In September 1986, the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts Foundation announced a commitment to build a new home for the Bigfork Summer Playhouse.

The existing 50-year old wooden structure had been condemned by fire officials.  Lack of a facility would have terminated a 28-year history of musical theater that had grown to be a mainstay of tourist activity in the Flathead Valley, as well as an opportunity for hundreds of professional and aspiring performers, designers, and technicians to perfect their craft.

 

The Foundation began its campaign to raise $750,000 to build a new 450-seat, year-round facility that would house the Playhouse, as well as other cultural activities.  There had never been a philanthropic effort of this type in the Flathead Valley.  With a Bigfork population of less than 3,000 at that time, it was a tremendously optimistic project.  

In the end, over 800 people or organizations donated to this cause. Donations of $1,000 were given by over 240 people and donations from $2 to $50 came from some 400 individuals. Pledges covered 23 states and 4 foreign countries with local high school students and faculty committing $1,500. Donations in land, art, and services were a major factor in the project's success.

 

The new theater opened June 18, 1988.

In May 2009, Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts Foundation completed a lobby renovation and expansion project for the 50th anniversary of the Bigfork Summer Playhouse.

We think you will agree that the spacious new lobby, with its beautiful curved glass facade facing Electric Avenue, shimmering aurora borealis tiles on the pillars, and Tiffany-style lighting throughout, adds new elegance and sets the tone for the entire theater experience.

Once again, community support has been incredible.  We have raised nearly $900,000 and now we need your help to raise our final $200,000.  Please join us in supporting this Center that is so vital to our Bigfork community. Your tax deductible gift, whether large or small, is deeply appreciated and clearly needed. 

To become a supporter of  Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts, please contact Peggy Hinkle at 406-837-4885 or email info@bigforktheater.org.
 

Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts is truly the heart and soul of Bigfork!