John Ludin is the Executive Director of Montana TheatreWorks, which owns and operates the Ellen Theatre in Bozeman. The theatre is a cornerstone of the community, honoring its historic significance while presenting contemporary arts and entertainment.

Since 1919, the Ellen Theatre has stood in the heart of downtown Bozeman, framed by a row of historic brick buildings. The classic marquee announces its presence to all who pass. Above, terra-cotta details catch the sunlight by day and shimmer under streetlights by night. This Beaux-Arts gem, designed by Fred Wilson and built by the sons of Gallatin Valley pioneers Nelson and Ellen Story, was named for their mother, a lasting gift of beauty and community.

From its earliest days, the theatre was alive with vaudeville, opera, and symphonies, as the town discovered the magic of live entertainment. In 1925, she gained a Wurlitzer organ, one of the last purchased before talking films revolutionized cinema. With 750 tightly packed seats, the theatre buzzed with excitement.

Like many grand theaters, time was not always kind. As multiplexes and shopping centers emerged, the Ellen fell into disrepair and was eventually shuttered. In 2005, a community theatre group purchased the building, and three years later, following a massive renovation, it reopened with A Christmas Carol, drawing nearly 6,000 people, roughly the population of the valley when the theatre first opened.

Since then, the façade has been restored to its 1919 elegance, and the ornate interior brought back to life, revealing hidden treasures along the way, including plush seats once reserved for the Story family, century-old light fixtures, and playbills tucked away in forgotten vents. Today, the Ellen comfortably seats 450, balancing historic charm with modern comfort.

Each year, the Ellen hosts around 180 events, from concerts and films to lectures and community gatherings. Our anchors are two grand productions, a summer musical with a live orchestra and a December holiday show, often with guest performers from Broadway or national tours. Past productions like Mary Poppins, The Sound of Music, and Cabaret have brought seasoned actors and dancers from New York and Los Angeles, blending professional artistry with local talent. The rest of the year is filled with a wide variety of programming, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Experience the magic of live performance at the Ellen Theatre. Enjoy a show, explore our historic space, and connect with the vibrant arts community that brings it to life. Visit theellentheatre.org to see upcoming events or learn how you can get involved.