Restoration
Coverage

The NorShor Theatre reopens with a performance of "Mamma Mia!" after being closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The article discusses the theatre's renovation, its importance to Duluth's arts scene, and the excitement surrounding its reopening.

The Catalyst Content Festival announces its return to Duluth, bringing independent TV creators together with industry executives. The article outlines the festival's plans, its potential impact on Duluth's economy, and its vision for making Duluth a hub for content creation.

A burst sprinkler pipe in the skywalk connecting the Greysolon Plaza to a parking ramp causes significant water damage. The article details the incident, the response from authorities, and the potential impact on the historic building and nearby structures.

A review of the Duluth Playhouse's virtual concert "From Broadway, With Love." The article praises the performers' talents, the selection of songs, and how the production adapted to the challenges of the pandemic while still delivering a high-quality show.

A retrospective look at a City Pages cover story from 2001 about Duluth's "tiny counterculture." The article reflects on how Duluth's arts and culture scene has evolved over the past two decades, with references to venues like the NorShor Theatre.

Coverage of virtual events in Duluth honoring Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The article highlights how local organizations, including arts venues, adapted their celebrations to online formats due to COVID-19 restrictions.

A review of the Duluth Playhouse's production of "The Mountaintop," a play about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s last night. The article discusses the powerful performances, the play's themes, and how the production was adapted for virtual viewing during the pandemic.

An overview of how Duluth entertainment venues, including the NorShor Theatre, plan to reopen as COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. The article discusses safety measures, capacity limits, and the economic impact of reopening on the local arts scene.

An in-depth look at the financial challenges faced by Duluth's entertainment venues during the pandemic. The article focuses on the NorShor Theatre and other local venues, discussing their strategies for survival and hopes for government aid.

Music promoters discuss their optimism about the return of live concerts post-pandemic. The article explores potential changes to the concert industry, including at venues like the NorShor Theatre, and how promoters are preparing for the revival of live music.

A review of the Duluth Playhouse's virtual holiday concert. The article discusses how the production adapted to the pandemic, the performances of local artists, and how it captured the spirit of the season despite the virtual format.

Profile of Robert Asleson, marking his 50 years as Duluth's assistant city attorney. The article highlights his involvement in significant city projects, including the NorShor Theatre redevelopment, showcasing the theatre's importance to Duluth's development.

An exploration of how Duluth's arts organizations, including the NorShor Theatre, are adapting to extended pandemic challenges. The article discusses innovative approaches to performances, financial strategies, and the resilience of the local arts community.

A look at the financial challenges faced by Duluth's performing arts venues during the pandemic. The article focuses on the NorShor Theatre and other local organizations, discussing their efforts to survive and the potential long-term impacts on the arts scene.

An examination of the impact of the COVID-19 shutdown on Duluth's theaters, including the NorShor. The article discusses the financial strain, canceled performances, and the uncertainties facing these cultural institutions.

Coverage of comedian Maria Bamford's online performance with Mike Birbiglia, where she chose the NorShor Theatre for donations. The article highlights Bamford's connection to Duluth and her support for local arts venues during the pandemic.

Report on Bell Bank's plans to renovate and move into the historic Temple Opera Building. The article discusses the renovation plans, the building's history, and its proximity to the NorShor Theatre, highlighting ongoing development in downtown Duluth.

Announcement of a documentary screening about cancer researcher Jim Allison. The article mentions the NorShor Theatre as the venue, showcasing its role in hosting diverse cultural events beyond theatrical performances.

Coverage of the NorShor Theatre's Classic Film Series and its popularity. The article discusses the selection of films, audience reactions, and how the series contributes to the theatre's mission of providing diverse entertainment options.

A roundup of upcoming events in Duluth, including activities at the NorShor Theatre. The article highlights the variety of cultural offerings in the city, with the NorShor playing a central role in the local arts scene.

Announcement of Cloud Cult's upcoming performance at the NorShor Theatre. The article discusses the band's popularity, the significance of their appearance at the NorShor, and details about the concert, which is part of a mental health awareness event.

A review of the Duluth Playhouse's production of "Steel Magnolias" at the NorShor Theatre. The article analyzes the performances, direction, and how the production resonates with the audience, showcasing the theatre's role in bringing quality performances to Duluth.

Coverage of New Year's Eve events in Duluth, including celebrations at the NorShor Theatre. The article highlights the various venues participating in the citywide celebration and emphasizes safety measures for the night.

A review of the Duluth Playhouse's production of "The Wizard of Oz" at the NorShor Theatre. The article praises the performances, set design, and overall production quality, demonstrating the NorShor's capability to host large-scale musicals.

A roundup of upcoming concerts in the Twin Cities area, including a performance at the NorShor Theatre. The article highlights the diverse music scene in Minnesota and the NorShor's role in attracting notable acts to Duluth.

Coverage of the unveiling of a new mural at the NorShor Theatre showcasing Duluth's performing arts history. The article describes the mural's content, the artists involved, and its significance in celebrating the city's cultural heritage.

Report on the unveiling ceremony of the 'History of Duluth's Performing Arts' mural at the NorShor Theatre. The article provides details about the mural's creation, its location in the theatre, and reactions from local officials and arts community members.

Preview of the Catalyst Content Festival, highlighting its role in bringing television industry professionals to Duluth. The article discusses the festival's events at the NorShor Theatre and other venues, emphasizing Duluth's growing importance in the entertainment industry.

A guide to Duluth's top dining and drinking establishments, mentioning the NorShor Theatre district. The article highlights how the theatre's renovation has contributed to the revitalization of the surrounding area and its impact on local businesses.

Report on Superior, Wisconsin's inclusion in the Catalyst Content Festival's production guide. The article discusses the potential economic impact on the region and the festival's connection to venues like the NorShor Theatre in Duluth.

Feature on the Free Range Film Festival held in a century-old barn near Duluth. While not directly about the NorShor, the article provides context for the region's diverse film culture, contrasting with more traditional venues like the NorShor Theatre.

A historical perspective on movie theaters in the Iron Range region, including mentions of Duluth's theater scene. The article provides context for the NorShor's place in the broader history of cinema in northern Minnesota.

Analysis of the impact of retail decline on real estate in Duluth, mentioning the NorShor Theatre renovation as a positive development amidst challenges. The article discusses the theatre's role in downtown revitalization efforts.

A letter to the editor discussing the Many Rivers Montessori school's new location in Duluth. While not directly about the NorShor, it provides context for the city's educational and cultural development alongside venues like the theatre.

Report on how local businesses in Duluth, including those near the NorShor Theatre, are using social media to attract customers during Superior Street construction. The article highlights the adaptability of businesses in the theatre district.

Coverage of a networking event for the Catalyst Content Festival, connecting local talent with national TV executives. The article discusses the festival's use of venues like the NorShor Theatre and its potential impact on Duluth's entertainment industry.

Announcement of the Duluth-Superior Film Festival's opening, with the NorShor Theatre hosting the premiere. The article highlights the festival's role in showcasing independent films and the NorShor's importance as a cultural venue.

Announcement of Ani DiFranco's 'No Walls' tour, including a stop at the NorShor Theatre. The article emphasizes the singer's connection to smaller venues and the NorShor's ability to attract notable performers.

Preview of a mental health awareness concert at the NorShor Theatre, featuring a Three Altos reunion. The article discusses the event's importance in addressing mental health issues and the NorShor's role in hosting community-focused events.

Preview of the Duluth Playhouse's production of "Sweeney Todd" at the NorShor Theatre. The article highlights the musical's dark themes, the challenges of staging such a complex show, and the NorShor's technical capabilities.

Preview of the Duluth Playhouse's production of "Sweeney Todd" at the NorShor Theatre. The article discusses the musical's themes, the challenges for the actors, and how the production showcases the NorShor's renovated facilities.

Coverage of the NorShor Theatre's first anniversary since its reopening. The article reflects on the theatre's successful year, its impact on downtown Duluth, and future plans for the venue.

A feature on historic entryways in downtown Duluth, including the NorShor Theatre. The article highlights the architectural significance of these entryways and their role in preserving the city's heritage.

Review of Maria Bamford's comedy performance at the NorShor Theatre. The article praises Bamford's unique style and the NorShor's ability to host high-profile comedy acts.

Report on Duluth Mayor Emily Larson proclaiming February 25, 2019, as 'Maria Bamford Day' in honor of the comedian's performances at the NorShor Theatre. The article highlights Bamford's Duluth roots and her impact on the local comedy scene.

During a December visit to Duluth, comedian Maria Bamford put a call-out on Twitter: She was looking for an audience of one to listen to her set in exchange for food and drink. After sifting through the replies, she picked Ashley Neenan — whom she would later find out has a great laugh and long history of Bamford fandom. (Source: Duluth News Tribune)

The inaugural Duluth Comedy Fest came to a close Saturday night at the NorShor Theatre with performances by two humor heavyweights — Brian Posehn and Tig Notaro. Comedians of their caliber rarely make it to the Northland, so the mere fact they were here in the flesh was impressive enough, but their sets demonstrated why they've both risen to the fore of their chosen fields over time. (Source: Duluth News Tribune)

The Duluth Comedy Fest came together in dribs and drabs, seemingly. First, there was a Brian Posehn performance announced. Then, John Hodgman was added and almost immediately dropped. Finally, it was a proper two-day event, with Tig Notaro taking Hodgman's place, and Gary Gulman and Alex Edelman also added. It almost seemed too good to be true, what with such incredible talent as part of the lineup, but then Friday night (2/15) rolled around, and there was Gulman onstage at the NorShor Theatre, working out his latest batch of material in front of a welcoming, three-quarters-full crowd. (Source: Duluth News Tribune)

Four nationally-known comedians walk into a revamped historic theater … stop us if you've heard this one. (Source: Duluth News Tribune)

In Don't Dress for Dinner, the French farce that returned to the NorShor stage Thursday night, Katy Helbacka makes two bold decisions as the director that could have thrown the production off the rails. Fortunately, she booked a really good cook. (Source: Duluth News Tribune)

When Bernard is in a tricky spot. He has hired Suzette, a chef, to cater a dinner with his mistress, Suzanne, and his third-wheel decoy, Robert. Unbeknownst to Bernard, the third-wheel decoy is having an affair with his wife — who, turns out, isn't going to visit her mother this weekend. (Source: Duluth News Tribune)

Glensheen opens whodunnit-y and Halloween-ish. The 18-second overture is a buildup of piano and whispery percussion, and it sets the tone for the Minnesota-made musical's soundtrack — which will be available as a CD, for streaming and download on Friday (January 18). (Source: Duluth News Tribune)

Tig Notaro will headline the second night of Duluth Comedy Fest, Jade Presents announced Tuesday. The comedian replaces John Hodgman, whose cancellation was announced last week. Notaro, the deadpan comedian behind the Amazon original series One Mississippi and known for her standup, will perform Feb. 16 at the NorShor Theatre. The two-day fest also includes comedians Gary Gulman and Alex Edelman on Friday; and Brian Posehn, who will perform with Notaro on Saturday. (Source: Duluth News Tribune)

A good street busker can turn a simple song and beat-up acoustic guitar into something strong enough to stop a busy working world for a short listen. Singer/songwriter Martin Sexton has taken this hardscrabble art form to its highest level in a workmanlike 25-year music career. Sexton, who started performing on Boston, Mass., sidewalks, showcased his strong voice, memorable songs and a talent for connecting with a crowd during a mostly solo 18-song, 105-minute performance at the NorShor Theatre in Duluth Saturday night (January 12). (Source: Duluth News Tribune)

Like Buddy Holly, Todd Eckart wears a white tuxedo jacket and bowtie, two-toned shoes, definitely the signature dark-framed glasses. The local crooner favors the old — whether it's a movie, furniture, or his own setlists filled with retro rock or the Rat Pack. (Source: Duluth News Tribune)

Martin Sexton's "Mixtape of the Open Road" is a 12-song collection that ranges from clean-cut, aw-shucks, and winky to straight forward and bluesy to, well, pretty. The 2015 release is the most recent for Sexton, a hard-touring singer-songwriter who has always made Duluth a regular stop. Also playing: Chris Trapper, who claims John Prine and Kris Kristofferson as early influences. (Source: Duluth News Tribune)

A foursome of comedians, including Gary Gulman, a finalist on NBC's Last Comic Standing, will perform as part of the two-day Duluth Comedy Fest, Jade Presents announced Monday (January 7). (Source: Duluth News Tribune)

Duluth has done a lot right. Most recently Tom Petty, but also Bob Dylan, the White Album and, for their 20th anniversary as a band, Low. (Source: Duluth News Tribune)

From politics to pipelines to a fire that made news nationwide, 2018 was a big year for news in the Northland. The News Tribune newsroom staff voted on a comprehensive list of 57 stories from 2018 to select what we think are the 10 most important stories covered these past 12 months. Here's a look back at 2018. (Source: Duluth News Tribune)

Lundeen Productions & Twin Ports Entertainment, in conjunction with the Black Woods Group, are proud to present New Year's Eve by the Lake on December 31, 2018 in downtown Duluth. (Source: Lundeen Productions & Twin Ports Entertainment)

You could close out 2018 in a Symphony Hall-sized singalong or by HART-district hopping from Todd Eckart to Laura Velvet and the Bookhouse Boys. You could make an award-winning mask, then strut it all over Barker's Island or finally press the flesh with one of the city's most recognizable news anchors. New Year's Eve, man. So much potential. (Source: Duluth News Tribune)

Movie lovers in Duluth were able to view a timeless holiday classic on the big screen on Sunday. (Source: Unknown)

Some "best of the best" moments in the A&E scene this past year: a pop-up Parr show, a newly remodeled historic theater, an art exhibition worth getting lost in. The News Tribune asked local movers and shakers to talk about the memorable music, theater, visual arts and events from the past year. (Source: Duluth News Tribune)

Duluth-raised Maria Bamford has added a second night of comedy to the NorShor Theatre this February. The sold-out show is Feb. 24, and tickets are now on sale for the second show on Feb. 25 at $44.50 per ticket. (Source: Duluth News Tribune)

The Independent TV Festival is moving to Duluth, bringing its five-day annual festival to the city during the peak of fall colors. At the event, TV industry talent and executives will meet each other in a relaxed setting to share their ideas, buy and sell shows, and discuss the latest industry topics.

The Twin Cities would be a different place if George Sherman had decided to stay a biochemist. A few years after his graduation from the U of M with a degree in biochemistry, Sherman realized his future was in real estate and changed careers.

Grief is a complex emotion. It can be overpowering, infuriating, paralyzing. The onset of tangled emotions can consume you if you sequester them in the confines of your heart. All of us have been touched by grief in one way or another and process it in our own way. It is like an ocean: ebbing, flowing, cresting, falling. Sometimes the waters are calm, sometimes they are violent. All we can do is learn how to swim.

Postmodern Jukebox, a group that has its sights (and sounds) on 2020, is bringing its show “Welcome to the Twenties 2.0 Tour” to Duluth.

Maria Bamford, a comedian whose family, mental health and hometown are a strong part of her work, returns for to Duluth for a show this winter. Bamford, star of the semi-autobiographical Netflix series “Lady Dynamite,” will perform at 7 p.m. Feb. 24 at the NorShor Theatre.

Emily Ahrens keeps two photographs on her dressing room mirror in the lower level of the NorShor Theatre, a prep space away from home for her three-month stint rehearsing for and playing Belle in the Duluth Playhouse's production of Disney's Beauty and the Beast.

Friends at the Duluth Playhouse invite everyone in the community to be their guest starting Thursday, November 29 at the historic NorShor Theatre in downtown Duluth. Disney's Beauty and the Beast will come alive on the stage, providing fun for the whole family.

Dancing forks, showgirls as plates, a feather duster cavorting with a candlestick, a talking teacup, the obligatory plucky heroine, and a brooding hero. The Duluth Playhouse's enchanting Beauty and the Beast had all the bells and whistles to win the hearts of the opening night audience Thursday (11/29)!

Ready or not, the holiday season is coming for you — right down Superior Street, in fact. Regardless (probably) of rain-snow-sleet-or-hail, the local marching bands will play, batons will be tossed and floats will all float on during the annual Christmas City of the North Parade, which starts at 6:20 p.m. Friday in downtown Duluth. As long as we’re already whistling the city’s holiday anthem “Christmas City,” made popular by Merv Griffin, here are 10 arty and entertaining ways to lean into this holiday season.

Ah, the sweet sound of "Rumours" — sans the band. Classic Albums Live is bringing Fleetwood Mac's popular album to the NorShor Theatre at 7 p.m. Jan. 6. It's billed as being "note for note, cut for cut" as performed by a load of musicians described as the world's greatest.

The Bluebird Foundation, an organization that raises money for local youth in the arts, hosted a gathering in the Moorish Room at the Greysolon Plaza Wednesday to announce a major event, the New Year's by the Lake Extravaganza.

An estimated 600 people spread out throughout Duluth as part of the 38th Annual Historic Properties Tour. A behind–the–scenes look at the NorShor Theatre in downtown Duluth was a highlight.

It wasn't the shimmer of countless stars reflecting from Lake Superior. This was a different kind of aura. The city of Duluth was aglow with the glitter of Hollywood stars, a spectacular movie premiere, and Vanity Fair-type after parties. Oscar winner Patty Duke, The Walton's Richard Thomas, actress Rosemary Murphy, and other luminaries were in town to attend the Midwestern premiere of Universal Studio's thriller "You'll Like My Mother" in early November 1972. And despite being paralyzed from a stroke, under around-the-clock care, heiress Elisabeth Congdon wasn't going to miss it either. A driver and nurse delivered her into the cacophony of socialites converging on the art deco NorShor Theatre. Her regal visage and stately coiffed curls may have obscured her deep-seated philanthropy for Minnesota arts and children's health causes.

Early this February, the curtain went down — or up, depending on your perspective — on one of Duluth's most complex renovation projects ever. The first performance of "Mamma Mia!" on the main stage of the revitalized NorShor Theatre Community Arts Center capped nearly a decade of work to transform the former strip club into a focal point for Duluth's Historic Arts & Theater District.

A Duluth board is seeking to commission a piece of art for a prime spot downtown. The art piece is to be installed in the skywalk corridor of the recently restored NorShor Theatre, the Duluth Public Arts Commission announced on Monday.

If the walls of the NorShor theater could talk, they wouldn't know where to begin. In the past 100 years, the old building on Superior Street in downtown Duluth has served many purposes: a live theater, a movie theater, a strip club. But for almost a decade it sat dormant, the marquee announcing one show: "Restore the NorShor."

Playwright, director and theater critic Janet Preus is consistently impressed by Duluth's Lyric Opera of the North (or LOON). She's looking forward to a lush production of Mozart's "Don Giovanni," directed by Twin Cities talent Christina Baldwin.

Lyric Opera of the North's upcoming take on Mozart includes silent film-style title cards, a bit of lederhosen, and an anti-hero with the sort of character flaws known to infect mega film stars. Consider this: "Don Giovanni" meets 1930s Hollywood.

Kara Goucher grew up in Duluth, Minnesota and was a prep running standout at Duluth East and won state championships. After heading to college at the University of Colorado, she won national championships. After college, she's competed in the Summer Olympics twice. So, when Goucher returns home, it is a big deal.

Outlaw country poet and political pundit Steve Earle received a standing ovation just 10 songs into his sold-out performance at the NorShor Theatre in Duluth on Thursday night. And those 10 songs were the reason many had come to see the show.

Over the past month or so many articles in the News Tribune have shared subtle yet common themes: remembrance, renewal, and reconciliation.

This week, on Art Hounds: Kids and power tools come together at Franconia Sculpture Park. Plus: Art Hounds recommend Our Town in Duluth and a miniature art exhibition on display in a porch window.

The Playhouse last staged Thornton Wilder's Our Town in 2010. Thursday night, a new production of the classic American play opened at the NorShor Theatre, and I think American society must have advanced at least a quarter-century in those eight years.

Minnesota was bustling with construction activity in 2017, with significant projects completed from Duluth to Rochester and across the Twin Cities metro area. An independent panel selected 33 honorees for Finance & Commerce's annual Top Projects.

The NorShor Theatre, brought back from the brink of death, is one of 13 Duluth Preservation Alliance honorees this year. The Alliance will honor 11 homes and two businesses Monday that have been preserved or restored in a historically accurate way at its annual Preservation Awards and Centennial Home recognition event.

After 18 years and $31 million, plans to revive downtown Duluth's NorShor Theatre was fully realized when the venue was reintroduced in February. The 118-year-old art deco structure had fallen into severe disrepair, but, as you'll see on this photo tour, its past luster has been restored.

In the year 2073, the Duluth Homegrown Music Festival has taken over the universe with thousands of bands playing every night almost year round. And the Homegrown Chicken will be a candidate for the Minnesota state bird. Dressed in bathrobes and using walkers, Homegrown founder Scott "Starfire" Lunt and early conspirators Bryan "Lefty" Johnson and Rick Boo took to the NorShor Theatre stage Saturday night acting out a loosely drawn flash-forward skit. The three "old men" poked fun at the annual music festival's amazing run which all started during Lunt's 30th birthday party in 1998.

Every good festival has 20 good years in it, Scott "Starfire" Lunt thinks a younger version of himself might have thought. You make it 20 years, and it's sold out and over.

Back in January, Don Ness emailed me something like, "Hey, Anna. I'm hosting a party at the NorShor Theatre on March 3 and I'd like you to tell some stories. Would you do a reading?" Ness, as you probably know, is the former mayor of Duluth and, as you might not know, a positive master of understatement. I figured he was inviting me to perform at a little reading party. You know, 50 people or so in the NorShor's mezzanine. And then a friend of mine messaged me a poster for a Low concert in the NorShor's 632-seat theater. I zoomed in to see the date, to see if I could go, and saw MY NAME ON THE BOTTOM OF THE POSTER — and I, embarrassed and panic-stricken that my name had somehow gotten on the bottom of this poster, looked at the date, and was like, "And I can't even do it then, because I'm gonna be at Don Ness's party!" Took me like ten seconds to figure out this was the thing Don had invited me to. Lord.

Duluth Mayor Emily Larson chose the newly renovated NorShor Theatre as the venue for her third State of the City address Thursday night, saying: "Just a few years ago, this grand theater had fallen into complete disrepair.

If you were able to score tickets to the Don Ness Shows Off the Norshor Theatre concert, you were in luck for the sold-out show. Several local bands that got their start at the Norshor are coming back to perform in the newly remodeled Theatre.

The music reverberating again inside the historic NorShor Theatre on Duluth's Superior Street was extra sweet for many in the audience last week. It took 7 ½ years and $30 million to restore the theater, which opened in 1910 and had taken turns as a movie house, music venue and, lastly, a strip club considered a stain at the heart of the Lake Superior city's old downtown.

In anticipation of the NorShor Theatre re-opening in February, this month's PDD Quiz looks back at the colorful history of this Duluth landmark.

This is a new feature on outdoors people and their interests. Today: Richard Hoeg of Duluth, a photographer, birder, blogger (365daysofbirds.com), and a volunteer naturalist at Sax-Zim Bog.

I grew up in Duluth and one of the iconic places in the area is the Norshor Theatre, I remember walking in and thinking it was so big, and we were downtown. All the lights and everything had me captivated. You could be part of history, volunteer to be an Usher at the NorShor Theatre.

As the calendar flips to 2018, Visit Duluth is rolling out a high-profile Twin Cities campaign touting Duluth as the ultra winter outdoor destination. An entire train on the light-rail Blue Line will be wrapped with dynamic exterior images of Spirit Mountain and ice climbing at Quarry Park, highlighting the tagline, "Find it in Duluth." Interior photos will feature Duluth in all its winter glory, including craft brews, the Aerial Lift Bridge and snow-covered trails.