FPST Celebrates Golden Anniversary

From wondering whether there would be a next season to wondering which shows to put on next season, that is how far the Fort Peck Summer Theatre has come in 50 years. And there is so much more to look forward to in the next 50 years and beyond.

The theatre celebrated their 50th anniversary this past weekend, June 28-30. "So much has changed," Andy Meyers, artistic director, told the Courier. Though as Megan Wiltshire was quick to add, "So much has stayed the same." The weekend celebrated the past and the growth of the theatre, with a clear eye looking forward. As Meyers, Wiltshire and Jay Roberts reflected on how the weekend had gone, they also mused on what the 75th reunion would look like, debating whether it would involve a Mamma Mia revival. Roberts, in a nod to a particularly intense dance number from the show, laughingly questioned, "Flippers at 55?"

The weekend was nonstop according to the crew. "We did eight shows in five days," Wiltshire said. In addition to the performances of Mamma Mia, there was also a revival of Oklahoma, featuring many of the original cast members. "It was so much fun to watch," said Meyers. "The director really had to keep rehearsals going since there was so much catching up to do." There was a BBQ between shows, and Saturday night, theatre goers were treated to a music extravaganza, featuring cast members from former generations. "Debra Berger came and did a Patsy Cline number," said Wiltshire. "We had three Annies from, well, Annie. Two Rizzos from Grease."

That first show started perhaps more than anyone could have expected. In addition to the theatre, the pride and joy of northeastern Montana, at least three couples met and married because of that first season. The whole project started from a post in the newspaper, asking for folks interested in starting a theatre group to meet at the Elks, which was news to many current cast members. "Nostalgia overload," is how Roberts affectionately described the whole weekend.

The throwback to past years is not limited to the reunion weekend though. In Mamma Mia, and for every production this season, Meyers has found a place for every alum who wanted to be involved. "I don't think I turned anyone away. I told them, like Hailey Stone, I would hold spots for them." In a season that is blend of old and new, past and future, Wiltshire says, "We also have a nice group of new kids here." Meyers talked of all the memories in the building, how the weekend brought people together and back together.

Glasgow Middle School teacher Lizzie Hoeksema attended Friday night's performance. "The singing and dancing was amazing. As always." Hoeksema is a longtime theatre fan and transplant from Michigan. She started attending the Barn Theatre in Augusta, Mich., at four when her grandma took her to see A Chorus Line, not realizing the mature content of the show. "I was so pumped to find out there was a theatre here. It's so fantastic."

Hoeksema's love of the Fort Peck Summer Theatre extends beyond attending as many shows as she can. She also helps direct the middle school plays in Glasgow. When she speaks of her students and former students who will be participating in the theatre, she lights up with pride and joy. There is also gratefulness for theatre members who have fully embraced the local community and give so much back. She gives particular credit to Roberts, who attends the golden ticket night of the middle school play and provides feedback and support to the students. "They do so much for the kids, beyond what they kids can get through the school, like the theatre camp," she explained. "It is nice that super talented kids get that outlet and grow. Such a cool resource."

The 50th Reunion weekend saw lots of firsts and lots of experience share the stage, with many artists giving credit to the Fort Peck Summer Theatre for their careers and success. Wiltshire summed it up, "It speaks to the power of the theatre and the connection it's provided."