Showcase brings together performers from across Montana

After a standout debut in 2024 that launched artists toward record deals, major streaming success, and national opening slots, 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.

It’s not a competition — it’s a vibrant celebration of the artists our communities support and inspire. Finalists will compete for up to $5,000 in cash prizes, an opening slot for a national touring act at scenic Abayance Bay, a professional demo recording at Beargrass Studios, entry into the Whitefish Songwriter Festival, and more. Every participant receives a professional-tier 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,” says producer Halladay Quist. “The backstage vibe was so supportive — it gives everyone a chance to cheer on someone chasing their dream.”

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 young (and young-at-heart) 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 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, presented by Starlight Academy and Share Your Voice Foundation, goes far beyond marketing. Participants will delve into authentic branding, powerful storytelling techniques, and the 100K Artist Blueprint to craft an unforgettable artistic presence.

Led by dynamic duo Halladay Quist, 22-year touring pro who has opened for Wynonna Judd, Jewel, and Michael Martin Murphey; former Artist Development instructor at the University of Montana, and Jennifer Julian, creative producer, performance coach, two-time American Film Market Pitch Conference winner, TEDx/Sundance coach, and co-founder of Share Your Voice Foundation and June Bug Pictures, this evening promises deep insight, real-world industry wisdom, and personal epiphany in a safe yet cutting-edge space.

Featured performers at Montana’s Got Talent 2026 include an exciting lineup of Montana and Montana-adjacent talent:

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 farmers’ 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.

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