The daily digest of Twin Cities culture | Secrets of the City

PERFORMANCE
National Theater of USA: Chautauqua!

We're not sure how this inventive theater company has managed to cram so much entertainment into one evening, but we're not going to complain. The official opener for the Walker's popular Out There Series, tonight's outrageous lineup includes "music, dance, debates, scientific experiments, circus arts, vaudeville, and feats of strength" modeled after the legendary Chautauqua Circuit. What the heck is that, you ask? Well, from 1874-1935, a traveling brigade of lecturers, performing artists, and entertainers toured the nation, bringing high brow and low brow together to create a big-top-esque extravaganza of entertainment. Toss in NTUSA's creativity and wit along with local faves such as the Minnesota Rollergirls, In The Heart of The Beast Theater, and the Brass Messengers and you've got yourself a full-on experience. However, they already had us at "contains nudity."

Extra: Thursday's opening performance will also feature FREE beer from Summit Brewing!

Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m., Walker Art Center, Maguire Theater, 1750 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, $18 ($15 Walker members)

MUSIC
Jonathan Ackerman

If you haven't been to the bar at the Aloft Hotel yet, we suggest you make it a priority. Lucky for you, tonight is the perfect excuse! Join the Twin Cities' hardest working record spinner, Jonathan Ackerman, as he provides the stellar sounds, and bartenders at Aloft provide the delicious berry-infused vodkas. The playful, modern ambiance of this cute hotel will quickly cure your winter blahs with cozy seating areas, drink specials, and even an awesome selection of old-school board games (or Wii, if that's what you're into). Chill out or dance it up, it's Thursday after all -- and Thursday is definitely the new Friday at Aloft.  

10 p.m. to 2 a.m., Aloft Hotel, 900 Washington Avenue S., Downtown Minneapolis, Free

LECTURE
World War II History Roundtable: The Battle for Moscow

Brush up on your World War II history at Historic Fort Snelling this evening. Described as "The Greatest Battle," the Battle for Moscow occured between September 30th, 1941 and April 20th, 1942. Over seven million (yes, million) soldiers took part, and a shocking 2.5 million of them perished. Roundtable leader and World War II expert, Andrew Nagorski, discusses the battle and why Hitler's mistakes eventually lead him to lose the war. A heavy, but history-rich topic for a Thursday evening, but as they say, knowledge is power!

7 p.m., Historic Fort Snelling, At Highways 5 & 55 near the Airport, St. Paul, $5 (Free for Students)