Education Program
Critical Review
Developing critical thinking skills through arts journalism.
Grade: High School
Critical Review is a rigorous writing program that aims to develop critical thinking skills through arts journalism. Students attend and review productions through Hennepin Arts' Bank of America Broadway on Hennepin season and participate in workshops led by experts in the fields of musical theater, writing and journalism.
Student reviews are edited for content and style, discussed with program leaders, and posted through an online portal. Internet access is a requirement to participate. This program is offered free of cost to participants.
Goals
Enhance critical thinking
To develop and enhance critical thinking, self-expression and analytical writing skills
Forum outside the classroom
To provide a unique and engaging forum for students learning outside of the classroom
Develop an appreciation
To provide high school students the opportunity to develop an appreciation for live theater
“I LOVE Critical Review so much! Going to see all of those plays was so amazing. I really appreciate what the program has done for me.”
“Fiddler on the Roof is one of the best performances I have seen this year, tied with Wicked and Spring Awakening. There is no one better than Chaim Topol to tell the classic story of family hardship and change.”
“I have loved Rent ever since I saw the movie. Being able to see the stage version with two of the original cast members was beyond amazing. It was so much fun and definitely an experience I’ll always remember.”
Participating schools
The 2025-2026 program included students from 20 high schools throughout the Twin Cities metro area:
| CRITICAL REVIEW SCHOOLS | |
|---|---|
Chaska High School Chisago Lakes High School DeLaSalle High School Edina High School FAIR School for Arts Hopkins High School Irondale High School Kennedy High School Lakes International Language Academy Minnetonka High School | PiM Arts High School Rogers High School Roseville Area High School Saint Paul Academy and Summit School Saint Thomas Academy St Michael-Albertville High School St. Louis Park High School Stillwater Area High School White Bear Lake Area High School Woodbury High School |