Arts Center in Zootown Revitalizes Local Custom with Unique Twist: Missoula Tradition Reimagined at Zootown Arts Community Center
The vibrant ZEST event took place in downtown Missoula on Saturday, March 29th, marking a new fundraiser for the Zootown Arts Community Center (ZACC). The event, described by Matt Simms, the ZACC's Education Manager, as feeling like a "giant party with too much going on, in the best way possible," attracted a large turnout from the Missoula community, with over 250 tickets issued.
The ZEST event, a departure from ZACC's old fundraiser, the "Mini Show," which utilized a sit-down dinner and auction format, offered a more energetic and engaging experience. The event featured live auctions, performances from local and well-known musicians, comedy, dancing, and more, creating an intimate, open-house-like atmosphere that allowed attendees to roam throughout ZACC's downtown location.
One of the highlights of the ZEST event was the performance by Deaf Charlie, a band featuring Missoula legends Jeff Ament and John Wick. Internationally known dancer Quentin Robinson (AKA SpecialFX) also graced the stage, along with various performances announced at the event, happening either on ZACC's official stage in 'the Show Room' or on an unofficial stage in the playground area.
MC Jenni, a Missoula native, expressed positive feedback about Deaf Charlie's performance and the overall DJ at the event. The event's lively atmosphere extended into the night with late-night dancing after the performances.
ZACC's two floors were filled with activities ranging from fifteen-minute haircuts to a tattoo parlor set up in an upstairs office to live art being created in real time by local artists. The ZEST event was described as a major success by Matt Simms, with a high number of volunteers participating, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all attendees.
The ZEST event follows the model of combining artistic performances, community engagement, and fundraising for local causes, particularly those aligned with inclusion, arts, and social justice. This year's ZEST format felt much livelier and more energetic, reflecting the spirit of the Missoula arts community. Matt Simms expressed excitement about the possibility of repeating the ZEST event next year.
For those interested in the exact program details, lineup, or beneficiaries of ZEST, checking ZACC’s official channels or local event listings around the time of the festival would provide the most precise information. The ZEST event, with its focus on local arts, community celebration, and charitable support, has become a highlight in Missoula's cultural and philanthropic calendar.
The ZEST event, held at the Zootown Arts Community Center (ZACC), showcased a fresh blend of community engagement, artistic performances, and home-and-garden elements as attendees roamed through the center's transformed spaces. With live auctions, local and renowned performers, comedy, dancing, and various activities such as on-site haircuts and live art creation, the event embodied a lively, energetic lifestyle that catered to and highlighted the vibrant Missoula community.
