Founded in 1973 on the firm belief that Shakespeare belongs to everyone, our accomplished company of performers and staff work tirelessly to connect people, communities, and the arts, as we spread messages of unity and understanding. Ushering Shakespeare’s immortal stories of life, love, and tragedy into a modern era, Montana Shakespeare in the Parks is dedicated to preserving the cultural traditions of theatre and literature. Through artistic expression, we aim to provide lively entertainment that evokes smiles and laughter, alongside tears of joy and sorrow, to all people.
Born from aspirations to bring the timeless tales of William Shakespeare directly to rural and under-served communities, Montana Shakespeare in the Parks has been enriching the lives of people in Montana, and beyond, for 54 seasons.
This summer, Montana Shakespeare in the Parks is pleased to announce that our summer parks tour performances of Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice and Much Ado About Nothing will be coming to a community near you! The company performs in 64 communities across five states including Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, North Dakota, and Washington. Most events feature pre-show performances by local artists and audiences are encouraged to bring a picnic to enjoy an evening together under the Big Sky among friends and neighbors.
– Kevin Asselin, Executive Artistic Director
Much Ado About Nothing speaks to the joy and uncertainty of love, reputation, and the ways that community shapes our understanding of one another. This lively comedy unfolds in the aftermath of war, where returning soldiers and welcoming hosts find themselves drawn into courtship, clever schemes, and shifting perceptions. Among a vibrant cast of characters, Shakespeare explores how easily we can be misled, and how resilience, honesty, and grace can restore both trust and connection.
Directed by Johamy Morales.
The Merchant of Venice explores justice, mercy, prejudice, and the longing to belong in a divided world. As Bassanio seeks Portia’s hand and Antonio enters a dangerous bond with Shylock, the young Jessica risks everything to leave her father’s house in search of love and freedom. Through romance and courtroom drama, Shakespeare examines the cost of exclusion and the transformative power of mercy.
Directed by Kevin Asselin.
Kevin Asselin - Executive Artistic Director / Director Merchant of Venice
Johamy Morales, Director - Much Ado About Nothing
Jeremy W. Floyd, Costume Designer – Merchant of Venice
Jazmin Medina, Costume Designer – Much Ado About Nothing
Tom Watson, Scenic Designer – Merchant of Venice
Miguel Salazar, Scenic Designer – Much Ado About Nothing
Ronnie Avansino, Assistant Director - Merchant of Venice
Asst Stage Manager - Much Ado About Nothing
Riley O'Toole, Assistent Director - Much Ado About Nothing
Assistant Fight Director - Merchant of Venice
Max Allen, Stage Manager – Merchant of Venice
Paige Wisneski, Stage Manager – Much Ado About Nothing
Neil Nilhalani, Asst Stage Manager – Merchant of Venice
Emmaleah Stapp, Asst Stage Manager
Jaime Nebeker – Intimacy Coordinator
Pornchanok Nok Kanchanabanca, Sound Designer – Merchant of Venice
Andrew Hansen, Sound Designer – Much Ado About Nothing
Stacy Hostetter, Properties Designer
Matt McCarren, Lighting Designer
Gretchen Minton, Dramaturg
Kathy Logelin, Text/Verse Coach
Shari Watson, Choreographer
COSTUME
Angela Cateora, Shop Manager & Sticher
Isabella Weiand, Draper
Elias Dennis, Draper
Perey Bridges, First Hand
Claire Carroll, First Hand
Rio Dubin, Stitcher
Nora Tjernagel, Stitcher
Akaya Chambersn, Costume Design Asst
Alexia Tebben, Costume Technician
Kyle Pingel, Wig Master
SCENIC
Blake Watson, Carpenter / Co-Technical Director
Eric Sanchez, Charpenter
Jorge Sepulveda, Carpenter
Valeria Mendoza, Scenic Intern
Ashley Milleson, Scenic Artist
Adam Fedock, Production Manager
Brenna Holgate, Production Apprentice
Madisyn Covington, Production Apprentice
Tevy Dembski, Production Apprentice
David Zavala, Master Electrician
Dylan McPhail, Audio Engineer
Octavio Jimenez, "Bassiano" – Merchant of Venice and "Don John" – Much Ado About Nothing
Shadie Wallette, "Solania" – Merchant of Venice and "Dogberry" – Much Ado About Nothing
Gabe Malek, "Gratiano / Aragon" – Merchant of Venice and "Claudio" – Much Ado About Nothing
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