Graphic Art by Stella Nall
World Premiere Feb. 14, 2026! Running Feb. 14-22 in the Montana Theatre, UM Campus. Presented by Montana Repertory Theatre, in partnership with UM School of Theatre and Dance, Can’t Drink Salt Water is supported by a transformative grant from The Roy Cockrum Foundation, allowing for a large-scale production full of theatrical magic and special effects.
This gripping new play juxtaposes a mother’s relentless search for her missing daughter with the journey of a young woman newly arrived at Bethel House, an evangelical shelter for victims of sex trafficking. This timely story weaves together Native identity, maternal grief, contemporary religious faith, humor, and a call to action.
Can’t Drink Salt Water celebrates Native excellence, and showcases professional Indigenous talent from across the country, including cast members Allison Hicks, Jennifer Rader, Serenity Mariana, and Bradley Lewis, costumes by Asa Benally, lighting design by Emma Deane, sound design by Rory Stitt, and mask design and creation by artist Cannupa Hanska Luger.
As a co-production, this play also showcases UM student actors, designers, and crew alongside the professionals. The playwright, Kendra Mylnechuk Potter, is a University of Montana alum, and is based in Missoula.
Original painting and graphic artwork by Stella Nall.
Montana Repertory Theatre Presents, in Partnership with UM School of Theatre & Dance
Can't Drink Salt Water, by Kendra Mylnechuk Potter
Performances
World Premiere: Saturday, February 14, 7:30 PM, doors at 7
Evenings: February 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, & 22 at 7:30 PM, doors at 7
Matinees: February 15, 21, & 22 at 2 PM, doors at 1:30
Location
Montana Theatre, University of Montana Campus, PARTV Building
Pick-What-You-Pay (Suggested $35)
Tickets are Pick-What-You-Pay, through the generous support of Northwestern Energy, with a suggested ticket price of $35. Free tickets are available to any self-Identifying Indigenous patrons. To secure a free ticket, email the box office at montanarepertorytheatre@gmail.com, or call (406)243-6809.
This performance includes mature themes.