Butte's Irish band Dublin Gulch returns to Missoula with their popular mix of irish and Celtic songs and tunes. The Tiernan Irish Dancers will perform intricate, artistic and athletic dances to the band's jigs and reels.

A Carousel for Missoula
www.carrousel.com

Come ride the ponies from 2:00 - 11:00 p.m. on New Year's Eve. Free with a First Night button.

Christian Ackerman
www.christianackerman.com

Christian Ackerman has been performing mime since he was seven years old. Using the art form of traditional pantomime and that of slapstick comedy set to music, he has entered a number of talent and variety shows. He has been privileged to have participated in First Night Missoula for ten years now and has enjoyed every minute of it.

The Acousticals
www.myspace.com/theacousticals

Featuring three of Western Montana’s premier bluegrass musicians, The Acousticals will play predominantly original material in the “Acoustic Americana” vein, showcasing their fine pickin’ and duet singing.

Aniysa
www.aniysa.com

Come join Aniysa and have fun learning veil moves used in Belly Dancing. Aniysa has taught Belly Dancing since l991. Dancing with veils has been a favorite part of her dance classes for many years. This class is suitable for all ages. Veils will be provided for class use. Class is limited to 25 participants.

Backyard Recorder Consort
Jo Ella Hug, Nancy Seldin, Katherine Skinner and Sarah Weber

Join the Backyard Recorder Consort for a musical journey spanning 500 years of instrumental ensemble music, from Renaissance Europe of the 1600s into the 21st century. The eternal quest is to enjoy the sound of the recorder in resonant spaces that truly allow the ear to hear the purity of the sound generated by this beautiful instrument.

Ballet Arts Academy

Ballet Arts Academy presents "America Dances- a tribute to popular music and dance in the 20th century." A fresh and lighthearted dance concert that spans the Charleston of the 1920's through hip hop in the 1990's. Entertaining and appropriate for the whole family!

Big Sky Mudflaps
www.bigskymudflaps.com

The Mudflaps are celebrating 33 years of performing together. Their unique sound---a blend of jazz, swing and rhythm and blues---has won them national acclaim. Appearing across the country at clubs, colleges, festivals and concerts, they have earned praise from publications such as the New York Times, the Village Voice, Billboard, Esquire Magazine and many others. The Mudflaps have shared concert billing with Ray Charles, Dizzy Gillespie, Dave Brubeck and "Riders In The Sky," and have appeared on "The Today Show" and "A Prairie Home Companion."

Bitterroot Gymnastics

Come watch us defy gravity in this sneak peek of our second annual "ACROtainment" show (coming March 21, 2009). Our Acro teams have collaborated with instructors and artists in the community to bring you this experience in Acrobatic Theatre that is sure to "wow" you!

Zan Bockes

CANCELLED Zan Bockes is a direct descendent of Bacchus, the Roman god of wine and revelry. She will read an intoxicating brew of her poetry and fiction, for which she has garnered three Pushcart Prize nominations. She entertains the notion that she has finally made the leap from "unknown" to "obscure."

Ryan Bundy
www.ryanbundy.net
www.ryanbundydesign.net

Blues infected folk from Alaska and Montana sure to melt your icicles.

Burning River Trio

The Burning River Trio is a bluesy, funk-rock concept fronted by Missoula guitarist and songwriter John Floridis, along with the very fine rhythm section of Bruce Threlkeld on drums and Ron Setzer on bass. Together they bring an eclectic mix of solid songs with very danceable grooves, creative renderings of Floridis' original material as well as unique arrangements of well known and obscure covers, ie., Muddy Waters done Bo Diddley style.....The Who done performed Lyle Lovett country swing.....a Jimi Hendrix groove with Greg Brown lyrics. If you like your dance music diverse with many stylistic flavors, The Burning River Trio will not disappoint.

Maren Christensen

Singer/Songwriter Maren Christensen writes from the heart. Her music speaks to everyone with honesty and intimacy, as she writes about life, love, loss, being sexy, and all other things having to do with the experience of being an imperfect human in an imperfect world. She will make you laugh, make you cry and remind you that we are all in this together.

Shane Clouse and Stomping Ground
www.shaneclouse.com
www.myspace.com/stompinggroundband

Shane Clouse and Stomping Ground collaborate to write music you can sink your “feet” into. Stomping Ground uses its own brand of Montana Outlaw Music to breathe new life into the Country scene. Stomping Ground is a four piece band with Zach Millar on Bass, Ryan Fadden on lead guitar, Mark Sickich on Drums, and Shane Clouse on lead vocals and rhythm guitar. Stomping Ground draws upon the influence of Waylon Jennings, Jerry Reed, and Merle Haggard to provide a foundation for their rocking Montana Outlaw sound.

Mike and Tari Conroy Band

Mike & Tari Conroy of Conner are sure to please the audience with good old style pickin' & singin', performing material from their newest recording 'Sourwood Mountain'. Joining the Conroy's for their First Night performance will be good friends and accomplished musicians, Fred & Emily Frank of Idaho Falls.

The Crested Hens
http://hens.freeshell.org

The Crested Hens are back for another First Night celebration with their lively mix of Celtic and other musical styles, including some new compositions. Come join the Hens (and Rooster) for great fiddling, whistling, strumming, plucking, drumming, and a few surprises...

Currents Aquatics Center
www.missoulaparks.org

Splash into the New Year! Free Swim at Currents Aquatics Center, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. only, with First Night Button.  Celebrate 2009 with wild ride on a waterslide!  Or, check out the children's water playground and warm up in our crystal-clear spa.  Children under 6 must be accompanied in the water by an adult. Also open New Year's Day, 12pm to 4pm, regular admission.  Located in McCormick Park, off the Orange Street bridge. Phone 721-PARK.

Discount Quartet

The Discount Quartet, a dynamic jazz trio with Eric Keeling on guitars, Raleigh Charbonneau on drums, and Steve Kalling on bass, balances classic and modern sounds while playing swing to bop, bossas, blues, ballads and beyond. We have fun, swing hard, and put the ‘B’ in subtle.

Evan Disney

Add a little Magic to your First Night 2009. Join me, Evan Disney as I stroll the mall with my friend Mr. Snake, performing impossible feats of close-up Magic before your very eyes. Watch as coins melt through your hand, and small objects fly, as I kick off First Night with a little bit of Magic at Missoula's Southgate Mall.

Dragon's Tales Puppet Theater

Aimed for children ages 4 to 9, puppeteer Mary Wachtel will present a program of folk tales with shadow puppets. She began doing puppet shows at the Missoula Public Library in 1976.

Drum Brothers
www.drumbrothers.com

Drum Brothers present high energy performances that celebrate a diverse mix of world instruments and sounds: West African drums, Middle Eastern frame drums, Australian didgeridoo, close harmony vocals, acoustic guitar, flute, soprano sax, and original arrangements and compositions. For over a decade they have performed throughout the Northwest and in Canada at festivals, performing arts series, school assemblies, dance events, and private celebrations. The members are: Michael and Matthew Marsolek, Lawrence Duncan, and Colin Ruggiero.

Since the early 90s, Drum Brothers have been presenting classes and drum circles for all ages, celebrating the rhythms of life and the joy of community music-making. Over the years, they have brought World rhythm and drumming into schools and educational centers for children and adults. They have drummed with trouble youth, disabled people, bereaved children, and cancer survivors, and have sparked many ongoing community rhythm circles in cities around the Northwest and in Canada.

Dan DuBuque

Dan Dubuque is a multi-talented, solo musician from Polson. He has dedicated his adult life to traveling and learning a plethora of musical styles and instruments. He plays th echarango, ukulele, electric and slide guitars. He sites Charlie Christian, Mississippi John Hurt, Emore James and Jimi Hendrix as some of his eclectic musical influences. He is looking forward to sharing his music with the Missoula area.

Face Painting

Will Farrington - Pyramid Town Installation

"Pyramid Town" is a site specific installation on view at The Whooping Crones Gallery, 508 E. Broadway. More than 60 architecturally inspired ceramic sculptures will constitute a fantasy "Missoula" on display both inside and outside a display window of the gallery. It will be illuminated after dark through the early morning hours of First Night festivities.

First Night Idol Competition
www.missoulacultural.org/firstnightidol

Witness a star being born! The Flagship Program and the Missoula Cultural Council present the fourth annual First Night Idol contest! The preliminary competitions will take place in late November, early December and the finalists will compete on New Year's Eve to claim the title of “First Night Idol 2009.” Kaleidoscope Entertainment will provide the music, and a panel of celebrity judges will help crown the victor! Come cheer for your favorite talent. Sponsored by Cherry Creek Radio and Subway.

John Floridis
www.johnfloridis.com

John Floridis is a 15 year resident in the "Big Sky" having moved here from the strong shouldered, down but never out city of Cleveland, Ohio. He has released 5 recordings mixing bluesy, folk-rock vocal tunes with adventurous solo acoustic guitar compositions . He has been named Missoula's best musician by the Missoula Independent and performed in the Western region for over a decade. He has performed with artists as diverse as Shawn Colvin, Derek Trucks, Patty Griffin, Richard Thompson, Emmylou Harris, Bruce Cockburn, Kelly Joe Phelps, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and Patty Larkin. He is also a producer of Musician's Spotlight and Friday Morning Freeforms for Montana Public Radio and a former Registered Music Therapist. John Floridis performs on acoustic/electric guitar, vocals and manipulated, and sometimes sampled and looped sounds.

The Frederico Brothers

The Frederico Brothers is an accomplished folk act in which the star of the show is the song. The Frederico Brothers are: Bruce Carlson- vocals guita; Phil Hamilton- harmonicas; Paul Kelley- vocals, bass; Roger Moquin- vocals, drums; and Peter Walther- vocals, electric guitar, mandolin. All five live in Missoula, have day jobs and families, and approach music for the creative joy of it. Besides singing songs about trains, death, and love gone wrong, the group focuses on vocal harmonies and great songs- both original and otherwise. The 2003 CD, “Rails,” was the group’s first collective recording project. Outside of our hometown of Missoula, Montana, the CD is available online at cdbaby.com.

Full Grown Men

Full Grown Men focuses on blues and jazz-based dance music, with the emphasis on rhythm, swing, energy and soul. The band was formed among old friends and fellow musicians, based on the idea of playing straight-ahead dance music with lots of fire and fun.

Gaelic Meadowlarks

Bring in the New Year singing! Gaelic Meadowlark invites revelers of all ages to join us for this celebration. Gather around the piano on the third floor of the University Center for a sing along. We are compiling a songbook called Aires, Carols, Jigs, Marches and Reels. If you like Celtic Music, Welsh Choirs or Robert Burns this is for you.

Shaun Gant presents "Wife"
An original work

Join us for a staged reading of "Wife" written by Shaun Gant. Lelu and Jerry are tying the knot for the fourth time each--a triumph of love over experience. And you're invited! The cast and wedding singers warm up from 5:00-5:45pm at the Crystal Theatre.

Glacier Ice Rink
www.glaciericerink.com

Free skating with a first night button (4:00 - 7:00 p.m.). Skate rentals will be $2 for ages 15 and under and $4 for (adults) 16 and over.

Jack Gladstone
www.jackgladstone.com

Jack Gladstone, a grandson of Blackfeet Indian chief Red Crow, guides the audience through myths, animal legends and character portraits into a better understanding of our Native American Heritage. As a singer, songwriter and masterful storyteller, Jack touches the hearts of his audiences with his enlightening narrative and thought-provoking songs about the adventures, triumphs and tragedies of Native America. The presentation includes segments on the wolf, bear, buffalo and horse as well as honors the Navajo Code Talkers of World War II. Historical and contemporary photographs blend with music and narrative to convey the passage of culture and time within North America.

Andrea Harsell

Andrea Harsell has been bringing her vibrant performing style and exceptional songwriting to audiences around the country for over ten years. With a powerful, supple voice and a passel of outstanding original songs, Andrea is a force of nature. Her music defies categorization, as she moves freely between bluegrass, folk, country, and rock ‘n roll. Andrea’s singing is influenced by a wide variety of artists, from Allison Krauss to Alanis Morrisette. But it’s undeniably the spirit of Janis Joplin that seems to drive this vibrant, exciting performer. Andrea will beaccompanied by Louie “The Lead” Bond in her First Night performance.

Headwaters Dance Company
www.headwatersdance.org

Headwaters Dance Co. – Montana’s only professional, contemporary dance, touring company – presents teasers from its upcoming Gala Concert. The five short pieces to be performed represent five different choreographers from New York, and range in style from fast and athletic to delicately gestural. They will also be performing an excerpt from the fourth, and last, section of their multi-year Montana Suite project – about “Custer/Crow Country.” There may even be a little audience participation.

Larry Hirshberg
www.myspace.com/larryhirshbergmusic

Singer/songwriter Larry Hirshberg loves poetry, birds and odd desserts made with green Jell-o. Though his new disc, Ice at Home, is acoustic, Larry also enjoys electric guitar and has played the bass in many groups over the years.

John Holbrook

Long time Missoula resident and author, John Holbrook’s poetry has been characterized as “…modern, thought-provoking, and consistently masculine,” A. Lee Foote, Western American Literature, Vol XXV III. His presentation features, language-driven, image compelling original poetry on the plight and triumphs of our Native American citizens, friends and neighbors.

Ice Carving Chefs

Ice carving has become a special tradition at First Night Missoula! Each year several chefs from the University of Montana Dining services spend all day creating a dazzling display of ice sculpture. This years ice carving spectacle will take place under the Caras Park Tent. From 10:00 am on, you can drop by to see them at their craft. By nightfall, the work is completed and well lit for all to see.

International Wildlife Media Center
www.wildlifefilms.org

Take a walk on the wild side! Enjoy award-winning films from the 30th Anniversary International Wildlife Film Festival. Animals from antelope to zebras; beetles to lemurs...who knows what wild creature will be on the screen...All shows are family-friendly, but may contain some natural predation and/or procreation.

Jazz Graffiti

Jazz Graffiti is Missoula's multi-generational jazz ensemble. Made up of guitar, bass, drums, trumpet and two saxophones, the group performs a lively mix of classic and contemporary jazz. Combining some of Missoula's young jazz musicians with several veteran players, Jazz Graffiti is adept at a variety of styles -- funk, soul, blues, Latin, and swing – and it is adept at pleasing audiences of all ages and musical tastes.

Jeanette Rankin Peace Center - Luminary Peace Sign

Help create a luminary community Peace sign in Caras Park. Bring your votive candle in a paper bag (lunch size) with a small amount of sand to Caras Park, light it from the World Peace Flame, and place it in the circle with your wish for peace. Volunteers from the Jeanette Rankin Peace Center will have extra candles, bags and sand for those who forget materials but want to participate. Weather permitting, the sign will shine a message of peace throughout the night. Sponsored by the Jeanette Rankin Peace Center since First Night 2001. Caras Park, 4:00 pm - midnight.

Jump 4 Joy

An inflatable jump house for the kids to enjoy!

Cannon King

Cannon King has been making balloon animals for the past 8 years and performed professionally as a balloon artist at the Southgate Mall, Farmer’s Market, Joker’s Wild Restaurant and private parties.

Mark King Magic/Hypnosis

Mark King began his career in magic as a “Professional Entertainer” in 1980. Since that time, he has become one of the most frequently requested performers in the Northwest. Mark has made numerous appearances at major corporation trade shows, grade, middle and high schools, colleges, universities, fraternities, sororities, churches, country clubs, restaurants and fairs. His unique blend of comedy and magic are appropriate for all ages.

Mark King added his Hypnosis shows to his act in 1989. Since then he has entertained audiences with hypnosis shows all over the Northwest at fraternities, sororities, corporate parties, high school senior all night parties and fairs. Incorporating music and comedy skits make the hypnosis shows hilarious and unforgettable. The shows are for all ages but geared toward the adult audience.

Bill LaCroix

Bill has been playing traditional and original folk music in the region before the term “Americana” was coined (he thinks) and as the saying on the coveralls puts it, he’s the “genuine article.” His original and “roots” repertoire combines his many years of outdoor work and living in our beloved mountains with the rich influences that have always swirled around our headwaters state—southern old-time, vintage country, swing and Irish.

Larry Curtis and the New Lost Highway Band™

Country Music the way it was , and still should be! "Songs of Life, Love and Heartache"
Larry Curtis, Royal American recording artist, and his New Lost Highway Band, Gibson Hartwell, Steel Guitar and John Sporman, Bass, perform country music from the classic hits to original compositions. For a country music treat, don't miss this show!

Lockwood's Versatiles

The Lockwood’s Versatiles have been performing since 1949 throughout Montana and Washington. They specialize in all types of music for your dancing and listening pleasure, including waltzes, standards, fox trots, jitterbug, polkas, country western, light rock, Latin and easy listening. Featuring: Dick Lockwood (bass and vocals), Mardy Lockwood (piano and vocals), George Lange (lead guitar), Mark Christensen (percussion), and Bill Haffey (saxophone, clarinet and vocals).

Malarkey

Malarkey will have you tapping your toes and clapping your hands to lively jigs and energetic reels. They have entertained Western Montana audiences with Irish traditional music for many years. You may also find yourself singing along to a song or two, as Malarkey celebrates First Night Missoula with the music of Ireland.

Mark Twain

Michael Delaney will portray the subtle humor of Mark Twain. Mark Twain is still widely thought of as a kindly old teller of children’s stories. First Night this year will give that superstition a proper burial.

Amy Martin
www.amymartin.org

Amy Martin was born on an Iowa farm, but has been fully converted into a mountain woman since she moved to Missoula in the fall of 1999. She has released eight albums since then, including Ask the Planet, which is being released with the Missoula Coyote Choir earlier in the evening. Amy will perform a solo set for this year's First Night performance, sharing mostly new, unrecorded songs.

MCAT MovieClub
www.angelfire.com/film/mifs

A collection of short films from MCAT's Movie Club made in and around Missoula. Come in anytime. Families welcome.

Mike Bader Band
www.myspace.com/mikebaderbluesband

Mike Bader has gained national recognition as a powerful artist who delivers high energy performances. Popular at festivals and special events, his unique mix of uptempo R&B, funk, cajun, reggae and low-down boogie gives his blues a deeply rootsy, signature sound, conducive to dancing! Backed by the veteran rhythm section of Larry Hirshberg on bass and Brandon "BZ" Zimmer on drums, the band is often joined by guitarist Ron Meissner.

Bill Mize & Beth Bramhall
www.billmize.com

After a three year absence from the First Night Missoula stage, Bill Mize and Beth Bramhall return for another set of original fingerstyle guitar and accordion instrumental music. Dividing their time between the mountains of Tennessee and Montana, Bill and Beth have played around the country, from the Newport Guitar Festival in Rhode Island to the Healdsburg Festival in California.

Missoula Art Museum
www.missoulaartmuseum.org

Meet at MAM for a performance by Ryan Bundy. Mix a bluesy, folk sound with poignant, poetic, and wry lyrics, and a deep, weathered baritone, and you will have a taste of Ryan Bundy's music. His guitar is sweet and bluesy, and his lyrics paint vivid pictures with few strokes to the canvas.

In addition to Bundy’s performance, stroll through MAM galleries and view: The Wide Open’s interpretations of the Montana high plains, Elk Dogs’ horse imagery created by American Indian artists, Antique Quilts’ symmetrical patterns and pastel palettes, and Shiny, Happy, Pretty’s collaborative multimedia installation.

We will also provide a “creativity station” for kids of all ages to make their own cards and ornaments. Enjoy tasty treats and drinks throughout the day. First Night Hours: 11 am - 5 pm. Free Expression. Free Admission.

The Missoula Coyote Choir
www.asktheplanetcd.org

The Missoula Coyote Choir is celebrating the release of their new CD, Ask the Planet, at First Night this year! This 25-voice ensemble of six- to twelve-year-olds has taken Missoula by storm, with performances at area elementary schools, festivals, and as the opening act for last summer's Ani DiFranco concert. They are thrilled to be back in the Wilma to sing out their love of the natural world and to present their finished album to the community, which features guest artists Bill Harley, Brandi Carlile, Bruce Cockburn, Dar Williams and more. Come join them as they act out "The Great TV Rebellion," ask "What Kind of Animal Are You?" and encourage howlers of all ages to "Get Outside."

MCT's Bits and Pieces

“MCT’s Bits & Pieces” is a shirttail relative of the Missoula Children's Theatre. Consider them the cousin who shows up at the Holiday dinner, bursting into song just when you sit down to eat or the in-law who makes a complete fool of themselves.  They’re quirky, they’re silly and you never know just what they’ll do next! MCT’s Bits & Pieces is a group of local performers, singers and a piano player who present….well...”Bits and Pieces” of familiar Broadway show tunes, ballads and comedic moments while they entertain at company parties, holiday gatherings and conventions.  And then, there’s the thing you look forward to the most--Audience participation *.   
(*Bits & Pieces is not liable for injuries that occur as a result of too much laughter. Void where prohibited by law--may cause dizziness or shortness of breath.)

Missoula Folklore Society
www.montanafolk.org

The Missoula Folklore Society will guide all comers through fun, easy-to-learn community folk dances -- mainly New England contra (a variation of English country dance) and circle dances. Callers Bev Young, Roy Curet & Janet Grove teach each dance and experienced dancers guide the beginners through the dance. No partner or experience needed. Sleeping Child String Band will accompany the dances with lively Appalachian & Irish folk tunes on fiddle, guitar, & piano. Dances work well for dancers aged 8 to 80; younger kids will need an adult guide.

Missoula Now: Missoula's New and Emerging Artists

Come enjoy a group show of painting, drawing, prints, sculpture and photography by Missoula's new and emerging artists, including Courtney Blazon, Jennifer Leutzinger, Shalene Valenzuela, Patricia Thornton, Frank stepek, Tricia Opstad, Jonathan Marquis, Carrie Maynes, Ericka Schenck, Gretal Stoudt, Andy Smetanka, Marcy James, Brad Allen, Edgar Smith, Tim Thornton and more...

Missoula Symphony Brass Quintet

The Missoula Symphony Brass Quintet draws its membership from the Missoula Symphony Orchestra. The ensemble features brilliant pieces from the rich tradition of brass music spanning more than 600 years! You’ll hear classics, pops and everything in between from this regional musical staple!

Missoula Taekwondo Center
www.missoulatkd.com

The Missoula Taekwondo Center Demonstration team, led by Mr. Steve Rosbarsky, is comprised of children and adults who practice Taekwondo on a regular basis. This group will showcase the many elements of Taekwondo that make it the most popular Martial Art in the world at Southgate Mall.

Later, Missoula Taekwondo Center instructor Steve Rosbarsky and other black belts will hold a mini-workshop for children of all ages (3-93) at the Downtown Dance Collective. Taekwondo is a martial art and also a highly successful sport mainly because of the dynamic kicking techniques. Instruction will cover Taekwondo Basics including kicking, blocking, self-defense and how to break a board.

Montana A Capella Society
www.montanaacappella.org

Join the Montana A Cappella Society, a unique vocal ensemble costumed as 1800’s street carolers, as they present a diverse selection of secular and sacred holiday music spanning five centuries.

Montana Clown Work

Curly’s Funtastic Kidzone is a set of interactive game centers for children of all ages and will be open from 4:00 to 9:00. First Night strollers may choose from: the Basketball Center where you can work on that hook shot; the Beautiful Center where you can make wonderful spin-art designs or try your hand at the chalk-board; or the Giggle Blaster. And from 5:00 to 8:00 Uncle Curly the clown will be on hand to giggle, make magic, twist balloons and share in the merriment of this once in a lifetime celebration...enjoy!!!! (children)

Montana Horn Club

The Montana Horn Club (Montana Big Horns) founded in 2004, is an ensemble of French Horns made up of members of the Missoula Symphony Orchestra, The Helena Symphony Orchestra, The Glacier Symphony, The University of Montana, The Missoula City Band and local high school students. The heritage of the horn goes back 400 years and has a long and honored history. Much of the music of the great masters written for horn gives homage to its heritage as the primary instrument of the chase and the hunt. The ensemble's repertoire consists of traditional music for massed horns, and symphonic and popular arrangements.

Montana Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (MOLLI)
www.umt.edu/ce/plus55

The Montana Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UM offers programs that promote the lifelong learning and personal growth of older adults through a diverse collection of non-credit, short courses offered in the fall, winter and spring. MOLLI courses expose learners to Montana's best teachers, including emeritus and current faculty, as well as professionals from the community. For First Night Missoula, the MOLLI program offers the following lectures and interactive workshops for people of all ages:

Big Sky Tales
By Hal Stearns

From Indian tribes to politicians, explorers and writers, soldiers and athletes and cowboys, Montana is loaded with fascinating stories. Hal Stearns will whet your curiosity with a few of his favorites. Hal Stearns is a native of Harlowton with generations of ranchers, homesteaders and newsmen in his family. He has a B.A. from the University of Notre Dame an M.A. and doctorate from UM. He taught for 34 years in Germany, at Sentinel High School and UM. Honored as Montana’s Teacher of the Year and Outstanding U.S. History Teacher, he was a recipient of two National Endowment of the Humanities grants and was a Keizai Koho Fellow to Japan. He also served in the Montana Army National Guard for 35 year attaining the rank of Brigadier General.

On the Verge of the New Year: A Community Conversation about Forgiveness
By Gary Hawk

In this event, Professor Gary W. Hawk will present ideas on the value of forgiveness on the cusp of the New Year. His presentation will be based on his experience teaching forgiveness and reconciliation for twelve years at The University of Montana. After introducing a helpful theoretical framework, Professor Hawk would like to engage the audience in a conversation about forgiveness. Together we might explore topics such as: Who benefits from forgiveness? Is forgiveness a decision or a process? How does power affect forgiveness? Why is it crucial to distinguish between forgiveness and reconciliation? What stories can the community tell about forgiveness, its effect on relationships, and its possible outcome in reconciliation? Gary W. Hawk is an adjunct assistant professor in the Davidson Honors College where he teaches Ways of Knowing, Forgiveness, and Reconciliation, and other courses. He has taught MOLLI courses two previous years. He is an amateur poet and fine woodworker. When not teaching he can sometimes be found in his sea Kayak.

Montana PBS presents: Curious George and Martha of "Martha Speaks"

Montana PBS has invited Martha of "Martha Speaks" and Curious George to First Night Missoula 2009! They will be greeting kids of all ages, having pictures taken, and joining in the fun and festivities.

Montana Super Skippers
www.montanasuperskippers.org

The Montana Super Skippers is an educational program designed to acquaint students throughout Montana and the United States with the art of precision rope-skipping. The Super Skippers perform for many community events and compete in local, regional and national tournaments. They have traveled to Florida and Tennessee to compete in national championships, bringing home many ribbons and medals from these tournaments.

Mudslide Charley
MySpace

MudSlide Charley plays the blues, carving out an original sound from the rich, fertile dirt of the Mississippi Delta. How specifically this nefarious muse came to bane our existence in the Rocky Mountain West is anybody's guess. MudSlide Charley speaks with raw conviction and gutbucket bravado to tell the story of our lives. This music we play, at times, may not be pretty, but sewn in the fabric of our rough hewn costume resides magic, emotion, truth and momentary salvation.

Kelli studies and performs various styles of dance, including classic belly dance, tribal style belly dance, Spanish/Gypsy fusion and Hula. The First Night performance will include Kelli and student dancers performing the beautiful and mesmerizing art of belly dance and Hula.

New Year's Thrashin' Eve

Celebrate the New Year at the Missoula Boys & Girls Club from 8:00 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. with bands "A Rose Upon the Ashes," "Alive in the Massacre," and a special guest appearance.

The Octopus

The Octopus is Greg Nowak, 11-time state champion and national master with over 42 years of chess-playing experience. Greg is called the Octopus because of his ability to play as many as 56 games of chess at once. He makes his moves in 5 to 15 seconds and welcomes players of all ages and abilities. Nowak will play continuously; opponents will come and go. Spectators are welcome.

Parade of Hats

First Night 2009 begins at the JC Penny court at Southgate Mall with the annual Children's Parade of Hats. You provide the hat, and the Mall will provide the decorations! Come anytime after 12:00 noon and bring your imagination. Prizes, refreshments and entertainment. Join us to kick off the celebration!

Parson's Pony Farm
www.parsonsponies.com

The popular Parsons' ponies will provide hand-led rides for children under 100 lbs. from 3 to 6 pm.   The friendly ponies are available year round for parties, lessons, and trail rides.  

Russell Perri

Singer/Pianist Russell Perri has performed hundreds of Solo Concerts and Performances. His piano style has been likened to that of George Winston. His vocals are strong, yet smooth and inviting. Here him perform songs by Billy Joel, Elton John, The Beatles and others along with his own original piano & vocal compositions.

Pipe Dreams

Pipe Dreams is a chamber music trio featuring the talents of tubist, Ben Kirby, pianist AnnChristine Bashor and percussionist, Troy Bashor. The mission of these highly trained musicians is to light audiences on fire with exciting, meaningful and educational concert presentations. They draw upon a richly diverse variety of music - from classic and popular selections to rip-snort barn-burners to original works for this unusual instrumentation. The operative words are FUN! FUN! FUN! for the whole family!

Ramblin' Rose
www.ramblinrosebluegrass.com

The Missoula bluegrass duo, Ramblin’ Rose, combines the musical talents of Phyllis Erck and Curtis Rathburn. When the two met several years ago, there was magic in the air when they spontaneously started singing harmonies together. They’re musical backgrounds are vastly diverse. Curtis is a former rock ‘n roll singer and blues guitar sensation. Phyllis Erck is a classically trained vocalist gone old timey. Their quest for common musical ground produced a unique interpretation of bluegrass, gospel and honky tonk selections with Curtis’ basso profundo and Phyllis’ high soprano voice accompanied by Curtis’ soulful guitar moves and Phyllis’ capturing accompaniment on her resonator guitar.

Rhanda Johnson and Bruce Allen
www.rhandajohnson.com

Song writer Rhanda Johnson and her partner, Bruce Allen, are starting their third year of making beautiful music together. The duo performs originals, folk, bluegrass and jazz. Rhanda's song writing style, inspired by her life's journey, is personal and welcoming. Together they’ll warm your hearts, as well as their own, with lyrical and engaging songs and sweet harmonies.

Rocky Mountain Ballet Theatre

This Fall, the Rocky Mountain Ballet Theatre turns Ten! From the stunning individuality and dramatic, expressive style of the RMBT dancers to the costumes, terrific music, vibrant repertory and our daily Missoula resident activities we present the diverse cultures of our Montana to the rest of the world...through dance. In addition to a live performance for First Night Missoula, a documentary about the RMBT trip to China will be screened at the Roxy Theater.

Salsa Loca

Salsa Loca, Missoula's premier Latin-Music band, specializes in the fiery Afro-Cuban sounds of mambo, cha-cha, guaracha and guaguanco, along with samba, merengue and other Caribbean and South American styles. This is ideal dance music for experienced salsa dancers and novices alike.

Sentinel High School Jazz Band

The Sentinel High School Jazz Band is a big band, specializing in the performance of classic, standard tunes from the 40's for your dancing and listening pleasure. Come and enjoy an afternoon of great tunes played wonderfully by a group of very talented and sharing student musicians. We will all have a great time!

Sidhe

American Chanson: where folk and classical meet for coffee. With honesty and an unstuffy virtuosity, Sidhe delivers poignant originals for voice and fingerstyle guitar alongside both classic and obscure cover material spanning the last 200 years.
http://www.guitarandvoice.com

Silk Stocking

The catalyst fo rhte formation of Silk Stocking was a shared passion for performing jazz standards and Big Band-era music. Vocalists Edie Smith, Magda Chaney and Sally Ethridge recreate that timeless era when composers like Cole Porter, the Gershwins, and Duke Ellington were penning their immortal tunes. This distinctive music helped the people of a nation thorugh The Depression and World War II: through its eyes we are allowed glimpses of their resulting hardships, lifestyles and relationships.
Joining Silk Stocking are Jane Micklus on piano, Pete Hand on bass and Roger Moquin on drums--a trio occasionally known as Garden City Jazz--all of whom may be familiar to Missoula audiences. Silk Stocking and Garden City Jazz promise you a unique and pleasurable listening experience, with tuneful harmonies that are guaranteed to put you in the mood!

Sky Moose
http://www.myspace.com/skymoosemissoula

Come and get down when the Sky Moose lands in the UC Ballroom for First Night. The moose brings back the groove with a high-energy set ranging from raucous interpretations of jazz standards and funk classics to original jazz, funk, reggae and soul music.

SpectrUM
spectrum.umt.edu

SpectrUM Discovery Area presents "Science Fiction," a theatrical science-based performance for all ages developed and performed by Actor and Scientist Rebecca Sporman.

In addition to the performance, SpectrUM presents "Science in Your World," a dynamic and stimulating hands-on Science Museum. Explore magnetism with powerful radar magnets, marvel at the microscopic world, explore optics through a guided cow eyeball dissection, and much more! This unique go-anywhere museum features 15 different exhibits and activities for the whole family.

Story Keepers

StoryKeepers is a nonprofit organization promoting the telling and gathering of stories. It was originally established to honor the life stories of all people. On First Night, StoryKeepers will host story tellers who will share Missoula's past; we will also form a story circle for anyone who wishes to add to our collective Missoula experience.

Tangled Tones & Club Shmed Studios
www.tangledtones.com

Music & Time: How we got Here from There...
Take a trip through time on the waves of music. Beginning with West-African Drumming, then traveling to America on the notes of Folk Music, Blues, Jazz, Bluegrass, Country right on through to good old Rock 'n Roll! Be prepared for a diverse and energetic show! Groups have been formed from local Missoulians of all ages to perform songs on guitar, piano, banjo, mandolin, voice, bass and more. Directed by Matthew Nord, owner of Tangled Tones Music Studio & Ryan Maynes, owner of Club Shmed Studios. This will be an on going program for years to come that is open to all who are interested, visit our website to get involved – we are all musical, we all have something to share!

Tango Nouveau

It was Argentinean composer Astor Piazzolla's lifelong aspiration to develop his native tango as a musical art form. His music is avant-garde, complex and difficult to perform while extremely exciting. Maxine Ramey, clarinet; Brooke Florence, alto saxophone; Chuck Florence, tenor saxophone; Lewis Nelson, baritone saxophone and Rich Brinkman on drums have pooled their talents as "Tango Nouveau" to bring Piazzolla's music to First Night.

The Red Tent

The Red Tent Bellydancers combine a variety of bellydance styles into what is referred to as World Fusion dance. Cabaret and tribal styles of bellydance, as well as jazz, hip hop, and gothic fusion influences are portrayed throughout each performance and encouraged as a direct means for individual expression. This performance will include several individual dance pieces from the studio instructors, as well as a troupe improv piece. The Red Tent Dancers will be joined by local bellydancers including tribal dancer Estella, Marguerite and her Tribal Fusion dancers, and many others.

David E. Thomas

David E. Thomas continues to write about life in Missoula. His latest book is "The Hellgate Wind."

Tom and the Tomatoes

Tom and the Tomatoes, a group of four female musician/vocalists and one guitar-slinging cowboy from Dutton, lends their lush harmonies to songs selected from rock, celtic, jazz, blues, gypsy, folk, klezmer and country-swing libraries. The songs feature each of the musicians taking turns delivering raw, soulful lead vocals, backed by harmonies, guitars, accordion, mandolin, fiddle, flute, egg percussion, and stand-up bass.

Travelers' Rest Preservation and Heritage Association

Make your own Parfleche--the "Indian Suitcase"
This family-friendly program invites participants to explore a tradition of form and function that has been widespread among Native American tribes of the Great Plains, Rocky Mountain, and Northwest Plateau regions for at least 300 years. The parfleche, a painted rawhide container of various sizes and shapes, represents both a culturally distinctive art form and a fundamentally utilitarian object that was used by many Native peoples to store and carry food and possessions.

In this First Night activity, Travelers' Rest Preservation and Heritage Association (TRPHA) provides kids and their families the opportunity to learn about the history and cultural dimensions of the parfleche, to view examples made by contemporary artisans, and to create personalized cardboard and string models of envelope-style parfleches. This activity will help to highlight Western Montana's cultural diversity by exhibiting one of the many cultural traditions alive in our communities.

Troupe 483

Do you want to be entertained? Do you want to see some side-splitting comedy? Come see Sentinel High School's Thespian Troupe 483 perform a variety show. Students will showcase improvisation games and prepared scenes for an entertaining afternoon of theatre.

Two Cats and a Fiddle

Spend one of your early evening hours during First Night with Two Cats & a Fiddle. Ellie Nuno, fiddle, Charles Seitz, guitar 'master', and Pete Hand, bassist 'extraordinaire' join musical minds for this important "turning point" celebration. Together, they explore the wide world of musical possibilities with momentum and style.

Unity Dance and Drum

Unity Dance and Drum performs high-energy West African and Zimbabwean music and dance—athletic dances, bright costumes, and musical arrangements that use mbira (thumb piano), bells, voice and a variety of drums. This ensemble is dedicated to having fun and we encourage the audience to join in the joyous celebration to bring in the New Year.

Unity Dance and Drum - Class with Tarn Ream

Tarn will teach an introductory West African dance class for people of all ages, experiences and abilities--accompanied by live drum music. Participants will be lead through a short warm-up to stretch out and start listening to the drum rhythms. Tarn will then teach movements specific to a traditional dance, breaking every move down, as necessary, for participants. This is an energetic event and fantastic family activity for First Night.

Erinn Williams
www.erinnwilliams.com

Erinn Williams is known for her beautiful melodies and songs that have a delicate, breakable edge to them. Erinn plays electric guitar with delay, and sometimes adds looped vocals and instrumentation to her performance. Her outstanding vocals, strong stage presence, and trademark deadpan humor add charm to a fantastic performance.

Erinn has spent 2008 embarking on several tours to the UK, France and Belgium to support the release of her cd "Digging in the Dirt." She is also currenty busy writing and recording her next full-length CD due to be released in Spring 2009.

Lee Zimmerman

Humor, heart and an eclectic mix characterize cellist, singer and songwriter Lee Zimmerman. The traditional role for cello players in pop music is mellow background for the occasional ballad, Lee Zimmerman brings the cello into its own. Classical roots support stylistic influences from american pop music, swing, jazz and world music. He may surprise you with a 16th century dance tune from the courts of Europe, a jazz number with vocals, or one of his own songs from the heart. He is an innovator both musically and technically and a master of improv.