Arts-Entertainment
The Shane Center wrapped up another fantastic Summer Outdoor Concert Season (SOCS), drawing in music lovers of all ages for nine unforgettable evenings of live performance in the Henry E. Blake Pavilion. “We welcomed more than 4,000 people over the course of the season,” said Executive Director Erika Adams. “Our biggest night was the return of Swamp Dawg and we’re already planning to bring them back next year!”
Across the series, concertgoers enjoyed approximately 25 pounds of popcorn, 20 gallons of lemonade and concession sales were up about $1,500 year over last year. Local food vendors this season included Cinful Nachos, Two Scoop Saloon, Hot Dog Champion, Funk Family Foods, Piece of Crépe, and Bad Burger.
The fourth season of SOCS included a dynamic mix of artists with performances by the Fossils, John Roberts y pan Blanco, Tsunami Funk, the Bo DePeña Trio, www.Twang, the Two Tracks, Swamp Dawg, Release the Squirrels, and Tom Catmull’s Last Resort.
“We heard from so many attendees that they enjoyed the variety in music this year,” added Artistic Director Russell Lewis. “There was something for everyone—familiar favorites alongside exciting new acts. It’s very fulfilling to see people show up each week with their friends and family ready to spend a summer’s evening in the Pavilion.”
SOCS is a free community series made possible by Marcia Bull McCrum in memory of Bliss McCrum, Livingston HealthCare, and Erin Denton O’Brien.
The Shane Center isn’t slowing down—five incredible events are coming to the Pavilion in late summer and early fall:
Spotlight Gala - Saturday, August 23rd at 5:30 pm
Enjoy dinner from Follow Yer’ Nose BBQ, beverages from the Office, the season showcase revue, live music from Yellowstone Country’s Got Talent Grand Champion winners by Meridian, and the official announcement of the 2026 Community Theatre season. “It’s the best party in town and a fun night of dancing, dinner, and community all for a great cause,” says Development Coordinator, Kate Britton.
One Love Livingston – Friday, August 30th at 6 pm
This world music festival promoting harmony will feature Mighty Mystic and the Hard Roots Movement, Sean Devine and the Stars and Anguilla and Foreshadow. It’s going to be a fun night of rhythm and good vibes and is sponsored by American Bank, Lionheart International, Pine Creek Lodge, and Key Property MT.
Montana Shakespeare in the Parks – Thursday, September 5th at 6 pm.
Their 53rd summer tour brings Henry V to the Blake Pavilion. This riveting drama is free and open to the public. Bring a chair and come enjoy this free production.
Shane Center Presents: John Roberts’ Soul Skillet – Friday, September 6th at 7:30 pm
“For the first time, we’re moving The Shane Center Presents show outside into the Pavilion,” said Adams. “Soul Skillet’s mix of soul, blues, and jazz needs room to groove and the Pavilion is perfect for dancing.” Featuring powerhouse vocals, a killer rhythm section, the mighty B3 organ and horns, this will be a night to remember.
Livingston Bluegrass Festival – Friday & Saturday, September 19th – 20th
The first Livingston Bluegrass Festival brings top-tier talent to the Blake Pavilion, featuring Grammy and IBMA winning artists Crying Uncle, Stillhouse Junkies, Nick Dumas & Branchline along with local favorites Bridger Creek Boys and Benson’s Landing String Band. Single day passes and two-day passes are available with free admission for kids 13 and under. The weekend will also include a guitar flatpicking contest sponsored by Music Villa of Bozeman, delicious food from Follow Yer’ Nose BBQ and local brews from Neptunes Brewery, and Katabatic Brewing Company. “It’s going to be a spectacular celebration of bluegrass music at its finest - with BBQ and brews!” says Adams.
“Of course, we couldn’t make any of this happen without the incredible support of our community," says Britton. “Huge thanks to our music booking partners at Mighty Fine Time Live Events – Joanne Gardner and John Lowell, and our season sponsor the Yellowstone Valley Lodge and Grill.”
Tickets and event details can be found at www.theshanecenter.org. The Shane Lalani Center for the Arts is located at 415 E. Lewis in Livingston, MT. For more information on sponsoring a musical event, please contact Kate Britton at (406) 224-6055.