HONORING OUR ELDERS The first theatre to be renovated was the Dorota & Kevin Kilstrom Theatre (200 seats), which began in March 2016 and was completed September 2017. After being entirely gutted, it was rebuilt in its original pentagonal configuration with two seating levels and increased main-floor seating. Renovation of the former Stage Theatre, Ricketson Theatre, Bonfils lobby and backstage areas was announced in June 2018. Despite the mandatory closure of public venues due to COVID-19, construction continued, ensuring that the theatres were ready when performance could resume. The Wolf Theatre (689 seats) was dismantled to the ground. Its former wooden undergirding was replaced with fire-retardant steel beams, platforms and a sprinkler system. The stage and seating area were rebuilt with new seats, increased wheelchair seating, and an acoustic paneled back wall. Despite being the largest theatre in the Bonfils Complex, the Wolf retains its intimate seating area with just 13 rows. Alterations to the Singleton Theatre (199 seats) include increased backstage space for props and set pieces and an improved trap space beneath the stage. The adjacent lobby features a repositioned bar and new restroom location to improve patron flow. One of the most significant transformations is the central lobby. Instead of entering the Singleton Theatre from a separate entrance, all patrons will enter a unified lobby. “We have added five elevators to the building,” said Gifford. “Three are public facing and two allow performers and technicians to get to stage level in the Wolf and Singleton theatres.” When miners first settled in Colorado, Denver boasted 13 legitimate theatres before it had a hospital or school, illustrating a long and deep commitment to the arts. Now, in 2021, the “crown jewel” of downtown Denver sparkles anew, thanks again to our community — the voters, Trustees, individuals, businesses, foundations and employees who voluntarily gave of themselves to ensure the future of the DCPA.
Help the DCPA close the gap! Naming opportunities and seats are available. Visit denvercenter.org/granderopening.
We invite our audiences to join the DCPA as we honor our Elders for the care of the land on which we perform with an official land acknowledgement. These words are shared at company meetings, first rehearsals, public forums and in the pages of Applause to recognize and respect Indigenous Peoples, their traditional territories and the care they have shown to all who reside here. The Denver Center for the Performing Arts honors and acknowledges that it resides on the traditional and unceded territories of the Ute, Cheyenne, and Arapaho Peoples. We also recognize the 48 contemporary Indigenous Tribes and Nations who have historically called Colorado home. We pay our respects to Elders past, present, and future, and to all those who have stewarded the land and water for generations. May this acknowledgment express the DCPA’s commitment to grow and deepen its relationships with the vibrant Indigenous communities who continue to thrive and uphold their sacred relation to this land. Learn more about land acknowledgements.
