Charlie Russell program

Anne Morand might not be able to tell you everything you wanted to know about Charlie Russell and his art off the top of her head, but she can now show you exactly where to find the answers.

The chief executive of the C.M. Russell Museum in Great Falls will be at the Montana Historical Society, 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 24, to present a free public program, “Charles M. Russell: A Catalog Raisonne.”

Based on the new book of the same name, to which she contributed, Morand will talk about what is the most exhaustive study of Russell artwork ever completed.

The book documents more than 4,000 of the famed Montana cowboy artist’s works. Many of those works are in the Society’s Mackay Gallery of C.M. Russell art and the book is available in the Museum Store.

“The Russell catalogue raisonne will encourage and promote research, serve as an incalculably valuable tool for museums and collectors in the area of connoisseurship, and become a treasure map of sorts for the masses who love Charlie’s work and want to see as much of it as possible,” Morand said. “But the greatest benefit of the catalogue is that it will enhance appreciation of this artist and of the enormous contribution his work represents to American cultural history.” Call 444-1645.

Music

Opera auditions

The Intermountain Opera Association will hold auditions by appointment for the chorus and small roles for its 30th anniversary season productions of “Carmen” and “Die Fledermaus” on Saturday, Jan. 26, from noon to 5 p.m. at the Reynolds Recital Hall at MSU.

Auditioners must sing one memorized song or aria — a classical art song, musical theater song or operatic aria. An accompanist will be provided. Call 406-994-3562 for an appointment. For questions email jharney@montana.edu.

Selection for either chorus represents a serious commitment for the next several months. “Carmen” will be performed in May and “Die Fledermaus” in October.

A mighty return

After a two-year absence, the Mighty Flick returns to the Helena area to perform at the Silver City Saloon, Jan. 25-26. This three-piece high-energy dance band plays 80’s pop hits, classic rock favorites and a touch of country. The Mighty Flick puts a fresh sound on classic tunes with its tight, three-part harmonies and intoxicating stage energy.

“We have a lot of fans asking when we would play Helena again,” says Mighty Flick bass player Luke Duran. “We’re thrilled to play a venue suited to our brand of dance music, and to finally perform in our home town once again.”

Call 227-5413 for info.

For kids


Battle of the Books is on

The Lewis & Clark Library is once again hosting a Battle of the Books. Two fourth-grade and two fifth-grade students from 16 local schools, including Four Georgians, Lincoln, Central, Jim Darcy, Montana City, St, Andrews, Hawthorne, Smith, Radley, Warren, Bryant, Kessler, Broadwater and Clancy, will compete in the ultimate battle of book knowledge on Feb. 25-27, with semi-finals on March 3.

Students will read and answer questions on 10 books selected from the Young Reader’s Choice Award Nominees or chosen by school librarians. Some of the titles include “A Dog’s Life” by Ann Martin and “Shakespeare’s Secret” by Elise Broach.

The Battle of the Books was first organized in 2004 by Candice Morris, the Lewis & Clark Youth Service Librarian. For more information contact Morris at 447-1690 ext. 115 or at cmorris@mtlib.org.

Read to your dog

The Lewis & Clark Library is offering the PAWS for Reading program, which pairs kids who are learning to read with registered therapy dogs in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

PAWS for reading sessions will be held Sunday afternoons, 1:30-3 p.m., Feb. 3-March 9, in the large meeting room.

Dogs are nonjudgmental listeners that can help kids practice their reading skills. All dogs are registered and have current health certificates from a veterinarian. For more information contact Candice Morris at 447-1690 ext 115.