WTC began as an idea in 1978, an idea of bringing live theatre to Whitefish. For the next five years, WTC mounted two productions a year as well as sponsoring several performing arts groups. By 1988, WTC mounted two productions, sponsored three events, and hired a full time artistic director.

As productions grew in the 1990's, WTC established a building fund. Sparked by the generous contribution from the I.A. O'Shaughnessy Foundation, the community funded cultural arts center opened in 1998. Today, with a long-term lease with the City of Whitefish, WTC sponsors or produces the majority of events at the Center. Other Flathead Valley organizations use the facility as well.

The I.A. O'Shaughnessy Center has become the premiere arts center in the Flathead Valley. It is a place for young and old to see a good play, listen to fine music, view local artwork, discuss a burning issue, or gather for a meeting. Please join us as week seek to provide the valley with the very best of the arts and cultural arts center for all to enjoy.


VISUAL ARTS
The lobby of the O'Shaughnessy Center provides space for large three-dimensional artworks and hosts a wonderful variety of visual art displays including art shows, photography exhibits, quilt displays, and local high school art.


OTHER USES
When not used by WTC, the O'Shaughnessy Center is available to other organizations, businesses and individuals in the community. Dance classes and recitals, art and antique shows, slide shows, speakers, public forums, and school and chamber events are just a few of the activities held here.


OUTREACH ACTIVITIES
WTC continually seeks new ways to reach out to the community. Annually, WTC hosts summer camps for area youth in music, movement and dance, and theatre performance. Taught by professional guest directors from around the country, local children have fun learning and performing arts for a week or more. In conjunction with the music series and professional touring companies, WTC sponsors school performances and hand-on cultural exploration through dance, musical instrument making, and after-school theatre instruction. A variety of workshops including auditioning, directing, dialects, movement and the technical aspects of theatre are open to adults.