OH THE DRAMA

The Gallatin Theater League (GTL) Board July and August meetings  opened with discussion of the success of the Missoula Children’s Theater (MCT). Committee Chair Amy McMahon reported 33 local children performed for 152 audience members.  Doug and Jackie Nichols hosted the MCT directors in their home the week of practice prior to the shows. A “meet and greet” BBQ  for League members with the directors was a big hit. The Davis-Aulgur Foundation, Gallatin Rotary and MAC contributed funding as well as many league members volunteering their time to make this opportunity for area youth possible.  Parents of children involved in MCT expressed their appreciation of the program with the hopes it continues.

Three MCT participants, Hannah Hartman, Brett Hemry, and Presley Wells, were nominated by MCT directors to attend an elite “actors camp” in Missoula next summer.

The Perusal Committee is narrowing the field for fall play selection. Doug Nichols and Tom Garnett will direct the fall play.

During the Grant Writing Committee report, some discussion was held about schedules for MAC grant funding.

League President Tammy Gay will meet with the grant committee and try to lay out a timeline for future grant management.  Ms. Gay has met with MAC Director Michael Donovan and Program Specialist Ginny Sanders. The board is advancing GTL in the nomination process for the “Missouri Arts Award.”

Building repairs are a constant need addressed by the GTL board. The Board requested a bid for the installation of a back door in the Kulis Building to protect the new flooring. The bid from Kramer Contracting was accepted. The Board also asked that Kramer Contracting work up a bid for the finish work on the front entrance of the Kulis Building and repair of brick in the south wall. The marquee was damaged by the door when the wind caught it. Cameron Glass got the bid to replace the plexi-glass with Lexan and to install a door closure. Work on the back door of the Kulis building has begun and the plexi-glass has been installed. The air conditioning did not work properly on Saturday evening of MCT. Tammy contacted Fosters and they estimated $200 to come clean and service both units. No further work is planned on either building until funds are available.

Allison Spidle is working with Darryl Wilkinson of Gallatin Publishing Company (GPC) to increase GTL advertising on the web. The GTL board is currently looking for a web page administrator.  The administrator would be responsible for the GTL webpage, Facebook, and liaison with Gallatin Publishing Company.

A note from Jan Duly was presented expressing her appreciation on behalf of Jameson Lions Club for the Theater League’s stellar assistance in their cook shack during the Jameson Picnic. Members helped prepare, wrap, and serve 1,600 tenderloins as well as pie, drinks and other sandwiches. It was a jolly good time!

Upcoming events for Gallatin League members include working the Chautauqua, “Back Alley Photos,” Patron Appreciation Event, and concessions for the B & S Consignment Auction November 5.

Next Board Meeting is at 6 p.m. at Subway on Tuesday, Sept. 20.  We welcome your presence at this and all meetings and certainly encourage your input and comments.