MPAC Artist Showcase & Conference Returns to Helena in October 2026
- Emily Wolfram
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Showcase applications now open; free public performances planned
The Montana Performing Arts Consortium (MPAC) announced today that its annual Artist Showcase & Conference will take place October 16–18, 2026, at the Helena Civic Center, marking the conference’s first return to the state capital in more than two decades. The last time MPAC hosted its annual conference in Helena was January 1999, when the event was held at the Myrna Loy Center.
The three-day conference brings together performing arts presenters, touring artists, and artist representatives to plan future seasons, coordinate tours, and build lasting relationships that support sustainable performing arts touring in Montana. A central feature of the event is MPAC’s Juried Artist Showcase, which includes live performances that are free and open to the public.
A Public Invitation to Experience Live Performance
On Saturday, October 17, community members are invited to attend a full day of showcase performances featuring artists from across North America. The showcases offer Helena audiences a rare opportunity to experience a wide range of professional performances—music, dance, theatre, comedy, and more—all in one place at no cost.
“These showcases are not only a booking tool for performing arts organizations across the state,” said MPAC Executive Director Emily Wolfram. “They’re also a way to connect local audiences with incredible artists and to celebrate the role live performance plays in Montana communities.” Live performing arts create shared experiences that help people connect, build relationships, and feel a sense of belonging. MPAC’s work supports this role by helping artists tour sustainably and by strengthening the organizations that bring performances to local stages, schools, and community gathering places.
Call for Artists: Showcase Applications Now Open
MPAC is now accepting showcase applications from touring performing artists of all genres and disciplines who are interested in reaching Montana audiences. Selected artists will showcase their programs for performing arts organizations from Montana communities large and small. Many of these organizations rely on the MPAC conference to book a significant portion of their annual performance seasons.
Artists are encouraged to apply through IWantToShowcase.ca, an international platform used by MPAC for its juried process.
Key application dates include:
Applications open: February 1, 2026
Early-bird deadline: March 15, 2026
Final deadline: April 24, 2026
Selection notifications: Late May 2026
Montana-based artists are eligible for a discounted application fee.
Supporting Touring and Access Across Montana
Designed with Montana’s unique geography and presenting landscape in mind, the MPAC Artist Showcase & Conference helps make touring more efficient and sustainable by encouraging coordinated scheduling and shared planning among presenters. The work that begins during the conference often leads to tours that bring live performances to rural and small communities throughout the state.
Conference registration will open in April 2026. Additional details, including public showcase schedules, will be announced closer to the event.
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