Water Works Park Proves to Be a Terrific Spot for MPRB's Movies and Music in the Park

By Doug Verdier

July 1 saw movie-goers gathering early at Water Works Park for a showing of the 1975 film Mahogany, staring Diana Ross and Billy Dee Williams. The Mezzanine Lawn overlooking the riverfront provided the perfect location for the big screen (inflatable, no less!) to enjoy a film about a poor Chicago secretary (Diana Ross) who takes the fast lane to fame as a model and fashion designer. It received an Oscar nomination for music (original song). The music throughout the film was great.

Mahogany was the second film presentation of the Twin Cities Black Film Festival at Water Works Park this summer. Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board staff handled the setup and technical aspects of the showing. Great job, MPRB!

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Movie buffs may remember that Diana Ross and Billy Dee Williams also teamed up in the 1972 film “Lady Sings the Blues” which was loosely based on the troubled life and career of the legendary jazz singer Billie Holiday. That film received five Academy Award nominations, including Best Original Song Score.

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On June 14th, MPRB’s Music in the Parks series kicked off with perfect weather for a performance by Blue Dog Blues Band next to the park pavilion building.

Many other concerts, classes and activities are programmed throughout the summer. View the complete listing online.