Wheeler Opera House

Wheeler Opera House & AMFS History Tour
2024-07-16 10:30 - 11:30, 2024-07-10 10:30 - 11:30, 2024-07-09 10:30 - 11:30, 2024-07-03 10:30 - 11:30, 2024-07-02 10:30 - 11:30, 2024-06-26 10:30 - 11:30, 2024-06-25 10:30 - 11:30 (America/Denver) | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
In collaboration with the Wheeler Opera House and the Aspen Historical Society
Join us to learn about the history of Aspen, the Wheeler Opera House, and the Aspen Music Festival and School. Presented in collaboration with the Aspen Historical Society, these tours provide an insider glimpse into the fascinating and unusual history of these storied institutions, and commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Wheeler Opera House and the AMFS’s 75th anniversary season. On Wednesdays following the tour, consider attending the free High Notes panel discussion in Bad Harriet at the nearby Hotel Jerome at noon.

Aspen Music Festival and School | Opera Encounters
2024-07-13 10:00, 2024-07-06 10:00, 2024-06-29 10:00
Aspen Opera Theater and VocalARTS faculty coach the program’s major emerging talents in arias and scenes. Enjoy excerpts from the repertoire, ravishing voices, and insightful coaching.

Aspen Music Festival and School | Leonard Bernstein’s Young People’s Concerts Presented by Carnegie Hall+: Who is Gustav Mahler?
2024-07-09 16:00
New! In a special partnership between Carnegie Hall+ and the Aspen Music Festival and School, Aspen viewers of all ages can screen two of Leonard Bernstein’s legendary Young People’s Concerts with the New York Philharmonic. In his most important role as music educator, Bernstein’s pioneering series of nationally televised broadcasts began in 1958 live from Carnegie Hall, making the concert hall an accessible classroom that introduced a new generation to classical music.
Today’s program explores the complicated personality of Gustav Mahler and how it was expressed in his music.

Aspen Music Festival and School | The National Piping Centre Class
2024-07-05 13:00
Finlay MacDonald, Director of Piping at The National Piping Centre, demonstrates and teaches basic elements of bagpiping.
The National Piping Centre’s Aspen residency is generously underwritten by Mr. and Mrs. Thomas D. Rutherfoord, Jr.

Aspen Music Festival and School | Leonard Bernstein’s Young People’s Concerts Presented by Carnegie Hall: The Anatomy of a Symphony Orchestra
2024-07-02 16:00
New! In a special partnership between Carnegie Hall+ and the Aspen Music Festival and School, Aspen viewers of all ages can screen two of Leonard Bernstein’s legendary Young People’s Concerts with the New York Philharmonic. In his most important role as music educator, Bernstein’s pioneering series of nationally televised broadcasts began in 1958 live from Carnegie Hall, making the concert hall an accessible classroom that introduced a new generation to classical music.
Today’s program analyzes the components of the modern symphony orchestra.

Aspen Music Festival and School | Matthew Aucoin: Music for New Bodies
2024-07-01 19:00
Premiered in April 2024, this major new work is from the creative team of MacArthur award-winning composer Matthew Aucoin, whose commissioning credits include the Metropolitan Opera, Carnegie Hall, and Lyric Opera of Chicago, and director Peter Sellars, celebrated for his operatic collaborations with John Adams, Tyshawn Sorey, and the late Kaija Saariaho. Inspired by the writings of visionary poet Jorie Graham and pioneering environmentalist Rachel Carson, Aucoin and Sellars’s new work offers an immersion in vast planetary processes.
They explain: “We follow the migration of eels to the depths of the Atlantic Basin; we hear the voice of the ocean floor itself, speaking with superhuman pressure and force; we experience humankind’s impact on our planet, and we also sense the presence of cycles so immense that they are beyond human influence.”
A co-commission of the DaCamera ensemble, Shepherd School of Music, LA Opera, American Modern Opera Company (AMOC), and Aspen Music Festival & School, Music for New Bodies is scored for five vocal soloists and an 18-piece instrumental ensemble.

Katie Thiroux Trio
2024-06-22 20:00, 2024-06-21 20:00
With glowing endorsements from the likes of Quincy Jones, The New Yorker, and NPR, Los Angeles-based Katie Thiroux has clearly established herself as one of the most exciting and in-demand musicians today. Thiroux’s unique gift of simultaneously balancing sultry vocals and virtuosic bass playing leaves audiences worldwide in awe. Lending contemporary flair to mainstream stylings, Thiroux carries on the hard-swinging tradition of such bass masters as Ray Brown and John Clayton while channeling the buoyant vocal finesse of iconic singers, including Anita O’Day, Chet Baker, and Ella Fitzgerald. Thiroux offers in-the-moment jazz that draws upon the rich history of the music, from swing to bebop and beyond. In the words of music icon Quincy Jones, “This girl is IT!”

The Headhunters 50th Anniversary
2024-06-22 17:30
Few bands can claim a history as remarkable and illustrious as The Headhunters. Originating in 1973 under the visionary leadership of renowned musician Herbie Hancock, the band quickly established itself as a force to be reckoned with. Now co-led by original members Bill Summers on percussion and Mike Clark on drums, complemented by the talents of some of New Orleans’ finest musicians: Kyle Roussel on keys, Donald Harrison on alto saxophone, and Chris Severin on seven-string bass. These lifelong friends have shaped the band into a musical powerhouse. By blending jazz, funk, and rock, The Headhunters created a sound that resonated with audiences worldwide, selling over a million albums and inspiring musicians across genres for generations. Their music was even sampled by hundreds of hip-hop artists throughout the ’80s and ’90s, leaving an indelible mark on contemporary music.

“Tribute to Aretha Franklin” feat. Ms. Lisa Fischer w/the JAS Academy Big Band conducted by Christian McBride
2024-06-21 17:30
Jazz Aspen Snowmass presents the JAS Academy Big Band featuring Rolling Stone veteran Grammy-winning vocalist Ms. Lisa Fischer on a “Tribute to Aretha Franklin” arranged and conducted by 8x Grammy-winning Christian McBride.

Wheeler Associates and Wheeler Opera House present Emmylou Harris
2024-06-18 19:30
A 14-time Grammy winner and Billboard Century Award recipient, Emmylou Harris’ contribution as a singer and songwriter spans 40 years. She has recorded more than 25 albums and has lent her talents to countless fellow artists’ recordings. In recognition of her remarkable career, Harris was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2008 and earned a Grammy Lifetime Achievement award in 2018. Wheeler Associates and the Wheeler Opera House present Emmylou Harris for a one-night-only concert in our historic venue, celebrating the 40th anniversary of the 1984 Grand Re-opening of the Wheeler.
Harris is known as much for her eloquently straightforward songwriting as for her incomparably expressive singing. Admired through her career for her talent as an artist and song connoisseur, Harris shook up country radio in the 1970s, and established herself as the premiere songwriter of a generation selling more than 15 million records and garnering 14 Grammy Awards, three CMA Awards, and four Americana Awards.
Harris is one of the most admired and influential women in music. She has recorded with such diverse artists as Linda Ronstadt, Daniel Lanois, Bob Dylan, Mark Knopfler, Neil Young, Gram Parsons, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Roy Orbison, Ryan Adams, Beck, Elvis Costello, Johnny Cash, Lucinda Williams, Lyle Lovett and Rodney Crowell. Few artists have achieved such honesty or have revealed such maturity in their writing. Forty years into her career, Harris continues to share the hard-earned wisdom that—hopefully if not inevitably—comes with getting older, though she’s never stopped looking ahead.
A longtime social activist, Harris has lent her voice to many causes. Most passionately to animal welfare. In 2004 she established Bonaparte’s Retreat with the goal of rescuing shelter dogs and adopting them into forever homes. To this day, Bonaparte’s Retreat continues to save dogs most in need at Metro Nashville Animal Care and Control and at municipal shelters in surrounding counties.
**Ticket buyers who buy tickets to Wheeler Opera House shows through any other channels, including ticket brokers or other third parties, should be aware that the Wheeler cannot reprint, replace, or exchange tickets purchased in this way, and cannot contact those patrons with important show information. Tickets purchased in this way may also be fraudulent and may not scan you into the performance. The Wheeler reserves the right to deny entry to any patron presenting a fraudulent ticket purchased through a third party and cannot refund the cost of those tickets.**
A VALID ID MUST BE PRESENTED IN ORDER TO PICK UP YOUR TICKETS. THE NAME ON THE ID MUST MATCH THE NAME ON THE TICKET ORDER.

Aspen Fringe Festival's JUNEFEST | Night 2 – THEATRE
2024-06-08 19:30
Back for its 16th year, the Aspen Fringe Festival’s JUNEFEST is a two-day performance art event that takes place at Wheeler Opera House. Founded in 1994 by David Ledingham, the Aspen Fringe Festival aims to inspire and encourage artists and individuals around the world.
June 8
DIRECT FROM LONDON’S WEST END
The American Workshop Premiere of
LYONESSE
By Penelope Skinner
THE PLAY: This passionate, searingly funny play opened in London, October 2023 Starring Kristin Scott Thomas & Lily James.
THE STORY: a once-famous actress who disappeared thirty years ago in mysterious circumstances, is ready to tell her story. She summons Kate, a young film executive, to her remote home on the coast of Maine to assist with her glorious comeback. But to keep control of the story, the women must fight against a rising tide.
The AFF American Workshop Premiere will be directed by Renee Prince. Featuring: Brian Landis Folkins, Shelly Marolt, Libby Rife, Eileen Seeley and Brittany Dean Welch

Aspen Fringe Festival's JUNEFEST | Night 1 - DANCE
2024-06-07 19:30
Back for its 16th year, the Aspen Fringe Festival’s JUNEFEST is a two-day performance art event that takes place at Wheeler Opera House. Founded in 1994 by David Ledingham, the Aspen Fringe Festival aims to inspire and encourage artists and individuals around the world.
June 7
Direct from Joshua Tree
ALCHEMY ARTS COLLECTIVE
This Exciting Dance Company will perform Live & On Screen in
CHASING THE LIGHT
Choreography by Adrianna Thompson
Film by Jaco Strydom
Chasing the Light combines two mediums: a live dance performance and its adaptation into film within the awe-inspiring backdrop of Joshua Tree, providing a unique angle on Dance as it is integrated into the natural environment that initially inspired the project.
Featuring Dancers: Barbara Koch, Sophia Ramasuglia, Buddy Valdez and Oren Yaari
&
World Premiere Dance
By Norwegian Choreographer
JON OLE OLSTAD
& the Basel Ballet Award Winning Dance…
Finally It’s Everything
Featuring Dancer Leslie Plummer

Recovery Resources presents We Can Be Heroes - A Social Impact Documentary Film
2024-06-05 19:00
Recovery Resources and Under the Hood Productions are excited to present WE CAN BE HEROES, a powerful documentary film that shines a light on the complexities of addiction and the strength of the human spirit. WE CAN BE HEROES follows Detroit boxer Taylor “Machine Gun” Duerr in the fight of his life – both inside and outside the ring – training for the WBAC Cruiserweight title and battling the demons of drug addiction.
“I’ve already been dead, what are you gonna do to me?” -Taylor Duerr
WE CAN BE HEROES is a social impact film screening that will launch community discussion around the complexities of drug and alcohol addiction – a topic that’s deeply relevant in our mountain resort towns. The film’s mission is to replace stigma with understanding and compassion for those who are battling the daily challenges of addiction. We’ll host a talk-back session with Taylor following the film, giving the audience a chance to ask questions and learn about Taylor’s lived experience as both an athlete and addict. Film-goers will walk away with a better understanding of substance use disorder, how it affects our community, and what can be done to battle this insidious disease.
“Until the stigma of addiction is removed those who need help are less likely to seek it…and those who can help are less able to offer it.”

Aspen Psychedelic Symposium
2024-06-01 10:00, 2024-05-31 10:00
Join us at the historic Wheeler Opera House for this two-day event that will showcase expert panels, groundbreaking research, and firsthand insights into the transformative world of psychedelic medicines.

Judy Collins Duo: Wildflowers Tour
2024-05-25 19:30
We’re celebrating the anniversary of the Wheeler’s 1984 Grand Re-Opening with two amazing concerts in one weekend. On Saturday night, Judy Collins returns to the stage with her Wildflowers Tour. In honor of the monumental Grand Re-Opening, all tickets are priced at $19.84.
Judy Collins has long inspired audiences with sublime vocals, boldly vulnerable songwriting, personal life triumphs, and a firm commitment to social activism. In the 1960s, she evoked both the idealism and steely determination of a generation united against social and environmental injustices. Five decades later, her luminescent presence shines brightly as new generations bask in the glow of her iconic 55-album body of work, and heed inspiration from her spiritual discipline to thrive in the music industry for half a century.
“You could argue Collins has earned that ‘legend’ distinction as much by interpreting and inspiring songs as she has by writing or singing them…” – Edmonton Journal
The award-winning singer-songwriter is esteemed for her imaginative interpretations of traditional and contemporary folk standards and her own poetically poignant original compositions. Her stunning rendition of Joni Mitchell’s “Both Sides Now” from her landmark 1967 album, Wildflowers, has been entered into the Grammy Hall of Fame. Judy’s dreamy and sweetly intimate version of “Send in the Clowns,” a ballad written by Stephen Sondheim for the Broadway musical A Little Night Music, won “Song of the Year” at the 1975 Grammy Awards. She’s garnered several top-ten hits gold-and platinum-selling albums. Recently, contemporary and classic artists such as Rufus Wainwright, Shawn Colvin, Dolly Parton, Joan Baez, and Leonard Cohen honored her legacy with the album Born to the Breed: A Tribute to Judy Collins.

Wheeler Celebrates
2024-05-25 12:00 - 16:00
The Wheeler Opera House celebrates the 40th anniversary of the 1984 Grand Re-Opening.
Join us on Saturday afternoon, look for tents in the parcel between the Wheeler and the Mother Lode building.

Visit the Bubble Fairy and Watch balloon animals come to life
There will be face painting and coloring activities.
Aspen Historical Society will be on-site to share stories and answer questions.
The Wheeler has partnered with The Project Shop in Carbondale to create locally made and responsibly sourced limited-edition merchandise. Items will be available for sale on Saturday until supplies run out.
There will also be opportunities for you to share your own Wheeler memories and stories.

Peach Street Revival
2024-05-24 19:30
We’re celebrating the anniversary of the Wheeler’s 1984 Grand Re-Opening with two amazing concerts in one weekend. On Friday night, Peach Street Revival takes the stage and there will be plenty of room on the dance floor. Ticket price includes one complimentary beer, wine or soda from the bar, patrons can claim their drink ticket at the door.
Peach Street Revival is a fierce, female-dominated rock band from Grand Junction, Colorado, committed to crafting hit songs, touring globally, and intertwining their music with the fashion industry. Peach Street Revival has graced stages alongside renowned acts such as ZZ TOP, Buckcherry, Puddle of Mudd, Flobots, and more. During the show, fans will experience a seamless blend of Peach Street Revival‘s original songs and iconic hits from legendary artists like Led Zeppelin, Queen, Rush, Heart, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Fleetwood Mac, Janis Joplin, Jefferson Airplane, and the like. Share the music and bring a friend to rock out with Peach Street Revival!
Meet the Band:
Gonzales – Vocals & Harmonica
Sofia Benham – Drums & Vocals
Jordan Will – Bass, Piano & Vocals
Cooper Bradley Shull – Guitar & Vocals
“One kick-ass, female-dominated band.” -303magazine.com

Tito Puente, Jr.
2024-05-12 17:00
Son of the legendary American salsa and Latin jazz musician Tito Puente, Tito Puente, Jr. has big shoes to fill. And boy does he!
Always honoring his father’s legacy, Tito Puente, Jr. has also made a name for himself as one of the most exciting Latin musicians touring today. Tito Puente Jr. carries his father with him – imprinted on his physical being and locked in his soul. It’s in his looks, his joy, and his music. Tito Jr. is on a passionate mission, determined to nurture the musical legacy left by his father.
He has found captive audiences who echo his passion. Crowds lured to a venue by the father are returning to see the son — and to once again participate in the high voltage celebration that takes place on stage.
On April 20th, 2023, Tito Puente “King of Mambo”, “King of Latin Music” will be 100 years old. Tito Puente, Jr.’s 23/24 Season Tour is in Celebration of his father’s Centennial!
“A dazzling show filled with charisma, flair and all the right dance moves. His skill at playing, singing, and dancing was undeniable…Tito Puente Jr. shined with a talent that was all his own.”
–The Examiner
Tito Jr. reveres the magnificent, lasting impact his father had on our musical lives. “People who don’t know anything about Latin music know my father and people always, always smile when they say my father’s name,” he confides. “That is a very special gift I have been given.”
Tito Puente, Jr. and his Ensemble bring exhilarating Latin rhythms that will get your feet moving! This event has a dance floor in the front orchestra that is open to all attendees. Please note, the dance floor may cause an obstructed view for the first few rows of orchestra seating. Seating is general admission, so patrons are free to relocate to any open seats if their view becomes compromised.

Aspen Country Day School presents COUNTRY ROADS, TAKE ME HOME
2024-05-04 17:30, 2024-05-03 17:30
Country Roads, Take Me Home, is a heartwarming and uplifting celebration of the transformative power of music, the joy of discovery, and the unbreakable bonds of friendship.
