Aspen-Theatre/Music/Art Galleries

Aspen is much more than just skiing in winter time. There are lots of things to do all year long. In this series of articles we will get to know Aspen as more than just the hang out for the rich and famous. We will appreciate the area for the great place it really is, theatre in the park, music in the mountains and all the art galleries.

Theatre in the Park

Founded in 1983 by Kent Reed, Theatre in the Park has become an Aspen tradition that adds to the delight of Aspen nightlife. Theatre in the Park once actually was theatre that was performed in a tent in the park. Now, however, Theatre in the Park has changed its name to Theatre Aspen, and a new permanent structure is in development. This will allow Theatre in the Park to hold year-round performances, instead of summer-only performances.

Contemporary and classical plays are all presented by the theatre. If you are in Aspen around Christmas time, make sure that you see the theatre’s presentation of “Its A Wonderful Life.” As a summer- only venue, sixty shows are performed each year. Once the company has its permanent structure, we can expect many more each year.

The Theatre Aspen also has many training programs for adults and children. Currently, performances are held between June and August. The Theatre in the Park is located in the Rio Grande Park. Heat is provided on chilly nights, and there is an area to enjoy cocktails during intermissions, as well as before and after performances.

Music in the Mountains

There is always something of interest going on in Aspen, and September is no different. During the month of September, every year, JAS comes to Snowmass. JAS, or Jazz Aspen Snowmass, began in 1991 to honor the art of Jazz in the Roaring Fork Valley. It has now become a music attraction that lasts all summer long, with the biggest celebration coinciding with Labor Day weekend.

While this is a Jazz celebration, for all intents and purposes, all types of music are celebrated, including reggae and rock-n-roll. Famous musicians and singers from around the world attend the four day Music in the Mountains celebration.

All events take place in the breathtaking Snowmass Town Park, located on Brush Creek Road in Snowmass. Snowmass Village is one of the most beautiful places in the United States, and this festival is extremely popular. It is vital that you purchase your tickets well in advance, and arrange lodging well in advance also. Snowmass advises that if you do not have a ticket, to not show up for the festival – it will be sold out.

Art Galleries

Aspen is famous for more than skiing. There are currently more than thirty art galleries in and around the Aspen area, where art created by famous artists around the world resides. Visiting the art galleries in Aspen is a must, and no Aspen vacation will be complete without this taste of culture.

Most of the art galleries are within walking distance of each other, arranged in a three by four block area. This area is located between Spring Street and Monarch Street, and Hopkins Avenue and Durant Street.

You will find everything from vintage poster art at the Omnibus Gallery to Impressionism art at the Galerie Du Bois. Visit the Highline Gallery for glass art and the Pam Driscol Gallery for bronze sculpture art. Contemporary collections can be found at the Baldwin Gallery.

While some galleries are open after hours, many close around 5pm. It is important to find out the operating hours of the galleries that you want to visit ahead of time. Many shows and events are planned at the galleries for the evening hours as well.