Saturday night: When it comes to kids, artists are real softies. For the past seven years, Twin Cities artists have chipped in their talents to raise money to support art programs at Marcy Open School, a Minneapolis public school. Last year's gala raised $30,000, which was used to bring folk-dance, spoken-word, video and photo artists to work with students. Charlie Thysell, who painted "Windward," did portrait workshops at the school.
Once again top local artists have donated paintings, pottery, photos and other delights for this very good cause. For minimal prices, smart buyers can snap up great work by top talent. Gala-goers will also enjoy performances by the omni-talented Marcy Open School Rock Band and by Xelias Aerial Artists, a Cirque du Soleil-style troupe that will swing from the rafters at the Soap Factory. (6-11 p.m. Sat., Soap Factory, 518 2nd St. SE., Mpls. $40. marcy.mpls.k12.mn.us )