This season, Colorado’s historic opera houses offer far more than Puccini. Alongside classic opera and staples like Tosca, the circuit presents a wide variety of cultural programming: films, live music, visual art, theater, dance, community festivals, and even a symposium on psychedelic medicine. These events highlight the region’s artistic diversity while celebrating the unique character of each venue.
© Diego Redel
The Colorado Historic Opera Houses Circuit comprises five restored venues throughout the Rocky Mountains. Among them, the Wheeler Opera House in Aspen is marking the 40th anniversary of its 1984 reopening. The Wheeler also hosts regular morning history tours in partnership with the Aspen Music Festival and School; tours run Tuesday and Wednesday at 10:30 a.m., offering visitors a look at the building’s architecture, restoration story, and cultural role in the community.
Below is a selection of featured events scheduled across the circuit this season:
- June 20–23: Ouray International Film Festival at Wright Opera House, Ouray
- June 20–23: Telluride Bluegrass Festival at Sheridan Opera House, Telluride
- June 29–Aug. 4: Central City Opera 2024 Summer Festival
- June 30–July 6: 21st Annual Telluride Plein Air at Sheridan Opera House, Telluride
- July 18–20: Into the Woods at Tabor Opera House, Leadville
- July 19–20: Telluride Americana Music Festival at Sheridan Opera House, Telluride
- Aug. 2–4: Leadville Boom Days Festival, including Talent Show and Madams of Central Colorado events at Tabor Opera House, Leadville (Aug. 3)
- Aug. 30–Sept. 2: 51st Annual Telluride Film Festival at Sheridan Opera House, Telluride
© The Westerlies
Each opera house contributes its own distinctive programming, from film festivals and music gatherings to outdoor art events and community traditions. The season balances well-known festivals and concerts with local showcases, ensuring visitors can find experiences that range from intimate performances to large-scale cultural events. Whether you’re attending a bluegrass set in Telluride, a touring film showcase in Ouray, or a summer opera production in Central City, the circuit makes it easy to explore Colorado’s mountain communities through their historic stages.
Plan ahead for dates and specific programming, as venues often announce detailed schedules, ticketing information, and special activities tied to each event. The circuit’s mix of heritage, live performance, and contemporary arts programming makes this season an inviting opportunity to discover both landmark productions and community-driven celebrations across Colorado’s restored opera houses.