At 130-years-old, the Historic Elitch Theatre is Denver’s oldest cultural venue. It was home to the oldest summer stock theatre in America and in 1896 hosted Colorado’s first moving picture — Edison’s Vitascope. History buffs and theatre lovers alike can take a tour of the theatre throughout the summer and learn about the famous names that have trod the stage of this American playhouse.
Source: Historic Elitch Theatre
First Friday tours last about an hour and you have a choice of times, either 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on June 2, July 7, August 4 and September 1. Cost is $15 per person.
Originally the centerpiece of the Elitch’s Zoological Gardens, as the amusement park grew around it, the citizens of Denver and thousands of visitors flocked to see the likes of Grace Kelly, Douglas Fairbanks, Raymond Burr, Robert Redford, Debbie Reynolds, and countless others perform on the historic stage.
When the amusement park moved to downtown Denver, the theatre was left standing, but abandoned. Today the Historic Elitch Theatre foundation continues the work to restore the theatre.
Purchase tickets online in advance.
4550 W. 38th Ave., Denver.
We had attended Elitch Gardens and amusement park several times a year since 1971. I am anxious to do this tour. I I remember many variety shows while we were at Elitch Gardens.