Wheeler Opera House

Wind in the Willows
2025-10-05 15:00 - 16:30 (America/Denver) | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
Embark on a magical journey through the Wild Wood with this inventive adaptation of Kenneth Grahame’s beloved novel The Wind in the Willows. Created by the award-winning Theatre Heroes, this one-person performance blends classic storytelling with stunning 180-degree projected illustrations, immersive soundscapes, and music to bring the story vividly to life.
Follow the adventures of Mole and Rat as they race through the forest to find a young otter before it’s too late. Performed by Noel Gaulin—who masterfully portrays all the characters—this show is a captivating blend of theater, media, and imagination, ideal for school groups and family audiences alike.
Produced by Theatre Heroes. Theatre Heroes create high quality touring performances for young audiences and those young at heart. We are theatre makers, fearless adventures, and terrified mistake makers. We celebrate the live theatre experience as a launch pad for promoting creativity and innovation. We make story and adventure; encouraging youth to pursue their own dreams and keep this art form alive. We strive to create a world of infinite possibilities and limitless imagination where anyone can be their own hero.

An Evening of the Music of John Denver
2025-10-04 19:30 - 22:00 | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
The biggest international star of the 1970s, John Denver had the unique ability to put into words and music the celebration of the simple pleasures of life, the beauty of nature, and bring the audience along with him for the ride.
2025 is the 50th anniversary of three chart topping John Denver albums. At the peak of his career in 1975, he released the chart topping albums of An Evening with John Denver, Windsong, and Rocky Mountain Christmas to world-wide acclaim.
This year for the tribute Chris Collins, with Boulder Canyon, bring the spirit and the excitement of a John Denver Concert. Returning to perform this year in Aspen at the Wheeler Opera House during the annual John Denver Celebration week, their concert will pay tribute to 50th anniversary of Denver’s three legendary albums with performances of songs from those, as well as John Denver’s other famous hits “Rocky Mountain High,” “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” “Annie’s Song,” “Sunshine on My Shoulders” and many others.
Having received much delighted acclaim from audiences all over the country and abroad, join award-winning singer/songwriter Chris Collins and the consummate musicians of Boulder Canyon in a tribute to one of the greatest artists of our time.
www.johndenvertribute.com

Spirit: The Music of John Denver
2025-10-03 19:30 - 22:00 | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
If you know the music of John Denver, you also feel the spirit with which he expressed in words and music. This show will rekindle the wonderful feeling when John used to sing to us. Mack Bailey was fortunate to share a stage with John Denver, and Chris Nole toured with John as his piano player for many years. This is a wonderfully intimate performance by two of John’s friends and some of the most sincere performers of John Denver’s music.
With his strong, expressive, classically trained tenor voice, Mack Bailey, is a nationally acclaimed singer/songwriter who has performed all over the world as a member of the renowned folk group, The Limeliters. As a member of The Hard Travelers and “Tribute to John Denver” productions, Mack has sung with dozens of folk and country stars, as well as performing with his wife Rachel Levy as duo. With a masters degree in music therapy, Mack currently resides in Aspen, Colorado where he has a private practice and is the Founder and Executive Director of the 501(c)(3), Music Therapy Retreats. www.mackbailey.com
Accomplished pianist, songwriter, and performer, Chris Nole, has worked with some of the biggest names in music. Nole recorded and toured internationally with folk/pop superstar John Denver in the 1990s until October 1997. Residing in Tennessee, Chris keeps busy as a music producer and session musician. www.chrisnole.com

Aspen Literary Festival – Nathan Hill: Satire, Status, and the Stories Beneath
2025-09-28 16:00 - 17:00 | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
One of fiction’s most entertaining social critics take on the absurdities of modern life — from high society in Singapore to wellness culture in America, this conversation dives into how we perform identity, chase status, and find meaning in the mess. A witty, sharp, and big-hearted look at the stories behind the spectacle.
Moderated by: Tim Ehrenberg

Aspen Literary Festival – Chris Pavone & Brendan Slocumb: Plot Twists & Pacing
2025-09-28 12:00 - 13:00 | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
A high-octane conversation between two leading voices in the modern thriller—one set in the rarefied world of classical music, the other unfolding across Manhattan’s most elite addresses. From secret motives to social fault lines, this is a sharp, suspenseful look at how power and privilege shape the stories we can’t put down.
Moderated by: Gilbert Cruz

Aspen Literary Festival – Jasmine Guillory & Elin Hilderbrand: Love, Ambition & A Good Martini
2025-09-27 16:00 - 17:00 | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
Whether their characters are navigating breakups, making power plays, starting over, or falling hard, these two masters of modern fiction write women who are unapologetic about wanting more. Come for the laughs, stay for the honesty, and raise a glass to fiction that doesn’t hold back.
Moderated by: Alisyn Camerota

Aspen Literary Festival – Bardugo, LaValle & Schwab: Power, Imagination, & Fantasy
2025-09-27 13:00 - 14:00 | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
One of nonfiction’s sharpest storytellers turns his eye to the behind-the-scenes operators of democracy—the fixers, wonks, and data nerds who actually make the country run. A fast, funny, and revealing look at the unglamorous – and occasionally heroic – people holding everything together.
Moderated by: Alisyn Camerota

Aspen Literary Festival – Michael Lewis: The Secret Life of Bureaucrats
2025-09-26 17:30 - 18:30 | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
“One of nonfiction’s sharpest storytellers turns his eye to the behind-the-scenes operators of democracy—the fixers, wonks, and data nerds who actually make the country run. A fast, funny, and revealing look at the unglamorous – and occasionally heroic – people holding everything together.
Moderated by: Alisyn Camerota”

Wheeler Insiders Appreciation
2025-09-25 17:30 - 19:00 | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
Wheeler Insiders has grown to over 600 local members from Aspen to Carbondale, in just one year! We’re deeply grateful for this vibrant community of loyal audience members, ambassadors for the arts, and champions of creative expression. Your enthusiasm and support help keep the Wheeler thriving, and this evening is our way of saying thank you!
What to Expect:
• Be the first to hear about upcoming performances and special events.
• Connect with local Insiders and start planning your 2025-2026 Wheeler experience.
• Insiders will be able to purchase tickets at the Wheeler after the presentation.
• Get the best seats, at the best price.
Doors open at 5:00 PM. Season presentation begins at 5:30 PM.
Wheeler Insiders can RSVP to this event beginning on Thursday 8/28 at 12 PM.
Click Here, to learn more about becoming an Insider!

Aspen Historical Society Presents: History Tours
2025-09-24 13:30 - 14:30, 2025-09-17 13:30 - 14:30, 2025-09-10 13:30 - 14:30, 2025-09-03 13:30 - 14:30, 2025-08-27 13:30 - 14:30, 2025-08-20 13:30 - 14:30, 2025-08-13 13:30 - 14:30 | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
Enjoy a guided tour inside the center of Aspen’s arts and cultural scene since it was built in 1889. This free tour led by the Aspen Historical Society and in partnership with the City of Aspen’s Wheeler Opera House offers an insider’s look at the iconic building, including its recent renovations and storied past.
Meet in the lobby. Maximum 20 guests.

An Evening With Lindsay Lou
2025-09-20 20:00 | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
“I saw a literal manifestation of the sacred feminine and had this profound sense that I was meant to embody it,” recalls celebrated singer-songwriter Lindsay Lou after journeying through a hallucinogenic ritual that would inform the way she processed waves of grief in the sea of change ahead of her. The loss of her grandmother, the end of her marriage, and the overwhelming turmoil of COVID lockdowns found the Nashville-based artist on a spiritual journey of self-knowledge and healing with this gift from the mystic swirl.
“Guided by life experiences, Lindsay Lou’s sound and songwriting continues to evolve and intertwine her sturdy Bluegrass roots with progressive Americana and Folk.” – PBS
On her new album Queen of Time (due September 29th from Kill Rock Stars), Lou explores that quest across ten tracks of tender, heartbreakingly beautiful music. With this new vision of womanhood in mind.
This event is presented by Roaring Fork Sessions.

LAYLA and Other Assorted Eric Clapton Songs
2025-09-18 18:30 - 21:15 | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
“LAYLA and Other Assorted Eric Clapton Songs” pays tribute to the life and legacy of Eric Clapton, one of the most iconic and influential musicians of our time. The show combines heartfelt spoken stories, immersive multimedia elements, and captivating live performances to create an unforgettable experience for fans of Clapton and classic rock alike.
Through a mix of intimate acoustic moments and energetic electric performances, the production takes audiences on a journey through Clapton’s extraordinary career. Personal anecdotes, iconic songs, and engaging visuals bring his story to life, deepening the connection to his music. From soul-stirring unplugged renditions such as “Tears in Heaven” and “Change the World” to powerful rock anthems like “Layla,” “I Shot the Sheriff,” and “Cocaine,” the show immerses audiences in the artistry and evolution of a true musical legend.
Perfect for lifelong fans and newcomers alike, this engaging production celebrates Clapton’s unparalleled influence and the timeless music that continues to inspire generations. Prepare to be moved, entertained, and reminded why Clapton remains a legend.

Soundings: A Reading and Workshop with David Gonzalez
2025-09-15 16:00 - 17:00 | The Vault at the Wheeler, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
Experience an unforgettable afternoon of poetry and creativity at the Wheeler Opera House with storyteller and poet David Gonzalez. His debut collection, Soundings, has been hailed by U.S. Poet Laureate Emeritus Juan Felipe Herrera as “a most necessary voice” rich with ancestral echoes, cosmic wonder, and songs of humanity.
In this workshop, participants will have the opportunity to develop skills in personal reflection, collaborative creation, and artistic self-expression, guided by Gonzalez’s unique approach to poetry and performance. Featuring a live reading from Soundings by Gonzalez, participants are guided to discovering their own voices through the collection’s themes. Blending performance, poetry, and community connection, this gathering promises inspiration and artistic exploration for all who attend.
This workshop is free and open to the public, for ages 18+. Space is limited.

Frontiers of Knowledge
2025-09-13 09:00 - 17:00 | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
Join us for a game-changing day as world-renowned speakers unfold a new story of the universe and reality that deepens our sense of belonging through discoveries in cosmology, quantum physics, neuroscience, the origin of life and consciousness.
Learn more at: aspenpublicradio.org.

Inspire Aspen Foundation presents Aspen Rocks
2025-09-11 19:00 | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
Aspen Rocks – Adult Edition
In loving memory of our co-founder, Tami Frances Word, whose vision and passion continue to inspire us.
This special “adult edition” brings the excitement of our popular youth event to the stage for grown-up performers. Aspen Rocks is our local “American Idol”-style music competition, celebrating the incredible talent in our community.
Six finalists will take the stage at the historic Wheeler Opera House, competing live for prizes of recording time with a professional engineer at the legendary Mad Dog Ranch+Studios. Performances will be evaluated by a panel of three judges, and the evening will also feature special appearances by past Aspen Rocks winners.
Proceeds from the event benefit the Inspire Aspen Foundation, providing unique opportunities for young musicians in the Aspen-Snowmass and Roaring Fork Valley to pursue their talents and musical dreams.
Come share in an unforgettable night of music, community, and inspiration.
Changing Lives One Note at a Time.
For more information, visit www.inspireaspenfoundation.org.

Pure Prairie League
2025-09-10 19:00 | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
With over 50 years of groundbreaking music behind them, Pure Prairie League remains a vital force in country-rock. From their roots in 1960s Ohio to their current lineup—featuring drummer Scott Thompson, bassist Jared Camic, keyboardist Randy Harper, guitarist/vocalist Jeff Zona, and pedal steel/saxophonist John Heinrich—the band continues to deliver high-energy performances and timeless sound. Their sound and style has been described as “sweet memories with edgy, contemporary muscle. Their vocals are as strong as Kentucky moonshine and the musicianship and performance skills are as sharp as a straight razor”.
Their breakthrough album Bustin’ Out gave the world the enduring hit “Amie,” and cemented their place as pioneers of the genre. With a legacy that includes collaborations with icons like Vince Gill, Chet Atkins, Emmylou Harris, and Don Felder, Pure Prairie League’s influence can be heard in today’s country-rock artists from Keith Urban to Wilco.
Now touring in support of their new album, Back On Track, Pure Prairie League proves that after six decades, they’re still blazing the trail they helped create.

Mireya Mayor: Pink Boots and a Machete
2025-09-09 19:00 - 20:30 | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
Life as a mom of six and work as a world-renowned primatologist is no monkey business.
Join world-renowned scientist and National Geographic explorer Mireya Mayor on a wild and inspiring romp through her unconventional path to success. Mireya hosts a wide variety of TV series, including the Discovery Channel’s hit series Expedition Bigfoot. Between field expeditions, on-screen work, and her real-life drama of juggling a family of eight, Mireya reminds us that we are capable of more than we can imagine. From her early days as an NFL cheerleader to near-death experiences in the Congo and co-discovering the world’s smallest primate in Madagascar, Mireya shares her incredible journey with us.
Dr. Mireya Mayor is a primatologist, explorer, National Science Foundation fellow, Fulbright scholar, and Emmy Award–nominated wildlife correspondent for the National Geographic Channel. Her explorations have led to several scientific discoveries, most notably her co-discovery in Madagascar of the world’s smallest primate. Mireya has hosted dozens of documentaries, including her Nat Geo WILD series, Wild Nights with Mireya Mayor; Expedition Africa on the History Channel; La Cuba De Hoy on Nat Geo Mundo, and currently stars in Discovery Channel’s hit series Expedition Bigfoot. She is the author of a best selling book, Pink Boots and a Machete, and the subject of an award winning children’s book, Just Wild Enough. Mireya is also executive director of exploration and science communications at Florida International University, where she is helping scientists effectively communicate complex topics. She’s been recognized as a National Geographic Emerging Explorer, a Fulbright Global Changemaker, and one of Stony Brook University’s “40 under Forty.”
Presented in association with Aspen Center for Environmental Studies

Alex Edelman: What Are You Going To Do
2025-09-06 20:00 - 21:30 | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
Alex Edelman is best known for solo shows that blur the line between his stand-up comedy roots and narrative-driven storytelling. His last offering, Just for Us, played more than 500 performances around the world before premiering as an HBO original comedy special in April 2024. Along the way, it made award-winning stops in Melbourne, Edinburgh, London, and numerous sold-out runs in New York, where Edelman joined a small group of comedians who have played on Broadway with a three-month stretch at the Hudson Theatre.
He previously won the prestigious Foster’s Best Newcomer prize at the 2014 Edinburgh Fringe Festival for his debut one-man show, Millennial—only the second American ever to do so, and the first since 1997. In 2024, Alex was the recipient of a special Tony Award, was named to the Time100 list of most influential people, and won an Emmy Award.
Edelman appeared in Jerry Seinfeld’s directorial debut for Netflix, Unfrosted, alongside Seinfeld, Melissa McCarthy, Jim Gaffigan, Amy Schumer, Hugh Grant, and more. He is currently developing a movie with A24 that he will write, direct, and star in, with Marc Platt and Steven Levenson producing. His debut nonfiction collection, I Don’t Belong Here, recently sold to Avid Reader at auction. Alex will next be seen starring in Greg Daniels’ spinoff of The Office for Peacock, where he also serves as a consulting producer.
Beyond his front-of-camera work, Alex was a staff writer on The Great Indoors for CBS, a story editor on Teenage Bounty Hunters for Netflix, and the head writer for Saturday Night Seder, which raised over $3.5 million for the CDC COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund and featured talent such as Andy Cohen, Billy Porter, Dan Levy, Fran Drescher, Idina Menzel, Jason Alexander, Rachel Brosnahan, and many more.
He has written for outlets such as The Atlantic and The Believer, produced documentaries for the U.S. State Department and ESPN’s 30 for 30 series, and spent more than a decade working as a speechwriter for the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Boston Red Sox.
With special guest, Sarah Sanders
Sarah Sanders is a Director of Events by day and a mic-slinging Ms. Snowmass by night. A fixture in the Roaring Fork Valley comedy scene for over eight years, she’s the creative force behind the Snowmass Live Comedy Series and the summer hit Comedy WKND. After years of putting comics on stage, she stepped into the spotlight herself—performing stand-up for the past four years with a knack for sharp storytelling and well-timed punchlines.

Meet & Greet - Finalist for City Manager
2025-09-04 16:00 - 18:00 | The Vault at the Wheeler, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
The city invites community members to a meet and greet with Pete Strecker, the final candidate for the position of City Manager, on Thursday, Sept. 4 from 4-6 p.m. at The Vault, on the second floor lobby of the Wheeler Opera House.
The gathering is designed to provide residents, business owners, nonprofit partners, and other stakeholders with an opportunity to meet Strecker, ask questions, and share feedback with City Council before a final hiring decision is made.
Strecker became interim city manager in March following the resignation of Sara Ott. He brings more than two decades of experience in state and local government, along with a strong background in financial leadership and economic forecasting.
Strecker has served as Aspen’s finance director since 2018, overseeing the city’s financial operations and strategic fiscal planning. He originally joined the city in 2012 as assistant finance director after relocating to the Roaring Fork Valley.
Before his tenure in Aspen, he held key roles in state government, including budget director for Colorado’s Health Care Policy and Financing (Medicaid) and Agriculture departments, as well as chief of economic forecasting under Gov. Bill Ritter Jr.
A mathematician by training, Strecker earned his degree from St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota. Early in his career, he worked as an actuary, consulting on pension plans for large corporations before transitioning to public service.
Strecker and his wife moved to Aspen in 2011 with their two daughters to be closer to family, as well as to enjoy the quality of life that comes with living in the mountains and being surrounded by the area’s strong sense of community, access to the outdoors, and rich arts and cultural scene.

Aspen Design Conference
2025-08-29 12:30 - 2025-08-31 17:00 | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
The Aspen Design Conference (ADC) led by locals and young innovators, is an open, inclusive space where designers, entrepreneurs, and visionaries come together to challenge conventions.
Born from the pioneering Bauhaus spirit of the International Design Conference in Aspen (IDCA), a new conference emerges, free from commercial barriers. We break beyond the traditional conference model by promoting dialogue, creating friction, and driving momentum.
Through spirited discussions, hands-on experimentation, and deep engagement within Aspen’s natural landscape, this is where the past meets the future, and design is reimagined for the challenges of today.
More details

DanceAspen Shifting Forms
2025-08-28 19:00, 2025-08-27 19:00 | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
Experience the power and artistry of contemporary dance at the historic Wheeler Opera House. Shifting Forms features a world premiere by acclaimed choreographer Garrett Smith, the poignant Mother Tongue by Ihsan Rustem, and the return of audience favorite Ever After by Yin Yue. Don’t miss this unforgettable summer evening of bold, evocative performance.

Opera Encounters: Arias and Scenes written by AMFS Composition Fellows
2025-08-23 10:00 | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
Aspen Opera Theater and VocalARTS faculty coach the program’s major emerging talents in opera scenes. Enjoy excerpts from the repertoire, ravishing voices, and insightful coaching. Ticketing for this event is through the Aspen Music Festival and School (AMFS). For event-specific and ticket-related questions, please contact AMFS at Opera Encounters: Arias and Scenes written by AMFS Composition Fellows | Aspen Music Festival And School. For venue related questions, please contact the Wheeler Opera House

Opera Encounters: Arias and Scenes
2025-08-16 10:00 | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
Aspen Opera Theater and VocalARTS faculty coach the program’s major emerging talents in opera scenes. Enjoy excerpts from the repertoire, ravishing voices, and insightful coaching. Ticketing for this event is through the Aspen Music Festival and School (AMFS). For event-specific and ticket-related questions, please contact AMFS at Opera Encounters: Arias and Scenes | Aspen Music Festival And School. For venue related questions, please contact the Wheeler Opera House.
