Wheeler Opera House

Aspen Laugh Festival - Reggie Watts
2024-02-24 19:30 (America/Denver) | Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO, 81611, United States
Get ready for a mind-bending finale as Reggie Watts, the internationally renowned Musician/Comedian/Writer/Actor, takes center stage to close the Aspen Laugh Festival 2024. Widely recognized for his role as the bandleader on CBS’s “The Late Late Show with James Corden,” Watts seamlessly blurs the lines between music and comedy, delivering 100% improvised performances that leave audiences in awe.
Recently making waves as the DJ at the 2021 Emmy Awards, Watts continues to push boundaries. His first Netflix special, “Spatial,” received massive critical acclaim, with The New York Times hailing it as “a giddy rush of escapist nonsense,” and dubbing Watts “the most influential absurdist in comedy today.” A solo performer with a unique musical/comedy fusion, Watts has led sold-out headlining tours in the U.S. and Europe, gracing stages at renowned festivals such as Bonnaroo, SXSW, and Just For Laughs.
In 2020, Watts launched his content app, WattsApp, providing a techno-savvy glimpse into his life and work. The app features original content, including the show “Droneversations,” where he interviews guests filmed by drones. Watts’ comedic journey began with his debut special, “Why Shit So Crazy?” on Comedy Central Records, followed by the critically acclaimed “Reggie Watts: A Live At Central Park.” His memoir, “Great Falls, MT,” published by Penguin’s Tiny Reparations imprint, adds another dimension to Watts’ multifaceted career.
Born in Germany, raised in Montana, and currently residing in Los Angeles, Reggie Watts promises a finale that transcends the ordinary—a fitting end to the laughter-filled celebration at the Aspen Laugh Festival.

Opener
Chris Turner is a British comedian and freestyle rapper, with over 40 million views on YouTube thanks to his jaw-dropping improvisational talent. Chris is the first comedian to ever have performed with Cirque Du Soleil in Las Vegas, while his appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert earned him a rapturous standing ovation. A regular headline act at New York’s world famous Comedy Cellar, Chris’ shows combine freestyle rap, musical comedy, and stand-up for a unique and unmissable live experience that must be seen to be believed.
“The UK’s finest freestyle rapper” –Fox Sports

“A virtuoso…a hip-hop machine” –Guardian
“Very funny, uniquely appealing…nobody on a Vegas stage does what Chris Turner does” -Las Vegas Review-Journal

Aspen Laugh Festival - Patti Harrison
2024-02-23 19:30
Prepare for laughter as Patti Harrison, the rising star of comedy, graces the Aspen Laugh Festival 2024 stage. Currently captivating audiences in the Sundance hit comedy “Theater Camp,” Patti’s star continues to rise with outstanding performances in notable films like “The Lost City” and Nikole Beckwith’s “Together Together,” earning her a nomination for the Independent Spirit Award for Best Female Lead.
Hailing from rural Ohio, Patti made her mark in the NYC comedy scene and quickly gained recognition with her sociopathic character “Ruthie” on Hulu’s “Shrill” and appearances on popular shows like “I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson,” “High Maintenance,” and “The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.” As a versatile talent, she’s written for series like “Big Mouth” on Netflix and voiced characters in Disney’s “Raya and the Last Dragon.”
Patti’s comedic brilliance extends to the small screen, with current and upcoming appearances on HBO Max’s “Made for Love,” Disney+’s “She Hulk,” and notable film projects like Netflix’s “Electric State” and the independent film “Turn Me On.”

Aspen Laugh Festival - Beth Stelling
2024-02-22 19:30
Embark on a laughter-filled journey with Beth Stelling, a standout comedian, and force to be reckoned with in the comedy world. With her one-hour stand-up special, “If You Didn’t Want Me Then,” currently streaming on Netflix, Beth showcases her comedic prowess and storytelling finesse. Originating from Chicago, Beth quickly rose to prominence, earning the title of “Best Stand-up Comedian in Chicago” by The Chicago Reader in 2010. A mere three years into her comedy career, she became a New Face of Comedy at Montreal’s renowned Just for Laughs Festival.
In 2011, Beth made a mark in Los Angeles where she seamlessly transitioned from making her late-night TV debut on “Conan” to releasing her debut album, “Sweet Beth.” Her comedic talent caught the eye of Jimmy Kimmel, leading to a performance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” after he witnessed her stand-up at the Upright Citizens Brigade in Los Angeles. Beth’s journey continued with her Comedy Central half-hour special in Boston, recognized as one of the “Best Stand-up Specials of 2015” by Vulture. Her Netflix special, part of “The Standups” series, received critical acclaim, prompting HBO Max to feature her first-hour stand-up special, “Girl Daddy,” produced by Conan O’Brien and Team Coco, earning praise from The New York Times as “The Best Debut Special of the year.”
Beyond the stage, Beth has showcased her versatility as a writer on various projects, including “I Love You, America” with Sarah Silverman and HBO’s “Crashing.” Her podcast, “We Called Your Mom,” co-hosted with her mom Diane, has gained popularity on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. As a go-to hire for punch-ups on feature films, Beth’s comedic genius extends to the big screen, highlighted by her role as Ms. Fish on Peacock’s comedy “Rutherford Falls.”

Opener
Janae Burris (Just For Laughs/NBC First Look) is a comedian, actor and event host in Denver, Colorado. In 2020, Janae was also a house sitter, nanny and dog walker who performed lots of Zoom comedy from the comfort of her well-lit bathroom. (It was a weird year y’all.) She is a South Los Angeles native and a California Institute of the Arts alumna. Since moving to Colorado Janae has performed with Local Theater Co., Colorado Shakespeare Fest, The Denver Center for Performing Arts and most recently the starring role in Aurora Fox Theater’s “Queens Girl In The World”. Her years growing up in one of L.A.’s most notorious neighborhoods, combined with her training in avant garde theater make Janae’s comedy style something similar to a one-woman show, a perfect fit for Shit Talk Tours, which she hosts regularly at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Denver.
She has opened for nationally touring comics Michael Che, Roy Wood Jr., Beth Stelling, Josh Blue and Gary Gulman to name a few. Janae has been featured at Portland’s Bridgetown Comedy Festival, Limestone Comedy Festival in Bloomington Ind, Telluride Blues Fest and High Plains Comedy Festival in Denver as well as headlining at Ha Ha Harvest in Portland and Aspen Laugh Fest. Janae is a 2019 Just For Laughs New Face. She is a “Pro” on the coveted regulars list at Comedy Works in Denver as well as the 2016 Comedy Works New Faces Champ. She has showcased at NACA West, Midwest and Central. She is a founding member of Pussy Bros, her stand up comedy girl gang with Christie Buchele and Rachel Weeks, who made their television debut on NBC’s First Look. (Ok, technically her first TV appearance was on Family Feud where she lost her shot at $10, 000 because what they don’t tell you on FF is that the real feud is between you and your own damn family.)

Aspen Laugh Festival 2024
2024-02-21 19:30 - 2024-02-24 19:30
The Wheeler Opera House is tickled to unveil the highly anticipated Aspen Laugh Festival 2024 lineup! From sidesplitting anecdotes to clever wit, this festival promises an unforgettable experience that transcends boundaries and speaks to a diverse audience. At the Wheeler, we believe in the power of laughter as the best medicine, and this lineup is a testament to the joyous tradition of comedy that has graced our historic venue since its opening in April 1889 with a hilarious production of “A King’s Fool.”
While humor reverberates through our halls year-round, February 21 through 24 holds a special place in our hearts as we present the Aspen Laugh Festival. Featuring the comedic brilliance of Patton Oswalt, Beth Stelling, Patti Harrison, and Reggie Watts, this lineup is guaranteed to tickle your funny bone and leave you laughing in the aisles.
Festival Pass includes entry and general admission seating for each festival headline event.

Aspen Laugh Festival - Patton Oswalt
2024-02-21 19:30
Prepare for a comedic feast as the Aspen Laugh Festival 2024 kicks off with the one and only Patton Oswalt. With an illustrious career spanning across comedy specials, television, and film, Oswalt continues to leave an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. His recent Netflix special, “We All Scream,” not only marked his directorial debut but also earned him a Grammy® nomination, adding to his impressive accolades. Oswalt’s versatile talent extends to the big screen, with standout performances in films like “Young Adult,” for which he received a Critics Choice Award nomination, and “Big Fan,” earning him critical acclaim and a Gotham Award nomination.
In the realm of television, Oswalt has graced audiences with memorable roles on iconic shows such as “Parks and Recreation,” earning him a TV Critics Choice Award, and “The King of Queens,” where he played ‘Spence’ for nine seasons. His voice work in animations, including ‘Remy’ in Pixar’s Oscar® winner “Ratatouille” and ‘Max’ in “The Secret Life of Pets 2,” has solidified him as a sought-after talent in the industry. Oswalt’s comedic prowess has not gone unnoticed, with multiple Grammy and Emmy® nominations, including a win for ‘Outstanding Writing for a Variety Special’ for his sixth comedy special, “Talking for Clapping.”

Opener
Orlando Leyba is a Dominican American actor and stand-up comedian who connects with all audiences through his unique life experience and perspective and undeniable likability. Orlando has become a regular at comedy festivals and touring nationwide at clubs throughout the U.S and Canada. Most recently, Orlando was featured in NBC’s BRING THE FUNNY. His HBO stand-up special ORLANDO LEBYA: ADORABLE, premiered on HBO Latino and is now on HBO Max. In addition to touring nationwide, Orlando recurs in truTV’s LAFF MOBB LAFF TRACKS, both performing stand-up and acting in his re-enactment stories. He has made appearances on NBC?s THE TONIGHT SHOW STARRING JIMMY FALLON and was featured on HBO’s ENTRE NOS: PART 3. And he voices the role of “Wabo” alongside Will Forte and Lea Thompson in the animated feature LUIS & THE ALIENS.

Aspen Historical Society presents: History Tours
2024-02-21 13:30 - 14:30, 2024-02-14 13:30 - 14:30, 2024-02-07 13:30 - 14:30
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.

DanceAspen "Limitless"
2024-02-17 19:30, 2024-02-16 19:30
DanceAspen, the valley’s premier contemporary dance company, returns to the historic Wheeler Opera House this winter presenting “Limitless.” This highly anticipated performance promises an evening of extraordinary artistry, innovative choreography, and world-class talent that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this fusion of art and athleticism that is sure to be the cultural highlight of the season.
Since DanceAspen’s first performances at the Wheeler Opera House in September 2021, the partnership between DanceAspen and the Wheeler has shown how the arts can revitalize a community. As a historic venue, the Wheeler is not the traditional dance space, with a stage that is just shy of 28 feet wide and a stage depth of just over 26 feet. With ingenuity, creativity, and perseverance, DanceAspen brings choreography to the edge of dance, quite literally to the edges of the Wheeler’s historic stage. By bringing together the best of the past and the present, the Wheeler is excited to be a part of DanceAspen creating a new and exciting future for dance in Aspen.

International Guitar Night XXIV
2024-02-09 19:30
Get ready for the 24th annual tour of International Guitar Night. We’re thrilled to bring this exceptional lineup to the Wheeler stage that promises to captivate the hearts of guitar and music enthusiasts alike. This performance is exactly the kind that the Wheeler was designed to showcase, with its impeccable acoustics and creating an intimate experience for the audience.
The visionary behind IGN, Brian Gore has once again curated a roster of accomplished musicians, including an exciting newcomer. The sensational Luca Stricagnoli from Italy, renowned for his mind-bending acoustic rock interpretations, will leave the audience in awe.

Hailing from Vietnam, Thu Le plays effortlessly with nylon string artistry that spans the realms of classical to contemporary.

From the vibrant streets of Brazil, Marco Pereira, a true master of composition and performance, embarks on his final tour with IGN in 2024, promising an unforgettable farewell.

But that’s not all; a fresh face to the IGN family, making her North American debut – Minnie Marks from the enchanting land of Australia. Prepare to be blown away by Minnie’s irrepressible blues slide guitar skills and soulful vocals that are sure to leave you craving for more.

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the magic of IGN – where creativity knows no bounds, and the music never stops.

Black Violin: The Experience Tour
2024-02-02 19:30
Showcasing the two-time Grammy-nominated duo Black Violin, brought to life by Kev Marcus and Wil Baptiste, you will experience a mystifying musical fusion of exquisite classical sounds and exhilarating hip-hop beats. Featuring Abraham Alexander on vocals, Alexander instills in his music a joyful passion and irrepressible spirit, giving way to songs that radiate undeniable hope. This concert performance boldly merges centuries of music and unites audiences with a message of hope and possibility. Fans can expect to be immersed in a sound that transcends categories and celebrates ingenuity and ambition, proving anything is possible.
On stage, Kev Marcus gives an electrifying violin performance along with Wil Baptiste’s magnetizing viola and vocal performance. Joining them are Nat Stokes on drums, DJ SPS on the turntable, and Liston Gregory on keys. Together they are reconceptualizing what a violin concert looks and sounds like, building bridges to a place where Mozart, Marvin Gaye, and Kendrick Lamar harmoniously coexist. Black Violin invites you to think outside of the box.

SNAP: Contemporary Mystery Performance
2024-01-31 18:30
Prepare to embark on a mind-bending journey as SNAP, a group of South Korean illusionists, takes the stage, playing with space, time, and the otherworldly to create a spectacle like no other. This family-friendly addition to our season program will boggle your mind with impressive powers of prestidigitation. Mixing dexterous sleight of hand, Chaplin-esque vaudevillian comedy, and ingenious visual effects, SNAP conjures a marvelous, magical cabaret perfect for the whole family.
“Wizards without wands!” – The New York Times
Selected as “The Best Magic Performance in Fringe” by Broadway World, SNAP went on to win the Best Production Trophy from “Asian Arts Awards” at the world-renowned Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2016. SNAP returned to Edinburgh Fringe 2017, selling out four shows at one of the largest theaters at the Fringe. SNAP has gone on to perform at prestigious arts festivals around the globe, leading them to a successful 23-show run at Broadway’s New Victory Theater in 2019. Come see what The New York Times review raved “Wizards without wands!” right here in the heart of downtown Aspen.
SNAP’s performance is a true masterpiece of art, light, music, modern technology, and a myriad of other ingenious stage devices. Get ready to be transported into a world of wonder and amazement as SNAP redefines the limits of what’s possible. It’s a journey into the extraordinary that you and your family will cherish forever.

Shaun Boothe "The Unauthorized Biography Series"
2024-01-24 18:00
“The power of hip-hop is in the stories we choose to tell. Our stories can either build us up or tear us down” – Shaun Boothe
Award-winning hip-hop artist Shaun Boothe is a TEDx speaker and creator of the critically acclaimed musical project, “The Unauthorized Biography Series” which celebrates the world’s greatest cultural icons through biographical rap songs - Repackaging History through Hip-Hop.
The evening includes original hip-hop biographies accompanied by video and photos of icons such as Serena Williams, Malala Yousafzai, Bob Marley, Muhammad Ali, Barack Obama, Kobe Bryant, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and more. Shaun has received praise from the families of many of the icons in his series – performing for MLK, III himself – and a feature on Forbes.com.
This family-friendly performance will take you on a journey of discovery through the lives of these important historical figures. Shaun’s magnetic speaking and 10+ years of experience working in the music industry with the likes of Snoop Dogg, Lauryn Hill, and Kendrick Lamar, the audience is sure to leave entertained and inspired.

History Tour
2024-01-24 13:30 - 14:30, 2024-01-17 13:30 - 14:30, 2024-01-10 13:30 - 14:30, 2024-01-03 13:30 - 14:30, 2023-12-27 13:30 - 14:30, 2023-12-20 13:30 - 14:30, 2023-12-13 13:30 - 14:30, 2023-12-06 13:30 - 14:30 and 2 more dates

Becky Robinson: The "She Gone" Tour
2023-12-26 18:30
She’s baaack, and “She Gone”! Becky Robinson, Entitled Housewife, and more creative characters return to the Wheeler stage.
Get your divots and your giggle quotas filled by witnessing the most action-packed, one-woman show in existence.
Originally from Portland, Oregon, Becky Robinson is an LGBTQ+ LA-based comedian, writer, actor, and voice-over star. You may also know her for the “Entitled Housewife,” the outspoken viral golf character Becky created. Becky’s explosively unique character antics and viral videos have racked up millions of views and fans across social media. In addition to touring internationally as a stand-up comedian, Becky was named a JFL Montreal New Face of Comedy where her stand-out multi-character performance landed her a sketch show development deal and many voiceover jobs with DreamWorks, Nickelodeon, and Netflix.

DanceAspen A Snowy Soiree
2023-12-23 16:00
This holiday-themed show will be approximately thirty minutes and performed on the main stage. Featuring the DanceAspen company in vibrant, festive costumes, patrons can enjoy post-show cocoa and cookies. The Wheeler lobby will be decorated for the holidays, so you can also take a moment for photo opportunities with the dancers. Come join us for an amazing afternoon and prepare to be dazzled. This is an all-ages, all are welcome performance. Families are encouraged to attend and celebrate the holidays in the beautiful, historic Wheeler Opera House.
Dance Aspen has a vision for the city of Aspen and the greater Roaring Fork Community to have a thriving resident dance company that cultivates relationships among local artists and other arts organizations through the dedication and collaboration of high caliber performing arts.
Aspen is often described as a small town with big city amenities. People come from around the world to enjoy the gamut of culture that our community offers. However, recent hardships have caused Aspen’s community of local artists to shrink, and without these artists Aspen loses a major cultural asset. Our mission at Dance Aspen is to enrich the Roaring Fork Community through locally based curations of high caliber dance. Through strengthening the local arts presence, we believe that our community will not only fully embody the cultural identity it has been known for, but grow into a uniquely inspiring place to visit and live.
Visit danceaspen.org to learn more about this exciting new dance company.

DanceAspen A Snowy Soiree 1 PM
2023-12-23 13:00
A captivating and intimate soirée awaits at the Wheeler this December. This holiday-themed dance performance will be approximately thirty minutes and performed on the main stage to a smaller audience for a truly cherished experience.
Featuring the DanceAspen company in vibrant, festive costumes, patrons can enjoy post-show cocoa and cookies. The Wheeler lobby will be decorated for the holidays, so you can also take a moment for photo opportunities with the dancers. Come join us for an amazing afternoon and prepare to be dazzled. This is an all-ages, all are welcome performance. Families are encouraged to attend and celebrate the holidays in the beautiful, historic Wheeler Opera House.

Allan Harris Sings A Nat King Cole Christmas
2023-12-17 19:30
Join us for an evening of Nat King Cole’s music celebrating the holidays, with longtime Aspen favorite Allan Harris and special guests Gloria Reuben and Jumaane Smith, and featuring Arcoiris Sandoval on piano, Marty Kenney on bass, Norman Edwards on drums, Irwin Hall on saxophone. “This powerhouse line-up will have the Wheeler jumping and celebrating!” notes Rigsby Peterson.
A New York review put it best: “The song list reads like an album from the past by only the likes of Nat King Cole, but easily ones that might have come from Dean Martin, Rosemary Clooney, or any number of the great recording artists of the past. “White Christmas,” “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” …even “Jingle Bells.” …the room wasn’t filled entirely with those who remember those singing stars, but were instead all ages and ethnicities, ready to indulge in nostalgia but with the twist of jazz that always keeps things contemporary.” – Theater Pizzazz NY

Aptly described by the Miami Herald as an artist blessed with “the warmth of Tony Bennett, the bite and rhythmic sense of Sinatra, and the sly elegance of Nat ‘King’ Cole,” Allan Harris is a Brooklyn-born, Harlem-based vocalist, guitarist, songwriter, and band leader. With an impressive discography boasting fourteen recordings as a leader, Harris has established himself as one of the jazz world’s most acclaimed vocalists, possessing a potent combination of dynamic vocal abilities, impeccable phrasing, and powerful emotional resonance.
Gloria Reuben is an actress, singer, and author whose credits span television, film, theater, and music. She was a back-up singer for Tina Turner on tour and has recorded three of her own original albums. Gloria’s acting credits on television include the hit television series ER (a role that garnered her two Emmy nominations and a Golden Globe nomination. Film credits include Steven Spielberg’s Lincoln (with Daniel Day-Lewis), Admission (with Tina Fey), and Reasonable Doubt (with Samuel L. Jackson). Her stage credits include Outstanding Lead Actress in a Play (Lucille Lortel Awards) for her portrayal of Condoleeza Rice in David Hare’s Stuff Happens at New York’s Public Theatre.
Jazz trumpeter, vocalist, and composer Jumaane Smith toured and recorded for 17 years with Michael Buble as his lead trumpeter and vocalist. He also was the featured guest soloist for Jackie Evancho’s Songs of the Silver Screen world tour. Smith has performed on 5 GRAMMY Award-winning records (selling more than 60 million copies), 2 Emmy Award-nominated TV performances, the GRAMMY Awards with Stevie Wonder, in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story (trumpet solo), at The White House, on the Today Show, Tonight Show, Oprah, Good Morning America, and American Idol. He also tours with his own band to such world-class venues as Jazz at Lincoln Center, Vail Jazz Festival, Joe’s Pub, and many more.

Mark O'Connor's "An Appalachian Christmas"
2023-12-16 19:30
Grammy-winning composer and fiddler Mark O’Connor has created several arrangements of Christmas classics and fashions a wondrous mixture of traditional and original music — instrumental and vocal– in bluegrass and other American music genres. Mark performs on four instruments: fiddle, acoustic guitar, mandolin, and mandocello, and is joined on fiddle and vocals by his wife, fellow Grammy Award winner Maggie O’Connor. Together on stage, Mark and Maggie have a dynamic energy that brings their individual expertise to holiday themes and classics in the most delightful and musically satisfying way!
“One of the most spectacular journeys in recent American music.” – The New York Times

Native Pride Productions "Inspired by Tradition. Powered by Dance."
2023-12-03 13:30
Colorful regalia, pulsating drumming, and fancy footwork are part of the excitement of a Native American powwow. Feel the excitement and experience the artistry of Native Pride Production dancers as they perform flamboyant movements passed down by their ancestors through song and dance. This special Sunday matinee performance will follow the 5th Annual Shining Mountains Film Festival on Friday, December 1, and Saturday, December 2.
“By sharing life stories through music, dance, and storytelling, we nurture meaningful communication among all people.” – Larry Yazzie
Performances by Native Pride Productions are internationally recognized, high-energy shows featuring an innovative blend of modern and traditional Native American dance styles. Performers’ regalia are adorned with vivid assortments of brightly colored ribbons, feathers, beads, and furs – all of which honor their nations’ elders and the legacy of their traditional arts. Native Pride Dancers bring contemporary, yet primal, dance to the stage as they use every muscle and breath to express a rich, cultural heritage.
Larry Yazzie is a Native American (Meskwaki/Dine) and charismatic performing artist and actor. He is the founder and artistic director of Native Pride Productions now based in Jacksonville, Florida. A two-time World Champion Fancy Dancer, Men’s Northern Traditional dancer, and Eagle Dancer, Larry grew up on the Meskwaki Settlement in Tama, Iowa where he learned the traditional ways of his ancestors. Each of these styles of Native American Dance has a unique look and tells a beautiful story through movement and music.
Larry’s notable stage performances include appearances at the Walker Art Center, Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, Cowles Center, Reif Performing Arts Center, the Olympic Games, The Kennedy Center, and the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C., and New York City.
