The historic Wheeler Opera House crafts a new vision to enhance the Aspen community.
The Wheeler Opera House has a vast vision: “At the Wheeler Opera House, we set the stage for connections that create memories for our audiences, artists, and greater Aspen community.” Not only is the team doing this by perfecting sounds, lights and effects, but they are also metaphorically setting the stage for the lasting impact that the events and shows leave.
Although the vision has already been put to work by the iconic opera house—represented by warm welcomes, fantastic volunteers and memorable experiences—the new idea allows the Wheeler to make crucial decisions that benefit the community. “When we choose an artist to present on our stage, or when we review an application to rent the theater, we are asking ourselves about the impact our decision will have. Will bringing audiences and artists together make an impact? Will connecting our greater Aspen community in exploration and dialogue effect important and memorable change?” says Wheeler executive director Lisa Rigsby Peterson.
The shows lined up for this summer fall in line with building connections and creating unforgettable experiences. The Wheeler hosted the Aspen Fringe Festival, Jazz Aspen Snowmass concerts,and even Aspen Ideas Festival panels in June. Throughout the summer, the Aspen Music Festival and School takes over the theater for ‘Opera Encounters,” where Aspen Opera Theater and VocalARTS faculty coach students and showcase excerpts from the repertoire. For local history buffs, weekly tours led by the Aspen Historical Society are available.
The summer shows will close with two contemporary dance performances by DanceAspen. The local company’s first-ever summer program, ’Solstice,’ is choreographed by the award-winning choreographers Matthew Neenan and Cayetano Soto—DanceAspen is the first American company to premiere two works by him.
The upcoming season will continue to follow the vision, bringing in performances for Spanish-speaking audiences, hosting events with a diverse set of artists and including more shows for children and families in the lineup. “As a Wheeler team, we remind ourselves that the work we do, whether it’s bringing world-class artists to the stage, hosting annual school plays, screening the latest ski films, or bringing folks together to talk about important community issues helps create memories for our community,” says Rigsby Peterson.
As the Wheeler Opera House looks toward 2024, marking the 40th anniversary of the grand reopening and the 135th anniversary of its construction, it will continue to connect the mountain community with its bright vision for years to come. 320 E Hyman Ave., Aspen, wheeleroperahouse.com
Photography by: PHOTO BY JORDAN CURET
