The Warren Miller Performing Arts Center is announcing its fall lineup of performances. “The fall shows are often some of my favorites of the year, because we tailor them so specifically to the local community,” said John Zirkle, WMPAC’s executive director. “The off-season is when many of us decompress and relax, and we like to offer local families some entertainment options during this time.”
This year, the fall season is heavy with performances that showcase music and movement, often paired in unexpected ways.
The fall season begins on Sunday, October 6 with artist and cello player Gideon Freudmann. Freudmann performs live soundtracks for classic silent films with his cello and real-time digital effects. His imaginative, original accompaniment breathes new life into this classic art, bringing the best of cinema and live music to another level and to new audiences. He’ll be performing alongside “Sherlock Jr,” the timeless 1924 Buster Keaton silent comedy about a movie projectionist who dreams of being a great detective. Freudmann is a founding member of the Portland Cello project and world-renowned composer for the instrument.
On October 20, WMPAC will welcome the Losers Cirque. The Losers Cirque is an energetic and mesmerizing acrobatic group from the Czech Republic who will take the stage to perform breath-taking athletic feats. It’s a family-friendly event, but can be enjoyed by any age (even if you can’t do a somersault).
Perhaps the most exciting show of the season is on October 29 with Huang Yi & KUKA. An international sensation that pairs choreography and dance with technology in ways both illuminating and unsettling. Taiwanese artist Huang Yi has spent years developing a highly specialized robot that dances onstage alongside him, blending precise technology with deeply human emotion. “It’s a mind-bending performance to watch, and we’re insanely lucky that we get to see them in Montana on their world tour,” said Zirkle. “This is one that you don’t want to miss.” As with all fall season events, this show is great for families.
The remainder of the fall season is packed with community-led events, including the annual Lone Peak High School musical and a Christmas season performance of the Nutcracker. One departure from tradition is the format of this year’s community theater play. Every year, talented Big Sky locals perform a community theater play, but this time it has a twist: it’s an immersive dinner theater experience. The play is called Tony and Tina’s Wedding, and invites the audience to be guests at the wedding taking place onstage. (Yes, dinner and dancing are included for the audience as well.)
Audience members will save 40% on the cost of all shows if they buy the Fall Season Pass, which provides tickets to all eight shows. Bundle and save 25% by buying tickets to at least three shows, and early birds will save 25% if they buy tickets to any show before October 1. Tickets and more information are available at warrenmillerpac.org