AS PEN S H OW T IX
Dear Friends, Welcome to Aspen’s Arts & Culture Season. Looking at the amazing list of cultural and entertainment events for this guide, it reminded me of how much things have changed here at the Wheeler Opera House and in Aspen in general. In our 130th year, much stays the same, but so much has changed. We are busier than ever and are so excited to be opening our historic doors to the community again this summer and fall. This guide helps you to navigate the events not only at the Wheeler, but across the community. At the Wheeler, we kick things off with the Bauhaus Ball (celebrating the 100th anniversary of Bauhaus — costumes suggested!), and the 11th annual Aspen Fringe Festival. It continues with several Aspen Institute events, and the first of many Aspen Opera Center Opera Scenes classes just in June alone. We welcome the return of our free series Sunset Sessions, and the highly anticipated Aspen Mountain Film Festival. Aspen Music Festival & School’s opera program is an important part of our Wheeler history, returning to highlight incredible talent across two operas: A Little Night Music and The Marriage of Figaro. The season is full of music, comedy, dance, theater, spoken word and family friendly events — so much that there is something for everyone! Our amazing Aspen Show Tix team will work tirelessly this season to support events across Aspen, as the Valley’s non-profits produce amazing cultural events again and again for the community. We are so proud to be able to play a small part in their success through our community box office services. We know it’s a busy time, so thank you for making Arts & Culture an important part of your plans. We could not do it without you!
Gena Buhler Executive Director
JUNE AN EVENING OF WHIMSY & WONDER
LIVE MUSIC COSTUME MAKING+ CONTEST WITH PRIZES BAUHAUS INSPIRED ART PERFORMANCES FILMS
+CASH BAR
JUNE 6,2019 5:30-10 PM WHEELER OPERA HOUSE COSTUMES WILDLY ENCOURAGED
THE BAUHAUS BALL* Thursday, June 6 at 5:30 PM Wheeler Opera House
A spirited soiree in honor of the Bauhaus 100th anniversary. Costumes and creativity are wildly encouraged! A free, community event that includes live music, films, Bauhaus inspired art, performances and a juried costume contest. Aspen Fringe Festival Presents
PUSH DANCE COMPANY — CODELINING* Friday, June 7 at 7:30 PM Wheeler Opera House
PUSH Dance Company performs vibrant contemporary dances that examine issues of identity and intersecting cultures that surround and affect us all. Codelining explores new media tools to explore redlining, gentrification, the digital divide, and the barriers between artists, technologists, and communities of color. Aspen Fringe Festival Presents
ANGRY ALAN*
Saturday, June 8 at 7:30 PM Wheeler Opera House A darkly comic play about masculinity in crisis created with and performed by Donald Sage Mackay. AFF’s first commissioned play by award winning playwright Penelope Skinner has risen quickly to international acclaim! Aspen Fringe Festival Presents
FRINGE LAB: ULSTER AMERICAN BY DAVID IRELAND June 10–11 at 7:30 PM Black Box Theatre
The stage is set for great success but when an Oscar-winning actor, an ambitious director and a playwright meet to discuss the play’s challenges and provocations a line is crossed, and the heated discussion quickly escalates, exploring consent, abuses of power and the confusions of cultural identity. * Funded in part by the Wheeler Opera House fund.
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SUMMER WORDS WRITERS CONFERENCE & LITERARY FESTIVAL June 16–21, Times vary The Gant & The Belly Up
Aspen Words’ signature program, the Summer Words Writers Conference & Literary Festival (June 16–21), encourages writers, inspires readers and connects people through the power of stories. Summer Words includes writing workshops with acclaimed faculty; public panel discussions with authors, agents and editors; and a readers retreat focused on great travel writing.
TAYARI JONES
Tuesday, June 18 at 6:00 PM The Belly Up Tayari Jones, author of the 2019 Aspen Words Literary Prize-winning novel An American Marriage, in conversation with Adrienne Brodeur, Aspen Words executive director
SUNSET SESSIONS: ISMO LEIKOLA
Tuesday, June 18 & Wednesday, June 19 at 8:00 PM The Vault at the Wheeler After selling out concert halls and theatres across the UK and Finland and even starring in and writing his own sitcom, ISMO made his US debut in 2014. He uses his unique point of view to find humor in the most ordinary things.
THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — ASPEN IDEAS: HEALTH June 20–23 Times and locations vary
For the three opening days of the Aspen Ideas Festival, Aspen Ideas: Health (formerly Spotlight Health) explores the challenges in medicine, science, and global health. Experts, practitioners, innovators, and advocates address topics from planet-wide crises to personalized medicine and ground-breaking discoveries.
Get tickets at aspenshowtix.com 5
JUNE THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — ASPEN IDEAS FESTIVAL June 23–29 Times and locations vary
Imagine some of the most inspired and provocative thinkers, scientists, politicians, journalists, artists, and business leaders all gathered in a single place. For seven days, the Aspen Institute in partnership with The Atlantic highlights ideas that shape our lives and challenge our times.
ASPEN MUSIC FESTIVAL AND SCHOOL OPERA SCENES MASTER CLASSES Saturday, June 29 at 10:00 AM Wheeler Opera House
The Aspen Opera Center’s Opera Scenes Master Classes feature award-winning director Edward Berkeley and members of the Aspen Opera Center artist-faculty working with rising young opera singers.
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JULY SUNSET SESSIONS: JAN GARRETT & JD MARTIN Wednesday, July 3 at 8:00 PM The Vault at the Wheeler
Roaring Fork Valley favorites, Jan & JD are known for their piano-based music that winds through pop, gospel, jazz, folk, soul and country, but it’s the rich vocal harmonies, lyrical depth, and their compelling stage presence that define their magnetic appeal.
WHEELER WINS 4TH OF JULY PARADE PARTY
Thursday, July 4 at 10:00 AM Wheeler Opera House Join us for brunch and drinks as you watch Aspen’s 4th of July Parade from The Vault! Wheeler Wins members can RSVP online and bring up to three guests.
ASPEN MUSIC FESTIVAL AND SCHOOL OPERA SCENES MASTER CLASSES July 6, 13, 20, 27 at 10:00 AM Wheeler Opera House
The Aspen Opera Center’s Opera Scenes Master Classes feature award-winning director Edward Berkeley and members of the Aspen Opera Center artist-faculty working with rising young opera singers.
THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — MCCLOSKEY SPEAKER SERIES July 9, 17, 22, 23 & 28 Times and locations vary
This summer series presents a diverse roster of distinguished speakers and is made possible by a generous donation from the McCloskey Family Charitable Foundation. This summer’s speakers include Francis Fukuyama, Alice Waters, David Brooks, Janet Yellen, and a panel of Bauhaus experts.
Get tickets at aspenshowtix.com 7
JULY ASFB Presents
BEAUTIFUL DECAY Tuesday, July 9 & Friday, July 19 at 8:00 PM Aspen District Theater
Audiences are in for a surprise this summer when ASFB premieres its first-ever evening-length ballet: longtime collaborator Nicolo Fonte’s Beautiful Decay. Featuring the timeless music of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, this haunting work juxtaposes daring athleticism against the reality of aging.
THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — SANDRA DAY O’CONNOR CONVERSATION SERIES — A CONVERSATION WITH JEFF FLAKE Wednesday, July 10 at 6:30 PM Paepcke Auditorium
Featuring Jeff Flake, former United States Senator from Arizona, in conversation with Meryl Chertoff, executive director of the Institute’s Justice and Society Program. Flake served as a U.S. Senator from 2013–2019 and is currently a contributor for CBS News.
BITE ME
(screening, Q&A, and Joyful Vampire Shindig) Wednesday, July 10 at 7:00 PM Aspen District Theater A one-night-only screening of the award-winning independent film, Bite Me, a subversive romantic comedy about a real-life vampire and the IRS agent who audits her. Event includes a Q&A with Naomi McDougall Jones (writer/star) and A Joyful Vampire Ball!
SONDHEIM’S A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC
Andy Einhorn conductor, Edward Berkeley director July 11 at 7:00 PM, July 13 at 7:00 PM & July 15 at 8:00 PM Wheeler Opera House Winner of four Tony Awards, this beloved Sondheim classic about love, regret, and desire unfolds amidst a tangled web of affairs during a weekend in the countryside. Both hilarious and heartbreaking, this dramatic celebration of love showcases timeless melodies, a harmonically advanced score, and Sondheim’s enduring genius. With special thanks to Toby D. Lewis. 8 Summer/Fall Arts Guide 2019
ASPENBRAINLAB
Friday, July 12, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM Hotel Jerome The only conference where neurology lectures and laughter meditation sessions live in perfect harmony. A provocative program of 12 brilliant short talks on the Creative Brain, Healthy Brain, Impaired Brain and Future Brain that re-frame what we know and what we think. Includes a Special Microbiome Panel: the Gut/Brain Connection.
THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — A TOTAL WORK OF ART: BAUHAUS-BAYER-ASPEN Friday, July 12 at 4:00 PM Doerr-Hosier Center
Featuring Bernard Jazzar, curator of the Bauhaus-Bayer-Aspen exhibition.
THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — HURST LECTURE SERIES Saturday, July 13 at 6:00 PM Paepcke Auditorium
Generously underwritten by the Hurst Family Foundation, the Hurst Lecture Series enables the Institute to present inspiring leaders for public audiences in Aspen. This summer’s series will feature Paul Hawken and a panel of democratic governors, among others.
ASPEN OPERA CENTER 16TH ANNUAL OPERA GALA: A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC Monday July 15 at 5:00 PM Caribou Club and Wheeler Opera House
This black-tie affair includes cocktails at a private residence and an elegant dinner at the Caribou Club followed by the full performance of Sondheim’s A Little Night Music. Benefit Chairs: Richard Edwards, Denise Monteleone, and Jim Martin.
Get tickets at aspenshowtix.com 9
JULY THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — EISNER I LAUDER NEW VIEWS SCREENING PROGRAM July 15, 22, & 28, Time TBA Venue TBA
The Eisner I Lauder New Views Screening Program features critically acclaimed documentaries and conversations with special guests. New Views is generously sponsored by Leonard Lauder and Jane and Michael Eisner.
SUNSET SESSIONS: TRACE BUNDY Wednesday, July 17 at 8:00 PM The Vault at the Wheeler
Internationally acclaimed guitar virtuoso, his music is poetry in motion, using harmonics, looping, multiple capos, and his unique banter and stage presence to deliver an unforgettable live concert experience.
SUNSET SESSIONS: CUENTOS: TALES FROM THE LATINO WORLD BY DAVID GONZALEZ Thursday, July 18 at 5:30 PM The Vault at the Wheeler
Bring the whole family to learn more about the people and rich cultures of the Spanish-speaking world with colorful tales from the Caribbean, South America, and the Bronx! These tales are filled with memorable characters, fantastic plots and positive messages for children of all ages.
SUNSET SESSIONS: WRIT LARGE: AN EVENING OF STORYTELLERS Sunday, July 21 at 8:00 PM The Vault at the Wheeler
Produced in partnership with Alya Howe, this series touches the hearts of all who have been involved. There is tremendous value as a community to have our stories heard and to be a listener — everyone has a story.
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ASFB Presents
COMPAGNIE HERVÉ KOUBI Wednesday, July 24 at 8:00 PM Aspen District Theater
Drawing inspiration from the history of the Mediterranean Basin and the blending of cultures that occurred in that geographic area, marvel at this all-male ensemble’s signature high-flying acrobatics that blend street dance styles with hip-hop and modern dance.
SUNSET SESSIONS: ZAINAB JOHNSON Wednesday, July 24 & Thursday, July 25 at 8:00 PM The Vault at the Wheeler
Zainab Johnson, a stand-up comedian and actress, is quickly being propelled as one of the most unique and engaging performers on stage and screen. Zainab’s comedy is based on her unique point-of-view, which was shaped growing up in Harlem as one of thirteen siblings in a Muslim family.
Get tickets at aspenshowtix.com 11
JULY SUNSET SESSIONS: AN EVENING OF POETRY Sunday, July 28 at 8:00 PM The Vault at the Wheeler
Stand up. Sit in. Speak up. Listen in. Join up. Curated by Alya Howe, this live poetry event featuring poets performing their work to a live audience in a supportive environment where all are invited to share and listen. W
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Aspen Music Festival & School presents
MISSY MAZZOLI’S PROVING UP Conducted by Scott Terrell Tuesday, July 30 at 7:30 PM Harris Concert Hall
Recently premiered and highly acclaimed, this chamber opera is set on the 1860s frontier where families struggle for survival in pursuit of their American Dream. Drenched in passion, hope, and heartbreak, it achingly explores the “sincere values…and extraordinary costs” of this hardscrabble life. Concert performance. Open to Passholders
SUNSET SESSIONS: LOCALS COMEDY OPEN MIC HOSTED BY REBECCA ROBINSON Wednesday, July 31 at 8:00 PM The Vault at the Wheeler
Hosted by local comedian and winner of the 2018 Aspen Laugh Fest Open Mic Night, Rebecca Robinson, Open Mic Night will give local comedians a chance to test new material and to develop their acts.
THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — MURDOCK MIND, BODY, SPIRIT SERIES Wednesday, July 31 at 6:30 PM Paepcke Auditorium
The Murdock Mind, Body, Spirit Series reflects the founding principles of the Aspen Institute — nurturing the whole individual — by bringing a range of experts to Aspen to discuss the latest revelations about health and wellness. This summer’s speakers include Daniel Pink and Dr. Mark Hyman, among others.
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AUGUST SUNSET SESSIONS: BRENDAN JAMES Thursday, August 1 at 8:00 PM The Vault at the Wheeler
Brendan James is a singer-songwriter whose songs have landed spots on over 15 major television shows and feature films and he’s achieved the #1 Singer Songwriter spot on iTunes, multiple times.
THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — MADELEINE K. ALBRIGHT GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT LECTURE Thursday, August 1 at 4:30 PM Paepcke Auditorium
The Aspen Institute Madeleine K. Albright Global Development Lecture recognizes an exceptional individual whose vision has provided breakthrough thinking to tackle the challenges of global development.
THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — HURST LECTURE SERIES Friday, August 2 at 4:00 PM Greenwald Pavilion
Generously underwritten by the Hurst Family Foundation, the Hurst Lecture Series enables the Institute to present inspiring leaders for public audiences in Aspen. This summer’s series will feature Paul Hawken and a panel of democratic governors, among others.
THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — 26TH ANNUAL SUMMER CELEBRATION CONVERSATION Saturday, August 3 at 5:00 PM Greenwald Pavilion
Each year, the Aspen Institute presents its Corporate Leadership Award to a person with exemplary leadership skills and who is dedicated to the betterment of society. ASFB Presents
STARS OF AMERICAN BALLET Saturday, August 3 at 8:00 PM Aspen District Theatre
This fan favorite returns for a one-night-only performance sure to thrill balletomanes and dance novices alike. Directed by New York City Ballet principal Daniel Ulbricht, these elite ballet technicians will wow Aspen audiences with a glamorous evening of selected classics.
AUGUST ASPEN MUSIC FESTIVAL AND SCHOOL OPERA SCENES MASTER CLASSES Saturday, August 3, 10, 17 at 10:00 AM Wheeler Opera House
The Aspen Opera Center’s Opera Scenes Master Classes feature award-winning director Edward Berkeley and members of the Aspen Opera Center artist-faculty working with rising young opera singers.
THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — MCCLOSKEY SPEAKER SERIES Monday, August 5 at 4:30 PM Doerr-Hosier Center
This summer series presents a diverse roster of distinguished speakers and is made possible by a generous donation from the McCloskey Family Charitable Foundation. This summer’s speakers include Francis Fukuyama, Alice Waters, David Brooks, Janet Yellen, and a panel of Bauhaus experts.
THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — EISNER I LAUDER NEW VIEWS SCREENING PROGRAM Monday, August 5, Time TBA Venue TBA
The Eisner I Lauder New Views Screening Program features critically acclaimed documentaries and conversations with special guests. New Views is generously sponsored by Leonard Lauder and Jane and Michael Eisner.
SUNSET SESSIONS: CHRIS GARCIA
Thursday, August 8 at 8:00 PM The Vault at the Wheeler Chris Garcia is an acclaimed stand-up comic and writer, appearing on Comedy Central’s @Midnight and Adam Devine’s House Party, NBC’s Last Call with Carson Daly, NPR’s This American Life and The WTF Podcast with Marc Maron and more!
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ASFB Presents
ALONZO KING LINES BALLET Saturday, August 10 at 8:00 PM Aspen District Theatre
Known for their stunning physicality and ethereal beauty, the dancers of Alonzo King LINES Ballet re-imagine the possibilities of ballet. In Handel, dancemaker Alonzo King explores the elegance of Baroque expression, while Common Ground features music by the Kronos Quartet.
SUNSET SESSIONS: COLORADO MUSIC SHOWCASE Monday, August 12 at 8:00 PM The Vault at the Wheeler W
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Enjoy a night of great music featuring Colorado talent! Musicians TBA.
MOZART’S LE NOZZE DI FIGARO Conducted by Jane Glover August 13, 15, 17 at 7:00 PM Wheeler Opera House
Widely considered one of the greatest operas ever written, The Marriage of Figaro is a fast-paced comedy that recounts a single day of scheming in pursuit of love — and lust — in the palace of Count Almaviva. Figaro pursues marriage to his beloved Susanna while the Count has designs on her as well. Full of witty manipulations and resonant melodies, this artistic masterpiece makes us laugh, but also reveals the depths of human tenderness.
THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — MURDOCK MIND, BODY, SPIRIT SERIES Wednesday, August 14 at 6:30 PM Paepcke Auditorium
The Murdock Mind, Body, Spirit Series reflects the founding principles of the Aspen Institute — nurturing the whole individual — by bringing a range of experts to Aspen to discuss the latest revelations about health and wellness. This summer’s speakers include Daniel Pink and Dr. Mark Hyman, among others. ASFB Presents
BEAUTIFUL DECAY
Saturday, August 24 at 8:00 PM Aspen District Theater Audiences are in for a surprise this summer when ASFB premieres its first-ever evening-length ballet: long-time collaborator Nicolo Fonte’s Beautiful Decay. Featuring the timeless music of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, this haunting work juxtaposes daring athleticism against the reality of aging.
AUGUST 21–25, 2019 Aspen Mountain Film Festival is a 5-day celebration of diverse mountain cultures that highlights Aspen’s unique philosophy of body, mind, and spirit through documentary film, music, art, food, and stage. The festival features experiences of travel, adventure, environment, sustainability, and community told through extraordinary storytelling. Times and locations vary. For a full festival schedule and guest details, visit www.aspenmountainfilmfest.com
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 21
• An Evening of Adventure (Shorts Program)
THURSDAY, AUGUST 22
• Limelight Lunch Film Program TBA • Mr. Jimmy + Q&A
FRIDAY, AUGUST 23
• Limelight Lunch Film Program TBA • Ernie & Joe plus community policing panel
SATURDAY, AUGUST 24
• Limelight Lunch Film Program TBA • Qualified + Q&A • Diving Deep: The Life and Times of Mike DeGruy + Q&A
SUNDAY, AUGUST 25
• Free Family Film Program • Like Harvey Like Son + Q&A • Awards Ceremony & Mr. Jimmy live in concert Get tickets at aspenshowtix.com 17
SEPTEMBER THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — HURST LECTURE SERIES Saturday, September 7 at 3:30 PM Paepcke Auditorium
Generously underwritten by the Hurst Family Foundation, the Hurst Lecture Series enables the Institute to present inspiring leaders for public audiences in Aspen. This summer’s series will feature Paul Hawken and a panel of democratic governors, among others.
ON THE RISE: ALEX GUTHRIE
Thursday, September 12 at 7:30 PM Wheeler Opera House With the infusion of different genres such as soul, folk and rock, Alex Guthrie brings audiences together through brilliant lyrics and an expressive voice.
ASPEN MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL PRESENTS FILM TBA
Saturday, September 14 at 6:30 PM Wheeler Opera House
SLAYING THE DRAGON — A NIGHT OF STORY TELLING WITH LEAD WITH LOVE Sunday, September 15th at 6:00 PM Wheeler Opera House
Join Lead with Love and master storyteller Alya Howe to hear from six brave souls who found freedom and redemption not by running from fear, but by turning to face it. Lead with Love is committed to shifting culture from fear to love. This evening is in honor of our favorite storyteller Arin Trook and proceeds benefit Lead with Love programming.
MINIMALISM: A DOCUMENTARY ABOUT THE IMPORTANT THINGS
Wednesday, September 18 at 6:30 PM Wheeler Opera House This film examines the many flavors of minimalism by taking the audience inside the lives of minimalists from all walks of life and how our consumerism affects climate change and waste.
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Aspen Laugh Festival presents
DEMETRI MARTIN
Thursday, September 19 at 7:30 PM Wheeler Opera House A mainstay in modern comedy, Demetri Martin’s signature style can best be described as “deadpan with a twist,” often playing his guitar or working cartoons and drawings into his hilarious routine.
ASPEN FILM’S 40TH ANNIVERSARY FILMFEST September 23–29, Times vary Wheeler Opera House
Aspen Film presents the 40th anniversary edition of this annual celebration of independent and crossover cinema, showcasing award-winning features and documentaries from around the world along with previews of starry studio releases. The films are punctuated by filmmaker guests, in-depth discussions and education offerings.
OCTOBER THE MEETING
presented by Rylo October 3–5 at 6:00 PM Wheeler Opera House A carefully curated collection of the year’s best ski and snowboard cinema, The Meeting Film Fest returns to Aspen for its 15th season. Gather the squad and enjoy this visual powder day at the Sundeck, Belly Up Aspen, and of course, the legendary Wheeler Opera House.
MADDI’S FRIDGE
Sunday, October 6 at 5:30 PM Wheeler Opera House Based on the children’s book by Lois Brandt, this play is a thoughtful and funny exploration of friendship, empathy, and doing the right thing. FREE! Strut Productions presents
22ND ANNIVERSARY TRIBUTE TO JOHN DENVER Saturday, October 12 at 7:30 PM Wheeler Opera House
Strut Productions is pleased to announce the 22nd Anniversary Musical Tribute to John Denver. The evening will feature many of John’s most memorable songs and members of his last band. Performers include Mack Bailey, Chris Nole, Alan Deremo, Mollie Weaver, and Jim Curry.
SHINING MOUNTAINS FILM FESTIVAL October 13–14, Times vary Wheeler Opera House
Shining Mountains Film Festival is a documentary film festival produced by the City of Aspen’s Wheeler Opera House, in partnership with Aspen Film and non-profit partner Aspen Ute Foundation, focused on fostering Native American and indigenous peoples storytelling through film and live events in a way that supports and engages indigenous media arts; authentically captures national and international indigenous voices; highlights the work of indigenous filmmakers and performers for diverse audiences; and breaks barriers of racism by replacing stereotypes with credible representations of Indigenous peoples’ history, culture, and community.
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TETON GRAVITY RESEARCH: WINTERLAND, A SKI AND SNOWBOARD FILM Friday, October 18 at 7:30PM Wheeler Opera House
One-night only premiere of Teton Gravity Research’s new ski and snowboard film, Winterland.
ASPEN STRONG CHANGING BRAINS SYMPOSIUM
Tuesday, October 22, 5:00–7:00 PM Wheeler Opera House Wednesday, October 23, 8:00AM–3:30 PM The Gant Aspen Strong’s 5th annual Changing Brains Changing Lives Symposium will explore the neuroscience of the developing brain with a focus on communication. Speakers will provide education to support and enhance communication skills and brain development at home, in the classroom, in clinical settings, and in the community.
ON THE RISE: LYNX (SOLO) Thursday, October 24 at 7:30 PM Wheeler Opera House
Lynx, is an innovative singer-songwriter, producer, multi-instrumentalist, and beat-boxer. Her music intertwines powerful vocals, lyrics that are both universal and intimate, timely and timeless, and sounds that switch from folky to cutting edge with bumping beats that melt to raw, melancholy melodies, and resolve with infectious pop hooks.
WALLS — “IF WALLS COULD TALK IF WALLS COULD WALK” Sunday, October 27 at 7:30 PM Wheeler Opera House
WALLS: a multimedia dance work brings to life our community’s murals. An emotional work depicts the joys when walls come down to the horror as others fall. Choosing courage over comfort WALLS delivers an urgency to remove walls that divide, honoring those that protect and are sacred.
Get tickets at aspenshowtix.com 21
NOVEMBER ASPEN MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL PRESENTS FILM TBA
Saturday, November 2 at 6:30PM Wheeler Opera House
ON THE RISE: RAINBOW GIRLS
Friday, November 8 at 7:30 PM Wheeler Opera House This eclectic folk trio hails from the golden countryside just north of California’s Bay Area. Comprised of three unique musical talents, Rainbow Girls seamlessly combine soul-touching harmonies, varitextured instrumentals, and poignant lyrical content into an unusually beautiful sonic tapestry.
TETON GRAVITY RESEARCH: ROADLESS Saturday, November 9 at 7:30 PM Wheeler Opera House
Follow snowboarding legends Travis Rice, Jeremy Jones and Bryan Iguchi as they trek deep into the Yellowstone wilderness in search of groundbreaking first descents in the most remote region of the lower-48, in Roadless, a new film by Teton Gravity Research.
ON THE RISE: FAREWELL ANGELINA
Thursday, November 14 at 7:30 PM Wheeler Opera House Named after a haunting Bob Dylan song, Farewell Angelina is an all-female country group with four powerhouse vocalists, dynamic songwriters and accomplished multi-instrumentalists. Their stellar blend of heart-stopping harmonies over blazing double violins and guitars has earned soaring praise across the board.
WHEELER OPERA HOUSE ANNUAL WINTER SEASON PREVIEW PARTY
Thursday, November 21 at 6:00 PM Wheeler Opera House Join us for the unveiling of the Winter 2019–2020 season in this exclusive preview party for Wheeler Wins members! If you’re not already a member…join today!
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Get tickets at aspenshowtix.com 23
reflection of the confidence and cultural aspirations of Victorian mining communities, the Wheeler Opera House was completed in 1889 under the commission of powerful banker Jerome B. Wheeler, whose offices and bank also were also housed on the premises. Five years after a lavish and decadent grand opening—the social event of the season—the Wheeler went dark due to the Silver Crash of 1893 and the high cost of financing touring companies. J.B. Wheeler fell into bankruptcy and his New York and Aspen holdings, including the Opera House and Hotel Jerome, were swept away. Two dubious fires in November 1912 (rumored to be the result of an arsonist) forced the Wheeler into closing. The Aspen community, however, rallied for their “beautiful little opera house” and in 1949 and 1956 artist-architect Herbert Bayer completed the restoration under the financing of Walter Paepcke. For 130 years, the story of the Wheeler has been the story of the town. Through boom and bust and boom again, both building and town have proven a resiliency and tenacity that have defied the odds. Now, well over a century after the silver boom came and went through Colorado, one can tour the mining ghost towns, including Independence and Ashcroft, where only the bleached bones of so much promise remain. In the end, it’s the vibrancy of a culture that means the difference between survival and extinction. In Aspen, the heart of that culture has always centered on the corner of Hyman Avenue and Mill Street. Annually, the Wheeler Real Estate Transfer Tax fund supports 85% of the annual costs of the programming and operations of the Wheeler Opera House. 24 Summer/Fall Arts Guide 2019
CELEBRATING 130 YEARS
HISTORY & FUNDING
Photos courtesy of the Aspen Historical Society
TAKE A TOUR!
The center of Aspen's arts and cultural scene since it was built in 1889, the Wheeler Opera House has stood the test of time. Take a FREE tour with Aspen Historical Society guides to get an inside look at the Wheeler, including its recent renovations, and hear about its storied past. Wednesdays at 1:30 PM Meets in lobby. Get tickets at aspenshowtix.com 25
SCHEDULE-AT-A-GLANCE
JUNE THE BAUHAUS BALL Thursday, June 6 at 5:30 PM Aspen Fringe Festival Presents PUSH DANCE COMPANY — CODELINING Friday, June 7 at 7:30 PM Aspen Fringe Festival Presents ANGRY ALAN Saturday, June 8 at 7:30 PM FRINGE LAB: ULSTER AMERICAN BY DAVID IRELAND June 10–11 at 7:30 PM SUMMER WORDS WRITERS CONFERENCE & LITERARY FESTIVAL June 16–21, Times vary TAYARI JONES Tuesday, June 18 at 6:00 PM SUNSET SESSIONS: ISMO LEIKOLA Tuesday, June 18 & Wednesday, June 19 at 8:00 PM THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — ASPEN IDEAS: HEALTH June 20–23, Times vary THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — ASPEN IDEAS FESTIVAL June 23–29, Times vary ASPEN MUSIC FESTIVAL AND SCHOOL OPERA SCENES MASTER CLASSES Saturday, June 29 at 10:00 AM
JULY SUNSET SESSIONS: JAN GARRETT & JD MARTIN Wednesday, July 3 at 8:00 PM WHEELER WINS 4TH OF JULY PARADE PARTY Thursday, July 4 at 10:00 AM ASPEN MUSIC FESTIVAL AND SCHOOL OPERA SCENES MASTER CLASSES July 6, 13, 20, 27 at 10:00 AM THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — MCCLOSKEY SPEAKER SERIES July 9, 17, 22, 23 & 28, Times vary ASFB Presents BEAUTIFUL DECAY Tuesday, July 9 & Friday, July 19 at 8:00 PM
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THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — SANDRA DAY O’CONNOR CONVERSATION SERIES — A CONVERSATION WITH JEFF FLAKE Wednesday, July 10 at 6:30 PM BITE ME (screening, Q&A, and Joyful Vampire Shindig) Wednesday, July 10 at 7:00 PM SONDHEIM’S A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC July 11 at 7:00 PM, 13 at 7:00 PM, & 15 at 8:00 PM ASPENBRAINLAB Friday, July 12, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — A TOTAL WORK OF ART: BAUHAUS-BAYER-ASPEN Friday, July 12 at 4:00 PM THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — HURST LECTURE SERIES Saturday, July 13 at 6:00 PM ASPEN OPERA CENTER 16TH ANNUAL OPERA GALA A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC Monday July 15 at 5:00 PM THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — EISNER I LAUDER NEW VIEWS SCREENING PROGRAM July 15, 22, & 28, Time TBA SUNSET SESSIONS: TRACE BUNDY Wednesday, July 17 at 8:00 PM SUNSET SESSIONS: CUENTOS: TALES FROM THE LATINO WORLD BY DAVID GONZALEZ Thursday, July 18 at 5:30 PM SUNSET SESSIONS: WRIT LARGE: AN EVENING OF STORYTELLERS Sunday, July 21 at 8:00 PM ASFB Presents COMPAGNIE HERVÉ KOUBI Wednesday, July 24 at 8:00 PM SUNSET SESSIONS: ZAINAB JOHNSON Wednesday, July 24 & Thursday, July 25 at 8:00 PM SUNSET SESSIONS: AN EVENING OF POETRY Sunday, July 28 at 8:00 PM MISSY MAZZOLI’S PROVING UP Tuesday, July 30 at 7:30 PM SUNSET SESSIONS: LOCALS COMEDY OPEN MIC HOSTED BY REBECCA ROBINSON Wednesday, July 31 at 8:00 PM THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — MURDOCK MIND, BODY, SPIRIT SERIES Wednesday, July 31 at 6:30 PM
Get tickets at aspenshowtix.com 27
SCHEDULE-AT-A-GLANCE
AUGUST SUNSET SESSIONS: BRENDAN JAMES Thursday, August 1 at 8:00 PM THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — MADELEINE K. ALBRIGHT GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT LECTURE Thursday, August 1 at 4:30 PM THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — HURST LECTURE SERIES Friday, August 2 at 4:00 PM THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — THE 26TH ANNUAL SUMMER CELEBRATION CONVERSATION Saturday, August 3 at 5:00 PM ASFB Presents STARS OF AMERICAN BALLET Saturday, August 3 at 8:00 PM ASPEN MUSIC FESTIVAL AND SCHOOL OPERA SCENES MASTER CLASSES Saturday, August 3, 10, 17 at 10:00 AM THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — MCCLOSKEY SPEAKER SERIES Monday, August 5 at 4:30 PM THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — EISNER I LAUDER NEW VIEWS SCREENING PROGRAM Monday, August 5, Time TBA SUNSET SESSIONS: CHRIS GARCIA Thursday, August 8 at 8:00 PM ASFB Presents ALONZO KING LINES BALLET Saturday, August 10 at 8:00 PM SUNSET SESSIONS: COLORADO MUSIC SHOWCASE Monday, August 12 at 8:00 PM MOZART’S LE NOZZE DI FIGARO Conducted by Jane Glover August 13, 15, 17 at 7:00 PM THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — MURDOCK MIND, BODY, SPIRIT SERIES Wednesday, August 14 at 6:30 PM ASPEN MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL August 21–25, Times vary ASFB Presents BEAUTIFUL DECAY Saturday, August 24 at 8:00 PM
28 Summer/Fall Arts Guide 2019
SEPTEMBER THE ASPEN INSTITUTE — HURST LECTURE SERIES Friday, September 6 at 3:30 PM ON THE RISE: ALEX GUTHRIE Thursday, September 12 at 7:30 PM ASPEN MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL PRESENTS FILM TBA Saturday, September 14 at 6:30 PM SLAYING THE DRAGON — A NIGHT OF STORY TELLING WITH LEAD WITH LOVE Sunday, September 15th at 6:00 PM MINIMALISM: A DOCUMENTARY ABOUT THE IMPORTANT THINGS Wednesday, September 18 at 6:30 PM Aspen Laugh Festival presents DEMETRI MARTIN September 19, 2019 at 7:30 PM ASPEN FILM’S 40TH ANNIVERSARY FILMFEST September 23–29, Times vary
OCTOBER THE MEETING presented by Rylo October 3–5 at 6:00 PM MADDI’S FRIDGE Sunday, October 6 at 5:30 PM Strut Productions presents 22ND ANNIVERSARY TRIBUTE TO JOHN DENVER Saturday, October 12 at 7:30 PM SHINING MOUNTAINS FILM FESTIVAL October 13–14, Times vary TETON GRAVITY RESEARCH: WINTERLAND, A SKI AND SNOWBOARD FILM Friday, October 18 at 7:30PM ASPEN STRONG CHANGING BRAINS SYMPOSIUM Tuesday, October 22, 3:00–7:00 PM Wednesday, October 23, 8:00 AM–3:30 PM ON THE RISE: LYNX (SOLO) Thursday, October 24 at 7:30 PM WALLS — IF WALLS COULD TALK IF WALLS COULD WALK Sunday, October 27 at 7:30 PM
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SCHEDULE-AT-A-GLANCE
NOVEMBER ASPEN MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL PRESENTS FILM TBA Saturday, November 2 at 6:30 PM ON THE RISE: RAINBOW GIRLS Friday, November 8 at 7:30 PM TETON GRAVITY RESEARCH: ROADLESS Saturday, November 9 at 7:30 PM ON THE RISE: FAREWELL ANGELINA Thursday, November 14 at 7:30 PM WHEELER OPERA HOUSE ANNUAL WINTER SEASON PREVIEW PARTY Thursday, November 21 at 6:00 PM
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EXHIBITIONS GREAT IDEAS OF BAUHAUS
JUN 5 – JUL 18
MORE THAN HONEY
Sophia Foster JUN 5 – JUL 18
ODYSSEY COLLECTIVE John Cohorst, Chris Erickson & Andrew Roberts-Gray JUL 25 – SEP 6
TO BEHOLD
Neal Beidleman, Jeremy Swanson, Tamara Susa, Kristin Braga Wright SEP 19 – OCT 31
RED BRICK RESIDENT ARTISTS
NOV 14 – JAN 3
TOUR ARTIST STUDIOS
B U Y O R I G I NA L WO R KS O F A R T
970.429.2777
110 East Hallam Street
RedBrickAspen.com
Aspen Show Tix
Aspen’s Community Box Office 970.920.5770 Aspen Show Tix is a program of the Wheeler Opera House providing ticketing services for events on-site at the Wheeler, numerous off-site locations and online at aspenshowtix.com Info about AMFS ticketing this summer:
Tickets available at Wheeler Opera Box Office, Online at aspenmusicfestival.com, by phone 970.925.9042.
320 East Hyman Avenue Aspen, Colorado 81611
970.920.5770
wheeleroperahouse.com