Colorado Summer Theatre Guide 2025

Summertime is theatre time all around Colorado

Summertime in Colorado means plenty of additional theatre options around the state. Often done in repertory (same cast doing multiple shows), the shows tend to lean into crowd-pleasing musicals and well-known dramas. Here’s a look at what’s in store for Summer 2025:

Central City Opera

Central City Opera is presenting its 2025 Festival from June 28 – August 3, featuring three productions that offer a dynamic blend of comedy, heart, and timeless music:

2025 Central City Opera Festival (June 28 – August 3):

The Barber of Seville (June 28; July 2, 4, 6, 12, 15, 19, 25, 26, 30, 31; August 3) – Gioachino Rossini’s beloved comic opera described as “fast, funny, and full of unforgettable music. Figaro-the town’s most resourceful barber-cooks up clever schemes to help true love win the day.” Giuseppe Verdi called it “the most beautiful comic opera in existence.” This opera’s madcap energy has inspired everyone from Verdi to Stephen Sondheim to Bugs Bunny. Sung in Italian with English supertitles. Runtime: 2 hours, 30 minutes with one 20-minute intermission.

The Knock (July 5, 9, 11, 13, 19, 22; August 2) – A regional premiere of this contemporary opera that “delves into the resilience and bravery of military spouses facing the unknown. Set in the American suburbs during the Iraq War, this regional premiere captures the strength required to endure the wait for a dreaded knock at the door.” Features music by Aleksandra Vrebalov and libretto by Deborah Brevoort. Opera News called it a story “told with notable care and nuance, a story not just set in America, but one that is singularly American.” Sung in English. Runtime: 65 minutes, plus post-show talkbacks at select performances.

Once Upon a Mattress (July 12, 16, 18, 20, 23, 26, 27, 29; August 1, 2) – A hilarious, heartwarming twist on the classic Princess and the Pea fairy tale. Packed with golden-age Broadway tunes, clever humor, and larger-than-life characters, “Once Upon a Mattress” offers a delightful mix of whimsy and vocal brilliance—perfect for anyone who loves music, laughter, and happily-ever-afters. Features music by Mary Rodgers and lyrics by Marshall Barer. Sung in English with English supertitles. Runtime: 2 hours, 30 minutes with one 20-minute intermission.

Additional Features:

Free Pre-Performance Talks 45 minutes prior to every performance in the Williams Stables Theatre
Opening Night Dinners for each production at the historic Teller House
Free Post-Performance talkbacks for The Knock at all matinee performances featuring mainstage talent, creative team, and members of the military community

Location: Central City Opera House, 124 Eureka St., Central City, CO 80427

Colorado Shakespeare Festival – Boulder

Colorado Shakespeare Festival at CU Boulder is presenting its 2025 season from June 7 through August 10. The season features two plays by William Shakespeare about power, betrayal and forgiveness – “The Tempest” and “Richard II,” as well as two original practices performances of Christopher Marlowe’s “Doctor Faustus.” (Mostly sold-out)

2025 Colorado Shakespeare Festival (June 7 – August 10):

The Tempest (June 7 – August 10, Roe Green Theatre) – Directed by Kevin Rich. Magic, romance and intrigue swirl on the exiled Prospera’s island when she summons a storm to take vengeance on her betrayers. As her ethereal servant Ariel thwarts the vengeful schemes of the enslaved ‘monster’ Caliban, her usurper’s son falls in love with her daughter, the innocent Miranda. Will the island sorceress choose vengeance and power, or forgiveness and love? An intoxicating mélange of comedy, tragedy and fantasy from the pinnacle of Shakespeare’s creative genius.

Richard II (July 5 – August 10, Roe Green Theatre) – Directed by Tim Orr. When corrupt, despotic King Richard II ventures off to wage war, the banished Bolingbroke invades to reclaim his stolen inheritance. Embraced by an angry populace and co-opted by self-righteous, greedy nobles, he takes the throne and sets the stage for 32 years of civil war. The first chapter of Shakespeare’s four-part “game of thrones” examines issues critical to contemporary politics, from the embrace of autocracy, the power of wealth, and whether a nation divided can stand.

Doctor Faustus (July 27 at 1:30 and 7 p.m., Roe Green Theatre) – By Christopher Marlowe, Actor-managed by Shunté Lofton. Original Practices Event. Shakespeare contemporary Marlowe’s enduring dramatization of German legend explores the pursuit of knowledge and power at any cost and moral compromise. The ambitious scholar summons the demon Mephistophilis, striking a deal to surrender his soul for power. After decades of fantastical feats together, the demon ignores Faustus’ regrets and delivers him to Hell.

Special Features:

“Double-header Sundays,” when patrons can see two different shows in the same theatre on the same day
All performances will be held indoors at the newly refurbished Roe Green Theatre due to ongoing renovations of the Hellems Building, which houses the Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre
After the renovation is complete, CSF anticipates returning to the Mary Rippon Theatre in 2026 for a full season celebrating the venue’s stunning transformation

Tickets and Accessibility: Tickets for the Colorado Shakespeare Festival range from $22 to $90, with discounts available for students, seniors, CU affiliates, and military members. Preview nights offer additional savings. The Roe Green Theatre is fully accessible, featuring elevator access, wheelchair seating, and Braille signage to ensure an inclusive experience for all attendees.

Since 1958, the festival has celebrated and explored Shakespeare and his continuing influence and vitality through productions of superior artistic quality, education and community engagement. The festival is a professional theatre company in association with the University of Colorado Boulder.

Creede Repertory Theatre – Creede

Creede Repertory Theatre is presenting its 2025 summer season with six productions:

Xanadu (May 24 – September 7) – A musical comedy about Kira, a Greek muse who comes to 1980 Venice Beach to inspire artist Sonny to create the first roller disco. Based on the film starring Olivia Newton-John and Gene Kelly, this roller skating musical adventure is about following disco pop dreams.

The 39 Steps (May 31 – September 20) – A fast-paced thriller combining Hitchcock suspense with Monty Python humor. Four actors portray 150 characters in this story of Richard Hannay, whose dull life transforms when a mysterious woman pulls him into a world of murder and mayhem.

The Fantasticks (June 21 – September 14) – The classic musical fable about young love, returning for CRT’s 60th season. This timeless story features beloved songs like “Try to Remember” and “Soon It’s Gonna Rain,” following a boy, girl, their parents, and a love that grows through the seasons.

Silent Sky (June 28 – September 6) – A drama based on the true story of 19th-century astronomer Henrietta Leavitt, whose discoveries at Harvard Observatory changed our understanding of the universe. The play explores her struggle between family obligations and scientific ambition.

60th Anniversary Celebration (July 18, one night only) – A special evening celebrating the theater’s first 60 years with favorite artists and memorable moments.

The Tempest (July 25-27) – Shakespeare’s final comedy, reimagined by student performers, following Duchess Prospero and daughter Miranda on their mysterious island adventure filled with magic, love, and redemption.

The season also includes the Headwaters New Play Festival Aug. 29-31, improv comedy with Boomtown on Sunday nights and a Young Audience Outreach Tour.

Little Theatre of the Rockies – Greeley

Little Theatre of the Rockies at the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley is presenting three productions in 2025:

2025 Productions:

[title of show] (June 5-8 & June 12-15, Norton Theatre) – A musical about Jeff and Hunter, two self-confessed nobodies in New York who make a pact to write an original musical and submit it to a festival. The only catch? The deadline is in three weeks! In this intelligent, playful, lovable musical, the audience is treated to an inside look at the tough work of being a creative artist. Frequently hilarious, occasionally heartbreaking, and thoroughly inspiring, [title of show] is a love story celebrating individuality and creativity.

Dear Jack, Dear Louise (July 3, 5-6 & July 10-13, Norton Theatre) – A dramatic comedy that tells the story of when two strangers meet by letter during World War II. U.S. Army Captain Jack Ludwig, a military doctor stationed in Oregon, begins writing to Louise Rabiner, an aspiring actress and dancer in New York City, hoping to meet her someday if the war will allow. But as the war continues, it threatens to end their relationship before it even starts. Two-time Olivier Award-winning playwright Ken Ludwig tells the joyous, heart-warming story of his parents’ courtship during World War II.

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (July 24-27, Langworthy Theatre) – A musical featuring a group of six mid-pubescents who compete in the title championship, spelling their way through vexing vocabulary while sharing hilarious and poignant personal stories. A riotous ride, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is a fast-paced and funny D-E-L-I-G-H-T.

Little Theatre of the Rockies is part of the University of Northern Colorado’s School of Theatre Arts & Dance in Greeley, Colorado.

Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre – Grand Lake

Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre is located in Grand Lake, Colorado, and is entering its 42nd year and produces three Broadway musicals in true repertory nightly in the summer months and one musical weekends in September.

2025 Season Shows:

Disney’s Frozen: The Broadway Musical (Opens June 6, 2025) – Step into the world of Arendelle with Elsa, Anna, and Olaf in this heartwarming tale of sisterly love and magical adventures. Features music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez.

Guys and Dolls (Opens June 20, 2025) – The classic musical comedy set in 1950s New York City, based on stories by Damon Runyon with music and lyrics by Frank Loesser.

Footloose (Opens July 5, 2025) – The high-energy musical based on the hit 1984 movie, featuring music by Tom Snow and lyrics by Dean Pitchford.

Nunsense – A laugh-out-loud heavenly comedy musical conceived by Dan Goggin.

Additional Information:

Ticket prices range from $25-$55
The theater also offers Youth Theatre programs in Summer 2025
Special ballet and symphony events are planned in collaboration with the Grand Lake Creative District
Over 1,200 company members audition for RMRT each year

The theater is located at 800 Grand Avenue in Grand Lake, at the western entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, and operates in a modern theater complex that opened in 2011.

Theatre Aspen

Theatre Aspen is presenting three productions plus a Summer Cabaret Series:

Driving Miss Daisy (June 12 – June 28, Opening Night June 18) – This Pulitzer Prize and Academy Award-winning drama tells the heartwarming story of an unlikely friendship between Miss Daisy Werthan, a fiercely independent Jewish widow, and Hoke Colburn, her patient and dignified Black chauffeur. Set in the Deep South from 1948 through 25 years of social change, the play explores themes of friendship, understanding, and human connection that transcend race, class, and time. The cast features Judy Kaye as Daisy Werthan, Bernard Dotson as Hoke Coleburn, and Jim Poulos as Boolie Werthan.

Mamma Mia! (July 5 – August 2, Opening Night July 8) – The 5-time Tony Award-nominated musical featuring the music and lyrics of ABBA’s Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, with book by Catherine Johnson. This beloved musical has a runtime of 2 hours and 35 minutes including a 15-minute intermission. The cast includes Erin Davie as Donna Sheridan, Nevada Riley as Sophie Sheridan, Kyli Rae as Tanya, Benjamin Eakeley as Sam Carmichael, John Gardiner as Harry Bright, Josh Adamson as Bill Austin, and Mia Scarpa as Rosie, among others. Note that the July 16th performance is already sold out.

Million Dollar Quartet (August 8 – 23, Opening Night August 11) – This musical celebrates the legendary recording session that brought together Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins at Sun Records on December 4, 1956. With a runtime of 2 hours and 35 minutes including intermission, the show features Brady Wease as Jerry Lee Lewis, Joe Boover as Elvis Presley, Andrew Frace as Johnny Cash, Sam C Jones as Carl Perkins, and Chance Michael Wall as Sam Phillips.

2025 Summer Cabaret Series – Three intimate cabaret performances featuring 60-minute shows following dinner or brunch service:

Academy Award Winners – A Hollywood tribute featuring songs from Oscar-winning movies including Barbie, Rocketman, and A Star is Born. Directed by Michael Callahan with Music Director Alan J. Plado.
Super Bowl Halftime Hits – A mid-summer celebration featuring music from iconic halftime performances by Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, Rihanna, The Weeknd, and more. Directed by Melissa Rain Anderson with Music Director Luke Molloy.
The Beatles Tribute – A late-summer celebration of The Beatles’ greatest hits, featuring songs from their legendary catalog. Directed by Stephen Christopher Anthony with Music Director Phil Reno.

The cabaret series features an ensemble cast including Nick Gundrum, Sofia Macaluso, Grace Mauldin, Avery Ramsey, Campy Rodriguez, Emily Rubino, Justus Wheatley, and Matthew Williamson. Tickets are $240 for dinner shows (3-course meal) and $145 for brunch shows (2-course meal with mimosa).

Theatre SilCo – Silverthorne

Theatre SilCo is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2025. Following a theme of “when gatherings go awry,” this season features five Mainstage productions:

2025 Mainstage Series (30th Anniversary Season):

Steel Magnolias (June 20 – July 13) – People from all over gather at Truvy’s Salon: THE place for a beauty fix with a hearty side of gossip. Join this group of six women as they march through life with witty banter and wisecracks, they lean on one another for support through life’s tragedies and triumphs.

What the Constitution Means To Me (July 11 – August 3) – After being lost in traffic by voting debate competitions across the country, Heidi reflects upon her younger self in order to trace the relationship between four generations of women and the founding document that shaped their lives. Nominated for two Tony Awards and a Pulitzer Prize, Schreck’s explores our Constitution and uncovers how it will serve the next generation of Americans.

Escape to Margaritaville (August 8 – August 31) – Welcome to Margaritaville, the island paradise where city folk gather to get away from it all and stay to find something they never expected! This energetic new musical centers around part-time bartender, part-time singer, and full-time charmer named Tully, who thinks he’s got life all figured out. Life’s a beach indeed when the heart and music hits question everything.

Additional Programming:

New Dialogues – Theatre SilCo is pleased to bring you New Dialogues, an exciting playwriting initiative that puts imagination under pressure while bringing fresh perspectives to the stage. Created to provide playwrights with an opportunity that both challenges and cultivates their writing skills, New Dialogues invites four playwrights to compose a ten minute play in response to a Theatre SilCo Mainstage production. (Free admission through June 30)
Pour Decisions: A Night of Improv & Wine (July 13 and Aug. 4) – Get ready for an evening of comedy and cabernet! Reply All, Summit County’s favorite improv troupe, is teaming up with Vine Street Social in Frisco for a night of side-splitting humor, and sensational sips. Drop your friends, loosen up with a glass (or two), and join us for an evening of “Pour Decisions.” ($35)
The Lounge Series – Featuring 5 unique live concert experiences
Interactive Trivia Nights
Educational programs including the free VIVO Youth Program

Ticket Information: Flex Passes offer discounted season subscriptions available in packs of 5 or 10 tickets. The theater offers a “30 Below” program – a free membership program designed exclusively for theatre lovers aged 19 to 30 – and a “Boundless Membership” featuring unlimited tickets per member to productions throughout the entire 2025 season, priority seating, and exclusive additional perks.

Theatre SilCo is located at 460 Blue River Parkway in Silverthorne, within the Silverthorne Performing Arts Center.

Thingamajig Theatre – Pagosa Springs

The Pagosa Springs Center for the Arts hosts Thingamajig Theatre’s 2025 summer season, featuring three Broadway musicals running from May 30 through August 30:

Something Rotten! (May 30-August 30) – A Tony-nominated musical comedy about two playwright brothers in Elizabethan England competing with Shakespeare. Known for clever wordplay, historical references, and satirical humor, it includes a famous song with references to over 20 Broadway shows.

The Wild Party (June 13-August 24) – Based on a 1920s narrative poem, this steamy musical follows vaudeville performers Queenie and Burrs who throw an extravagant Gatsby-style party. It was nominated for seven Tonys including Best Musical.

A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder (June 27-August 29) – A murderous musical comedy about a low-born Englishman who plots to eliminate eight heirs standing between him and an earldom. This show won four Tonys in 2014, including Best Musical.

Season tickets are $120 per person (general) or $210 for reserved seats, allowing one viewing of each show. The theater also mentions a special burlesque event in early May and opportunities to become a “Friend of the Theatre.”