The political climate has shifted and many in the arts world are feeling left out in the cold. How are Minnesota's cultural institutions coping with the threats of reduced funding and society's splintering focus?

"Arts in the Crossfire" is the topic of the Star Tribune's second annual State of the Arts forum on Monday, April 24, at Children's Theatre Company in Minneapolis.

Join U.S. Rep. Betty McCollum, Minnesota Orchestra president Kevin Smith, TU Dance co-artistic director Uri Sands, Mu Performing Arts artistic director Randy Reyes and Springboard for the Arts executive director Laura Zabel as they discuss how the arts fit into the new political landscape.

McCollum has a front-row seat on the political front, as the ranking Democrat on the House Appropriations subcommittee that oversees funding for the National Endowments for the Arts and Humanities. Smith heads the largest performing arts organization in Minnesota. Sands is both a renowned artist and an educator through his St. Paul dance troupe. Reyes has advocated for diverse voices and Zabel leads an agency that helps grassroots artists achieve their dreams.

Longtime Star Tribune theater critic/arts reporter Graydon Royce will moderate the discussion with arts leaders as they navigate their futures.

Tickets are $10 and must be reserved online. Come early for conversation — along with cash bar and complimentary hors d'oeuvres — in the CTC lobby starting at 6 p.m. The program begins at 7 p.m.

What: Star Tribune State of the Arts Forum

When: April 24 with social hour at 6 p.m., roundtable at 7.

Where: Children's Theatre Company, 2400 3rd Av. S., Mpls.

Tickets: $10 at startribune.com/artsforum