Awardees will present a dynamic season of music, dance and storytelling in 2025–2026, supported by Knight Foundation’s investment in local arts
Saint Paul, Minnesota (May 13, 2025) – The Arts Partnership, a strategic alliance between the Minnesota Opera, the Ordway Center for Performing Arts, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra and Schubert Club, is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025-2026 Knight Foundation Cultural Opportunity Fund. Established in 2014 by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, the fund supports local artists and organizations in producing performances at the Ordway’s Concert Hall, fostering cultural diversity and community engagement. To date, the fund has provided over $280,000 to 60+ events. The Concert Hall, which was recently named one of the top five music performance venues by the Minnesota Star Tribune, is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.
“We’re thrilled to continue hosting and supporting our extraordinary Minnesota-based artists who contribute to the cultural fabric of our community,” said Christopher Harrington, President of the Arts Partnership and President and CEO of the Ordway. “Their work invites audiences to experience powerful stories, music, and movement that connect us all. We’re deeply grateful to the Knight Foundation for making these awards possible and for their continued investment in the arts ecosystem and downtown Saint Paul.”
The 2025–2026 Knight Fund Awardees include:
Kao Kalia Yang presents The World of the Picture Book
December 19, 2025
Yang’s first full reading of her eight children’s books—including two with original scores—will explore childhood resilience and joy. Hmong American illustrators and composer Jocelyn Hagen will join her onstage for a family-friendly event. The stories, rooted in Yang’s heritage, offer a heartfelt journey for all ages.
Source Song Festival presents Song Cycles of Libby Larsen
January 24, 2026
This recital will spotlight the Grammy award-winning American composer’s impressive catalog of music, including recent premieres, to honor her 75th birthday and induction into the American Academy of Arts and Letters. This event will celebrate her innovative work spanning virtually every genre–a tribute to her enduring influence on American music, particularly song.
Rhythmically Speaking presents Reppin’
February 8, 2026
This concert jazz dance production showcases the company’s signature groove, interaction, and improvisation-forward approach that honors the African diasporic roots of the art form. This 18th-season performance will revisit fan-favorite dances and debut new works by company dancers for the first time. Audiences will experience the unique vibrancy and connectedness of jazz dance.
Border CrosSing presents Un milagro de fe / A Miracle of Faith
April 19, 2026
This choral concert will bring to life Border CrosSing’s debut album, blending works by Beatriz Bilbao, Ariel Ramírez, Mary Lou Williams and Osvaldo Golijov. Led by Mexican Egyptian conductor Ahmed Anzaldúa, the performance celebrates faith through a multicultural lens, highlighting Border CrosSing’s mission to bridge cultures through choral music.
TaikoArts Midwest presents Annual Concert feat. Ensō Daiko
June 20, 2026
Heart-pounding and feet-stomping Taiko drumming will take center stage in this high-energy celebration of Japanese tradition and modern innovation. The concert promises to showcase TaikoArts Midwest’s signature blend of rhythm and artistry.
Tickets will be on sale at a later date.
Applications for Fiscal Year 2027 (July 1, 2026-June 30, 2027) will open in October 2025. Learn more about the fund and eligibility at ArtsPartnership.org/Knight-Foundation-Cultural-Opportunity-Fund.