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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Matthews Opera House
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230621T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230621T220000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T172143Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T172143Z
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SUMMARY:Jason Dea West & The Barn Swallows
DESCRIPTION:We’re having a hootenanny! Join us at the Matthews for Rhythm and Brews\, our new summer series celebrating American roots music! \nNot only do we have an incredible lineup of performers\, check out these ala cart items\, available at the Matthews day of show: \n• Crow Peak Brewery is on-site to keep the libations flowing and…wait for it…each ticketholder (21+) receives a token for one free flight of beer! (Additional drinks available for purchase). \n• Plus\, our friends at The Original Spearfish Breakfast House will be serving up some of their seriously delicious food\, available for purchase throughout the evening. \nJason Dea West\nAmerican poet\, songwriter and troubadour\nWednesday\, June 21\nDoors: 7 pm | Show: 8 pm \nJason Dea West is an American troubadour who sings what he lives and lives what he sings. Wests’ poignant lyrics are brilliantly blended with vintage country\, folk and blues\, and timely sensibilities. From epic guitar and harmonica instrumentals to humorous song as story\, Jason never strays very far from the anarchic punk-folk roots of his beloved former band Barefoot Surrender and his celebrated current band Intuitive Compass. \nJason’s younger days as a busker and freight train hopper fostered his keen sense of road-inspired American musical history. Jason toured extensively with guest musicians and bands throughout the lower 48 States and Alaska\, appearing in barn dances and taverns\, theaters and music festivals\, the circus and vaudeville circuits\, on radio and in film. He has shared the stage with the likes of Lost Dog Street Band\, The Resonant Rogues\, Larry And His Flask\, Hot Damn Scandal countless others. \nDea West has worked with several renowned recording engineers\, including Scot Hackwith\, Dennis Dragon\, Dan Emery and Steven Hart\, producing several studio albums and a recent live “Magnolia Session” via Anti-Corp Records of Nashville\, TN which placed #15 on the Billboard Bluegrass charts in October 2020.  In 2021 West began work on two new EPs\, one “Lost Camp Dreams”\, with Scott Hackwith at Cassette LA which is officially available December  30th of 2021\, the second EP to be released later in ‘22 shall remain mysterious until further notice. \nJason belongs to the wild lands and what is left of the American countryside… \n[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OjOP-lKHzY0&t=7s” loop=”no” muted=”no” /] \nThe Barn Swallows\nThe Barn Swallows is a band based in Bisbee Az\, formed in 2022. With a new EP available at live shows\, the band is currently recording a live album with Max Harms at The Garage to be released this spring. Though only together for a short time\, they have a national tour this summer they will be playing from Texas to Virginia\, through the Midwest\, and on the west coast. Some highlights include performing At the Camel in Richmond VA\, The Dahl Arts Center in Rapid City SD\, Matthews Opera House in Spearfish SD\, at The Britt Festival in Jacksonville\, OR and at The Cotati Accordion Fest in Cotati CA. \nWith a full schedule and new songs\, The Barn Swallows are on a roll. Their instrumentation is comprised of guitars\, mandolin\, clarinet\, accordion and upright bass. Featuring original compositions and vocal harmonies\, the sound ranges from American folk to traditional jazz. Committed to authentic expression and having a good time while lamenting the tragic world\, The Barn Swallows deliver a healthy helping of heart-full honesty with a contagious melodic sensibility and soaring harmonies. \n[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pRxeuQzOdWs&t=42s” loop=”no” muted=”no” /]
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/jason-dea-west-the-barn-swallows/
CATEGORIES:Music
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230617T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230617T150000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T172402Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T172402Z
UID:10000971-1686999600-1687014000@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Reproduction and Packaging of Artwork Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Course Description: This course is designed to provide artists with the basic knowledge and skills necessary to effectively reproduce and package their artwork for various purposes. Whether you’re creating prints\, limited editions\, or preparing your artwork for exhibition or sale\, this course will equip you with the essential techniques and best practices to ensure your creations are accurately reproduced and professionally packaged. Following this a photo studio will be set up to have their work professionally photographed to be used for reproduction prints or on websites and social media. \n2D Artwork is limited to 5 unframed pieces per artist and no larger than 30” on the long edge. \n3D Artwork must be less than 30” in width and height as well. \nRegistration Fee: $50  \nRegistration closes June 16.
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/reproduction-and-packaging-of-artwork-workshop/
CATEGORIES:Visual Arts
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/AVAW_June17th-uEhVZN.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230610T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230610T130000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T172106Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T172106Z
UID:10000955-1686391200-1686402000@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Printmaking Workshop
DESCRIPTION:This weekend community art course is designed to introduce participants to the art of relief printmaking using linoleum and rubber blocks. Over the course of two days\, students will learn the basics of carving and printing their designs onto paper and fabric. \nThrough hands-on demonstrations and individual guidance\, participants will explore the different techniques and tools involved in creating a successful relief print. They will learn how to transfer their designs onto the block\, carve out the negative space\, and use ink to print their image onto paper and fabric. Students will have the opportunity to experiment with different types of paper and fabric\, as well as learn how to properly clean and maintain their tools. \nWhether you’re a beginner or have some experience with printmaking\, this class will provide you with the skills and confidence to create beautiful\, handmade prints that you can be proud of. Come join us for a weekend of creativity and fun! \nTo Register Call (605)642-7973
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/printmaking-workshop-2/
CATEGORIES:Visual Arts
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/AVAW_Printmaking_June2023-5Yf6WY.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230603T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230603T170000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T172107Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T172107Z
UID:10000956-1685800800-1685811600@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Encaustic Painting Workshop
DESCRIPTION:This weekend community art course is designed to introduce participants to the art of encaustic (wax) painting using paper and wood board substrates. Over the course of two days\, students will learn the basics of encaustic methods by layering clear and colored waxes on several surfaces.  \nThrough hands-on demonstrations and individual guidance\, participants will explore the different techniques and tools involved in creating a successful encaustic painting. They will learn how to draw designs into the wax\, drip\, embed objects\, and collage. Students will have the opportunity to experiment with multiple encaustic methods\, as well as learn how to properly clean and maintain their tools. \nWhether you’re a beginner or have some experience with painting\, this class will provide you with the skills and confidence to create beautiful\, handmade works that you can be proud of. Come join us for a weekend of creativity and fun! \nTo Register Call (605)642-7973.
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/encaustic-painting-workshop/
CATEGORIES:Visual Arts
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/AVAW_Encaustics_June2023-UNIt6T.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230603T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230603T130000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T172105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T172105Z
UID:10000954-1685786400-1685797200@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Printmaking Workshop
DESCRIPTION:This weekend community art course is designed to introduce participants to the art of relief printmaking using linoleum and rubber blocks. Over the course of two days\, students will learn the basics of carving and printing their designs onto paper and fabric. \nThrough hands-on demonstrations and individual guidance\, participants will explore the different techniques and tools involved in creating a successful relief print. They will learn how to transfer their designs onto the block\, carve out the negative space\, and use ink to print their image onto paper and fabric. Students will have the opportunity to experiment with different types of paper and fabric\, as well as learn how to properly clean and maintain their tools. \nWhether you’re a beginner or have some experience with printmaking\, this class will provide you with the skills and confidence to create beautiful\, handmade prints that you can be proud of. Come join us for a weekend of creativity and fun! \nTo Register Call (605)642-7973
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/printmaking-workshop/
CATEGORIES:Visual Arts
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230530T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230530T133000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T172203Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T172203Z
UID:10000967-1685449800-1685453400@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Author Talks at the Matthews
DESCRIPTION:Author Talks at the Matthews returns with a new lineup of local writers ready to dive into their stories\, their methods\, and their inspirations. Join us in the fireplace room every Tuesday at 12:30 for an hour with some of the best authors in the Black Hills area! \nAre you interested in presenting an Author Talk? Contact us at 605-717-6967 or engage@matthewsopera.com \nFeatured author…\nMay 30: Belle Fourche Writers\nThe Belle Fourche spent April (poetry month) fine-tuning their relationship with poetry. For some of us\, poetry is a little uncomfortable and new. Others are accomplished poets. The following Belle Fourche readers will present their poetry at the Author Talks meeting on May 30: Joan Gerkin\, Jean Helmer\, Lynda Edwards\, Meg English\, Margie Bolte\, and Angela Hastings. \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/author-talks-at-the-matthews-28/
CATEGORIES:makeSPACE
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Author-Talks-Header-2048x1152-1-pVboUO.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230519T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230902T190000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T172201Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T172201Z
UID:10000965-1684515600-1693681200@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Summer Art Series
DESCRIPTION:Exhibit Opening Reception\nFriday\, May 19\n5-7 pm \nThe Matthews Opera House and Arts Center is excited to announce that their Summer Art Series will be unveiled on May 19 with an opening reception from 5-7 pm. This showcase features the talents of Black Hills artists with an incredible display of high-quality pieces on exhibit. \nThis opening night event is offered free to the public. Hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar will be available. \nThe Summer Art Series is open to the public through Labor Day during regular business hours\, Monday – Friday\, 10 am – 5 pm. The series is structured to support the local artistic community with every piece in the gallery ready to sell and take home the same day.
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/summer-art-series-2/
CATEGORIES:Special Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/SAS-Opening-Reception-header-WE7LuT.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230516T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230516T133000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T171843Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T171843Z
UID:10000946-1684240200-1684243800@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Author Talks at the Matthews
DESCRIPTION:Author Talks at the Matthews returns with a new lineup of local writers ready to dive into their stories\, their methods\, and their inspirations. Join us in the fireplace room every Tuesday at 12:30 for an hour with some of the best authors in the Black Hills area! \nAre you interested in presenting an Author Talk? Contact us at 605-717-6967 or engage@matthewsopera.com \nFeatured author…\nMay 16: Leslie Silverman\nSilverman is a writer and journalist from Keystone who just released her first book entitled ” From Badger to Blossom with Love”. It’s a combination romance/self-help book based on love letters from her husband. Silverman is a three-time SDNA award-winning journalist and lead reporter at the Hill City Prevailer. She is also a contributing writer for Down Country Roads magazine. She lives in Keystone year-round and is working on a Southern Black Hills adventure stories guidebook for all things outdoor related  (from 2 wheels to 2 feet) that she hopes to have published by fall. Silverman’s talk will focus on the process of writing as both a journalist and author as to what and who inspires her writing and decision-making processes. \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/author-talks-at-the-matthews-26/
CATEGORIES:makeSPACE
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Author-Talks-Header-2048x1152-1-pVboUO.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230514T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230514T160000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T172035Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T172035Z
UID:10000948-1684072800-1684080000@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Dave Martinson's Big Band
DESCRIPTION:This Mother’s Day\, immerse yourself in the sounds of a bygone era with Dave Martinson’s Big Band! The 17-piece band along with two vocalists performs a variety of “big band” music from the 1940’s-the present. \n\nSturgis musician Dave Martinson leads to ensemble\, which has performed for the Sturgis Area Arts Council\, the Hospice Ball in Spearfish\, Main Street Square in Rapid City and his horn section backed the Rat Pack Tribute Show from Las Vegas at the RC Civic Center. Martinson also recently performed with rock legend Lynyrd Skynyrd at their concert Oct. 12 at the Denny Sanford Premier Center in Sioux Falls and The Box Tops at Kool Deadwood Nights. Read the full article about Martinson’s musical adventures! \nA variety of seating options are available for this event:\nBalcony seating: $25 for advance reservations; $30 day of show.\nCabaret-style seating: Table seating on the main floor with bottle service of premium wines. $35 per seat for advance reservations; $40 day of show\nHistoric Box seating: We’ve opened the historic opera boxes that flank the stage! These premium seats are extremely limited. Each box includes a complimentary bottle of wine and hors d’ouvres. $75 per seat\, advance reservations only. \nA cash bar will also be available throughout the event. \nIt’s time to boogie! Enjoy good wine and great jazz with Dave Martinson’s Big Band at the Matthews! \nListen here…\n[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n1kses0kYdk” loop=”no” muted=”no” /] \nThank you to our event sponsors…\nSouth Dakota Arts Council\,\nThe Wild Rose\,\nPartridge Financial (Kristen Gullickson)\,\nFirst Interstate Bank (Spearfish)\,\nThe Original Spearfish Breakfast House\,\nCity of Spearfish \n 
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/dave-martinsons-big-band-2/
CATEGORIES:Music
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230502T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230502T133000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T171644Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T171644Z
UID:10000942-1683030600-1683034200@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Author Talks at the Matthews
DESCRIPTION:Author Talks at the Matthews returns with a new lineup of local writers ready to dive into their stories\, their methods\, and their inspirations. Join us in the fireplace room every Tuesday at 12:30 for an hour with some of the best authors in the Black Hills area! \nAre you interested in presenting an Author Talk? Contact us at 605-717-6967 or engage@matthewsopera.com \nFeatured author…\nMay 2: Geri Mendoza Gutwein\nGeri Mendoza Gutwein\, Ph.D.\, poet\, educator\, and lecturer is professor emerita of English at HACC\, Central Pennsylvania’s Community College where she taught English\, creative writing\, and Native American Literature. Her poetry has appeared in the Connecticut Review\, The Wildwood Journal\, Fledgling Rag\, La Libreta an online journal\, and in Roots Trunk Sky: IWWG’s Imagination and Justice Meditation-Free Writing Circle. A Pushcart nominee\, she is the author of three chapbooks: Every Orbit of the Circle\, The Story She Told\, and An Utterance of Small Truths. Her erasure poem Dakota 38\, a poem that dealt with the 38 Dakota men who were sentenced to death in Mankato\, Minnesota\, was on exhibit at Birdcage Bookstore in Rapid City\, South Dakota. An enrolled member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe\, she lives in the sacred Black Hills of South Dakota. You may visit her website at gerigutwein.com. \n \nComing Soon…\nMay 16: Leslie Silverman \nSilverman is a writer and journalist from Keystone who just released her first book entitled ” From Badger to Blossom with Love”. It’s a combination romance/self-help book based on love letters from her husband. Silverman is a three-time SDNA award-winning journalist and lead reporter at the Hill City Prevailer. She is also a contributing writer for Down Country Roads magazine. She lives in Keystone year-round and is working on a Southern Black Hills adventure stories guidebook for all things outdoor related  (from 2 wheels to 2 feet) that she hopes to have published by fall. Silverman’s talk will focus on the process of writing as both a journalist and author as to what and who inspires her writing and decision-making processes. \n  \n 
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/author-talks-at-the-matthews-24/
CATEGORIES:makeSPACE
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230425T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230425T133000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T172104Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T172104Z
UID:10000953-1682425800-1682429400@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Author Talks at the Matthews
DESCRIPTION:Author Talks at the Matthews returns with a new lineup of local writers ready to dive into their stories\, their methods\, and their inspirations. Join us in the fireplace room on Tuesdays at 12:30 for an hour with some of the best authors in the Black Hills area! \nAre you interested in presenting an Author Talk? Contact us at 605-717-6967 or engage@matthewsopera.com \nFeatured author…\nApril 25: Belle Fourche Writers\nComing Soon…\nMay 2: Geri Mendoza Gutwein \nGeri Mendoza Gutwein\, Ph.D.\, poet\, educator\, and lecturer is professor emerita of English at HACC\, Central Pennsylvania’s Community College where she taught English\, creative writing\, and Native American Literature. Her poetry has appeared in the Connecticut Review\, The Wildwood Journal\, Fledgling Rag\, La Libreta an online journal\, and in Roots Trunk Sky: IWWG’s Imagination and Justice Meditation-Free Writing Circle. A Pushcart nominee\, she is the author of three chapbooks: Every Orbit of the Circle\, The Story She Told\, and An Utterance of Small Truths. Her erasure poem Dakota 38\, a poem that dealt with the 38 Dakota men who were sentenced to death in Mankato\, Minnesota\, was on exhibit at Birdcage Bookstore in Rapid City\, South Dakota. An enrolled member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe\, she lives in the sacred Black Hills of South Dakota. You may visit her website at gerigutwein.com. \n  \n 
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/author-talks-at-the-matthews-27/
CATEGORIES:makeSPACE
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Author-Talks-Header-2048x1152-1-pVboUO.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230423T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230423T160000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T171232Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T171232Z
UID:10000927-1682258400-1682265600@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:The Fantasticks
DESCRIPTION:The Matthews Opera House and Arts Center is excited to announce The Fantasticks\, a musical by Tom Jones under direction of Casey S. Hibbert with musical direction provided by Connie Hubbard. \n“Try To Remember” a time when this romantic charmer wasn’t enchanting audiences around the world. The Fantasticks is the longest-running musical in the world and with good reason: at the heart of its breathtaking poetry and subtle theatrical sophistication is a purity and simplicity that transcends cultural barriers. The result is a timeless fable of love that manages to be nostalgic and universal at the same time. \nAudiences have six opportunities to catch The Fantasticks on the Matthews stage: Friday and Saturday evenings at 7 pm\, April 14\, 15\, 21 and 22; and Sunday matinees at 2 pm\, April 16 and 23. For tickets\, purchase online\, call the box office at (605) 642-7973 or visit the Matthews Gallery at 612 N. Main. Street\, Spearfish. \nThe Story…\nThe Fantasticks is a funny and romantic musical about a boy\, a girl\, and their two fathers who try to keep them apart. The narrator\, El Gallo\, asks the audience to use their imagination and follow him into a world of moonlight and magic. The boy and the girl fall in love\, grow apart and finally find their way back to each other after realizing the truth in El Gallo’s words that\, “without a hurt\, the heart is hollow.” \nWith its minimal costumes\, small band and virtually nonexistent set\, The Fantasticks is an intimate show that engages the audience’s imagination and showcases a strong ensemble cast. Its moving tale of young lovers who become disillusioned\, only to discover a more mature\, meaningful love is punctuated by a bountiful series of catchy\, memorable songs\, many of which have become classics. \nThe Cast…\nMatt: Austin Huether\nLuisa: Alivia Ruff\nEl Gallo: Casey S. Hibbert\nBellomy: J. Bruce Woodard\nHucklebee: Mitchell Mechaley\nHenry: Clark Ott\nMortimer: Matt Woodard\nThe Mute: Rose Peay
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/the-fantasticks-6/
CATEGORIES:Theater
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Fantasticks-event-header-1-TNQVPz.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230422T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230422T210000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T171231Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T171231Z
UID:10000926-1682190000-1682197200@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:The Fantasticks
DESCRIPTION:The Matthews Opera House and Arts Center is excited to announce The Fantasticks\, a musical by Tom Jones under direction of Casey S. Hibbert with musical direction provided by Connie Hubbard. \n“Try To Remember” a time when this romantic charmer wasn’t enchanting audiences around the world. The Fantasticks is the longest-running musical in the world and with good reason: at the heart of its breathtaking poetry and subtle theatrical sophistication is a purity and simplicity that transcends cultural barriers. The result is a timeless fable of love that manages to be nostalgic and universal at the same time. \nAudiences have six opportunities to catch The Fantasticks on the Matthews stage: Friday and Saturday evenings at 7 pm\, April 14\, 15\, 21 and 22; and Sunday matinees at 2 pm\, April 16 and 23. For tickets\, purchase online\, call the box office at (605) 642-7973 or visit the Matthews Gallery at 612 N. Main. Street\, Spearfish. \nThe Story…\nThe Fantasticks is a funny and romantic musical about a boy\, a girl\, and their two fathers who try to keep them apart. The narrator\, El Gallo\, asks the audience to use their imagination and follow him into a world of moonlight and magic. The boy and the girl fall in love\, grow apart and finally find their way back to each other after realizing the truth in El Gallo’s words that\, “without a hurt\, the heart is hollow.” \nWith its minimal costumes\, small band and virtually nonexistent set\, The Fantasticks is an intimate show that engages the audience’s imagination and showcases a strong ensemble cast. Its moving tale of young lovers who become disillusioned\, only to discover a more mature\, meaningful love is punctuated by a bountiful series of catchy\, memorable songs\, many of which have become classics. \nThe Cast…\nMatt: Austin Huether\nLuisa: Alivia Ruff\nEl Gallo: Casey S. Hibbert\nBellomy: J. Bruce Woodard\nHucklebee: Mitchell Mechaley\nHenry: Clark Ott\nMortimer: Matt Woodard\nThe Mute: Rose Peay
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/the-fantasticks-5/
CATEGORIES:Theater
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Fantasticks-event-header-1-TNQVPz.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230421T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230421T210000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T171230Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T171230Z
UID:10000925-1682103600-1682110800@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:The Fantasticks
DESCRIPTION:The Matthews Opera House and Arts Center is excited to announce The Fantasticks\, a musical by Tom Jones under direction of Casey S. Hibbert with musical direction provided by Connie Hubbard. \n“Try To Remember” a time when this romantic charmer wasn’t enchanting audiences around the world. The Fantasticks is the longest-running musical in the world and with good reason: at the heart of its breathtaking poetry and subtle theatrical sophistication is a purity and simplicity that transcends cultural barriers. The result is a timeless fable of love that manages to be nostalgic and universal at the same time. \nAudiences have six opportunities to catch The Fantasticks on the Matthews stage: Friday and Saturday evenings at 7 pm\, April 14\, 15\, 21 and 22; and Sunday matinees at 2 pm\, April 16 and 23. For tickets\, purchase online\, call the box office at (605) 642-7973 or visit the Matthews Gallery at 612 N. Main. Street\, Spearfish. \nThe Story…\nThe Fantasticks is a funny and romantic musical about a boy\, a girl\, and their two fathers who try to keep them apart. The narrator\, El Gallo\, asks the audience to use their imagination and follow him into a world of moonlight and magic. The boy and the girl fall in love\, grow apart and finally find their way back to each other after realizing the truth in El Gallo’s words that\, “without a hurt\, the heart is hollow.” \nWith its minimal costumes\, small band and virtually nonexistent set\, The Fantasticks is an intimate show that engages the audience’s imagination and showcases a strong ensemble cast. Its moving tale of young lovers who become disillusioned\, only to discover a more mature\, meaningful love is punctuated by a bountiful series of catchy\, memorable songs\, many of which have become classics. \nThe Cast…\nMatt: Austin Huether\nLuisa: Alivia Ruff\nEl Gallo: Casey S. Hibbert\nBellomy: J. Bruce Woodard\nHucklebee: Mitchell Mechaley\nHenry: Clark Ott\nMortimer: Matt Woodard\nThe Mute: Rose Peay
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/the-fantasticks-4/
CATEGORIES:Theater
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Fantasticks-event-header-1-hcE7Zq.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230421T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230501T170000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T172036Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T172036Z
UID:10000949-1682071200-1682960400@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Froelich Young Actors Guild
DESCRIPTION:Summer break is just around the corner and we’re excited to announce that the Froelich Young Actors Guild theater camp is ready for all the drama! Registration is open now through May 1. The camp offers two age-appropriate sessions: 7th – 12th grade; and\, 2nd – 6th grade. Each group meets Monday through Friday\, May 31 through June 23.  \nSelect your child’s group based on the grade they will be entering in Fall 2023. \nGroup A (7th – 12th grade)A Simpler TimeLed by Gabriella HertzMonday – Friday\, 9 am til noonPerformances: Friday\, June 23 and Saturday\, June 24 at 7 pm\nGroup B (2nd – 6th grade)Aesop’s Fables ReduxLed by Elysia PedersonMonday – Friday\, 1 til 4 pmPerformance: Sunday\, June 25 at 2 pm\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\nRegistration\n\n\n\nRegistration is open April 1 through May 1. Please download the form below and return it to the Matthews gallery. You can also pick up a printed copy of the registration form at the gallery during business hours\, Monday – Saturday\, 10 am – 5 pm. \nWe love teaching your kids! So that we can give them the attention they deserve\, we have to restrict class size. A maximum of two children per family\, per age group will be accepted. A $50 deposit (per child) is due at registration. \n\n\n\n\nDownload Registration Form\nDownload Parent Volunteer Form\n \n\n\nPlay Descriptions\n“A Simpler Time” | Group A | Actors in grades 7-12 (entering these grades in Fall 2022) We challenged nine playwrights to find the funny and familiar in every era in this collection of ten-minute plays. Designed to be flexible for your trip through the fourth dimension\, these plays can be performed in any combination\, and you can choose to thread them together with optional interludes that form a tale of three time travelers. When you find yourself fighting with your friends on the night before the Constitution is due\, listening in at a telephone switchboard in the 1940s\, trying to avoid the more gruesome aspects of medieval times\, or exploring a mysterious possible future\, only one thing is certain: there’s humor in human nature. \n“Aesop’s Fables Redux” | Group B | Actors in grades 2-6 (entering these grades in Fall 2022) A witty narrator helps an inquisitive child understand some famous expressions by exploring Aesop’s beloved fables. The lessons behind these expressions are playfully illustrated through a series of well-known stories and brought to life by a variety of human and animal characters. These classic fables\, such as The Boy Who Cried Wolf and The Goose That Laid the Golden Egg\, provide a fresh\, warm\, and fun learning experience.
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/froelich-young-actors-guild/
CATEGORIES:Theater
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/YAG-2023-Web-Header-LAD3CI.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230421T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230421T170000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T172039Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T172039Z
UID:10000952-1682071200-1682096400@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Call for Artists
DESCRIPTION:The Matthews Opera House and Arts Center is excited to announce an open call for entry for their annual summer exhibition. The call is open to artists of the Black Hills to be juried into the non-profit art gallery and sell their artwork from May through September\, 2023. \nFor application purposes\, the Black Hills area includes anywhere within approximately one hundred miles of the Black Hills in South Dakota and Wyoming. This call is open to new artists and artists who have previously been contracted with the Matthews. \nTo have their work considered\, entrants are required to submit three digital images of their art\, a brief artist statement\, and an application that can be found on the Matthews website or picked up at the gallery. A $20 application fee is due upon submission. Works must be for sale and will receive 78% compensation if sold\, with the remaining 22% supporting gallery and art education programming at the Matthews.  \nThrough this call\, The Matthews hopes to find thirty to forty artists whose work will be showcased. During the jurying process\, the Matthews exhibits committee will assess applicants based on the quality of work submitted and the gallery’s needs in terms of aesthetic balance and diversity. \nArtists who are accepted will also have the option to have prints available for sale at the Matthews booth during Festival in the Park.  \nArtist applications are due before 5 p.m. on Friday\, April 21. Jurying takes place the following week. All artists who have applied will receive notification of the jury findings on Friday\, April 28. \nThe Matthews will begin exhibiting the work of contracted artists beginning Monday\, May 15 through September 2. An opening reception for the exhibit will be held on Friday\, May 19 from 5-7 pm in the Matthews Gallery. For more information\, visit matthewsopera.com or contact the Matthews Gallery at (605) 642-7973 or 612 N. Main Street\, Spearfish. \nAccess the 2023 Summer Art Series application here! \nPay your application fee online\, call us at (605) 642-7973 or mail your payment to 612 N. Main Street\, Spearfish\, SD 57783
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/call-for-artists/
CATEGORIES:Registration
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/SAS-header-ihuB3Q.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230418T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230418T210000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T171642Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T171642Z
UID:10000940-1681844400-1681851600@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Gerdan
DESCRIPTION:The Matthews Opera House & Arts Center is excited to present “Gerdan – Kaleidoscope of World Music” on Tuesday evening\, April 18 at 7 pm. \nGerdan – Kaleidoscope of World Music is a professional music ensemble based in Washington DC metropolitan area. Founded by Ukrainian professional duo Solomia Gorokhivska and Andrei Pidkivka\, musicians of Gerdan bring the fire and the edge of melodic ideas and rhythms that capture the listener. \nThe ensemble is named after Gerdan\, a multi-colored\, intricately woven beaded necklace from Carpathian Mountains in Ukraine. Like this dazzling and exquisite necklace of different colors and shapes\, musicians create original arrangements of traditional Ukrainian folk melodies and rhythms that reflect their passion for blending the old with the new\, in a style that is fresh\, lively\, and beautiful. The exclusive collection of the Ukrainian authentic flutes in combination with other traditional and modern instruments create unforgettable musical experience. Gerdan’s musicians have been acknowledged for their technique and exquisite musical presentations performing an exciting Eastern European music repertoire. They reveal their passion for traditional music in their artistic expression to build cultural bridges in time and distance. \nGerdan ensemble performs and conducts educational outreach programs in public and private schools in Maryland\, Virginia and DC for the K-12 grade students. Gerdan presented at the Library of Congress\, the American Folklife Center\, the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts\, National Museum of African American History\, McDaniel College\, Salisbury University\, Georgetown University\, Wayne State University\,  Ukrainian\, Czech\, Slovak and Russian Embassies\, International Monetary Fund\, World Bank\, etc. The group works with different embassies and international organizations\, the National Symphony Orchestra\, and other artistic entities to produce outreach programs for the diverse communities in the Washington DC Metropolitan area. \nListen Now…\n[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fgxk1ShT0Y4″ loop=”no” muted=”no” /] \n[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3uyRx7jfg6U&list=PLSWRsDVIOko4G8hZbGq6NIBAO0xjtf1OK&index=3″ loop=”no” muted=”no” /] \n[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q4Lwuh4wGCw&t=1s” loop=”no” muted=”no” /]
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/gerdan/
CATEGORIES:Music
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230418T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230418T133000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T171643Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T171643Z
UID:10000941-1681821000-1681824600@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Author Talks at the Matthews
DESCRIPTION:Author Talks at the Matthews returns with a new lineup of local writers ready to dive into their stories\, their methods\, and their inspirations. Join us in the fireplace room every Tuesday at 12:30 for an hour with some of the best authors in the Black Hills area! \nAre you interested in presenting an Author Talk? Contact us at 605-717-6967 or engage@matthewsopera.com \nFeatured author…\nApril 18: Bearlodge Writers\nBearlodge Writers will introduce their newest anthology Spirit of the Bearlodge. Bearlodge Writers\, based in Sundance\, Wyoming\, is open to those who are looking for a serious literary critique group to attend on a regular basis. They welcome all types of writing and writers at all levels. The literary group welcomes all without regard to sex\, religion\, race\, color\, politics\, brand of false teeth\, and occupations other than writer. \nComing Soon…\nApril 25: Belle Fourche Writers  \nStay tuned while we gather more information about the writers. \nMay 2: Geri Mendoza Gutwein \nGeri Mendoza Gutwein\, Ph.D.\, poet\, educator\, and lecturer is professor emerita of English at HACC\, Central Pennsylvania’s Community College where she taught English\, creative writing\, and Native American Literature. Her poetry has appeared in the Connecticut Review\, The Wildwood Journal\, Fledgling Rag\, La Libreta an online journal\, and in Roots Trunk Sky: IWWG’s Imagination and Justice Meditation-Free Writing Circle. A Pushcart nominee\, she is the author of three chapbooks: Every Orbit of the Circle\, The Story She Told\, and An Utterance of Small Truths. Her erasure poem Dakota 38\, a poem that dealt with the 38 Dakota men who were sentenced to death in Mankato\, Minnesota\, was on exhibit at Birdcage Bookstore in Rapid City\, South Dakota. An enrolled member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe\, she lives in the sacred Black Hills of South Dakota. You may visit her website at gerigutwein.com. \n  \n 
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/author-talks-at-the-matthews-23/
CATEGORIES:Lectures & Readings
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Author-Talks-Header-2048x1152-1-pVboUO.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230416T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230416T160000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T171229Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T171229Z
UID:10000924-1681653600-1681660800@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:The Fantasticks
DESCRIPTION:The Matthews Opera House and Arts Center is excited to announce The Fantasticks\, a musical by Tom Jones under direction of Casey S. Hibbert with musical direction provided by Connie Hubbard. \n“Try To Remember” a time when this romantic charmer wasn’t enchanting audiences around the world. The Fantasticks is the longest-running musical in the world and with good reason: at the heart of its breathtaking poetry and subtle theatrical sophistication is a purity and simplicity that transcends cultural barriers. The result is a timeless fable of love that manages to be nostalgic and universal at the same time. \nAudiences have six opportunities to catch The Fantasticks on the Matthews stage: Friday and Saturday evenings at 7 pm\, April 14\, 15\, 21 and 22; and Sunday matinees at 2 pm\, April 16 and 23. For tickets\, purchase online\, call the box office at (605) 642-7973 or visit the Matthews Gallery at 612 N. Main. Street\, Spearfish. \nThe Story…\nThe Fantasticks is a funny and romantic musical about a boy\, a girl\, and their two fathers who try to keep them apart. The narrator\, El Gallo\, asks the audience to use their imagination and follow him into a world of moonlight and magic. The boy and the girl fall in love\, grow apart and finally find their way back to each other after realizing the truth in El Gallo’s words that\, “without a hurt\, the heart is hollow.” \nWith its minimal costumes\, small band and virtually nonexistent set\, The Fantasticks is an intimate show that engages the audience’s imagination and showcases a strong ensemble cast. Its moving tale of young lovers who become disillusioned\, only to discover a more mature\, meaningful love is punctuated by a bountiful series of catchy\, memorable songs\, many of which have become classics. \nThe Cast…\nMatt: Austin Huether\nLuisa: Alivia Ruff\nEl Gallo: Casey S. Hibbert\nBellomy: J. Bruce Woodard\nHucklebee: Mitchell Mechaley\nHenry: Clark Ott\nMortimer: Matt Woodard\nThe Mute: Rose Peay
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/the-fantasticks-3/
CATEGORIES:Theater
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Fantasticks-event-header-1-TNQVPz.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230415T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230415T210000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T171228Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T171228Z
UID:10000923-1681585200-1681592400@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:The Fantasticks
DESCRIPTION:The Matthews Opera House and Arts Center is excited to announce The Fantasticks\, a musical by Tom Jones under direction of Casey S. Hibbert with musical direction provided by Connie Hubbard. \n“Try To Remember” a time when this romantic charmer wasn’t enchanting audiences around the world. The Fantasticks is the longest-running musical in the world and with good reason: at the heart of its breathtaking poetry and subtle theatrical sophistication is a purity and simplicity that transcends cultural barriers. The result is a timeless fable of love that manages to be nostalgic and universal at the same time. \nAudiences have six opportunities to catch The Fantasticks on the Matthews stage: Friday and Saturday evenings at 7 pm\, April 14\, 15\, 21 and 22; and Sunday matinees at 2 pm\, April 16 and 23. For tickets\, purchase online\, call the box office at (605) 642-7973 or visit the Matthews Gallery at 612 N. Main. Street\, Spearfish. \nThe Story…\nThe Fantasticks is a funny and romantic musical about a boy\, a girl\, and their two fathers who try to keep them apart. The narrator\, El Gallo\, asks the audience to use their imagination and follow him into a world of moonlight and magic. The boy and the girl fall in love\, grow apart and finally find their way back to each other after realizing the truth in El Gallo’s words that\, “without a hurt\, the heart is hollow.” \nWith its minimal costumes\, small band and virtually nonexistent set\, The Fantasticks is an intimate show that engages the audience’s imagination and showcases a strong ensemble cast. Its moving tale of young lovers who become disillusioned\, only to discover a more mature\, meaningful love is punctuated by a bountiful series of catchy\, memorable songs\, many of which have become classics. \nThe Cast…\nMatt: Austin Huether\nLuisa: Alivia Ruff\nEl Gallo: Casey S. Hibbert\nBellomy: J. Bruce Woodard\nHucklebee: Mitchell Mechaley\nHenry: Clark Ott\nMortimer: Matt Woodard\nThe Mute: Rose Peay
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/the-fantasticks-2/
CATEGORIES:Theater
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Fantasticks-event-header-1-hcE7Zq.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230414T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230414T210000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T171217Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T171217Z
UID:10000922-1681498800-1681506000@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:The Fantasticks
DESCRIPTION:The Matthews Opera House and Arts Center is excited to announce The Fantasticks\, a musical by Tom Jones under direction of Casey S. Hibbert with musical direction provided by Connie Hubbard. \n“Try To Remember” a time when this romantic charmer wasn’t enchanting audiences around the world. The Fantasticks is the longest-running musical in the world and with good reason: at the heart of its breathtaking poetry and subtle theatrical sophistication is a purity and simplicity that transcends cultural barriers. The result is a timeless fable of love that manages to be nostalgic and universal at the same time. \nAudiences have six opportunities to catch The Fantasticks on the Matthews stage: Friday and Saturday evenings at 7 pm\, April 14\, 15\, 21 and 22; and Sunday matinees at 2 pm\, April 16 and 23. For tickets\, purchase online\, call the box office at (605) 642-7973 or visit the Matthews Gallery at 612 N. Main. Street\, Spearfish. \nThe Story…\nThe Fantasticks is a funny and romantic musical about a boy\, a girl\, and their two fathers who try to keep them apart. The narrator\, El Gallo\, asks the audience to use their imagination and follow him into a world of moonlight and magic. The boy and the girl fall in love\, grow apart and finally find their way back to each other after realizing the truth in El Gallo’s words that\, “without a hurt\, the heart is hollow.” \nWith its minimal costumes\, small band and virtually nonexistent set\, The Fantasticks is an intimate show that engages the audience’s imagination and showcases a strong ensemble cast. Its moving tale of young lovers who become disillusioned\, only to discover a more mature\, meaningful love is punctuated by a bountiful series of catchy\, memorable songs\, many of which have become classics. \nThe Cast…\nMatt: Austin Huether\nLuisa: Alivia Ruff\nEl Gallo: Casey S. Hibbert\nBellomy: J. Bruce Woodard\nHucklebee: Mitchell Mechaley\nHenry: Clark Ott\nMortimer: Matt Woodard\nThe Mute: Rose Peay
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/the-fantasticks/
CATEGORIES:Theater
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230412T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230412T130000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T171844Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T171844Z
UID:10000947-1681300800-1681304400@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Bellman Brown Bag Series: James Casper
DESCRIPTION:Join us for this month’s free Bellman Brown Bag Series on Wednesday\, April 12 at noon in the Matthews Theater with speaker James Casper. \n“Close Cooperation Within a Society” – Sounds Far-Fetched Doesn’t It! James Casper will draw on his decades of experience as a commercial beekeeper as he discusses the inner workings of one of nature’s most complex animal societies: The Honey Bee Colony: where normally only one queen bee exists in the company of 60\,000 workers (females) and up to several thousand drones (males). She is the mother of all individuals in the colony and is a  very efficient producer of eggs but devoid of maternal instinct and physically incapable of caring for her young. The queen\, along with her own genetic DNA\, is also the custodian of the male parent’s contribution to the heredity of her female offspring and thus is responsible for the characteristics of the colony. Her presence controls the morale of the colony through the production and sharing of pheromones. The colony is a highly cooperative group where tasks are allocated so that more urgent needs are met before less urgent ones\, and individual actions are coordinated into a coherent whole\, resulting in a set of mechanisms that make close cooperation a reality. \n\nAbout James Casper…\nSince my childhood\, I have been fascinated by the groupings of these mostly white and often tall stacks of boxes sitting picturesque against the background of fields full of colorful blossoms that filled the air with a certain sweetness. The bee hive was the center of my attraction. My interest was raised to a full pitch once I purchased my first two hives and the result was\, well\, I won’t lie. I became a full-fledged “Keeper of the Bees”. Forty-five or so years later and I still absolutely love the journey through the makings of a honey bee colony. Follow me and I will introduce you to the fascinating world of the honey bee.\n  \nAbout the Bellman Brown Bag Series…\nThe Bellman Brown Bag series is a humanities program designed to explore ideas\, history\, literature\, art and culture. The Brown Bag program was developed by Dr. Stewart Bellman in the 1990’s. Recognizing the Matthews Opera House as an ideal venue for the exploration of humanities topics\, he engaged a line-up of speakers to present programs on a range of humanities topics each month. \nDr. Bellman was a professor of English at Black Hills State University\, Spearfish\, SD. His teaching career spanned thirty years. Bellman retired from BHSU and passed away in November 2002. \nPrograms are presented on the second Wednesday of each month\, noon to 1pm. Designed to begin and end within the lunch hour\, patrons are invited to bring their lunch\, if desired\, or simply enjoy an hour of learning and entertainment.  This is an opportunity to gain insight into themes that touch our daily lives. \n \nCoffee for the Bellman Brown Bag Series is generously provided by Common Grounds in Spearfish\, SD. \n 
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/bellman-brown-bag-series-james-casper/
CATEGORIES:Special Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/April-Bellman-Casper-final-2ut9Kv.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230411T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230411T133000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T171641Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T171641Z
UID:10000939-1681216200-1681219800@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Author Talks at the Matthews
DESCRIPTION:Author Talks at the Matthews returns with a new lineup of local writers ready to dive into their stories\, their methods\, and their inspirations. Join us in the fireplace room every Tuesday at 12:30 for an hour with some of the best authors in the Black Hills area! \nAre you interested in presenting an Author Talk? Contact us at 605-717-6967 or engage@matthewsopera.com \nFeatured author…\nApril 11: MJ McMillan\nMJ McMillan is a poet\, author and semi-retired rancher living near Murdo. A lifelong resident of South Dakota\, the self-proclaimed ‘Poet for the Common Man’ currently has three books in print\, Poems for the Common Man\, Volumes One\, Two and Three. The poet and author is presently working on a fourth column of the Common Man poems as well as a volume of Cowboy Poetry and a volume of short stories. His poetry has been well received and published in the South Dakota State Poetry Society’s periodical ‘Pasque Petals’ as well as the South Dakota Magazine. He has also been nominated for a Pushcart Prize. \n \n  \nComing Soon…\nApril 18: Bearlodge Writers \nBearlodge Writers will introduce their newest anthology Spirit of the Bearlodge. Bearlodge Writers\, based in Sundance\, Wyoming\, is open to those who are looking for a serious literary critique group to attend on a regular basis. They welcome all types of writing and writers at all levels. The literary group welcomes all without regard to sex\, religion\, race\, color\, politics\, brand of false teeth\, and occupations other than writer.
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/author-talks-at-the-matthews-22/
CATEGORIES:Lectures & Readings
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230408T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230408T210000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T172038Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T172038Z
UID:10000951-1680980400-1680987600@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Songs of the Black Hills
DESCRIPTION:Join us at the Matthews Opera House and Arts Center on Saturday\, April 8 from 7-9 pm for “Songs of the Black Hills.” The Matthews ventures into new series of singer-songwriter pairings. Saturday evening we are hosting three amazing local musicians: Heath Johnson (Spearfish)\, Adda Boyd (Spearfish)\, and Clayton Ryan (Rapid City). \nJoin us as we listen to the three perform and share stories of how these songs came to be\, as well as share their writing processes.
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/songs-of-the-black-hills/
CATEGORIES:Music
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230407T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230407T190000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T171842Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T171842Z
UID:10000945-1680886800-1680894000@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Community Art Show
DESCRIPTION:The Matthews Opera House and Art Center is excited to announce its 44th Annual Community Art Show. Once again\, the Matthews is opening its doors to artists of all ages and abilities\, from amateur to professional\, to exhibit their work. \nAn opening reception will be held April 7 at 5 pm\, and the event is free to attend. The public is welcome to attend this reception which will include hors d’ oeuvres and a cash bar. Winners of Best of Show\, adult\, and youth categories will be announced that evening. Attendees will also be offered the first opportunity to cast their ballot for People’s Choice. Voting will remain open in this category through April 28. The People’s Choice Award will be announced on the Matthews Facebook page on May 6. \nThe exhibition will be on display in the Matthews Gallery from April 3 – May 6 during regular business hours\, Monday – Friday\, 10 am – 5 pm.
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/community-art-show/
CATEGORIES:Special Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2023-CAS-opening-reception-header-Cyyb5z.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230404T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230404T133000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T171640Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T171640Z
UID:10000938-1680611400-1680615000@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Author Talks at the Matthews
DESCRIPTION:The April 4 Author Talks with Robin Carmody has been postponed due to weather. We will reschedule our visit with Robin. Please keep your eye on our website for the new date! \nAuthor Talks at the Matthews returns with a new lineup of local writers ready to dive into their stories\, their methods\, and their inspirations. Join us in the fireplace room every Tuesday at 12:30 for an hour with some of the best authors in the Black Hills area! \nAre you interested in presenting an Author Talk? Contact us at 605-717-6967 or engage@matthewsopera.com \nFeatured author…\nApril 4: Robin Carmody\n \nRobin\, born and raised in Boston\, Massachusetts\, felt a longing for the Black Hills for as long as she can remember. A modern-day kindred spirit of those early pioneers\, Robin’s background includes earning a Class A CDL license\, a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education\, and being Chairperson of the Early Childhood Department at Bay State College in Boston. \nFor many years\, she has devoted time to historical research of Wild Bill Hickok\, his circle of friends\, and the Black Hills area. \nRobin is a mother of two fiercely independent\, successful adult children and Nana to two beautiful\, energetic grandchildren for whom she originally conceived the idea of the “But Nana” books. Her hobbies include knitting\, quilting\, participating in donation drives\, and traveling. \nFor the Author Talks presentation\, Robin will discuss the four books in the “But Nana” children’s book series\, and how her research on Wild Bill Hickok began decades ago\, bringing her to this point in time. \n \nComing Soon…\nApril 11: M J McMillan \nM J McMillan is a poet\, author and semi-retired rancher living near Murdo\, SD. A lifelong resident of the state\, the self-proclaimed “Poet for the Common Man” currently has three books in print: Poems for the Common Man\, volumes one\, two and three. The poet and author is presently working on a fourth volume of Common Man poems as well as a volume of cowboy poetry and a volume of short stories. His poetry has been well-received and published in South Dakota Magazine. He has also been nominated for a Pushcart Prize.
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/author-talks-at-the-matthews-21/
CATEGORIES:makeSPACE
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230328T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230328T133000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T172037Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T172037Z
UID:10000950-1680006600-1680010200@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Author Talks: Jean Helmer
DESCRIPTION:Author Talks at the Matthews returns with a new lineup of local writers ready to dive into their stories\, their methods\, and their inspirations. Join us in the fireplace room every Tuesday at 12:30 for an hour with some of the best authors in the Black Hills area! \nAre you interested in presenting an Author Talk? Contact us at 605-717-6967 or engage@matthewsopera.com \nFeatured author…\nMarch 28: Jean Helmer\nOn March 28\, Jean Helmer joins us from Belle Fourche Writers to present From Plains\, Podiums\, and Pulpits. Helmer’s writing is drawn from roots in high plains agriculture\, from her years in education\, and from years as a country pastor. A past director of Dakota Writing Project’s Summer institutes\, ranch kid/educator/pastor has been published in WyoPoets 2020 Chapbook\, in several editions of South Dakota State Poetry Society’s Pasque Petals\, in Gyroscope\, and in various anthologies and newspapers. Bring your paper and a writing instrument. This Author Talk is interactive! \n  \nComing Soon…\nApril 4: Robin Carmody \nRobin\, born and raised in Boston\, Massachusetts\, felt a longing for the Black Hills for as long as she can remember. A modern-day kindred spirit of those early pioneers\, Robin’s background includes earning a Class A CDL license\, a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education\, and being Chairperson of the Early Childhood Department at Bay State College in Boston. \nFor many years\, she has devoted time to historical research of Wild Bill Hickok\, his circle of friends\, and the Black Hills area. \nRobin is a mother of two fiercely independent\, successful adult children and Nana to two beautiful\, energetic grandchildren for whom she originally conceived the idea of the “But Nana” books. Her hobbies include knitting\, quilting\, participating in donation drives\, and traveling. \nFor the Author Talks presentation\, Robin will discuss the four books in the “But Nana” children’s book series\, and how her research on Wild Bill Hickok began decades ago\, bringing her to this point in time.
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/author-talks-jean-helmer-2/
CATEGORIES:makeSPACE
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Author-Talks-Header-2048x1152-1-pVboUO.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230325T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230325T210000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T171028Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T171028Z
UID:10000886-1679770800-1679778000@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Laney Lou and the Bird Dogs
DESCRIPTION:The Matthews\, in partnership with Spread the Tunes\, is excited to bring you Laney Lou and the Bird Dogs! Laney Lou and her crew will take the stage on Saturday\, March 25 at 7 pm. General admission tickets for this single event are $12 in advance or $15 day of show. This event was originally part of our JAM-uary series and previously purchased tickets will be honored. \nThis concert benefits the Artemis House of Spearfish. \n“The thing that most endeared me to Laney Lou and the Bird Dogs was their complete inability to take themselves seriously…this is a group that’s having more fun than may be legal.”\n– No Depression \n\nAbout the Band\nLaney Lou and the Bird Dogs are an energetic Americana band from Bozeman\, Montana\, that infuses four-part harmonies\, engaging songwriting\, and rock-n-roll drive into a modern approach to traditional folk music. Coming from varied musical backgrounds\, the five-person ensemble creates a sound unique to them\, but one that finds common ground by adding the energy of Montana’s big sky country into their music. The Bird Dogs weave stories through their songs that are reflective\, joyous\, longing\, or meant to share a journey with the listener. Through it all\, the band is able to convey heartfelt honesty\, getting the audience to immerse themselves in the moment by dancing\, singing and laughing along. \nThe Bird Dogs have been taking their infectious sound on the road since 2013\, supporting acts such as The Travelin’ McCourys\, The Steeldrivers\, The Steep Canyon Rangers\, The Jeff Austin Band\, Amy Helm\, Leftover Salmon\, Town Mountain\, and many more. \nThe most recent album from Laney Lou and the Bird Dogs\, Through the Smoke\, was recorded in February of 2021 at The Panoramic House in Stinson Beach\, CA. This album is one of personal transformation. The concept of letting things go\, processing past and current situations\, and moving forward has been ever present in 2020-2021\, as the world went through trials beyond words. Laney Lou and the Bird Dogs found a way to represent their journey through hardship\, while also celebrating the silver linings and breakthrough moments in their lives. Through the Smoke brings energy to the darkness\, and proves that resilience can get us through the hardest of times. \nThe Bird Dogs released a live self-titled studio album in 2016\, recorded at Basecamp Studio in Bozeman. Their follow-up album\, titled The Vigilante Session\, was recorded live at a forest service cabin in the Ruby mountains. In 2019 Laney Lou and the Bird Dogs recorded their first full-length studio album\, Sweet Little Lies\, at Prairie Sun Records in Cotati CA. Their live album\, Live at the Filling Station\, was recorded in 2019 at the Filling Station in Bozeman MT and released in 2020. \nLaney Lou and the Bird Dogs consists of Lena (Laney) Schiffer on vocals/guitar/percussion\, Matt Demarais on vocals/banjo\, Ethan Demarais on bass\, Brian Kassay on fiddle/mandolin/harmonica\, and Josh Moore on vocals/guitar. \n“Their music is the pure\, rollicking\, breakneck type that conjures visions of packed barrooms\, plenty of whiskey\, uninhibited dancing\, and lots of sweat.”\n-Melissa Mylchreest\, Missoula Independent \nListen Now…\n[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dmhzbxe47HQ” loop=”no” muted=”no” /] \n[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BCddMBsNUTo” loop=”no” muted=”no” /] \n[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f4H6_kFMjgE” loop=”no” muted=”no” /] \n 
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/laney-lou-and-the-bird-dogs/
CATEGORIES:Music
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230322T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230326T170000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T171840Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T171840Z
UID:10000943-1679479200-1679850000@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Call for Entry
DESCRIPTION:The Matthews Opera House and Art Center is excited to announce a call for entry for their 44th annual Community Art Show. Once again\, the Matthews is opening its doors to artists of all ages and abilities\, from amateur to professional\, to exhibit their work.  \nAwards will be given in six different categories: Best of Show\, People’s Choice\, Adult (with first\, second\, and third awards)\, and as well as awards for youth. Prize amounts will depend on the category. Patrons to the gallery are also encouraged to vote for People’s Choice until April 28.  \nAn opening reception will be held on April 7 at 5 pm\, and the event is free to attend. Winners of Best of Show\, adult\, and youth categories will be announced that evening. Attendees will also be offered the first opportunity to cast their ballot for People’s Choice. Voting will remain open in this category through April 28. The People’s Choice Award will be announced on the Matthews Facebook page on May 6.  \nThis call is open to all artists\, age groups\, levels\, and media. Works created by individuals 18+ must be for sale. Works by artists under 18 are exempt from this rule and may be marked “not for sale.” \nEntries must be delivered to the Matthews Gallery at 612 N Main St\, Spearfish from March 20 – 25. The Community Art Show will exhibit from April 3 – May 6 and is free for public viewing Monday through Friday from 10 am until 5 pm. Pieces may be picked up the week after the show has concluded.  \nDownload the application here! \n 
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/call-for-entry/
CATEGORIES:Special Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2023-CAS-web-header1-IK4pRF.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230318T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230318T140000
DTSTAMP:20260614T190335
CREATED:20260611T171117Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T171117Z
UID:10000902-1679140800-1679148000@matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com
SUMMARY:Wings\, Horns & Teeth
DESCRIPTION:Join us on Saturday\, March 18 at noon in the Matthews Art Gallery for a free painting project for young artists. \nAfter students discuss what characteristics Greek monsters have\, students will create themselves to be a monster as told in many Greek myths. \nWings\, Horns & Teeth is a free event. Supplies will be provided. Artists are also encouraged to bring their own art supplies. \nAbout the NEA Big Read\nThe National Endowment for the Arts Big Read\, a partnership with Arts Midwest\, broadens our understanding of our world\, our communities\, and ourselves through the joy of sharing a good book. Since 2006\, the National Endowment for the Arts has funded more than 1\,700 NEA Big Read programs\, providing more than $24 million to organizations nationwide. In addition\, NEA Big Read activities have reached every Congressional district in the country. Over the past 16 years\, grantees have leveraged more than $56 million in local funding to support their NEA Big Read programs. More than 5.9 million Americans have attended an NEA Big Read event\, over 97\,000 volunteers have participated at the local level\, and over 40\,000 community organizations have partnered to make NEA Big Read activities possible. \nVisit arts.gov/neabigread for more information about the NEA Big Read. Organizations interested in applying for an NEA Big Read grant in the future should visit Arts Midwest’s website for more information. \n\n\n\nNEA Big Read is a program of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest.\nEl proyecto NEA Big Read es una iniciativa del National Endowment for the Arts (el Fondo Nacional para las Artes de Estados Unidos) en cooperación con Arts Midwest
URL:https://matthewsopera2026.tdgwebhost.com/event/wings-horns-teeth/
CATEGORIES:Special Events
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR