Presenter Development Program
Supporting Rural Communities Through the Performing Arts
The MPAC Presenter Development program was developed to help rural Montana communities build, sustain, and grow impactful performing arts programs. Through this program, MPAC supports organizations that are working to bring professional artists, high-quality performances, and related outreach activities to places where access to live performance might otherwise be limited.
Presenter Development reflects MPAC’s long-standing belief that geography should not determine access to the arts. By investing in local presenting capacity, the program helps ensure that communities across Montana—no matter their size—can experience the cultural, educational, and social benefits of live performance.
Why Presenter Development Matters
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Many performing arts presenters in Montana operate with limited budgets, volunteer leadership, and small staffs, often serving as the primary cultural anchor in their communities. Rural presenters also navigate challenges related to distance, travel costs, and audience development.
The Presenter Development Program responds with practical, flexible support that reduces financial barriers and strengthens local capacity—helping presenters expand programming, engage their communities, and build sustainable performing arts programs over time.
A Program with Deep Roots in Montana
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Presenter Development builds on MPAC’s long history of supporting rural presenters through fee support, technical assistance, and peer learning. Over time, this work has helped launch new series, strengthen existing programs, and expand access to professional performing arts across the state. Today, the program continues that legacy while responding to the evolving needs of Montana communities and a changing performing arts field.
How to Get Involved
Organizations interested in Presenter Development are encouraged to review the full program guidelines and application materials.​​
If you have questions about eligibility, readiness, or the application process, MPAC welcomes conversation.
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Contact Emily Wolfram, Executive Director, at info@mtperformingarts.org or (406) 284-5524 for assistance.
Presenter Development Program Awardees
2025-2026
Alpine Artisans / 2Valleys Stage
Sunburst Arts & Education
Judith Arts Society
Kootenai Heritage Council
Northeastern Arts Network: Sidney, Glasgow, Malta
Belt Theater Company
Mission Valley Live
The Paradise Center
2024-2025
Alpine Artisans / 2Valleys Stage
Sunburst Arts & Education
Chouteau County Performing Arts
Judith Arts Society
Kootenai Heritage Council
Northeastern Arts Network: Sidney, Glasgow, Malta
Belt Theater Company
Mission Valley Live
The Paradise Center
2023-2024
Alpine Artisans / 2Valleys Stage
Sunburst Arts & Education
Chouteau County Performing Arts
Judith Arts Society
Kootenai Heritage Council
Northeastern Arts Network: Sidney
Northeastern Arts Network: Glasgow
Northeastern Arts Network: Malta
Rialto Theater of Deer Lodge
2022-2023
Alpine Artisans / 2Valleys Stage
Sunburst Arts & Education
Chouteau County Performing Arts
Electric Peak Arts Council
Judith Arts Society
Kootenai Heritage Council
Northeastern Arts Network: Sidney
Northeastern Arts Network: Glasgow
Northeastern Arts Network: Malta
2021-2022
Alpine Artisans / 2Valleys Stage
Belt Performing Arts Center
Sunburst Arts & Education
Chouteau County Performing Arts
Electric Peak Arts Council
Judith Arts Society
Kootenai Heritage Council
Mission Valley Live
Northeastern Arts Network: Sidney
Northeastern Arts Network: Glasgow
Northeastern Arts Network: Malta