M2O
M2O is a musical comedy duo based in the Twin Cities. Maren and Morgan perform original songs (primarily acoustic) at local geek conventions, sharing their love of their favorite fandoms and hobbies. They composed their first song in February 2010 and had their debut performance at CONvergence (CVG) in July 2017 as SlytherPuff; they have since rebranded to their new name M2O. Their fandoms include Doctor Who, Lord of the Rings, Marvel, and DC.
MN Black Authors Expo
Since its inception in 2017, the mission of MN Black Authors Expo is to support and encourage Black authors to raise their voices and fully express the utterances of their hearts, minds and experiences. We also provide diverse and unique platforms and opportunities for Black Authors. Each year, we partner with businesses, literary organizations and local libraries to maximize the reach and audiences for MBAE authors.
MBAE’s goal to reduce the disparities that affect authors of color and limit their ability to achieve their literary and personal goals. We are determined more than ever to close the wealth gap by building a stronger network for Black authors, find and access writing resources. Our greatest investment is grooming local authors to launch and expand their literary enterprises and
endeavors.
We are also committed to empowering all children, especially children of color, to develop a love of reading! We encourage them to become authors of their own stories and to read, write and lead! Early exposure to books and writing tools promote self-worth, improves literacy rates and ignites the love of reading and writing in children. Ultimately, our goal is to reduce the achievement disparities in urban communities, which begin by raising literacy rates. These goals are lofty but achievable if we all commit to them. Raising literacy rates and improving writing skills in children is good for the economy, the stability of all communities and ensures the future of the creatives and artists everywhere!
Miss Shannan Paul Comedy Cabaret
Aron Woldeslassie is a stand-up comedian, author, and producer based in St. Paul. His comedy comes from a blend of observations on race, relationships, and culture as well as personal stories. Aron is a founding member of the Nordly and Minnesota Tonight. His work has been featured on Minnesota Public Radio, TPT’s Almanac, Mpls.St.Paul Magazine, various literary magazines, and Aron was named a finalist in both the Sisyphus Brewing’s 2021 Funniest Person in Minneapolis Contest and the House of Comedy’s 2023 Funniest Person with a Day-Job Contest.
Willy Olguin is a West Texas born comedian tickling crowds with his brand of quirky humor. Not the typical comedian because Willy not only doesn’t curse on stage he doesn’t curse off stage and still manages not to pull any punches. Even though Willy is now living in Minnesota he enjoys being on the road traveling all over performing for very diverse crowds from Comedy Clubs to Bars to Alternative venues. Making audiences delight in the tragedies of his life is what makes Willy’s life worth living.
Karen Pickering, known for her wit and charm wears many hats from lunch lady to retail warrior, wife and mom. Her journey back to comedy was spurred by her determined teenagers, who threatened not to go to college unless she graced the stage. With accolades including a top placement in the Funniest Person in Minnesota Contest, Sioux Falls Comedy Festival, co-producer Of Day Drinking With Mom and Lunch Lady Laughs, Karen brings a sharp tongue and warm heart to the stage.
Matt Dooyema is a proud pet father of 4 from St Cloud. A bartender by trade, Matt’s humor has been influenced by the stories from behind the bartop and the soul crushing realization that his mother was most likely right about not finishing college. Irreverent by nature, Silly by design, Bitter by circumstance, Matt is a high energy performer willing to please. Host of the Keller Comedy Open Mic & Co host of the Awful Service Podcast.
