Trail 1033

Mike Smith is joined in-studio by Lynn Wood and Sean Higgins of Storyhouse Montana for an in-depth conversation about the transformation of the former Roseburg Mill site in Missoula into a major new hub for film, media production, workforce training, and community development.Storyhouse Montana is reimagining the industrial complex as a full-service production facility designed to attract mid-sized film and television projects while prioritizing Montana-based talent, local hiring, and long-term economic reinvestment. The conversation explores how the project connects with Montana's growing creative economy, the challenge of retaining young talent in the state, and the role of partnerships with the University of Montana and Missoula College in building hands-on training and internship pathways.Lynn Wood and Sean Higgins also discuss the broader vision for the site, including job creation, sustainable redevelopment, and even future housing components designed to support incoming crews and local workers. More than a studio project, Storyhouse Montana aims to become a community-centered engine for storytelling, blending filmmaking, craftsmanship, and economic opportunity in the heart of Missoula.From Hollywood-scale production ambitions to hyperlocal workforce development, this episode looks at how one of Missoula's largest industrial sites is being reshaped into a new creative cornerstone for Montana's film future.

Mike Smith is joined in-studio by former Trail 103.3 program director and longtime DJ Robert Chase, along with his daughter Mazzy Chase, for a conversation that blends radio history with a deeply personal story. Now living with type 1 diabetes for over 26 years, Mazzy was diagnosed at just 20 months old—an experience that reshaped her family's life and led Robert to become actively involved with what is now Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF).Breakthrough T1D is a leading nonprofit dedicated to funding research, advancing technology, and ultimately finding a cure for type 1 diabetes. Through decades of innovation—from daily injections to insulin pumps and smartphone-connected care—the organization has helped improve quality of life for millions, while continuing to push toward a future without the disease.The conversation also highlights the upcoming Breakthrough T1D Walk in Missoula, a community-driven event that brings together families, supporters, and advocates to raise funds and awareness. With reflections on resilience, progress, and the power of showing up, this episode underscores the importance of community support and continued investment in life-changing research.Event Info: Breakthrough T1D Walk — Ogren Park, Sunday @ 2:00 PM (check-in at 1:00 PM), featuring a three-mile walk along the Clark Fork River, community resources, and fundraising opportunities.

Mike Smith is joined live in-studio by Bob from Free Cycles to talk about spring riding in Missoula—and the future of one of the city's most community-driven spaces.At the heart of the conversation is the Free Cycles “Forever Campaign,” an effort to secure the long-term sustainability of the organization by paying off its property and expanding its impact. The campaign supports everything from youth programming and hands-on bike education to innovative pedal-powered systems and the vision of taking the space fully off-grid.Free Cycles has long served as a hub for transportation equity, offering free tools, repair guidance, and access to bikes for anyone who walks through the door. But as Bob explains, it's about more than bikes—it's about creating a true “third place” where people can gather, connect, and participate without financial barriers.Listeners will also hear about upcoming events, live music, and seasonal opportunities to get involved, all while supporting a mission rooted in accessibility, sustainability, and community.

In this episode, Mike Smith sits down with Joy French of Bare Bait Dance and the Westside Theater to talk about the energy, creativity, and community behind 40 Over 40—Missoula's sold-out dance showcase celebrating performers stepping back into the spotlight.Joy shares how dancers of all experience levels are taking on new styles, pushing past self-doubt, and rediscovering the joy of movement. From first-time choreography on a high school poms squad to leading a production with over 100 community members, her journey highlights the power of saying “yes” to something new—at any age.The conversation explores how dance becomes more than performance—it's connection, creativity, and a chance to challenge yourself in ways that feel both vulnerable and rewarding. Plus, they dive into what makes the Westside Theater such a special, intimate venue, and how its programming—from community shows to youth camps—continues to bring people together.Even if you missed out on tickets, this episode captures the spirit of 40 Over 40: taking risks, finding your people, and remembering that it's never too late to try something new.

Mike Smith sits down with Carolyn Buchta, the creator of Dance Til Dusk—Missoula's ultimate early-evening dance party for women (and their friends!). Carolyn shares the story behind the event, how it brings together people of all ages and backgrounds, and why it's all about fun, friendship, and great music—no pressure, no pretense.Learn about the pre-party at the newly relaunched Florence Cocktail Bar, the all-natural “gems” (fancy jello shots!), Dance Til Dusk punch, and how attendees can come solo or with a gaggle of friends. Carolyn also chats about her quirky radio persona as “the chick who doesn't know sports” on ESPN 102.9 and her love of dancing to both old-school and new-school tunes.If you've ever wanted a night out that feels like a sleepover with friends—but with drinks and a dance floor—this episode is for you.

Mike Smith is joined live in-studio by Missoula-based choreographer and educator Colleen Rosbarsky ahead of Rubber Soul Reimagined, a musical cabaret inspired by The Beatles iconic 1965 album.Presented in collaboration with the University of Montana School of Music and School of Theatre and Dance, the production brings the entire Rubber Soul album to life through live performance, dance, and storytelling. Featuring student vocalists, a live band, and original choreography rooted in 1960s dance styles, the show explores both the music and cultural influence of the era.Audiences can expect a dynamic blend of song, movement, and narrative—including period-inspired go-go dance, scenes highlighting Beatles history, and even a filmed interpretation of “Norwegian Wood.” The production reflects on the enduring legacy of the album and its continued relevance across generations.Rubber Soul Reimagined runs at the Zootown Arts Community Center showroom.

Today we're celebrating James McMurtry turning 64, so we went into the Trail Vault and pulled out a live session we recorded at the Top Hat Lounge in downtown Missoula on June 3rd, 2015.Craig Johnson was on site for this,  just a sitting on the booths with a couple mics, and a really honest conversation with James, plus a few live performances while patrons and tourists alike sat around unsuspectingly enjoying their Top Hat lunch.If you were there, this might take you right back.If you weren't, this is about as close as it gets.—The Trail 103.3 Missoula, Montana [Trail Vault]

 Colter Nuanez is joined by filmmaker Scott Diener, director of Big Sky Falling, ahead of the film's premiere at the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival. Now in its 23rd year, the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival (BSDFF) is the largest nonfiction film festival in the American West. Presented by the Big Sky Film Institute, the festival brings filmmakers and audiences together for a dynamic week of screenings, conversations, and community events in the heart of downtown Missoula. BSDFF is also an Academy Award® Qualifying Festival.Big Sky Falling (2026, 92 min) revisits the mid-2000s drug and murder scandal that rocked Montana State University and stunned the Bozeman community. Through exclusive interviews, investigative audio, and newly uncovered records, the film explores the complex intersection of college athletics, race, recruiting practices, and accountability — nearly 20 years after the events unfolded. More than a true-crime story, the documentary examines systemic blind spots and asks difficult questions about justice, memory, and redemption.Festival Screening Info: Big Sky Falling — Wilma Theatre, Sunday @ 2:30 PM (Big Sky Documentary Film Festival).

Parker Peddicord is joined live in-studio by Missoula-based filmmaker Jordan Hoffmaster, director and producer of Something to Hold, ahead of the film's World Premiere at the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival.Now in its 23rd year, the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival (BSDFF) is the largest nonfiction film festival in the American West and is presented by the Big Sky Film Institute, bringing filmmakers and audiences together for a packed slate of screenings, conversations, and community events in the heart of downtown Missoula. BSDFF is an Academy Award® Qualifying Festival.The film itself, Something to Hold (2025, 27 min), follows a Montana mountaineering artist during the final summer of a decade-long project to draw every named glacier in the state. Set in the wilds of Montana, the short documentary reflects on time spent in the wilderness and bears witness to awe-inspiring landscapes, exploring human connection to nature through art, memory, and stewardship.World Premiere info: Something to Hold — Wilma Theatre, Sunday, Feb. 22 @ 1:00 PM (Big Sky Documentary Film Festival).

Mike Smith sits down live in-studio with documentary directors Emily Schuman and Dave Schuman ahead of the World Premiere screening of The Baker's Hotline at the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival in Missoula. Now in its 23rd year, the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival (BSDFF) is the largest nonfiction film festival in the American West and is presented by the Big Sky Film Institute, bringing filmmakers and audiences together for a packed slate of screenings, conversations, and community events in the heart of downtown Missoula. BSDFF is an Academy Award®-qualifying festival.The film itself, The Baker's Hotline (2026, 13 min), follows the dedicated team at King Arthur Flour in Vermont as they run a hotline for baking emergencies. From home bakers to professional kitchens, callers reach out with questions, crises, and last-minute baking challenges. Through intimate, often humorous, and sometimes touching exchanges, the film captures the humanity, patience, and creativity of the hotline specialists, revealing how a shared love of baking connects people across the country.World Premiere info: The Baker's Hotline, Screening at the Wilma, Friday, Feb 20th @ 5:30 pm and Saturday, Feb 21st @ 12:30 pm

Tommy Evans is joined live in-studio by filmmaker Elijah Sullivan and composer Desan Sullivan ahead of the Montana Premiere screening of The Hole Story at the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival in Missoula.Now in its 23rd year, the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival (BSDFF) is the largest nonfiction film festival in the American West and is presented by the Big Sky Film Institute. The festival brings filmmakers and audiences together for a packed slate of screenings, conversations, and community events in the heart of downtown Missoula. BSDFF is an Academy Award® Qualifying Festival.The Hole Story (2024) is a mystery-driven documentary that begins when a massive, illegal hole is discovered carved deep into the side of Mount Shasta. What starts as a local curiosity quickly unfolds into a larger examination of myth, obsession, and the stories communities tell themselves when confronted with the unexplainable. Blending original investigation, archival material, and an evocative original score, the film explores how folklore, secrecy, and belief collide — and what happens when truth proves harder to uncover than legend.

Mike Smith sits is joined live in-studio by Bill Payne (Little Feat co-founder, keyboardist, singer/songwriter) and documentary director Jesse Lauter ahead of the World Premiere screening of Little Feat: The Documentary at the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival in Missoula.Now in its 23rd year, the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival (BSDFF) is the largest nonfiction film festival the American west and is presented by the Big Sky Film Institute, bringing filmmakers and audiences together for a packed slate of screenings, conversations, and community events in the heart of downtown Missoula. BSDFF is an Academy Award® Qualifying Festival.The film itself, Little Feat: The Documentary (2026, 137 min), is narrated by Jeff Bridges and dives deep into the of one of America's most influential (and often lesser-known) bands. Featuring never-before-seen footage and stories from friends and collaborators (including Bonnie Raitt, Linda Ronstadt, Jackson Browne, Elvis Costello among others, and members of the Doobie Brothers, Phish, and the Grateful Dead), the documentary fluidly traces Little Feat's remarkable musical legacy and the wide reach of their influence across generations and genres. World Premiere info: 'Little Feat: The Documentary' Wilma Theatre, Saturday, Feb. 21 @ 6:00 PM (Big Sky Documentary Film Festival). 

Filmmaker John Wilson (creator of HBO's How To with John Wilson) joins Tommy Evans on Trail 103.3's Trail Lunchbox for a conversation that starts with a snowstorm detour in Deer Lodge and ends at the literal foundation of New York City.Wilson's new feature The History of Concrete follows his attempt to make a documentary about the world's most overlooked material—until the film industry reality sets in. After taking a class on how to write and sell a Hallmark movie, he tries applying that formula to a movie about concrete… and his plan begins to crack—both figuratively and (in true John Wilson fashion) surprisingly literally.Montana Premiere: Thu, Feb 19 at 5:00 PM at the MCT, followed by a Q&A with director John Wilson. More info and tickets at bigskyfilmfest.org.

Director Johanna Gustin joins Mike Smith (with BSDFF's Nick Davis) to talk about her world-premiere short I Think About Birds—a sharply funny, uneasy journey through the algorithmic rabbit hole of online dating coaches, contrasted with surprisingly romantic bird behavior and the real emotional risks of intimacy. The conversation touches on “desktop documentary” filmmaking, pulling hours of material from YouTube, and how online spaces can quietly shape the way we think about relationships.I Think About Birds screens Thu, Feb 19 at 6:00 PM at the ZACC and Sat, Feb 21 at 12:30 PM at the Wilma, and is available to stream Feb 22–26, 2026. 

Trail 103.3 is proud to once again be a media partner of the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival in Missoula — and this week we're welcoming filmmakers, directors, and special guests into the Trail studio for quick conversations about the films lighting up the festival.In this episode, Mike Smith sits down with Peter Nauffts (archival producer) to talk about Sun Ra: Do the Impossible — the American Masters documentary spotlighting the poet, philosopher, Egyptologist, bandleader, and jazz visionary Sun Ra, and his ever-evolving ensemble, the Sun Ra Arkestra. The film traces how Sun Ra built a singular musical and spiritual vision of Afrofuturism, blending ancient Egypt, interstellar metaphors, and boundary-pushing free-form jazz. Peter also breaks down what archival producing actually looks like today (the sifting, the treasure-hunting, the format headaches, and the magic of finding the right shot), plus why Sun Ra's work still feels like it's broadcasting from the future.Film info (Big Sky Doc Fest): Sun Ra: Do the Impossible (84 min) — Director/Producer: Christine Turner. Montana Premiere — Screening at the ZACC: Wed, Feb. 18 @ 8:30 PM, followed by a conversation between MTPR's Bryan Ramirez and Peter Nauffts. 

From the 23rd annual Big Sky Documentary Film Festival in Missoula, we sit down with director Caron Creighton and former Wood Street resident John Janosko to talk about Wood Street—a 2026, 100-minute documentary following two unhoused men turned organizers, John and LaMonté, as they build community power in West Oakland in the face of displacement, addiction, and a failing social system. We talk about how the Wood Street Commons formed, what mutual aid and organizing looked like day-to-day, and why Caron chose to center unhoused voices as the experts of their own experience.World Premiere screening: MCT — Wed, Feb 18 @ 5:00 PM (see full schedule at bigskyfilmfest.org).--> Get involved: woodstreetcommons.orgTrail 103.3 is proud to once again be a media partner of the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival—a week of powerful, story-driven cinema and community conversation right here in Missoula. Each year, Big Sky brings filmmakers, subjects, and audiences together for screenings, Q&As, and events that spotlight documentaries from around the world—stories that challenge, connect, and deepen our understanding of the people and places around us.

From the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival in Missoula, Montana, we sit down in the Trail 103.3 studios with filmmaker Pete Sillen, who brings two rare music documentaries to Big Sky: Speed Racer: Welcome to the World of Vic Chesnutt and Benjamin Smoke (co-directed with Jem Cohen).Pete shares how he first discovered the power of Vic Chesnutt's songwriting in Athens, Georgia, how a chance connection through Michael Stipe (R.E.M.) helped lead to filming during the recording of West of Rome, and why these two films — tied by friendship, influence, and the Georgia music scene — create a unique “conversation” when screened together.We also talk about documentary filmmaking in a fast-changing era, why human-scale storytelling matters more than ever, and what Pete's working on next — including his Sundance-premiered film Love Machina.Screening + Q&A (Missoula):

From the 23rd Annual Big Sky Documentary Film Festival in Missoula, Montana, we sit down in the Trail 103.3 studios with filmmaker and subject Sam Soliman to talk about his short documentary Almost American — a deeply personal story that also reflects the larger national conversation around immigration, DACA, and belonging in the United States.Sam shares how a leadership grant in Lancaster, Pennsylvania sparked the project, why travel restrictions under DACA shaped the journey, and what it's like to document your own life while living the story in real time. We also hear from members of the film team about shaping the film through multiple cuts and what it meant to premiere at Big Sky.Plus, Sam talks about his mental-health-focused streetwear brand Hood Hippie: Love Yourself and the mission behind building community through creativity.Film: Almost American Festival: Big Sky Documentary Film Festival (Missoula, MT) Year: 2025 Runtime: 15 minutes Country: USA World PremiereDirectors: Saritha Rothermel, Samuel Soliman Producers: Adrian Selkowitz, Baktash AhadiScreenings & Showtimes (ZACC – Missoula)Monday, February 16 @ 5:30 PMTuesday, February 17 @ 1:30 PMFriday, February 20 @ 4:00 PM

Erika Fredrickson, co-founder of The Pulp stops by the Trail studio with an exciting announcement.  The Pulp is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization serving Missoula and western Montana. Launched September 2023 by Erika Fredrickson and Matthew Frank, former reporters and editors at the defunct but beloved Missoula Independent, in response to the deepening local journalism crisis in Missoula and across the country. The Pulp's mission is to produce in-depth journalism that informs and engages the people of Missoula and western Montana and advances transparency, equity, and democracy.  Tail1033 is a proud community supporter of this vital organization. Always FREE to read, support is welcome. Thepulp.org

It's fair week in Missoula, which means live music, local food, late sunsets… and of course, Trail Live Sessions from the Trail studio! For this episode, we welcomed River City Rhythm Band—a longtime local favorite with deep roots and some serious chemistry.I've known a lot of bands who say they're collaborative, but these three—Alyssa McQuain, Ty Armourding, and Dan DeLong—really mean it. From sharing pizza at practice to cracking each other up between songs, they're clearly in this for the joy of making music together. They've been playing in various projects for over two decades, and this particular trio has been rocking shows around Western Montana for the past year and a half.Ahead of their big 9PM set on the fairgrounds stage at the Western Montana Fair, they dropped by the Trail to share stories, talk influences (Mumford & Sons, Blink-182, and Ozzy came up—so you know it's a ride), and play two stripped-down live tracks that gave us chills in the headphones.

This episode of the Trail Lunchbox welcomes two guests doing critical work to help our community stay healthy and prepared during wildfire season in western Montana. We're talking all things Wildfire Smoke Ready Week—what it is, why it matters, and how you can take simple, affordable steps to protect yourself, your family, and even your pets when the smoke rolls in.Joining us in the studio:

On today's Trail Lunchbox, Tommy welcomed two beloved Missoulians deeply connected to the International Choral Festival: Saxon Holbrook, president of the festival and longtime choral singer, and Jürgen Knöller, brewmaster at Bayern Brewing and early festival supporter.They swap stories about the very first festival in 1987, flipping burgers for Carson, seeing Frank Zappa in Germany, and what makes Missoula's global celebration of voices so unique. Saxon walks us through what to expect at this year's festival — from the Choir Crawl to the finale at the Adams Center — while Jürgen shares how Missoula might be brewing up a cross-continental beer collaboration with a sister choral fest in Bavaria. 

Originally aired live at 9:13 AM on July 2, 2025At exactly 9:13 AM on July 2, 2005, Trail 103.3 signed on the air for the very first time. Twenty years later—down to the minute—we cracked the mic together once again to mark that moment. This short, unscripted conversation between Robert Chase, Mike Smith, and Tommy Evans isn't just a celebration of our radio station's anniversary, It's a reflection on what Trail 103.3 has become, home for eclectic music, Missoula voices, and authentic community connection.Listen in as we go live on-air and share memories of the early days, laugh about Robert's 3:30 AM breakfast routine, recall how we each found our way to the station, and take a moment to thank everyone who's been part of the journey.. on the mic, behind the scenes, and most importantly, listening.Recorded live at what we thought was the exact moment Trail 103.3 first signed on—20 years to the minute @ 9:13 am...A sincere thank you to all the listeners who took the time to send in notes and stories about what the Trail has meant to them over the years—especially to Dave Cowan, the visionary programmer, engineer, GM, and on-air voice who built the Trail from an idea into a station. Dave reached out shortly after this segment aired to let us know we got just one little detail wrong: the Trail actually signed on at 9:13 PM, not AM. Oops!Fun fact: The very first song ever played on Trail 103.3 was Mind Games by John Lennon.~Join us at Caras Park on Thursday, July 24, when we celebrate The Trail's 20th Birthday with live music by the Josh Farmer Band as part of Downtown Tonight — food trucks, art vendors, local connection, and more. And don't forget our 20‑for‑20 Giveaway: 20 pairs of tickets to 20 local events spanning August 2025–August 2026. Pop into any of our registration boxes—locations include the Trailhead, Loose Caboose, Great Harvest, Kettlehouse Taproom, Roxy, Caras Nursery, and more—or sign up online. Drawing happens live on July 24 at the Caras Park anniversary event.--

The Trail Listening Post – Trail Lunchbox: Marc Moss (June 25, 2025)On today's episode of The Trail Listening Post, we bring you a live in-studio conversation from the Trail Lunchbox on Trail 103.3 FM. Host Mike Smith sits down with Marc Moss, the founder and host of Tell Us Something, Missoula's beloved live storytelling event series.Marc shared the story behind the event's signature theme song, the art on this year's poster, and why Tell Us Something doesn't announce its storytellers in advance. They dug into what makes live storytelling so powerful, how it brings people together, and what it's like for someone to take the stage for the very first time.Plus, hear stories about cops thinking Marc was a cop, the Northside KettleHouse art connection, and what it means to create space for voices across the spectrum—especially in the context of Pride Month. 

Montana author Philip Burgess joins host Mike Smith in the Trail 103.3 studio alongside longtime friend and creative collaborator Ednor Therriault. Together, they talk about Burgess's powerful new memoir, The Bunch Quitter — a sweeping, poetic account of a life spent drifting through America during the '60s and '70s in pursuit of ultimate freedom. From the windswept badlands of eastern Montana to sleeping under stars on the Gulf Coast, Burgess reflects on memory, pain, growth, and the cost of independence. Hear stories behind the book, the role of personal truth in writing, and what it means to be a true bunch quitter.Recorded ahead of the book release party at Shakespeare & Co. in Missoula.

The Trail Lunchbox: New Zealand Day – A Celebration of Sister Cities, Rugby & CommunityToday's Trail Lunchbox features a live in-studio conversation with Maddy Gilbert from Arts Missoula and Jake Kreilick of Missoula Youth Rugby, hosted by Mike Smith.Listen as they talk about Missoula's 42-year sister city connection with Palmerston North, New Zealand — from university exchange roots to modern-day cultural partnerships. The episode dives into the details of this year's New Zealand Day celebration happening Saturday, June 14th at Fort Missoula Regional Park:Event Highlights Include:12:30–2:00 PM: Dedication of a new carved Sister City bench at the Bitterroot Shelter (south end near the tennis courts), honoring the long-standing civic friendship between Missoula and Palmerston North.10:00 AM–12:00 PM: Free touch rugby clinic for kids (no contact!) hosted by the Missoula Maggots.2:00–5:00 PM: Community touch rugby games on the multi-use fields — all are welcome to jump in.New Zealand-style ice cream from local favorite Chur Ice Cream (yes, it's as good as it sounds).Croquet on the lawn, a classic Kiwi pastime.5:00 PM: Free community cookout at the Missoula Maggots Clubhouse (3500 South Ave W).Plus, hear about the meaningful connections between the Māori and Salish-Kootenai communities, the upcoming student exchange with St. Peter's College in Palmerston North, and why keeping international friendships alive matters more than ever.It's local. It's global. It's all Trail. 

Trisha joins Tommy on the Trail Lunchbox for a conversation about Marshall Madness, set to take place on  Sunday, June 1 from 11am–3pm — an epic outdoor bash with group runs, hikes, and rides, brand-new trails, food trucks, Big Sky beer, and hourly raffle prizes! From bike jousting and a dunk tank to a live set by DJ Ivanoff and a bike skills clinic, this is the ultimate summer kickoff you don't want to miss — and yes, there's even free town shuttles and loaner bikes!SCHEDULE OF EVENTS10:30 AM - SHUTTLES BEGIN (1205 E Broadway St, Missoula, MT 59802)11:00 AM - DJ Ivanoff Kicks things off11:30 AM - FOOD TRUCKS BEGIN SERVICE11:30 PM - FIRST RIDE, RUN & HIKE BEGINS (and every half hour thereafter)12:00 PM - RAFFLE #112:30 PM - FIRST 'CASH DASH' SCRAMBLE (Your chance to win $100 cash!)1:00 PM - RAFFLE #212:30 PM - SECOND 'CASH DASH' SCRAMBLE (Your chance to win $100 cash!)2:00 PM - RAFFLE #32:30 PM - LAST RIDE, RUN & HIKE3:00 PM - LAST SHUTTLE BACK TO TOWN

https://www.thewestsidetheater.com/abundanceSHOW DATES|TIMESMay 16 @ 7:30pmMay 17 @ 2pmMay 17 @ 7:30pmLocation: Montana TheaterUniversity of Montana Campus, PARTV buildinglocation note:Due to the overwhelming enthusiasm about abunDANCE from both cast and audience, we moved the show to the Montana Theater!We're excited to be able to offer more seats, easier parking, and more cast and audience accessibility by being on campus for this year's community production!about the showWestside Theater's newest community productionLast year, there was 40 Over 40.This year, we have abunDANCE!Produced by Westside Theater and Bare Bait Dance, abunDANCE highlights local choreographers and dancers, ages 12 - 72.From novices to professional movers,  abunDANCE brings together the celebration of art, dance and the enthusiasm of our Western Montana community.The performance showcases choreography by some of Missoula's favorite creative voices… and 75+ Missoula dancers with a rich variety of experiences and backgrounds will grace the abunDANCE stage.You won't want to miss this incredible community evening of dance.abun-dance choreographersKate Jordan AugustoKelly BoumaLiana DillonJoy FrenchJennifer KerberElle LundgrenAmy RagsdaleKatie ThompsonAlissa TuckerNicole Wolcottand Heidi Eggert's New Visions Danceabun-dance performersMaya AndersonDevinne ArchulettaTara Beckman BallisTracy Boehm BarrettKelly BoumaMolly BradfordKaty BrownSara CloseBetsy CraskeAmanda CravensLiz DaviesBeverly DupreeStacey DuncanKelsey ElkinsNina ErvingCarol EvansNeave FlemingWendy Forber-PrattLaurel FranchellKatie Gehn SimpsonDori GilelsElke GovertsenKate HarrisonHeather HarpBuck HendersonMcKenzie JavorkaErin KautzChristopher KeoghKathryn Marie KellyAlyssa KennamerGillian KesslerKeely LarsonElle LundgrenCarolyn J. LewisKylie LopuchElle LundgrenRavi MarsolekErynn McNeillAshley MelwaniLori MitchellKatrina MorganMelissa Moss-LarsonJosie O'MearaAnn PeacockNicole PostAntara QuinonesSarah ReynoldsCarrie RicherLinds SandersCassie SappAnnica ScheerensMichelle ScruggsEmma SelforsKathleen ShannonAshley SherburneSage SutcliffeTracy ToppMelissa TurkBlair WareEmily WeilerAnya WellsNicole WolcottJenny Zillioxand Heidi Eggert's New Visions Dance & friends

Ria Overholt, Community Services Director for Missoula Aging Services stops by the Trail1033 studio to chat with Mike smith about March for Meals and the current state of funding for the meals on wheels program. March for Meals is an annual month-long fundraising campaign to raise money for Meals on Wheels in Missoula county. Missoula Aging Services (MAS) promotes the independence, dignity and health of older adults and those who care for them. Last year, more than 123,000 meals were delivered to older Missoulians through Meals on Wheels. Now is the time for Trail1033 listeners to join forces with MAS to celebrate more than 50 years of success and to protect this critical program that continues to enable independence, and improve health by combating food insecurity, malnutrition, and social isolation. The annual March for Meals commemorates the historic day in March 1972 when President Nixon signed into law a measure that amended the Older Americans Act of 1965 and established a national nutrition program for Americans 60 years and older.  Visit missoulaagingservices.org to donate and learn more about volunteering, or to get help for yourself or a loved one or neighbor. 

Mike interviews Alix Blair about her film Helen and the Bear.At 70, Helen often acts like an uninhibited teenager, sneaking cigarettes and exploring the boundsof her sexual identity. But at home, she cares for her 96-year-old husband Pete, a once-prominentRepublican politician who now depends on her absolutely. Captured in intimate verite by directorAlix Blair, HELEN AND THE BEAR is a lyrical portrait of the beautiful and complex relationshipbetween Helen and Pete as they enter the final chapter of their marriage. Helen's inner journey isbrought to life through decades of journal entries and archival footage that reveal a strugglebetween her love for Pete and a desire for freedom. As Pete's health worsens and Helenanticipates life without “Bear,” she wrestles with what's been lost and won through life by his side.Website: https://helenandthebear.us/

Jeff Ament joins Mike Smith to discuss "Our Village", the Missoula Community Pre-Show, and Festivities. Over 30 local nonprofits are participating in the festival, each bringing an interactive, family-friendly activity or sharing a visual display. Activities range from face painting, art projects, and lawn games, to instrument building, bicycle repair demonstrations, photo booths, and various amazing displays. Our Village will be a fun and engaging space for Montana-led nonprofit organizations to connect, Pearl Jam fans, and the greater Missoula community to share their work. We hope to see you there! Event details - https://tinyurl.com/22s466xb

Our friend Bob Wire is joined by Hudson, Sophie, and Riley to chat and play some songs leading up to their weekend show at Imagine Nation Brewery. Separately, they've played shows all around western Montana, and stagesas far flung as Napa, California, to Chattanooga, Tennessee. This summer, Missoula honkytonker Bob Wire and his singing/songwriting progeny will be playing a full show together forthe first time.Hudson James and Sophie Therriault will team up with Bob at Imagine Nation Brewing onSaturday, July 27, 6:00 to 8:00 pm, for a unique and entertaining family affair. All three areprolific songwriters and seasoned entertainers, so the show will have plenty of high points andthe trio promise a few surprises.Hudson, a graduate of the U of M Theater Arts program, is currently living in Chicago, where heplays frequent solo shows between auditions and rehearsals for local plays. While living inMissoula, he appeared in several theater productions, both for university plays andindependent theater companies. He also toured with the Montana Repertory Theater.Sophie, also a graduate of UM, made a splash in Missoula with her singing partner, JalynnNelson, when their duo, Red Dress, appeared in the First Night Spotlight finals two years in arow. They released a CD in 2017. She works full-time in Missoula and plays occasionally at artgalleries, breweries, and other intimate venues, and is currently recording a new album oforiginals.Bob Wire is a stalwart Missoula entertainer who's been playing local stages for nearly 30 years.He characterizes his country-tinged rock as “Maximum Honky Tonk,” and his bands, theFencemenders, the Magnificent Bastards, and Bob Wire and the Bob Wire Trio featuring BobWire, have included some of Missoula's most talented musicians. He's opened for Brad Paisley,Marshall Tucker Band, and the Old 97s, among others. Bob continues to play solo shows aroundthe area, and writing and recording songs in his home studio, the Hilltop Basement RecordingComplex.

Artistic Director of Montana Repertory Theatre, Michael Legg, stops by the Tail1033 studio for a visit with Mike Smith. Inspired by the vibrant local businesses along Missoula's iconic Hip Strip, Hip Strip Hijinks presents a series of five new 10-minute plays written by nationally renowned playwrights. April 25-27 and May 2-4.Patrons will meet up at GILD Brewing and then walk to five nearby establishments, including the lively atmosphere of Betty's Divine and the eclectic vibes of Ear Candy, to watch plays that are designed to capture the essence of their host businesses and to offer an immersive and theatrical experience after hours.The five plays will be performed in Betty's Divine, Ear Candy, GILD, Le Petit Outre, and Compass Barbershop. Pick what you pay pricing structure ($5-$50)…details & tickets: Montanarep.com  Established in 1967 and celebrating its 57th season, The Rep serves as the resident professional theatre for the University of Montana. 

IWFF Festival Coordinator Lizzie Archer share s her exciting of the kick-off of the 47th Annual International Wildlife film Festival in Missoula , April 20-25! The WildWalk Parade and WildFest are happening in  in Downtown Missoula April 20th.Nature lovers of all ages are invited to join a perennial favorite, the WildWalk, and dress up as their favoriteflora or fauna and walk, hop, or crawl toward the X's on North Higgins. The parade culminates with WildFest, a celebration with vendors, food trucks and music.  Appearances by the Roxy Executive Director Mike Steinberg, the Guest Programmer Lívia Campos de Menezes, Wildwalk Founder Craig Menteer, and Mayor Andrea Davis. There will also be a chance to take a picture with IWFF's latest commission, a mobile, modular sculpture of a Nudibranch (a colorful group of sea slugs with their gills on the outside) created by this year's Artist in Residence, Shelby Baldridge.The IWFF was founded  by bear biologist, Chuck Jonkel in 1977 at the University of Montana, IWFF is the longest-running film festival of its kind.  The mission of IWFF is to promote awareness, knowledge, and understanding of wildlife, habitat, people, and nature through excellence in film.Tickets and film descriptions: wildlifefilms.org

IWFF Guest Programmer, Livia Composdemenezes drops by the Trail1033 studio to visit with Mike Smith.The 47th Annual IWFF is happening at The Roxy Theater in Missoula, April 20-25. This years festival includes over 70 films, with the mission of promoting awareness, knowledge, and understanding of wildlife, habitat, people, and nature through excellence in film.IWFF was founded by bear biologist, Chuck Jonkel in 1977 at the University of Montana, IWFF is the longest-running film festival of its kind. In 2002, the festival purchased the historic Roxy Theater as its home. In 2013 the Roxy launched its year-round screening series and began an extensive collaboration with the university, businesses, andcommunity, serving a diverse, all-ages population with broad programming.Tickets and film descriptions: wildlifefilms.org

Rhett Miller stopped by to chat with Mike about 30-plus years of the Old 97's, songwriting, the Blackfoot River, and more. He also played a couple of songs from their new album American Primitive. Thanks Rhett!

Sarah Calhoun Red Ants Pants Founder, stops by the Trail studio to announce this years' festival lineup.  The Red Ants Pants Music Festival is a 100% homegrown, volunteer-driven event based in a community of 900 people with the goal of bringing good folks together to celebrate rural Montana.The festival is a program of the 501(c)(3) Red Ants Pants Foundation. Their mission is to develop and expand leadership roles for women, preserve and support working family farms and ranches, and enrich and promote rural communities. Proceeds from the festival help fund Red Ants Pants community grants, timber skills workshops and Girls Leadership Program.Come connect with good folks and celebrate rural Montana! A limited number of tickets are on sale for the 2024 Red Ants Pants Music Festival coming up July 25 -28th on the Jackson Ranch in White Sulphur Springs, Montana. Details and tickets at: redantspantsmusicfestival.com

Arts Missoula  Executive Director Heather Adams stops by for a visit with Mike Smith at the Trail1033 studio.Arts Missoula is proud to present Dancing with Arts Missoula Stars; A Benefit for Arts Missoula. Local Missoula celebrities will be paired up with local professional dancers to bring you this night of guts and glory.  8 teams work for 7 weeks on a routine in a variety of styles, that will knock your socks off.  Teams will have the ability to raise funds for Arts Missoula through donations made from their website, artsmissoula.org. The most successful fund raiser, takes home the mirror ball trophy.  Silent Auction, cocktail hour and live music from Missoula Jazz Collective will start the evening off before the event begins at 7:30pm at The WilmaTickets & details: artsmissoula.org

Cartography Comes Alive is an exciting event series proudly brought to you by Xplorer Maps and hosted by Mandela Leola van Eeden, Lead Storyteller at Xplorer Maps and the charismatic host of The Trail Less Traveled.This FREE event is happening March 20th 5:30pm-7pm at Xplorer Maps in Missoula, MTWith over a decade of experience as an expedition lead leader and guide in the Grand Canyon, Mandela has a unique perspective on the wonders of this majestic landscape. In a remarkable feat in 2020, Mandela swam an impressive 225 miles of the Grand Canyon, skillfully navigating the rapids and calm waters of the Colorado River using a river-board during a 15-day expedition. In this captivating presentation, Mandela will lead you on an immersive journey through the Grand Canyon's breathtaking whitewater, fascinating geology, diverse ecology, rich human history, and the profound experience of swimming the river amidst the challenges of the global pandemic.Don't miss this chance to embark on a virtual expedition that promises both excitement and valuable life lessons. Space is limited, arrive early!Xplorer Maps, 1245 S 3rd St W, Missoula, MT 

First Night Spotlight, presented by Arts Missoula as part of Missoula On Main is a longstanding tradition and special event.Each year, area teen talent comes together to perform on a big stage heading into NYE. This year's winner, Olivia Marble will join us live on the Trail Lunchbox at 12-noon today [2/29/24] for a live performance and conversation about the experience.Listen Live at Trail1033.com and send us your words of encouragement to pass along to Olivia by texting the studio line at 406-604-1033.Follow Olivia on Instagram @livmarblemusicThe Trail lunchbox - Weekdays at 12-noon on the Trail 1033 is proudly sponsored by The Olde Dairy & The Trough Big ups to MCAT for broadcasting and live streaming the show - Watch it in full on MCAT's YouTube Channel

Udo Fluck, Director of Arts Missoula Global at Arts Missoula stops by The Trail studio to chat with Mike Smith about all things Germanfest!Arts Missoula GLOBAL presents Germanfest 2023 happening October 7th at Caras Park in Downtown Missoula. This celebration of our sister city connection with Neckargemund, Germany is an authentic German Food & Beer festival with live music, children's activities, a Germanfest market, a Sister City display  and MORE!  New in 2023: Germanfest Games! Stein Holding Contest, Fish Slapping Contest, and Log Sawing Contest!The mission of Arts Missoula  is to connect art and culture through education, advocacy and community. This invaluable nonprofit organizationserves as a resource for the coordination, development, and support of art and culture for the benefit of the Missoula community, with the goals of:  Advocating for public and private support of the arts. Encouraging collaborative efforts among local arts organizations. Educating community leaders and policymakers about the economic benefits of the arts.  Celebrating the value of diverse cultures and helping our community understand its place in the world.  For details on Germanfest and other programming go to artsmissoula.org

Joel Cummins and Ryan Stasik of Umphrey's McGee stop by the Trail Lunchbox for a visit with Tommy.  In the twenty-four years since eclectic improv-rock band Umphrey's McGee formed, their sound has been an amalgamation of genres, moods, and tempos, effortlessly flowing from one feeling to the next throughout an album or concert—or sometimes within a singular song. But with time and repetition comes wisdom and maturity, both personally and musically, and in the case of the band's new album Asking For A Friend.Umphrey's McGee entered the recording studio with something to say and a wise, measured way to say it. The end result is an astoundingly cohesive fourteen-song album that feels like a fresh statement from a group of world-class musicians and friends re-approaching their craft with a new lens. But long-time fans will be happy to know that the Umphrey's McGee they know and love is still very much present on Asking For A Friend, just more refined. More focused. Umphrey's McGee is performing at The Wilma in Downtown Missoula Friday, September 15th & Saturday, September 16th.Tickets and details at logjampresents.com 

Mike Smith welcomes Julia Tai, Music Director of Missoula Symphony to The Lunchbox . The  new season for Missoula Symphony kicks off with "Struggle & Triumph" September 23rd & 24th at the Dennison Theatre in Missoula.  This will be an evening of power, emotion, and triumph, featuring Samuel Coleridge-Taylor's Hiawatha Overture, which draws inspiration from the 1855 poem The Song of Hiawatha by American Poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The Hiawatha Overture also draws inspiration from the soundtrack to Rachmaninoff's journey out of depression and darkness, and ascension into true joy, performed by rising star pianist, Charlie Albright. The evening concludes with Florence Price's Symphony No. 3 in C minor, which was commissioned and composed at the height of the Great Depression and expresses stylistic themes at times reminiscent of Wagner, and at other times, Shostakovich.Celebrate resilience, triumph, and true expressions of the human spirit through this collection of inspiring music!Tickets available at: missoulasymphony.org

Abby Huseth, Deputy Director of Climate Smart Missoula stops by the Lunchbox to chat with Tommy about their upcoming event.The 5th Annual Climate & Energy Expo is a FREE, family friendly event happening at Caras Park in Downtown Missoula Saturday, September 23rd 10am to 2pm. This event will feature local solar installers, climate and sustainability organizations and businesses, an electric bike & car show, creative engagement and activation opportunities, kids activities, and more. This event will follow Climate Solutions Week, September 16th-22nd.Climate Solution Week  will include  events across Missoula including: A climate panel at University of Montana, workshops focusing on climate solutions in the workplace, financing  home efficiency and electrification projects and more.Full details can be found at missoulaclimate.org 

Montana Area Music Association (MAMA) co-founder Maria Zepeda stops by the Lunchbox to visit with Tommy about the 4th Annual Miles of Music happening September 10th on the University of Montana campus in Missoula. ·         MAMA's mission is to empower musicians through education, collaboration, and performance opportunities in efforts to strengthen the greater Montana music community.Miles of Music is a dynamic celebration of art & music featuring over 20 local instrumentalists, songwriters and musicians. The event kicks off  at 12pm on Arthur Avenue and heads into the heart of campus, with 10 stations of musicians performing live. This FREE community event highlights  some of our most accomplished local musicians including local favorites Britt Arneson, Travis Yost and more!4pm at the UM Oval 10 more amazing artists will be featured on 2 stages. Trail1033 will also be there from 3p-5p broadcasting LIVE.Food trucks and a makers market will also be  part of this community event taking place Sunday, September 10th 12pm-8pmDetails and lineup can be found at mama4mt.org 

Michael Legg, Artistic Director of the Montana Repertory Theatre and Rep actor Stephen Blotzke stop by the Trail lunchbox for a visit with host Mike Smith. Established in 1967 and currently celebrating its 57th season, The Rep serves as the resident professional theatre for the University of Montana.Performances of the season opener The Odyssey will take place at The Zootown Community Arts Center (ZACC) in Missoula September 1 at 7:00pm and September 2 at 2:00pm. The Odyssey follows the journey of Odysseus as he encounters Cyclops, sirens, and more on his 10-year voyage home after the Trojan War. Oglesby's adaptation condenses this sprawling tale into a fast- paced, slapstick comedy performed by a small ensemble of three actors playing dozens of characters. Through imaginative storytelling and physical comedy, the play captures the poetry and tragedy of the original work while making it accessible to modern audiences.Appropriate for sixth graders and up!The Rep offers pick what you pay pricing structure, for details & tickets go to Montanarep.com

Mike Smith is joined in the Trail1033 studio with Jason Mandala, Farm to School Director with Garden City Harvest. The annual garden party is freshest party of the summer, happening Thursday August 17th at The PEAS farm in Missoula. Presented by the Good Food Store this event will include an all-local meal, grown with love right here in Missoula with a menu prepared by Silk Road and Missoula-made beverages from Imagine Nation Brewing and Western Cider. Music will be provided Cowboy Andy and the Salamanders (for the kiddos) and alt-country band the Best Westerns.The mission of  Garden City Harvest is to  plant seeds and grow together to create a healthy Missoula on over 20 neighborhood farms, school gardens, and community gardens. Garden City Harvest accomplishes their mission through 4 main programs: Community Gardens,Farm to School, Neighborhood Farms and Youth Development.Tickets and details at gardencityharvest.org

Mike Smith chats with Deborah Stapley Graham  about the 2023  International Choral Festival happening in Missoula July 19-22.  Choirs from around the world are hand selected to participate in this event based on their musical excellence and variety. The  international choir visitors stay with welcoming hosts across Missoula throughout the Festival, sharing friendship, food, stories, and song. The 2023 festival includes choirs from Catalonia, Taiwan, Cost Rica, Poland, Germany, Lithuania, Uganda and more.Several events are planned across Missoula.Details at choral festival.org

Randy Katen, legendary Montana skateboarder and founding member of N-Men and Jeff Ament,  bassist of the  Pearl Jam stop by the Trail1033 morning show  with an update on the new Clinton Skate Park Project, expected to break ground in 2023.The goal of the project is to create a positive gathering space for local kids. The skate park will bring renewed energy to Missoula County's Clinton Community Park. Phase 1 of this project focuses on construction of a basic skate park facility. So far $125,000 has been raised through business, private, foundation and public funding. An extra $50,000 of local donations will secure Clinton's spot on the construction schedule for Fall 2023.  Interested in donating to this project?  Go to fmparks.org/projects/clinton-skatepark