First Night: Celebrating the New Year in Missoula and the Flathead
Published: December 17, 2009
In Missoula
Performing, visual and literary artists showcase their diverse talents from 1 p.m. to midnight Dec. 31 in this spirited, family-oriented cultural celebration.
In addition to over 70 performances and events, this year’s celebration includes a Masquerade Ball in the University Center Ballroom. Kids and adults alike are invited to make a mask at the University Center and then join the Missoula Folklore Society, Salsa Loca, Big Sky Mudflaps, The String Orchestra of the Rockies, and The Ed Norton Big Band for a masked party of many musical genres.
In addition, the String Orchestra of the Rockies is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year with a masked celebrity guest for a New Year’s guessing game.
A sampling of other performers includes:
• Headwaters Dance Company, presenting excerpts from the upcoming premiere of “Montana Suite,” 3:30-4:30 p.m. at the University Theatre;
• Montana A Cappella Society, a costumed vocal ensemble from the Bitterroot Valley, 8:30 p.m. in the University Center; and
• Singing Sons of Beaches, a ‘dang handsome’ trio of irreverent songsters, 10:30-midnight in the University Center Theater;
Admission buttons are $12 in advance ($15 on Dec. 31), with children ages 7 and under free; call 532-3240 or visit www.missoulacultural.org/firstnight for details.
In the Flathead Valley
Alcohol-free event for the entire family welcomes the New Year from 7 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Dec. 31 with art, music and festivities at 16 venues in Kalispell and four in Columbia Falls.
Performers include returning favorites André Floyd, BrassWerks with Don Lawrence, LeftOver Biscuits, Lee Zimmerman, Bill Rossiter, La Nota, Tra le Gael and the Tropical Montana Marimba Ensemble, as well as up-and-coming punk rockers Brothers of Sasquatch and the Graveyard Girl Scouts. Kalispell Center Mall hosts free children’s activities from 3:30-6:30 p.m.
A portion of proceeds will benefit the Glacier National Park Fund’s Centennial Campaign. Call 253-2471 or visit www.firstnightflathead.org for details.
