Contributions for Shakespeare in the Parks sought

The Arts Association of Montana is raising money for local costs for the Montana Shakespeare in the Park company's two-day stay in Great Falls in August.

AAM has taken over fundraising for MSIP, with $3,250 needed for local expenses for the engagement, when the troupe will perform "The Taming of the Shrew" and "Cyrano de Bergerac" on Aug. 29 and Aug. 30 at the University of Great Falls.

"We want Shakespeare in the Park to come because 500 people get to see a live production for free," said Kay Silk, a member of AAM. "It's a great way for people to get exposed to Shakespeare."

Along with AAM and UGF, Great Falls High School volunteers help with setup and take-down and local promotion.

Montana Shakespeare in the Parks, now in its 43rd season, is an outreach program of Montana State University. The company tours Montana and neighboring states throughout the summer, performing plays both by Shakespeare and other major playwrights for free.

Corporate sponsorships cover major production costs, but individual contributions help the company travel to towns on their schedule.

Tax-deductible contributions can be mailed to Shakespeare in Great Falls, 1400 1st Ave. N., Great Falls, MT 59401.

For more information, email Silk at klis@yahoo.com or call 899-6156.