Ordway community programs and more

The Ordway’s community programs connect our unique live performances with thousands in the community each year to create high quality arts learning and engagement experiences. Ordway events are so much more than what meets the eye. Every celebration, backstage tour, and community discussion can spread the wonder of live performance, inspire future generations, and strengthen an arts community that is as strong as it is diverse.

The Sally Awards

The Sally Awards, based on the "First Trust Award" presented to Sally Ordway Irvine in 1986, recognize and celebrate the contributions and accomplishments of artists, educators, volunteers, philanthropists, and leaders who strengthen and enrich the stage of Minnesota with their commitment to the arts and arts education.

Since 1992, the Sally Awards have honored individuals and institutions that strengthen and enrich our entire state with their commitment to the arts and arts education. The awardees’ talents and determination help enrich Minnesota’s unique culture and quality of life.

The Sally Awards will return in 2024.

Saint Paul Public Schools Honors Concert

The Ordway partners with Saint Paul Public Schools and the Minnesota Museum of American Art (The M) to host the Annual Saint Paul Public Schools Honors Concert, Performance Art and Art Exhibition. Honors events provide creative and talented young artists in Saint Paul Public Schools with a professionally produced Concert, Performance, and Visual Art Exhibition experience and is a community celebration of Saint Paul Public Schools students’ knowledge, skills, efforts and commitment to Arts education.

Ordway Inside Out

Ordway Inside Out is an initiative of the Arts Partnership (Minnesota Opera, the Ordway, The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, and Schubert Club) that utilizes digital technology to dramatically increase access to artistic programming in Saint Paul. Presented in coordination with the Saint Paul Downtown Alliance and Saint Paul Parks Conservancy, it provides audiences with the opportunity to experience free performances from all four organizations, streamed onto a giant 23' x 13' video wall in Rice Park.

Arts Partnership Website

2022–2023 series: At the Intersection

As part of the Ordway's 2022–2023 season, a series of conversations and events explored the intersection of performing arts with cultures, communities, professions, and organizations in Minnesota and around the world.

The Ordway Presents

At the Intersection: Lights, Camera, Fashion—Oh My!

November 16, 2022 Ordway Target Atrium
The Ordway Presents

At the Intersection: zAmya Theater Project

October 20, 2022 Ordway Target Atrium