The Centro Cultural do Mindelo, a beautifully restored colonial building on Rua Cesaria Evora a block back from the Praca Nova, is the city's main contemporary arts venue. It runs a regular programme of concerts (live morna and coladeira several nights a week), film screenings, theatre, exhibitions, and dance.
The walled inner courtyard is one of the more atmospheric spots in town for an early-evening drink before a show; the upstairs gallery has free contemporary art exhibitions. Pick up a printed monthly programme at the entrance — many of the concerts here are the best live music in the city. Particularly busy during the Mindelact theatre festival in September.