Host Sketches of Minnesota

Questions?

Contact Trygve Throntveit

trygve@mnhum.org

Project Overview

Sketches of Minnesota is embarking on its second tour, bringing communities together across the state for unique, locally inspired improv-comedy events. Each performance will be rooted in residents’ own meaningful conversations with their neighbors, reflecting their thoughts, concerns, and pride in their hometowns. Hosted by local organizations, these one-night events will begin with a shared meal and a facilitated discussion exploring what makes each town a great place to live, what people from elsewhere get wrong about it, what local challenges its residents are facing, and what hopes its residents have for the future. The Danger Boat Productions improv troupe will then transform these insights into an unscripted performance that is both comedically entertaining and genuinely reflective of residents’ stories and values. At tour’s end, MHC and Danger Boat Productions will produce a final, scripted show drawing on material from all every host community. Using humor to illuminate and uplift rather than disparage or divide, Sketches of Minnesota fosters understanding, celebrates learning and collaboration across differences, and highlights the stories that make each host community unique.

Important Notes

Selected host partners will lead in planning and executing the Sketches of Minnesota show in their community, including securing a venue, organizing catering, developing an audience, and overseeing day-of-show coordination. Based on past experiences with host partners, we recommend forming a local planning and coordinating committee of 2-6 members to ensure the successful organization and execution of the event.

The Minnesota Humanities Center (MHC) will reimburse selected host partners for pre-approved expenses related to planning and hosting the Sketches of Minnesota show, to an amount not to exceed $10,000. Host partners will also receive coaching to support community outreach and audience development aimed at ensuring broadly representative attendance and participation. Additionally, MHC and Danger Boat Productions will assist with production, logistics, and technical needs. 

Selected host partners will be required to sign an agreement with MHC outlining expectations and terms of partnership.