Aspen Nightlife - The Wheeler Opera House

The Wheeler Opera House has been anintegralMany events, such as lectures, concerts,
part of Aspen nightlife, history, andculture sinceplays,films, and musicals are held at The Wheeler
1889 when Mr. J.B Wheeler andthe ConriedOpera House today. You can see
Company presented The King'sBroadwayshows, jazz concerts, country and
Fool. While the building started out as anrockconcerts, and even children's theater here.
Opera House, it was only used for townmeetingsAny type of cultural event you can imagineis held
and such by 1893, when the silvermines hadhere - and shows are scheduledthroughout the
played out.year. Locals consider the
The Wheeler Opera House remained open untilWheeler Opera House the 'crown jewel of Aspen.
1912 when it was gutted by not one, but twofires' Nationwide, it is considered a world class theater
in one week! The Opera House did notopen again- and with the detailed woodwork it is certainly
until June of 1946 when it wasleased by theasight to behold!
Aspen Company. The totalrestoration went onThe Opera House is still in its original locationon
until 1960. Between theyears of 1912 and 1946Hyman Avenue, in the heart of downtown
the Wheeler OperaAspen. You can call to find out what events
House remained empty, and it was used asaareplanned, and to purchase tickets.
playground by the local children.Rememberthat this is a popular place, and shows
During the 1960's and 1970's, The Wheelerdo sellout quickly - so purchase your tickets as
Opera House was mainly used as a movietheater.earlyas possible. You should also be aware
However, in 1979, the city decided torestore thethatchildren under the age of three years old
Opera House to its originalgrandeur, and thisarenot permitted for live performances, unless
restoration was completedin 1984. The cost wastheperformance is for children specifically.
4.5 million dollars.Cameras and recording devices are notpermitted
Today, the Wheeler Opera House is on thefor performances.
National Registrar of Historical Places.