It has been my privilege to be involved with the Missoula Children’s Theatre for almost 35 years. I found them in 1990 when we moved to Missoula. Since then, my family and I have been involved with not only the children’s productions but also community productions, professional productions, and performing arts camps.
I love the mission of MCT. My children have greatly benefited from performing in both the children’s productions and community productions. They have learned the importance of teamwork, gained confidence, and developed skills that could not be learned any other way. Many friendships and fond memories were formed during these years.
Personally, I have accompanied at least one community show every season since moving here. My first show was Annie Get Your Gun. It is memorable, because it was rehearsed in the gym of the old Central school and performed at the Wilma Theatre. There was no pit, so the orchestra was strung along between the bottom of the stage and the first row of seats. Needless to say, it was a small orchestra, and it was the first time I conducted from the piano. The director, Michael McGill, was very patient with me as I tried to develop this new skill. Curt Olds starred as Frank Butler, and I have been a fan ever since.
If I were asked what my favorite show was, I don’t think I could name just one. There are several in the running, however. My first production of The Fantasticks was very enjoyable. I love the score, partly because it is written for piano and harp, but also because the songs are wonderful. That first cast included Michael Murphy, Greg Johnson, Lindy Coon, Don Kukla, Michael McGill, Chris Evans, Chris Torma and Karen Garfein. It was a dream cast directed by a fabulous director, Jim Caron. We performed it in the Front Street Theater which was small but very intimate. The Trail Head (outdoor gear shop) is there now but when I first started with MCT it was a darling little theater. Other memorable productions are Fiddler on the Roof which was the first show in the new theater, Man of La Mancha, Guys and Dolls, Into the Woods, Nunsense, Cats, Chorus Line, The Spitfire Grill, and SO many others. My only regret is that I didn’t keep the programs so I could remember the countless wonderful actors and actresses that shared these experiences.
Another terrific memory was the summer MCT did a summer series called Broadway in the Rockies. George M was the first production in that series. The fabulous Bill Bowers came back to his hometown from New York City to play the lead. The second show was one of my all-time favorites, I Do, I Do. Dan Sharkey and Betsi Morrison also came from New York to star in the show. It was a treat to work with performers of that caliber.
Finally, this article would not be complete without mentioning MCT’s cabaret group, Bit and Pieces. It has been a great pleasure to travel with these fine performers from basements to convention centers and even living rooms! We have entertained many occasions in many venues. Truly a special group that is close to my heart.
For many years MCT has afforded me and continues to afford me a creative outlet that I would not otherwise enjoy. It has made my life richer. It is a gem in our community!