Business Details
17 Years
experience
Your Premier Performing Arts Experience in Hamilton, MT
The Performing Arts has been a cornerstone of cultural enrichment in Western Montana since its founding in 2009. Our mission is to unite the community through world-class performing arts experiences that enlighten, inspire, entertain, and educate. With over 140 performances presented since our inception, we bring diverse artistic talent to the Bitterroot Valley while fostering educational outreach programs for students of all ages. Our strategic initiatives focus on expanding programming, strengthening infrastructure, and creating sustainable funding to ensure lasting access to the arts.Backed by a dedicated board, passionate volunteers, and generous sponsors, we prioritize community engagement through intimate workshops, school-day performances, and partnerships that amplify our impact. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we remain committed to making the arts accessible and transformative for generations to come.
Services
Concert Series
Educational Outreach
Summer Performances
Community Events
Volunteer Programs
Sponsorship Opportunities
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- We have presented over 140 performances since 2004.
- Our educational outreach programs engage students of all ages.
- We offer diverse performing arts programming for all tastes.
- We are committed to expanding access through strategic initiatives.
- Our community partnerships ensure high-quality events.
What people say
Memorable performances
World-class talent
Vibrant community events
Excellent educational programs
Thrilled with outreach
Services
Concert Series
Our concert series showcases diverse musical genres from local and international artists in intimate venues across the Bitterroot Valley. Each season features renowned performers spanning classical, folk, rock, and global music traditions. These events create shared cultural experiences that strengthen community bonds through the power of live performance.
Educational Outreach
We provide free or low-cost workshops and school performances that connect students with professional artists through hands-on learning. Programs include masterclasses, instrument demonstrations, and collaborative projects tailored to K-12 curricula. This initiative nurtures creativity while making world-class arts education accessible to all young learners.
Summer Performances
Seasonal outdoor concerts at the historic Daly Mansion estate combine natural beauty with exceptional musical talent. These summer events feature diverse genres in a scenic lawn setting, creating memorable evenings under the stars. The venue's mature trees and open-air atmosphere enhance the immersive experience for audiences.
Volunteer Programs
Our volunteer initiatives offer opportunities to support the arts through event assistance, marketing distribution, and fundraising activities. Participants gain behind-the-scenes experience while contributing to cultural enrichment. This program builds community ownership of the arts through active local participation.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Corporate sponsorship programs enable businesses to support the arts while gaining community visibility through event branding and promotional benefits. Partners help sustain cultural programming while aligning their brands with educational and artistic excellence in the Bitterroot Valley.
People
Larry McCloskey
Executive Director
Larry McCloskey leads our organization with over 15 years of experience in nonprofit management and performing arts promotion. A former computer industry professional, he brings strategic vision to expanding our cultural programming while maintaining strong community connections through local partnerships.
Ben Watters
President
Dr. Ben Watters serves as board president, combining his emergency medicine practice with community leadership. A passionate advocate for the arts, he champions our mission to enrich the Bitterroot Valley through cultural programming while ensuring organizational stability.
Kristina Bessenyey
Vice President
Kristina Bessenyey, a lifelong musician and local business owner, contributes her artistic perspective as vice president. Her deep community roots and experience with local music ensembles inform strategic decisions that strengthen our connection to valley residents.
Byron Williams
Treasurer
Byron Williams manages financial operations with decades of experience from his Forest Service career and local band participation. His fiscal stewardship ensures sustainable growth while maintaining the organization's commitment to accessible arts programming.
Chris Porter
Secretary
Chris Porter, a professional trombonist and Missoula Symphony member, provides artistic insight as board secretary. His musical expertise and local educational connections strengthen programming decisions and community outreach initiatives.
Questions
How can I purchase concert tickets?
Tickets are available online through our website or at the box office located at 127 W. Main Street, Suite 108 in Hamilton during business hours.
What types of performances do you offer?
Our season includes diverse genres from classical to contemporary featuring international artists, regional talent, and special educational programs for students.
Do you offer educational programs for schools?
Yes, we provide free or discounted workshops and school performances connecting students with professional artists through hands-on learning experiences tailored to educational curricula.
How can local businesses support your organization?
Businesses can sponsor performances, donate to our programs, or participate in our volunteer initiatives to help sustain cultural programming in the Bitterroot Valley.
Where are your performances held?
Most events occur at the Hamilton Performing Arts Center with select performances at the Mary Stuart Rogers Center in Victor and outdoor summer concerts at the Daly Mansion estate.
Reviews (1)
Nathan Pilon
Jun 14, 2019
Report
I am constantly amazed at the quality of productions that the bitter root performing arts group is able bring to small town Montana. Highly recommended, treat yourself!
