Many of us at NMU find enjoyment from experience in a musical and artistic community. Consisting of a rich arts and cultural niche, we are fortunate to have local businesses bringing in bands and guest artists from beyond the U.P.
However, they aren’t the only artists we should be paying attention to. NMU’s students certainly have no shortage of different types of entertainment. Many of us don’t realize there are many options for us. Being part of the arts and culture in society is important, especially when speaking
locally.

Catch one of the events going on at the Forest Roberts Theatre (FRT) for a dramatic and unique experience. They have activities to sit back and enjoy as well as opportunities to participate. They are currently in the process of auditions for the Fringe Festival and Medieval Dinner but keep an eye out for when they’re ready to go.

If you would like an even more interactive dose of culture, or want a way to spice up your workout routine, NMU International Folk Dancing may be your answer. This group embraces learning traditional da­­nce from Europe, South and North America every Tuesday. A different type of dance is also offered if you’re interested in ­belly dancing.

Not all events at FRT are quite so immersive. Coming up this month is Manitowoc Minute LIVE. Charlie Berens for one night only will be amusing us with his comedic wit, touching on local and national news, and Midwestern culture.

If you’re looking for a more harmonious experience, head over to the Reynolds Recital Hall for frequent student performances. These students are taking private lessons or are enrolled in chamber ensembles in the department of music. The performances presented by the students usually consist of varied instrumental and vocal works.

If you’re looking for something more formal, the Marquette Symphony Orchestra will be performing later this month. The orchestra will perform a program titled “From Bach to the Future,” which
includes contributions to­­ the Bach Festival.

For a quiet aesthetic stroll, check out the Devos Art Museum in the Bauhaus-inspired Art and Design building. They have interchanging exhibitions from people all over and have exhibitions every semester for our Art and Design graduating seniors and other students. They currently have “North of the 45th: Upper Midwest Juried Exhibition”, “This is Not This: Jasmine Johnson and Rachel Pimm Rabbit Island Artists” in Residence Exhibition and “E­very Sublime: Selections from the Permanent art collection” showing until November.

­­­If you want to see the latest exhibition by students, you can head over to the University Center and observe their entries at The Students’ Art Gallery (SAG*). This is a student run art gallery that provides NMU students a place to professionally display their artwork. The exhibitions have four or more themes a semester and are juried entries.

Staying current with other NMU endeavors creates a community that supports each other. Another important benefit is the opportunities for public involvement, where it encourages students to meet people with similar interests and build stronger communities. When we participate in these events we support the community and progress of NMU’s fundamental programs. We are fortunate to have access to plenty of entertainment options for a diversity of interests. These are unique learning experiences and inspiring events to encourage a new appreciation of our peers, our community and ourselves. They bring about personal enjoyment, enriching perspectives and opportunities for public involvement. Through participation we can shape
the community to better reflect
our values.

Being part of the arts and culture is important, especially when speaking locally. These events teach compassion because art is about challenging the comfort zone and seeing life in different ways. By trying to relate to our classmates, we are understanding our local and global social issues while creating lasting connections.

For those who don’t know where to start, you can always know what is going on with NMU art and culture by going to the home page, clicking on the search and typing in “art and culture.” Scroll and see what experience intrigues you.