The Bitterroot Performing Arts Council is in its 16th season of bringing high quality performances to the small town of Hamilton.

In an industry that appeals to larger cities and venues, the BPAC has defied the odds and continues to impress both the performers and the audiences.

One clear benefit is the performance theatre that has a full proscenium stage and theatre capacity of 700. This came when a dedicated group of people pushed for it when the new high school bond was being proposed.

This past Saturday, The Hot Sardines came to town, bringing classic jazz from the 20's and 30's. The band formed in New York City in 2007 when artistic director and singer Elizabeth Bougerol and pianist and director Evan Palazzo met after both answered a Craigslist post for a traditional jazz jam in NYC.

Elizabeth asked Evan if he knew Fats Wallers' song, “Your Feet's Too Big.” He started to play it on the piano and The Hot Sardines were born.

The band features a horn section, bass, piano, drums, occasional washboard and a crowd favorite tap dancer.

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