Living

Arts

Kandiyohi County has a vibrant arts community.  Whether you’re looking for a night of drama at the theatre, a leisurely stroll through an art gallery or an evening of jazz or open mic at a local coffee shop, then you’re in the right place.

The area is home to several art galleries and artist studios, community theatres, including The Barn Theatre in Willmar, The Little Theatre Auditorium in New London and the Willmar Education and Arts Center (WEAC).  With its 750-seat performance auditorium, WEAC hosts the West Central Concert Series featuring world-renowned musicians, performances by the Prairie Winds Concert Band, the Willmar Area Symphonic Orchestra and other various plays and events. The Ridgewater College Performing and Visual Arts Program offers several musical and dramatic performances each year and the campus houses the Willmar Art Gallery, with new exhibits each month.

A high value is placed on arts in Kandiyohi County, which is evident by community, regional and national support. ArtPlace America awarded a grant of more than $250,000 to the Riverspace Project in New London to create public art projects that will not only enhance the environment, but also encourage more traffic in public spaces and bring more business to the area. The Barn Theatre in Willmar completed a nearly $1 million capital campaign for a complete renovation of its space in downtown Willmar, which created multiple event spaces and more room to offer educational and theater programming.

Visit the Willmar Area Arts Council and the Willmar Lakes Area Convention & Visitors Bureau for even more information on the local arts community.

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