About Open Eye

Open Eye is nationally recognized for bringing a visual feast of evocative figure theater to the stage. The company’s whimsical yet profound work surprises and delights whether experienced in the company’s historic jewel box theater in Minneapolis or in neighborhoods throughout the Twin Cities with the Driveway Tour. From experimental object works to puppet shows in backyards to community pageants to miniature spectacles, Open Eye consistently creates a unique, contagious exchange between artists and audiences.

Mission, Vision, and Values

  • Mission

    Open Eye Theatre serves artists and audiences by advancing adventurous and imaginative arts programming

    Open Eye Theatre:

    1. Produces and presents profound experiences that open eyes, hearts, and minds through unforgettable performances in theatre, puppetry, live music, dance, and storytelling.

    2. Provides a springboard for emerging artists to make career-defining leaps and a sanctuary for established artists to experiment and innovate.

    3. Strengthens, unites, and celebrates multiple communities by offering unique programming in our theatre and throughout the Twin Cities.

  • Vision

    Open Eye Theatre’s artistic ecosystem is sustainable and enduring , creating and cultivating a dynamic exchange between artists and audiences in an inclusive and accessible environment.

  • Values

    We believe:

    1. The arts are a vehicle to strengthen our community of artists, audiences, supporters and neighbors.

    2. The theater experience should be accessible and inclusive and provide meaning to all people.

    3. Open Eye Theatre is an incubator that fosters artistic development, mentorship, and innovation.

    4. Collectively and individually we are responsible for the stewardship of our artistic, human, and organizational resources.

    5. Open Eye Theatre works best as a collaborative system fostering co-ownership and professional accountability for artists, administrators, and staff.

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Our Home

In a brilliant reuse of an architectural gem, Open Eye restored a 110-year-old historical storefront in south Minneapolis. The intimate, well-equipped theatre seats up to 90, with adjacent shops, studios and gardens providing a creative haven for artists.