BURNSVILLE
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Ames Center boosts the arts scene
The Burnsville area is home to several attractions that make it a regional destination. One of the most well-known venues around is the Ames Center, which is owned by the city of Burnsville and managed by VenuWorks. It opened near the Heart of the City in January 2009.
Presentations at the Ames Center include classical music, comedy, jazz, country music and rock and roll. There are dramas, comedies, local arts organizations and national touring artists.
The Ames Center has both a 1,014-seat Proscenium stage – named Masquerade Dance Theater – and an intimate 150-seat Black Box theater. Its two-story lobby also houses a 2,000-squarefoot art gallery where approximately eight exhibits are on display every calendar year.
For conventions or other events, a VIP lounge is available on the north side of the second floor, and the upper floor can accommodate banquet-style events for more than 300 people.
An 1,800-square-foot rehearsal room, several meeting rooms and a Green Room are also available for use.
The Ames Center has been used extensively by community organizations, such as Dakota Valley Symphony and Chorus, and Twin Cities Ballet of Minnesota. The groups typically hold multiple events at the Ames Center each year.
Upcoming performances include: July 27 Toast- The Best of Bread 7 p. m.; July 29 The Dolly Show 7 p. m.; July 30 TUSK:
The Classic Fleetwood Mac Tribute 8 p. m.; Aug. 14 What’ s Going On? Songs From the Vietnam War Era 7:30 p. m.; Oct. 1 Liverpool Legends 7 p. m.; Oct. 14 Churchill starring David Payne 7:30 p. m.; Oct. 15 An Evening with C. S. Lewis 7:30 p. m.; Oct. 16 Parrothead Paradise- A Jimmy Buffet Show 7:30 p. m.; Oct. 17 Folsom Prison Experience 7:30 p. m.; Nov. 3 Menopause the Musical 7:30 p. m.; Nov. 6 Serial Killers with Dr. Scott Bonn 7:30 p. m.; Nov. 14 A Motown Christmas 7:30 p. m.
The Ames Center’ s main office is open 9 a. m.-5 p. m. Monday-Friday, and the art gallery is typically open 11 a. m.-4 p. m. Wednesday and Friday; 10 a. m.-2 p. m. Saturday. Tickets for Ames Center shows can be purchased:- Through Ticketmaster( 800-982-2787 or online at Ticketmaster. com)
- The John and Betty Adamich Box Office is open Wednesdays and Fridays 11 a. m. to 4 p. m., and 90 minutes prior to every ticketed performance. For more information call 952-895-4685.
The Heart of the City Parking Ramp is located on the north side of the Ames Center. Additional free parking is available at the Heart of the City Park & Ride at 126th Street and Pillsbury Avenue. All parking is free, and permits are not required.
Ames Center, 12600 Nicollet Ave. 952-895-4685- www. ames-center. com
Community Guide 2026 | BURNSVILLE | 17