Montana's Treasures: THE WILMA THEATRE

Montana is a relatively new place, compared to other parts of the world. Many of the structures are only a couple hundred years old, and some of them have more cultural significance than others. The Wilma Theatre is a place where local and traveling acts create living, adventurous art. This theatre is a staple in my childhood and life, so let's get into the history of it.

As you may be able to tell from the gorgeous and intricate architecture, or the prime location in Missoula, The Wilma is 102 years old. Built in 1921, this theatre is a hub for movies, two world-famous film festivals, as well as wide variety of concerts and other performances. It's located in the "Heart of Missoula," right in the middle of downtown, which makes it great for a night out paired with local eats and drinks!

Edna Wilma and W.A. "Billy" Simmons are the founders, who sought to bring culture and art to the developing Montana scene. W.A. originally built the theatre in dedication to his wife Edna, who was also an opera singer. The high-rise features key features of Sullivanesque architecture. In the 8 story structure, there's apartments above the theatre, maximizing the space. Not only is it a historical landmark in the skyline of Montana, it's also a great place to enjoy live entertainment. Comedy shows, spoken word, local and touring music, plays and more roll through the Wilma every day.

You'll be brought back to the 1920's era with a vintage box office, and smaller theaters to provide an intimate viewing experiencing. At one point, the basement had a swimming pool, named the "Crystal Plunge," but due to structural issues the pool was closed after only 10 years. Unfortunately, it's now only used as additional storage. Personally, I think they should bring the pool back because that sounds so awesome. Anyway, there was a theatre organ that originally lived in the Wilma until the 1950s, but then it was replaced with a Robert Morton organ from a theatre in Washington.

Now, the venue is equipped with everything you need to put on a great show! With a full PA system, stage monitors with a Yamaha M7 consoles as a core, as well as a secondary PA system for the movie screen. This makes the venue as diverse as it is historic and beautiful, and enables plenty of diverse shows to hold their viewings and events there. Dedicated to local artists and emerging acts, you'll be sure to catch something spectacular and new at the Wilma.

To find events coming up at the Wilma, you can check out their Facebook page!

Although the Wilma hosts plenty of intimate viewing events and shows, the Wilma Theatre also has the largest indoor screen in Montana! This big, curved silver screen enables them to host film festivals, and nightly movie showings. The Wilma is also prime location, right above the gorgeous river, and down the street/above plenty of great local restaurants, shops and more!

If you don't believe me, here's some testimonies directly from their Facebook page!

"Awesome venue! up close and personal, no matter where you are inside!" - Steve Dray

"Amazing variety of music, high-class service, Great beers, top notch sound, and Best of all the theater provides an atmosphere where people can be themselves. The Wilma is the one of the things that makes Missoula truly wonderful to live in." - Nathan Noble

"First time visitor. Perfect venue to see my favorite stars. Cozy, Friendly, Intimate Setting. No jerks or pushy security. I will definitely be back." - Misty Brooks

"Love, love, love the Wilma. My brother and I go there about once a month. Such a great addition to our part of Montana. Last night we saw Trombone Shorty and it was the finest show we have seen this year and we have been to two sold out shows at the Kettlehouse Amphitheater, Lyle Lovett and his Large Band and Tedeski Trucks Band. Next month is Jason Isbell and then who knows, the Wilma and Logjam will bring something for everybody." - Pj Shea