A friend of mine recently posed the question, “Can you imagine spending a single day without the Arts”? Just think about no music on your car radio or streaming from Alexa, bare walls in your home, work and public spaces. And even more disturbing would be the thought of no concerts, live theater, film or dance performances, no sculptures in parks, or even no books to read to your child or self in the evening. My first thought was how awful that would be, but my second thought was one of extreme gratitude for the vibrant arts scene we experience in Bozeman and the surrounding areas. I thought I would share with you a few of my favorite happening in the upcoming months to ensure that you don’t go a day without the Arts.

Bozeman is fortunate to be looking forward to the Second Annual International Film Festival coming up June 6th-9th. Last year’s event featured over 75 films by both local and international filmmakers and covered a wide range of subject matters. Films can entertain and educate simultaneously and many of them include discussion opportunities at the conclusion.

The Intermountain Opera came to life in the spring of 1979, and over the years has flourished in Bozeman with performances featuring nationally renowned singers and professional orchestra. The upcoming season presents Ricky Ian Gordon’s “27”, Cole Porter’s “Kiss Me, Kate” and Mozart’s “The Marriage of Figaro.”

The Bozeman Symphony was established in 1968, and over the past 51 years has provided highly acclaimed performances to sold out crowds. The upcoming season will feature finalists for position of Music Director. The first performance will be on September 28th, featuring the Spanish flavors and exotic sounds of composer Manuel de Falla.

Though the annual Nutcracker performance may be the most well-known, the Montana Ballet Company has appealed to a wide range of audiences since 1984. Upcoming, the can’t miss event is MBC’s Inaugural CONNECTIONS 2019. On June 21st, MBC will present “Stars of American Ballet”, starring Principals and Soloists from New York City Ballet, one of the finest ballet companies in the world.

Starting in 1973, Montana Shakespeare in the Parks has fulfilled the mission to provide professional productions to communities throughout Montana at no cost. The upcoming summer season will include “Henry IV, Part I” and “Merry Wives of Windsor” with performances beginning in Bozeman on June 12th at the Montana State University Grove and running through September 3rd.

The Ellen Theater opened in 1919 and was a shining example of a palatial playhouse featuring a variety of live theatre. After decades of deferred maintenance, the building was purchased and renovated. To witness the revitalization for yourself, enjoy the summer musical, “Damn Yankees” which will run July 21st through August 11th. Also, “Newsies” opens June 28 at the Shane LaLani Center in Livingston.

The Crown of the Continent Guitar Foundation will host a workshop and festival for the first time in Bozeman July 31st – August 3rd. The workshops will include instruction by world-renowned musicians on rock, blues, singer/ songwriters, and one entitled “Jam it Up.” It will be a tremendous opportunity for local musicians of any skill level to take their
abilities to the next level.

The Big Sky Classic Music Festival is an annual event showcasing the best in classical music from around the world. The festival is August 9th-11th and offers free and ticketed performances, a youth music camp and master classes for student musicians.

The organizations and types of performances listed here are truly the tip of the iceberg of finding excellent entertainment throughout our region. Whatever your personal preferences, you will most certainly not be disappointed by the choices available. Enjoy! Visit BozemanArts.com for more on these summer events.