Joe Faifer’s Artistic Director’s Statement:
“It brings me extraordinary joy and excitement to be joining Bozeman Actor’s Theatre as Artistic Director. For the better half of a decade, I’ve been lucky to work alongside some of the most talented Montana artists and performers; witnessing first hand their passion. With the rich history behind Bozeman Actor’s Theatre and Montana’s many arts organizations, I believe together we can, and will, sustain a thriving arts community that is welcoming to all.
When it comes to the theater, I see it as less of a stage with performers and audience members, and more of a community gathering where we share hopes, dreams, fears, victories, defeat, angst, love and all of our other human qualities for a short while. As Artistic Director, I will make it my number one priority to remain true to these qualities when leading the way for the creation of these dynamic stories; and will do so with all members of our communities regardless of age, race, gender or beliefs. I will strive to ensure the theater remains a place where all are welcome.”
Our Mission
Bozeman Actors Theatre welcomes all who wish to explore the depths of humanity on the stage. We strive to enliven our community through captivating theatrical performances that encourage compelling conversations.
Our Values
Inclusivity
We welcome all who wish to participate in theatrical endeavours with an open door policy to all community members. We present ourselves as a facilitator of compelling dialogue, rather than the harbinger of truth.
Artistic Intention
We hold ourselves to professional standards in every production and strive to echo the themes and ideas in our productions not just through our local community, but on a global scale.
Community
While based in Bozeman, we recognize the passion and devotion the entire Montana community has developed for all arts organizations; and are humbled to be welcomed into this space. We are proud to utilize local talent, and remain a solid foundation for all local community members who wish to share their stories and aspirations.
Civility
Bozeman Actors Theatre treats all members of our organization with respect. We support all who work as a part of our team; while providing additional support to other local arts organizations who seek our partnership.
History
Founded in 2008 as Actors Theatre of Montana, our company produced several challenging and rewarding plays and readings in its early years in locations ranging from intimate theaters to historic large houses. Venues included the Black Box Theater on the Montana State University campus, The Dulcie in Livingston, and The Verge (Equinox) Theater and The Ellen Theatre in Bozeman.
In 2014, a core group of actors and community members came together to achieve more permanence and growth for the company and to better serve the community. Bozeman Actors Theatre was incorporated in the state of Montana, and in the fall of that year, BAT presented The Language Archive as the first production under our new identity.
Today Bozeman Actors Theatre operates as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, governed by a volunteer board of directors.
Bozeman Actors Theatre was founded in 2009 by Cara Wilder and Dee Dee Van Zyl, previously known as Actors Theatre of Montana
Our Late Co-Founder
Dee Dee Van Zyl (1950-2018)
Dee Dee Van Zyl, our beloved co-founder, patron, friend, and inspiration, passed away on May 3, 2018. She was the light of our stage and will be forever missed.
No biography can do justice to all that Dee Dee meant to our company. Over the years she directed our productions of God of Carnage and A Streetcar Named Desire, among others. She last appeared in BAT's Marjorie Prime (2017), and her other major roles included Sonia in Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike, Alta in The Language Archive, and Violet in August: Osage County. Dee Dee also performed in many roles at MSU’s Black Box Theater and Seattle’s Intiman Theatre, Empty Space Theatre, Pioneer Square Theatre, Bathhouse Theatre, and New City Theatre. In Portland, Oregon, Dee Dee performed with Portland Rep at Portland State University, the Storefront Theatre, and the New Rose Theatre. She received her training at Portland State University and over the years taught acting at Portland State University, Tacoma Community College, and at Montana State University.
Dee Dee is survived by her spouse and partner, Ursula Neese, another great friend of our company. Their relationship was part soulmates, part business partners, and part adventure companions. Together they were ubiquitous supporters of great theater in Livingston and Bozeman.