Arts-Entertainment
July is flying by and The Shane Center in Livingston is offering the perfect activity for all your guests with their popular SOCS series. Each Thursday in June and July features the best in local and regional performers at a free community concert in the Henry E. Blake Pavilion. There are only two left for the season—that went quick!
Montana Bluegrass Quintet Release the Squirrels takes the stage on Thursday, July 24th. A shiny, new bluegrass quintet that pushes the boundaries of the traditional bluegrass cage, Release the Squirrels hails from the valleys of Western Montana and each of the five group members bring a unique perspective to the band, creating a cohesive and dynamic voice. From danceable old time original compositions to artful covers of modern songs, the Squirrels have a broad repertoire that appeals to every audience.
With a deep appreciation for bluegrass traditions, influences like Bill Monroe and the Bluegrass Album band are present, however the group has a penchant for crafting bold arrangements to pay tribute to the past with a modern flavor. The depth of their musicianship is evidenced by masterful flatpicking, hard driving banjo and rock steady upright bass. Listeners also delight to hear hypnotizing fiddle melodies and inspired mandolin licks interspersed amongst a tapestry of three-part vocal harmonies. This is their first time at the Shane Center.
Rounding out the season on Thursday, July 31st is the Tom Catmull Trio. Tom is a word enthusiast. They are the larger part of what makes his world go round. He’s spent the last twenty-five years in his adopted hometown of Missoula, Montana, presenting words in ways to make them as alluring as possible to people who crave such things. The last couple of decades have included seven full length albums, a few television appearances including PBS 11th and Grant, a hundred theater performances, dozens of festivals and countless honkytonks. Tom and his terrific trio blew our minds in 2024 and we invited him back before he started his second set. Tom’s clever and catchy tunes will delight you—great melodies and stories—the perfect summer night music.
SOCS concerts take place, free of charge, from 5 – 8 pm. There are food trucks and libations for all ages. Concert attendees are encouraged to bring chairs. There are a few shared tables reserved for patrons of the food trucks while enjoying their dinner. Sponsors include: Livingston HealthCare, Marcia McCrum in Memory of Bliss McCrum, Erin Denton O’Brien and the Yellowstone Valley Lodge & Grill, and booking partners at Mighty Fine Time Live Events - John and Joanne Lowell.
Bike parking is available onsite, and additional car parking is available at the Lincoln School at 215 E. Lewis. The Shane Center is located at 415 E. Lewis. For more information on the Shane Lalani Center for the Arts, please visit www.theshanecenter.org.