If You’ve Never Seen Montana’s Brewery Follies, You Should

It's been many years since we last visited Virginia City and on a bit of a whim, my spouse and I booked a cute vacation rental in the historic town last weekend to take in the sights. We reserved tickets to the Breweries Follies on this trip; a first for both of us.

Read More: Finding Gemstones on the Beach in Montana

I've heard about Brewery Follies, of course.

It's usually advertised on radio stations, TV, and publications in Southwest Montana, but I didn't know what to expect. My brother recommended it last summer, adding that they try to check it out every year or two. "It's really funny", he said, not giving much more of a show description.

There are shows every Wednesday - Sunday during the summer tourist season in Virginia City. We chose 8 pm instead of the 4 pm show, guessing (correctly) that the venue does not have air conditioning.

No A/C? No problem.

Many places in Virginia City don't have air conditioning, which typically isn't that big of a deal. The town sits at nearly 6,000 feet so it's generally a little cooler in the summer. Despite a 90+ degree afternoon, the venue was pleasantly cool during our 8 pm showtime visit.

I called the box office on Wednesday at noon to reserve our Saturday night tickets. Reservations are strongly recommended. The venue - the lower level of the oldest brewery in Montana - is not that large (maybe 100 seats?) and I've heard it typically sells out, especially on the weekends. Tickets are $25 per person for 2024.

The show has been running for 40 years.

Founded in 1984, the show has been managed for decades by Mike and Jill Vernon. Mike remains a central player in the show (and does a fantastic Trump impression) while other cast members come and go. Some stay for a season or two, while others have remained on the bill for years.

We ended up running into 4 out of the 5 performers after the show at the Pioneer Bar down the street in Virginia City and had a great time chatting and taking tequila shots with them. Thankfully, our Airbnb was within stumbling walking distance.

What's Brewery Follies all about?

I don't want to spoil it, so without saying too much, it's part vaudeville, part cabaret, part stand-up and sketch comedy, and pure fun. Much of the material is R-rated, without using the "bad" swear words. If you are easily offended, Brewery Follies might not be your cup of tea.

Get our free mobile app

We thought it was hilarious, laughing nearly non-stop throughout the show. The cast and musical director are all quite talented and very funny. See this show if you've never been. I doubt you'll regret it.