article by Hannah Olson |  photos by Arianna Skoog

Tucked quietly into a West End neighborhood in Billings is a venue unlike anything else in town. It’s not a club. It’s not a bar. It’s not a stage tucked into the corner of a brewery or bustling downtown restaurant. It’s something else entirely, something that feels more like a secret being whispered to you for the first time. But make no mistake: The Workshop is not trying to be a secret. It just happens to be the kind of place you discover, fall in love with, and want to tell everyone you know.

Founded by singer-songwriter Angie Goeke, The Workshop is a small but mighty performance space attached to her home. More than just a venue, it’s a haven for both artists and audiences, offering a one-of-a-kind experience rooted in hospitality, creativity, and connection.

By design, The Workshop seats no more than 50 guests at a time, allowing for up-close, personal interaction between the performer and audience. VIP tickets include a lovingly prepared, home-cooked, family-style meal made by Angie herself, who also caters during the week. “Hospitality is a big part of our mission,” she says. “We want guests to feel taken care of. And we want artists to feel supported and inspired.”

Attending an event at The Workshop feels like stepping into someone’s living room. Candles flicker. Neighbors chat over plates of food. Then the lights dim, and the music begins, not with flashy fanfare, but with heartfelt storytelling and acoustic intimacy. The songs aren’t just performed; they’re shared. Artists discuss their writing process, the meaning behind the lyrics, and invite laughter and conversation from the audience.

“You really can’t describe it until you’ve been here,” Angie says. “It’s not just a concert. It’s an experience.”

That experience is what drew a packed and diverse crowd to The Workshop’s recent events, including children, grandparents, young creatives, and longtime music lovers alike. What brought them together was simple: the art.

In keeping with Angie’s commitment to authenticity and equity, 100% of ticket sales go directly to the performing artists. Out-of-town musicians are offered a place to stay, a meal, and the kind of quiet, intentional environment that lets creativity flourish. “It’s like a retreat for them,” Angie explains. “This isn’t just another bar gig. It’s a space to connect deeply with people who are truly listening.”

For Angie, that kind of listening room culture is essential. “I love music that matters. And I want artists to know that their work is respected here, that people are paying attention.” The Workshop’s upcoming season features a thoughtfully curated mix of national and local talent.

“I’ve always wanted to create a space like this. When we moved here from Houston, I had to rebuild everything, my community, my creative network. This little building on our property gave me the chance to do that on my terms.” -Angie Goeke

In October, acclaimed Americana artist Jackson Emmer will headline. With a string of national songwriting awards and recent features in Rolling Stone and American Songwriter, Emmer’s visit promises to be a standout moment for the venue. He’ll also lead a songwriting workshop for local artists on the day of the show.

And in December, Billings’ own jazz vocalist Elana Hayden will help close out the year with a festive performance and community toy drive, bringing smooth holiday vibes to The Workshop’s cozy space.

Other events will be announced through their website, so be sure to check in so you don’t miss your next best evening out.

Though still in its early days, The Workshop launched its first official concert this summer. Angie is already dreaming bigger. “Right now, we’re doing about one show a month. Eventually, I’d love to host more events, open mics, art shows, and writing classes. I want this to be a real community space where people just drop in on a Thursday night and see what’s happening.”

The Workshop walks the line between humble and extraordinary. There’s no flashy signage or booming sound system, and yet, it delivers a deeper kind of performance, one where the audience is part of the moment. “It’s not a bar,” Angie says. “It’s a place where art lives and breathes.”

If you’re looking for something different, something meaningful, don’t miss the chance to catch a show at The Workshop this fall. It’s not a secret, but it sure feels like a discovery.

Originally printed in the September 2025 issue of Simply Local Magazine

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