and the future to come.
Tickets available on Eventbrite. For more information, visit cfpampls.com or email info@cfpampls.com.
Abe Haillasellise-Mankelklote is the Education & Community Development Associate for the Center for Performing Arts - Minneapolis
