Montana’s Got Talent returns to Whitefish

After a standout debut in 2024, Montana’s Got Talent is back bigger and brighter than ever. This statewide showcase brings together incredible performers from every corner of Montana for one unforgettable night on the big stage at the Performing Arts Center in Whitefish on Saturday, April 25, at 7 p.m. 

Finalists will compete for up to $5,000 in cash prizes, an opening slot for a national touring act at scenic Abayance Bay Amphitheater, a professional demo recording at Beargrass Studios, entry into the Whitefish Songwriter Festival, and more. Each participant receives a professional promo kit featuring headshots and video from their performance, giving them real tools to elevate their careers. 

Last year’s top finalists soared. One signed to a subsidiary of Atlantic Records, another released an album with impressive streaming numbers, and all opened for nationally acclaimed artists in their genres.  

“To see artists from across the state share their gifts … it was goosebumps and happy tears the whole way through,” said Halladay Quist, producer. “The backstage vibe was so supportive.” 

All proceeds from Montana’s Got Talent benefit Starlight Academy, a new online music education platform with a heartfelt mission -- to ignite a love for music and personal growth in students statewide through playful, imaginative, and innovative online courses and events. Starlight fosters confidence, creativity, and a supportive community that helps musicians chase their dreams. 

Starlight Academy soft-launched its first course, Intro to Guitar with instructor Mark McCrady  on April 1. The second course, The Building Blocks of Music arrives Oct. 1 on International Music Day. Through a partnership with the Montana Digital Academy, public school students across the state will soon gain access to these courses, starting with the Intro to Guitar pilot this August. Enroll today at StarlightAcademy.org.  

Preceding the showcase on Friday, April 24 at 7 p.m. is a transformative collaboration, the Authentic Artist Lab – Turn Your Talent into a Story People Remember. This special Artist Development Master Class will delve into authentic branding, powerful storytelling techniques, and the 100K Artist Blueprint. Led by dynamic duo Halladay Quist and Jennifer Julian, the evening promises deep insight, real-world industry wisdom and personal epiphany in a safe, yet cutting-edge, space. 

Tickets for the April 25 showcase and the April 24 Master Class are available at montanasgottalent.com.  

Featured Performers at Montana’s Got Talent 2026 include: 

● Denim Gold – Americana duo of Michelle Rivers & Hannah King, blending heartfelt songwriting, national fiddle champion roots, and modern folk flair with bluegrass heart. 

● Mallory Morgan – Sassy country/western singer-songwriter from Roundup, MT, drawing inspiration from Miranda Lambert, Ella Langley, and Loretta Lynn. 

● Michael Hatfield – Thoughtful singer-songwriter whose Montana-inspired music (including “Our Montana Sky,” recorded at Beargrass Studios with Hannah King on fiddle) draws from James Taylor, Chris Stapleton, and more. 

● GroupHug (Braxton Mackenzie & Connor Ault) – Energetic Bozeman-area duo born from a karaoke night and back-porch jam. 

● Edie Brackett (age 8) with father Zach – Young clawhammer banjo prodigy playing American Old Time music; catch their family band Jackalope Folk around Red Lodge. 

● Borderline Lucid – High-energy reggae-rock/alternative with cutting lyrics, explosive fiddle, and grooves that spread positivity; supporters of Fortunate Youth, Iya Terra, and more. 

● Jacob Cassidy (age 13) – Passionate aerial artist and gymnast from Kalispell bringing breathtaking silks performance. 

● Aerial Wonder and The Knotty Pines – Heart-touching collaborative act blending live music and aerial silks to celebrate the resilience of love. 

● Wild at Heart (Kodi, age 10 & Madison, age 8) – Sister duo delivering pure joy, beautiful harmonies, ukulele, and original songs that light up fairs and farmer’s markets. 

● Atomic Frequencies – Eccentric, genre-blending groove collective creating “hardcore lounging” vibes full of humor, weirdness, love, and revolution. 

● Alanna Glennon – Resilient circus acrobat who overcame major injuries to return stronger, now inspiring youth as an instructor at Elevated Fitness MT. 

● Cash Dean & The Rise – High-energy rock band with classic attitude and modern grit; recent performers at the legendary Whisky a Go Go on the Sunset Strip.