Montana Shakespeare in the Parks hosts three special events each season; The Elise Event, ticketed and open to the public, and our Behind the Scenes and Dream Events, exclusively for MSIP's Artistic Director's Circle members.
The Elise Event is a special evening for friends and supporters of Montana Shakespeare in the Parks to come together, celebrate the work of MSIP, and raise support for our Shakespeare in the Schools program.
Join us Sunday, November 8th at 4:00PM in the SUB Ballroom on MSU's Campus for a one-of-a-kind dinner theater experience featuring the 2026 Shakespeare in the Schools production of The Comedy of Errors. This special performance will pair Shakespeare with the likes of Led Zeppelin, Kansas, Fleetwood Mac, and others in a new classic-rock adaptation of one of his funniest plays.
Your evening will include a full dinner, partially hosted bar, and opportunities to mingle with the cast and director, Kevin Asselin, and members of the MSIP creative team and cast. Following the performance, enjoy a lively Q&A with the cast and creative team and learn more about the impact of Shakespeare in the Schools.
Artistic Director's Circle members receive 2 complimentary tickets to the Elise Event! Please confirm your attendance by contacting MSIP Associate Artistic Director, Riley O'Toole at riley.otoole@montana.edu or 406-994-3906. Learn more about becoming an ADC member here!
General admission tickets are $75 and go on sale to the public October 1st. A link will be posted here.
All ticket sales directly benefit the Shakespeare in the Schools program.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see The Comedy of Errors.
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 23rd 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.
This year, The Elise Event will be hosted on Saturday, November 8th Tickets go on sale October 1st. All proceeds benefit the Shakespeare in the Schools program.
– Elise R. Donohue
Held each June, summer tour sponsors and Artistic Director’s Circle donors get a sneak preview into the magic behind bringing our summer productions to life! During this reception, we open the costume, prop, and scene shops and treat guests to presentations from each production’s director.
Become an Artistic Director’s Circle donor today!
During midsummer, The Dream Event is an opportunity for Artistic Director's Circle donors to gather for performance and conversation.
This year's Dream Event will explore Shakespeare through the lens of social justice, featuring scenes and speeches that challenge us to reflect on prejudice, mercy, dignity, and our shared humanity. The event will take place on Saturday, August 1st at 6:00PM. Artistic Director's Circle members, please RSVP by July 20th to Riley O’Toole at riley.otoole@montana.edu
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