What is a volunteer? The Cambridge dictionary defines it as (noun) “a person who does something, especially helping other people willingly and without being forced or paid to do it.”
The theatre experience is all about community–the actors, technical crew, artistic team, the folks helping out in the lobby and the audience. MCT is able to create wonderful memories and experiences thanks to the incredible volunteers in our community.
Each year we host an annual party to thank our past, present, and future volunteers. The staff serves up a spread of light hors d’oeuvres, including world-famous meatballs (well, maybe just Missoula famous), desserts, drinks, good conversation, and being as we are theatre folk, a little entertainment too, in the form of trivia-style games. Generous local businesses donate gift baskets, artisan goods, yummy treats and other prizes for random drawings
This last season, 451 individual volunteers gave over 25,000 hours of their time to help create amazing experiences for our audiences. Recently, two of our volunteers were specifically recognized for their contributions. Pete Giardino, when not on duty as Deputy Fire Marshal for the Missoula Rural Fire District, gave more than 40 ‘Front of House’ hours working the MCT bar with his wife Jennifer. Barb Fortunate spent more than 280 hours (not a typo) doing ‘Tech.’ You won’t see her, though, because she’s behind the scenes backstage, running lights, moving scenery, etc…
We are grateful that so many people give of their time, energy and resources willingly, without force (well, maybe some pointed encouragement from a friend) and without pay (unless you count the meatballs). If you have volunteered in the past, thank you so much! If you are considering volunteering in the future, let us know and we will find the best fit for your time, interests and abilities. We look forward to seeing you here at the Missoula Children’s Theatre!