Named for late benefactor Elise R. Donohue, The Elise Event is a celebration of Shakespeare in the Schools honoring Elise’s remarkable dedication to the arts in our community. The Elise Event began in 2002, when Elise bid on an auction item for a private performance of a Shakespeare in the Schools’ production. Recognizing the production’s value to the community, Elise gifted the performance back to the public, allowing others to experience the marvelous production. From that initial public performance, the Elise Event was born. Now in its 20th year, the Elise Event has grown over time to become a treasured annual celebration.

Known and loved to many in the Gallatin Valley, Elise was an ardent advocate for the performing arts and a dedicated supporter of numerous institutions. Her family carries on her generous spirit and passionate advocacy of the arts by providing the community an opportunity to learn about Shakespeare in the Schools and pass on the torch of Shakespeare’s masterpieces to future generations.