Social Justice Through Art and Radical Hospitality
Since 1976, Mixed Blood Theatre has been at the forefront of social change through the power of theater. A dynamic, award-winning company, Mixed Blood is a social justice organization dedicated to catalyzing action and fostering change. Their work is rooted in deep community engagement and a commitment to Radical Hospitality, where all people, regardless of their background or barriers, are welcomed into the fold.
Rather than focusing on stories deemed topical, Mixed Blood’s guiding principle is simple: “They want to be part of your story.” Through the medium of theater, the organization connects people and organizations to engage in meaningful dialogue about societal issues, inspiring both civic discourse and sustained calls to action.
Radical Hospitality: A Core Value
At the heart of Mixed Blood’s work is Radical Hospitality, a principle that encompasses inclusion, reciprocity, and genuine welcoming. This core value is exemplified in the company’s efforts to remove the barriers that have historically kept certain communities—whether due to racism, lack of resources, physical disabilities, gender discrimination, or other challenges—disconnected from the arts.
Mixed Blood works tirelessly to ensure that their theater is beneficial to all communities. Their mission is to engage those who may have never had access to theater due to systemic barriers, and to create an inclusive space where all individuals can feel seen and heard. The company strives to maintain integrity, equity, and transparency in every aspect of their work.
A Legacy of Adaptability and Inclusivity
Founded by Jack Reuler, Mixed Blood Theatre has spent over four decades creating an inclusive environment that challenges traditional narratives. From its humble beginnings in the Cedar Riverside neighborhood, the company has become a vital force in the Twin Cities, expanding its reach to immigrant and refugee communities, Latinx populations, East African Muslims, and transgender and biracial individuals.
In 2022, after 46 years of visionary leadership, Jack Reuler stepped down as artistic director, but his commitment to a diverse, inclusive theater lives on. Mixed Blood continues to honor this legacy by adapting to meet the needs of their ever-evolving community.
Values of Inclusion, Intersectionality, and Audacity
Mixed Blood champions values that are reflective of their commitment to the people they serve. Onstage and off, the company embraces intersectionality, creating work that reflects the complexities of modern life. They aspire to live at the intersection of authenticity and virtuosity, blending genuine stories with artistic excellence.
As a leader in social justice, Mixed Blood demands equity for all their participants. The company values transparency, sharing information openly with the public, and encourages candid dialogue among staff, board members, and the broader community.
Furthermore, audacity is woven into the fabric of the organization. Mixed Blood constantly pushes the boundaries of what theater can be—experimenting with form, content, and presentation in ways that are inventive and risk-taking.
Upcoming Events: Celebrating Dance and Improvisation
On March 28 & 29, 2025, Mixed Blood will co-present the Black Dance Improvisation Festival (BDI Fest 2025) alongside Pillsbury House + Theatre, Leslie Parker Dance Project, and the Center for Performing Arts. The festival will amplify solo dance improvisation and dynamic storytelling, bringing together celebrated artists to inspire and engage attendees.
Tickets are available through Eventbrite, with flexible pricing to ensure accessibility.
Rent the Firehouse: A Venue for Community and Creativity
Mixed Blood’s iconic 1887 firehouse continues to serve as a hub for the community. The venue hosts performances, town halls, political rallies, and important community conversations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it was a beacon of support, offering food shelves, testing, voter registration, and essential services to the community.
The space features an 180-seat auditorium, fully equipped with technical capabilities, a sound board (Allen and Heath QU 24), and a lighting board (ETC Nomad). The venue is available for both public and private events, with meeting rooms and rehearsal spaces to accommodate a range of needs.
Mixed Blood Theatre: A Movement of Change
With their commitment to inclusion, innovation, and social justice, Mixed Blood Theatre stands as a beacon of hope and change in the world of arts and activism. Through their diverse programming, community engagement, and relentless pursuit of justice, Mixed Blood continues to show that theater is more than entertainment—it is a vehicle for transformation.