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The mission of the Glacier Performing Arts Center is to bring the excitement of the performing arts to the people of Northwest Montana and to enhance the quality of life in Flathead Valley and the surrounding region by presenting a broad spectrum of vibrant arts events while providing a home for local musical, theatrical, cultural, and educational groups.
Groundwork: Building a Strong Foundation
Through Research and Planning
2001
- Formal exploration began regarding the feasibility of having a regional performing arts center for area
2002
- The firm ArtsMarket of Bozeman conducted a feasibility study that indicated that the Flathead Valley and NW Montana could support a Performing Arts Center with a seating capacity of 1,200 -1,300 seats.
- Flathead County Commissioners approved the Flathead County Consolidated Economic Development Strategy, which identified the development of a regional performing arts center as a major economic development goal.
- GPAC incorporated and received tax-exempt status under 501(c)(3)
- Steering Committee was activated
- Architectural firm, LMN of Seattle, was selected through a competitive process to guide the Board. LMN reflected credible experience, knowledge, and skills in designing an acoustically sound music hall that could be used for multiple purposes. LMN has successfully completed music halls similar to the GPAC proposal, in addition to Benaroya Hall in Seattle.
2003
- Performing arts centers throughout the country were contacted
- LMN provided architectural recommendations
- Kymera and ArtsMarket provided business plan research and guidance
2004
- Business and programming plans were refined
- Site request for proposals were solicited and received
- Fund-raising feasibility study was conducted by CDS
- Quiet discussion regarding the project was on-going
2005
- HyettPalma Report for the City of Kalispell highly emphasized the economic value and importance of having performing arts activities in downtown Kalispell
- December - land was donated for the PAC and parking, adjacent to and north of Kalispell Center Mall, by the owners of Red Lion Inn and Kalispell Center Mall, subject to a successful capital campaign
- Quiet discussions with interested parties continue
2006
- Local architectural firm CTA provided preliminary, site specific, conceptual drawings and costs
- Phase I Environmental Assessment conducted
- GPAC Capital Campaign Advisory Council appointed
- Quiet campaign of lead and major donors accelerated
- A conditional donation, based on receipt of matching funds, was given in August for the purpose of hiring an executive director, expanding
- conceptual architectural drawings, and developing promotional materials. Match was readily obtained.
- Executive Director was hired
2007
- Architectural drawings and floor plans updated and revised for additional detail
- GPAC accelerates critical informational and capital campaign activities
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