Wheeler Opera House Announces First Wave of 2026 Programming
Comedy, Music, Family Entertainment and More!

The Wheeler Opera House is thrilled to announce the first wave of the 2026 Wheeler Presents season, a dynamic lineup of music, comedy, family entertainment, documentary film, and thought-provoking performances. Music lovers can look forward to Grammy-winning artist Don Was and The Pan-Detroit Ensemble with a 50^th Anniversary tribute to the Grateful Dead’s Blues for Allah album, the globe-spanning artistry of International Guitar Night, and the powerhouse Devon Allman’s Blues Summit. Comedy takes center stage with Modi, Netflix star Michelle Buteau, and the hilarious campy hits Gwyneth Goes Skiing and Diana: the Untold and Untrue Story. Family audiences will be dazzled by The Peking Acrobats, charmed by Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical, and immersed in the interactive world of BUGS, a multimedia show by Kaki King. The 2026 season also features more Changemaker Speaker Series lectures, spotlighting adventurers and innovators, and multiple installments of Mountainfilm on Tour, bringing award-winning documentaries from Telluride to Aspen.

Tickets are on sale now for Wheeler Insiders, and Thursday, October 2 at 12 PM to the public. Tickets can be purchased online at aspenshowtix.com, by phone at 970.920.5770 or in person at the box office, 320 E. Hyman Ave., Aspen, CO, Tuesday through Saturday, 12–5 PM.

2026 Wheeler Presents:

Sam Grisman Project | Friday, January 9 at 7 PM
Led by bassist and bandleader Sam Grisman, this acoustic collective pays joyful tribute to the legacy of David Grisman and the great American acoustic music Sam grew up around. Featuring a rotating cast of top-tier instrumentalists and frequent collaborations with legends like Peter Rowan, the band creates a reverent, communal experience at every show. As Relix Magazine writes, it’s “one of the most joyful and reverent tributes to the Grateful Dawg legacy you’ll ever witness.” Co-presented by Wheeler Associates & Wheeler Opera House

Gwyneth Goes Skiing | Wednesday, January 14 & Friday, January 16 at 7:30 PM
After sold-out runs in London, Edinburgh, New York, Park City, and LA, this high-camp courtroom drama lands in Aspen for a limited engagement. This play with music recounts the now-infamous collision in 2016 on the slopes of Deer Valley and the court case seven years later that enthralled the world.  Gwyneth Goes Skiing lampoons the story and weaves a very silly story of justice, betrayal and optometry that makes the audience the jury.

Diana: The Untold & Untrue Story | Thursday, January 15 & Saturday, January 17 at 7:30 PM
Winner of multiple awards and a sell-out hit at the Edinburgh Fringe, this drag-fueled retelling of Princess Diana’s life is as irreverent as it is imaginative. Featuring multimedia cameos from Broadway and West End stars, puppetry, and audience interaction, the show invites audiences to join Diana in heaven for a story that’s “untold and untrue.” A celebration of theatrical absurdity and queer joy.

Mountainfilm on Tour: Adventure Playlist | Thursday, January 22 at 6:30 PM
Curated from Telluride’s Mountainfilm Festival, this program celebrates the spirit of exploration through stories of daring athletes and cultural trailblazers. Highlights include Robin Goomes at Red Bull Rampage, Zeb Powell’s push for diversity in snowboarding, and Bobby Brown’s feats in the San Juan Mountains. A cinematic tribute to resilience, representation, and the thrill of outdoor adventure.

Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical | Sunday January 25 at 4 PM
Based on Mo Willems’ #1 New York Times best-selling book, this musical brings the Pigeon’s antics to life with humor, feathers, and toe-tapping songs. Created by TheaterWorksUSA and commissioned by the Kennedy Center, the show features music by Deborah Wicks La Puma and direction by Jen Wineman. Recommended for ages 4–7 plus their adult companions, this show is a playful and engaging family experience.

Changemaker Speaker Series | Bryan Smith: Capturing the Impossible | Tuesday, January 27 at 6:30 PM
National Geographic filmmaker Bryan Smith shares his journey from amateur adventurer to award-winning documentarian. With stories from expeditions in Russia, India, and British Columbia, Smith explores the creative risks that lead to unforgettable films. His work has been featured on The Man Who Can Fly and across National Geographic platforms.

Welcome to Night Vale: Murder in Blood Forest | Wednesday, January 28 at 7:30 PM
The creators of the cult podcast return with a brand-new live show starring Cecil Baldwin, Symphony Sanders, and surprise guests. Set during the annual Murder Night celebration, the performance blends mystery, surreal humor, and live music by Disparition. A standalone theatrical experience for fans and newcomers alike.

Don Was & & The Detroit Pan Ensemble: Blues for Allah 50^th Anniversary Tour                           | Friday, January 30 at 7:30 PM
Six-time Grammy winner Don Was leads a powerhouse ensemble of Detroit jazz musicians in a tribute to the Grateful Dead’s Blues for Allah. Featuring Dave McMurray, Luis Resto, and other Detroit legends, the concert blends groove, soul, and improvisation. Was, President of Blue Note Records, brings decades of musical legacy to the Wheeler stage.

Mountainfilm on Tour: Indomitable Spirit | Thursday, February 4 at 6:30 PM
This inspiring program highlights stories of resilience, activism, and transformation. From a beloved driving instructor in New York to an immigrant baker in Colombia, the films highlight individuals who rise above adversity with courage and creativity. Themes include nature, identity, and the healing power of community.

The Peking Acrobats | Thursday, February 5 at 6:30 PM
Celebrating their 35th North American Tour, The Peking Acrobats® return with a dazzling display of athleticism and artistry. Called “astounding… and AMAZING!” by Variety and “breathtaking” by The New York Times, the show features gravity-defying stunts, contortionists, and the iconic Bicycle Pagoda. A family-friendly spectacle of tradition and innovation

Meshell Ndegeocello: No More Water: The Gospel of James Baldwin | Wednesday, February 11 at 7:30 PM
In honor of James Baldwin’s centennial, Grammy-winning artist Meshell Ndegeocello presents No More Water, a bold musical meditation on Baldwin’s enduring legacy. A towering figure in American literature and civil rights, Baldwin’s work continues to challenge and illuminate issues of race, identity, and justice. Blending spoken word, gospel, and experimental sound, Ndegeocello channels Baldwin’s voice in a performance that is both timely and transcendent. Co-presented by Wheeler Associates & Wheeler Opera House

Modi | Thursday, February 12 at 7 PM
Voted one of the “Top 10 Comedians in New York City” by The Hollywood Reporter, Modi brings his sharp wit and cultural insight to Aspen. Known for his “Moshiach Energy,” Modi’s act unites audiences through laughter and spontaneous interaction. He is a favorite on HBO, Comedy Central, and sold-out stages worldwide.

DanceAspen Re: imagine | Saturday February 21 at 7:30 PM & Sunday February 22 at 3 PM
DanceAspen presents world premieres by American choreographers whose careers abroad have shaped bold new visions for contemporary ballet. Works by Houston Thomas, Shane Urton, and Emilie Leriche explore themes of transformation, rhythm, and poetic movement. A showcase of innovation and expressive power.

Changemaker Speaker Series | Gerlinde Kaltenbrunner: Defying Limits: Climbing the 14 Highest Peaks | Tuesday, February 24 at 6:30 PM
Renowned mountaineer Gerlinde Kaltenbrunner shares her journey to summit all 8,000-meter peaks without supplemental oxygen. From her early climbs in Austria to the summit of K2, Kaltenbrunner’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and redefining limits. Presented in association with Aspen Center for Environmental Studies. Presented in association with Aspen Center for Environmental Studies

Michelle Buteau | Thursday, February 26 at 7 PM
Star of Netflix’s Survival of the Thickest, Michelle Buteau brings her bold, hilarious stand-up to Aspen. Her special A BUTEAU-FUL MIND was taped live at Radio City Music Hall, making her the first woman to do so. Buteau’s comedy explores identity, motherhood, and modern life with unapologetic charm.

International Guitar Night XXVI | Friday, February 27 at 7:30 PM
This year’s IGN lineup features Stephanie Jones (Australia), Lucas Imbiriba (Brazil), Alexandr Misko (Russia), and ukulele master Taimane (Hawaii). Each artist brings a distinct style—from classical and flamenco to fingerstyle and island rhythms. A global celebration of guitar artistry.

Devon Allman’s Blues Summit | Saturday, February 28 at 7:30 PM
Led by Devon Allman, son of Gregg Allman, this summit features blues legends Larry McCray, Jimmy Hall, and Sierra Green. McCray’s emotive guitar work and Green’s powerhouse vocals bring soul and history to the stage. A night of electrifying blues and Southern rock legacy.

BUGS | Saturday, March 7 at 4 PM
Created by Kaki King and GLITCH, BUGS is a multimedia show for young audiences that blends guitar projection mapping, drum-triggered effects, and playful storytelling. Featuring insect sounds, candy-colored visuals, and interactive moments, the show invites kids to shout, dance, and explore alongside the performers. Commissioned by La Jolla Music Society and Harris Theater, BUGS is a sensory-rich experience for children and the young at heart.

An Evening with Kaki King | Saturday, March 7 at 8 PM
Dubbed by Rolling Stone as “a genre unto herself,” Kaki King brings her innovative guitar work and multimedia artistry to the Wheeler stage. Her recent album SEI combines choreography and composition, pushing the boundaries of instrumental performance. With global tours and collaborations from Dave Grohl to TED Talks, King continues to redefine what a solo concert can be.

Aspen Laugh Festival | March 10-15 | Save the Dates! Lineup TBA

Women of Americana A Celebration of American Music: From Bob Dylan to Bonnie Raitt | Wednesday, March 18 at 7 PM
This concert brings together acclaimed vocalists Cristina Vane and Brennen Leigh to interpret iconic songs from Bob Dylan, Bonnie Raitt, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, and more. Produced by Eli Wolf, whose credits include Norah Jones and Al Green, the show explores the roots and evolution of Americana through a female lens. Coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the United States, it is a timely celebration of musical heritage.

Yesterday-The Beatles Tribute | Friday, March 20 at 7:30 PM
Endorsed by Sir Paul McCartney himself, Yesterday recreates the magic of The Beatles with vintage instruments, authentic harmonies, and meticulous attention to detail. The internationally acclaimed tribute band has performed on NBC, CBS, ABC, and aboard Royal Caribbean’s Beatles Tribute Cruise. It is more than a concert—it’s a time capsule of rock history.

Changemaker Speaker Series | Jean Fruth: Inside America’s Favorite Pastime | March 24 at 6:30 PM
Renowned sports photographer Jean Fruth shares her journey from Little League sidelines to documenting baseball’s global grassroots. Co-founder of the nonprofit Grassroots Baseball, Fruth’s work celebrates the transformative power of the sport and its impact on youth development. Her book Where Legends Begin features an introduction by Cal Ripken Jr. and an afterword by Johnny Bench.

The Naked Magicians | Wednesday, March 25 at 7 PM
Direct from sold-out seasons in Las Vegas and London’s West End, The Naked Magicians deliver jaw-dropping illusions and laugh-out-loud comedy—with nothing but a top hat and a smile. Seen by over fifty million viewers on NBC, ABC, and America’s Got Talent, this cheeky duo strips away the stereotypes (and their clothes) in a bold, adults-only show. “Good magicians don’t need sleeves. Great magicians don’t need pants.”

Note: This performance contains male nudity, sexual references, and coarse language. This show is for ages 18+ only.

Mountainfilm on Tour: The Medley | Thursday, March 26 at 6:30 PM
This curated selection of short documentaries celebrates adventure, legacy, and personal expression. From splitboarding in the San Juan backcountry to surf photography inspired by family memory, the films highlight creativity, mentorship, and the joy of outdoor sports. A dynamic mix of stories that reflect the diversity of human experience.

Mountainfilm on Tour: Big Green World | Thursday, April 16 at 6:30 PM
This program explores resilience, nature, and environmental stewardship through powerful storytelling. Highlights include Let My People Go Skiing, which weaves Indigenous knowledge with snowsports, and Earthworks, which draws parallels between ceramics and rock climbing. A vibrant collection of films that celebrate growth, identity, and adventure.

Los Lonely Boys| Friday, April 17 at 7:30 PM
Grammy-winning trio Los Lonely Boys—brothers Henry, Jojo, and Ringo Garza—bring their signature “Texican rock & roll” back to the stage with renewed energy and soul. Their breakout hit “Heaven” spent 76 weeks on the Billboard Top 200 and earned them a Grammy, launching a career that has included collaborations with Willie Nelson and Carlos Santana, and even opening for The Who. Their latest album Resurrection (BMG) blends blues, roots, and rock, earning critical acclaim and reaffirming their place as a vital force in American music.

“Infinitely Yours” and other works by Miwa Matreyek | Tuesday, April 21 at 6:30 PM
Internationally acclaimed artist Miwa Matreyek blends cinematic animation with live shadow performance in a dreamlike exploration of climate, identity, and imagination. Her work has captivated audiences at TED, MoMA, and Sundance, and now comes to Aspen for a one-night-only event. Featuring Infinitely Yours, Myth & Infrastructure, and This World Made Itself, the evening is a visual and emotional journey.

Flying Karamazov Brothers | Thursday, April 23 at 6 PM
The Wheeler Opera House marks its anniversary with a night of high-flying fun and theatrical flair, honoring its opening day in April 1889. The Flying Karamazov Brothers bring over five decades of inventive performance to the stage, blending juggling, comedy, and clever chaos in a show The New York Times calls “100 minutes of cleverness and comedy.” With a rotating cast of masterful performers, this family-friendly favorite promises laughs, surprises, and a whole lot of skill.

Luca Stricagnoli with special guest Meg Pfeiffer| Friday, April 24 at 7 PM
With over 100 million views online, Luca Stricagnoli is one of the world’s most innovative acoustic guitarists, known for his custom triple-neck guitar and genre-blending performances. Joining him is award-winning singer-songwriter Meg Pfeiffer, whose soulful vocals and international success—including seven albums and millions of streams—add depth to their dynamic show. Together, they deliver an unforgettable evening of music, storytelling, and surprises.