a certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit community organization
&
the root
the bloom
c o l l e c t i v e
HISTORIC INTERPRETATION
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One of our biggest ongoing projects is the expansion of the Chateau's historic collections and interpretation. The building's rich history has never been properly explored; our goal is to develop exhibits and interactive experiences to enrich each visitor's experience and deepen their understanding of Butte history.
SPEAKER SERIES
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Throughout the year, we coordinate public lectures and readings featuring authors, historians, sociologists and other specialists in the humanities. These events are open to the public and always include a Q&A session with the speaker, encouraging audience engagement and active learning.
MENTAL HEALTH
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Studies have shown that the arts and humanities are necessary aspects of healthy communities. Butte, MT has one of the highest suicide rates in the nation, so we have teamed up with local art therapists and suicide prevention experts to provide humanist programs to at-risk youth and adults.
NEW PLAY DEVELOPMENT
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The Ballroom Players are a group of local actors who present readings of both established and new plays in the Chateau's historic ballroom. Starting in Summer 2016, we will host a series of playwriting workshops and a 10-Minute Play Festival, open to playwrights of all ages.
PASTPROJECTS
REMEMBERING THE RISING:
JAMES E. MURRAY, BUTTE AND THE IRISH WAR OF INDEPENDENCE​
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Throughout April 2016, The Root & The Bloom co-sponsored the "Remembering the Rising" series, a lecture and performance series commemorating the centennial of the 1916 Easter Rising. We hosted lectures by Irish studies scholars Traolach O'Riordain, Fr. Patrick Beretta and David Emmons, each of whom were accompanied by a performance of an Irish play highlighting the War. The program was funded by grants from Humanities Montana, Granite Mountain Bank and the Friends of the Butte Archives.