Big Sky women will take the stage and perform on the theme of ‘tolerance’
By Mira Brody VP MEDIA
Big Sky’s annual Her Gift, Her Creation performance will return to the Warren Miller Performing Arts Center on Saturday, Dec. 6, bringing an evening dedicated to artistic expression, community connection and women’s creativity in Big Sky.
Created by local arts leader Klaudia Kosiak, the event was founded on the belief that women in the community deserve a platform to share their art, whether through music, dance, visual work or performance. Each year, the program centers around a singular theme, inspiring participants to reflect deeply and create work that resonates across the community.
This year’s theme is “tolerance,” and invites artists to respond in the medium of their choice, either on stage or through pieces displayed in the WMPAC gallery. Previous themes, such as “purpose,” “resilience” and “connection,” have inspired deeply personal artistic expressions and organizers expect this year’s focus to spark equally meaningful dialogue about what tolerance means in Big Sky and beyond.
Liz McRae, who helps Kosiak produce the event each year, explained that tolerance can include lack of prejudice, willingness and patience.
“These are concepts that are being tested all around us culturally, globally and personally,” she said. “Klaudia wanted to explore tolerance through the lens of community and art, and maybe cast a new light on how to think about it.”
McRae said she is struck by the vulnerability and brilliance of the women who perform during Her Gift, Her Creation.
“The women who are on stage and creating art for this night are also local mothers, realtors, teachers, nurses and professionals from all walks of life in Big Sky,” McRae said. “They courageously step out of their daily roles and express themselves in a different way. When someone is brave enough to engage in a creative act and then share it, that gift multiplies. The world longs to be inspired by singers and painters, dancers and dreamers and this is a night that we gather in that spirit to celebrate art and community.”
Kosiak, who launched Her Gift, Her Creation in 2019 with the help of McRae, mentioned she is grateful for the support and interest the community has shown the production over the years.
“The most satisfying thing for me is when the audience is really present during this event,” Kosiak said. “When they leave WMPAC inspired and uplifted and moved .
The evening will open with a 6 p.m. social hour, featuring wine and beer served by BYWOM as well as a WMPAC gallery exhibition of local artists’ interpretations of the theme. Performances will begin at 7 p.m.
Tickets are available at warrenmillerpac.org and proceeds from this year’s showcase will benefit Lone Peak Veterinary Hospital and its effort to build a new clinic in Big Sky.
