After a thorough process of public and cultural stakeholder consultation, the City of Minneapolis today shared its recommendation for a new operator of the world-class Cowles Center for Dance and Performing Arts: a collaboration between Minneapolis-based Arts’ Nest and Zenon Dance Company and School. Moving this formal recommendation to the City Council for consideration and approval marks a major step forward in the City’s efforts to re-energize downtown Minneapolis through investments in arts and culture programming.
Arts’ Nest and Zenon’s joint proposal reflects a deep commitment to the local dance community, as well as a proven history in managing performance venues and delivering high-quality dance education. Together, the pair have offered a clear plan for activating the space through expanded programming and generating community engagement and earned revenue. Their vision closely aligns with the shared goals developed during community engagement, including equity and inclusion, education and professional development, access and awareness, and strong ties to the local dance ecosystem.
"Investments in arts and culture are a critical part of our Minneapolis comeback, so forming partnerships to showcase Minneapolis as the regional dance hub it is, is not optional,” said Mayor Jacob Frey. “With Arts’ Nest and Zenon partnering with us to bring The Cowles Center back to life, we’re bringing more talent to the stage, more bodies to the seats, and more chances for everyone to experience the magic of dance right in our downtown."
“Dance is important to Minneapolis and we are determined to see the Cowles Center thrive in the theater district. I am so excited that Zenon, a local dance school, will be a part of its reopening,” said Council Member Katie Cashman. “Arts’ Nest will serve as a wonderful partner to Zenon in expanding the use of the Cowles Center. Downtown is the premier place to see live shows in Minneapolis, and reopening the Cowles Center will benefit the entire community.”
“This recommendation represents an exciting step forward in our efforts to center equity, creativity, and community in the heart of downtown,” said Ben Johnson, Director of the City’s Department of Arts and Cultural Affairs. “We were impressed by Arts’ Nest and Zenon’s track record and their readiness to meet this moment with intention and imagination.”
Arts' Nest is committed to uplifting the local dance community by providing subsidized rental rates and support for non-profit dance companies, while also highlighting emerging artists through thoughtfully curated events. Arts’ Nest aims to re-establish The Cowles Center as a central hub in the downtown arts scene by offering rental options beyond dance, encouraging community involvement through performing arts shows, and enhancing local activity to foster a sense of community and safety.
“Arts Nest looks forward to continuing and expanding the Cowles Center legacy as the Minnesota home for dance. We're honored to be partnering with Minneapolis to support our strong and increasingly diverse performing arts community” said Jenna Papke, Executive Director of Arts’ Nest.
Zenon Dance will be building on a long legacy of exceptional dance education at The Cowles Center and the adjoining Hennepin Center for the Arts. In partnership with Arts Nest, Zenon will coordinate guest artist-led workshops and classes to engage and inspire the Twin Cities dance community. They will also continue the important groundwork laid by Artspace by offering virtual classes for young dancers across Greater Minnesota. Zenon is excited to help reestablish 6th and Hennepin as a vibrant hub for dance in our local community and throughout the region.
“Dance lives at the heart of this city,” said Danielle Robinson-Prater, Executive Director of Zenon Dance Company and School. “We look forward to building a dance education home at The Cowles Center that reflects the incredible diversity and extraordinary artistry of the Minneapolis dance community.”
The City of Minneapolis remains committed to ensuring that The Cowles Center continues to serve as a hub for creativity, education, and community, Earlier this year, the City announced the Bridge Fund for Dance Program, a new funding opportunity designed to support the local dance ecosystem and broader dance community. The program aims to energize Minneapolis’ internationally recognized dance scene while attracting artists, audiences, and creative experiences to downtown.
The joint proposal will be submitted to City Council’s Business, Housing & Zoning Committee for consideration and approval.