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 Entertainment
The Boulder scene
by Dave Kirby
Back in the early ‘80s, an audience-noise exasperated Keith Jarrett leapt to his feet in the middle of a tortured solo performance at Macky Auditorium, sarcastically exhorting the onlookers to “all cough at once” and then launched his doomsday weapon at a shocked and suddenly discomforted audience.“They told me I should play here because it was the ‘center’ of something,” he intoned icily. “Well, I’m here, and I don’t think it’s the ‘center’ of anything.”
Sffft, like an arrow, Jarrett’s remarks quivered at the soft underbelly of what a lot of people have regarded as modern Boulder’s insular and marginally narcissistic arts self-image. Having a lot of art galleries doesn’t make Boulder a sculpture mecca; platoons of Mall buskers don’t make us Greenwich Village. Blah blah blah.
Fair enough, but the fact remains that Boulder’s self-imposed isolation from the noisy complaints of the Real World imbues a certain defiant pride amongst its artisans and determined patrons alike. To some, the galleries may indeed represent indulgent commerce, but they also represent spectacularly varied contributions from around the world (which is a very large place outside city limits), including a fantastic spread of Western painting and handcrafts at ArtMart. The live music venues range from sticky-floored post-college nightclubs to hushed folk stages to art-deco theaters to restaurant nooks hosting live blues bouncing off plates of carefully seasoned seafood.
Boulder film buffs have their own fiercely independent film festival, staged yearly by the producers of the immortal Grandpa’s in the Tuff Shed, which could not have been shot by anybody else, anywhere else.
The University continues to inject young talent into the community, all whom get their chance to grab the city’s imagination; a small stage but maybe the best small stage in America.
And it goes all the way back to the Chautauqua movement and that rambling auditorium up near Bluebell Preserve, and the days when John Philip Sousa brought his band to rumble through patriotic marches, or William Jennings Bryan came to nag us about toxic, nation-endangering moral deficiency.
Chautauqua’s charge was to bring culture to the frontier. Did it succeed? Many years after most Chautauqua organizations have folded, ours is still up there, beaming proudly down on the community in the valley below like a kindly matriarch. The ghosts up there are real and restless. They don’t need to look for parking on a warm July evening, but they remind us of earlier days, and we’re glad for their presence.
If it all sounds hopelessly provincial, it isn’t. Boulder embraces its art and its artistic diversity without a pronounced desire to be San Francisco or New York or Milan, or even Taos. We borrow from without carefully and selectively, filtering a world view that doesn’t really pretend to be cosmopolitan, but speaks to an intellectually curious (and decidedly more affluent) population than most cities its size in the hemisphere. It isn’t perfect, nor complete, but it’s ours and we’re not giving it up, and it’s always better, broader and more vibrant than we realize.
And running through the minds of those in audience who chose not to walk out on the irascible Mr. Jarrett 20-odd years ago was probably one thought.
“Hey, we’re here, you’re here. Maybe we’re both here for the same reason. How about we just get on with it?”
And after a timeout and a deep breath of mountain air… he did.
MUSIC/ENTERTAINMENT VENUES
Albums on the Hill
1128 13th St. / 303-447-0159
www.albumsonthehill.com
Albums is one of those local gems that has been a venue for independent artists of all kinds for many years. Their intimate stage hosts a variety of musicians and comedians, and the owner regularly displays local artists on his walls.
Bàcaro Venetian Taverna
921 Pearl St. / 303-444-4888
www.bacaro.com
Like the taverns of Italy, Bàcaro offers delicious small plates, daily homemade pasta and fine wine. In the summertime, this West Pearl Street establishment is home to live music on their rooftop deck.
Boulder Outlook Hotel & Suites
800 28th St. / 303-443-3322
www.boulderoutlook.com
Boulder’s first zero-waste hotel is as comfortable as it is quirky, complete with an indoor rock-climbing wall, a luxurious chlorine-free pool and live music in the lounge.
Boulder Theater
2032 14th St. / 303-786-7030
www.bouldertheater.com
More than 100 years old, the Boulder Theater was originally an opera house. The historic building is now a popular place to see live music, theater and movies. The national radio show e-town is recorded there, and many big names have made a home on the theater's stage.
Broomfield Event Center
11450 Broomfield Ln., Broomfield / 303-410-0700
www.broomfieldeventcenter.com
One of Colorado’s newest large entertainment facilities, the Broomfield Event Center seats 6,000 to 7,500 (depending on the event) and is a great place to see big music acts, as well as hockey, basketball, the Ice Capades and more.
The Bustop
4871 Broadway / 303-440-3911
The Bustop is Boulder’s long-established strip club. They have two rooms, one with topless dancers where alcohol is allowed and the other with all-nude dancers where there is no alcohol. It’s a tough decision, but someone has to make it.
Catacombs
2115 13th St. / 303-443-0486
www.catacombsbar.com
Catacombs is located beneath the Hotel Boulderado, and it has one of the best happy hours in town. There are pool tables, air hockey and video games.
Chautauqua
900 Baseline Rd. / 303-440-7666
www.chautauqua.com
Rising out of the Chautauqua movement of the late 1800s, which inspired gatherings focused on cultural and educational ideas, Boulder’s historic Chautauqua Park was first opened in 1898 as a place for intellectual retreat. Along with fine mountainside cuisine in the Dining Hall, live music, films and even yoga take place in the Chautauqua Auditorium and the Chautauqua Community House.
Conor O'Neill's
1922 13th St. / 303-449-1922
www.conoroneills.com
Boulder’s own traditional Irish pub, Conor O'Neill's is the place for lamb stew in Guinness gravy and a pint of stout. Stay a while and enjoy some live music.
Dairy Center for the Arts
2590 Walnut St. # 1 / 303-440-7826
www.thedairy.org
This nonprofit is dedicated to providing affordable work and performance space for artists and arts organizations. Offering workshops and classes in dance, photography, acting and more, the Dairy also hosts live music, theater and dance performances, and visual art installments.
The Dark Horse
2922 Baseline Rd. / 303-442-8162
www.darkhorsebar.com
If the eclectic clientele and carnival atmosphere at The Dark Horse aren’t enough to inspire you, remember, The Dark Horse is also one of Boulder’s favorite karaoke joints and a great venue for live music. Decked out with old movie props and other quirky antiques, the bar offers pool, air hockey, foosball and great burgers.
The Foundry
1109 Walnut St. / 303-447-1803
www.thenewfoundry.com
The Foundry is a little world all of its own, with tons of pool tables, a full bar, a café, live entertainment and a rooftop deck with a gorgeous mountain view.
Fox Theatre
1135 13th St. / 303-443-3399
www.foxtheatre.com
Located on University Hill, the Fox Theatre is a 700-seat music venue with a record for bringing fantastic live shows to Boulder’s music-hungry community.
Gold Hill Inn
401 Main St. / 303-443-6461
www.goldhillinn.com
Whether you’re attending a wedding, a Murder Mystery Night or a live concert, the Gold Hill Inn’s rustic beauty and exquisite dining make the 10-mile drive into the mountains above Boulder worth every hairpin turn.
Johnny’s Cigar and Martini Bar
1801 13th St. / 303-449-0884
www.johnnyscigars.com
Featuring live jazz and blues on the weekends, Johnny’s is a smoker-friendly establishment with five humidors, a lush martini menu and gourmet small plates. Enjoy it all from an over-stuffed chair or at the cherry wood bar.
Laughing Goat Coffee House
1709 Pearl St. / 303-440-4628
thelaughinggoat.com
The Laughing Goat is the place for community performance, poetry, art and free-trade coffee drinks decorated with foam fleurs-de-lis. It is one of the premiere venues for indie music, and, if that’s not enough, they now serve alcohol.
Lazy Dog Sports Bar and Grill
1346 Pearl St. / 303-440-3355
www.thelazydog.com
Known for its enormous rooftop deck overlooking Pearl Street Mall and the mountains, the Lazy Dog is a sports bar that’s also a great place for live music.
Mountain Sun
1535 Pearl St. / 303-546-0886
Southern Sun
627 S. Broadway / 303-543-0886
www.mountainsunpub.com
A couple of hometown favorites with a lot of Boulder style, Mountain Sun and Southern Sun serve their award-winning microbrews and all-natural Colorado-raised beef burgers in a colorful, laid-back atmosphere. Both pubs host live music.
Nissi's Coffeehouse & Bistro
2675 N. Park Dr., Lafayette / 303-665-2757
www.nissis.com
The premiere east-county spot for topnotch live music and dinner in a laid-back atmosphere, Nissi’s has a supper-club feel. Patrons enjoy their music with French, Italian and Spanish-influenced tapas, a dance floor and outdoor patio.
Nitro Club
1124 Pearl St. / 303-444-1680
This is the newest strip club to open in Boulder, and it’s located right on Pearl Street for your convenience. Despite all the legal battles with the city over the past couple of years, they’re still here. So there.
Niwot Tavern
7960 Niwot Rd. # D12, Longmont / 303-652-0200
www.niwottavern.com
What tried-and-true Boulderite doesn’t love a pub that cooks everything with no trans fat?! Enjoy your “health food” (like shrimp scampi and grilled burgers) or check out wine tastings and other events at this local favorite.
 Oskar Blues
303 Main St., Lyons / 303-823-6685
www.oskarblues.com
Incorporating the locals’ love of good food, good beer and great live music, Oskar Blues leans toward the blues while embracing rock, bluegrass, jam, folk and more. The place brews its own beer and has a Cajun-inspired menu.
Pearl Street Pub & Cellar
1108 Pearl St. / 303-939-9900
A place where college kids and crusty old timers collide, the Pearl Street Pub is a great place to catch a live band or play some foosball.
Planet Bluegrass
500 W. Main St., Lyons / 303-823-0848
www.bluegrass.com
A truly magical spot on a sparkling river 12 miles north of Boulder in beautiful Lyons, Planet Bluegrass is home to an entire line-up of Colorado’s favorite festivals. From RockyGrass to Folks Festival to the Festival of the Mabon, Planet Bluegrass is Boulder’s “festivarian” destination. Planet Bluegrass also puts on the world-famous Telluride Bluegrass Fest.
Boulder Draft House
2027 13th St. / 303-440-5858
www.boulderdrafthouse.com
A moment of silence for the bar/music venue known as the Redfish… And now let’s welcome the newest member of the Boulder alcohol/entertainment scene, the Draft House. They promise good food, live music and great beer. Go say howdy to your new neighbors.
Rock N Soul Cafe
5290 Arapahoe Ave. / 303-443-5108
www.rocknsoulcafe.com
A comfortable coffeehouse with live music to boot, the Rock N Soul Cafe is Boulder’s acoustic haven for music lovers and coffee aficionados alike.
'Round Midnight
1005 Pearl St. / 303-442-2176
www.roundmidnight.tv
With free pool during happy hour, skilled bartenders and one of Boulder’s hottest dance floors, ’Round Midnight plays host to the best in underground dub, dancehall and hip hop.
The Scotch Corner Pub
1800 Broadway # 150 / 303-545-2000
There are a lot of Irish pubs around the United States, but Scottish bars are rare. This recent addition to the Boulder restaurant/entertainment scene fills the void with authentic food, drink and music from this often overlooked culture.
The Sink
1165 13th St. / 303-444-7465
www.thesink.com
Famous for the “Sink Burger,” the Sink is a great place to grab a beer and a burger. They host live music on select nights.
St. Julien Hotel and Spa
900 Walnut St. / 720-406-9696
www.stjulien.com
A luxurious addition to downtown, this hotel and spa also hosts live music. Expect to hear some quality jazz and folk, but be prepared for some world music as well.
The Stage Stop Inn
60 Main St., Rollinsville
Hidden away in the mountains above Boulder, the Stage Stop plays host to some killer acts, with a focus on the best of the jamband circuit.
Thunderbird Burgers
1083 14th St. / 303-449-9990
3117 28th St. / 303-449-2229
www.thunderbirdburgers.com
Thunderbird specializes in gourmet burgers made from natural, USDA beef, and it also hosts live music.
b.side Lounge
2017 13th St. / 303-473-9463
www.bsidelounge.com
The former lair of Trilogy, the b.side Lounge is one of the elegant entertainment hot spots of Boulder. They have a great stage in the back for live music, a regular deejay rotation up front, good food and great martinis.
University of Colorado / CU Concerts
CU campus / 303-492-8008
www.cuconcerts.org
CU Concerts presents more than 50 concerts a year, including the CU Opera, Takács Chamber Series, CU’s Holiday Festival and modern artists like Bella Fleck and Edgar Meyer. Venues include Macky Auditorium, Grusin Music Hall and Music Theater.
West End Tavern
926 Pearl St. / 303-444-3535
www.thewestendtavern.com
Many people stand firm in their belief that the West End has the best rooftop deck in Boulder. Fabulous views of the Flatirons, 300 days of sunshine (and winter heaters!) along with a great selection of American beers and American cuisine make this a perfect spot to catch some live music or watch your favorite team on one of the tavern’s three plasma TVs.
MOVIE THEATERS
AMC Flatiron Crossing, 61 W. Flatiron Cir.
Broomfield / 303-790-4262
www.amctheatres.com
This is one of the largest movie theaters in the Boulder area. Check out this theater for all the latest and greatest films to come out of Hollywood.
Boulder Outdoor Cinema
1750 13th St. / 720-317-7498
www.boulderoutdoorcinema.com
The Boulder Outdoor Cinema is a summer long outdoor movie event that takes place on Saturday nights in downtown Boulder. You can catch the latest Hollywood flicks, as well as all the cult classics.
Boulder Theater
2032 14th St. / 303-786-7030
www.bouldertheater.com
More than 100 years old, the Boulder Theater was originally an opera house. The historic building is now a popular place to see movies, and is the home of the Boulder Weekly Film Series.
Canyon Theater
1000 Canyon Blvd. / 303-441-3197
www.boulder.lib.co.us/events/films.html
Housed in the Boulder Public Library, the Canyon Theater is host to the BPL Film Program. With changing themes throughout the season, the BPL Film Program showcases a wide variety of cinematic canons — from documentaries and foreign films to local showcases and film noir. Movies are free and open to the public.
Century Theater
1710 29th St. / 303-444-0583
Century Theater is a local movie house with stadium seating and giant screens. All your favorite actors and directors can be scene at this location.
Chautauqua
900 Baseline Rd. / 303-440-7666
www.chautauqua.com
Rising out of the Chautauqua movement of the late 1800s, which inspired gatherings focused on cultural and educational ideas, Boulder’s historic Chautauqua Park was first opened in 1898 as a place for intellectual retreat. In the summer, you can watch films under the stars. Often, Chautauqua plays host to a series of silent films with live piano accompaniment.
Colony Square 12
1164 Dillon Rd., Louisville / 303-666-9035
You don’t have to wait in long, annoying lines at Colony Square to see your favorite films. The staff is efficient and the seating is ample.
Starz Film Center
900 Auraria Pkwy., Denver / 303-893-3456
www.starzfilmcenter.com
The Denver Film Society is one of the premiere spots in Colorado for independent and alternative film. This is the place to see movies that have been overlooked by the big-budget, corporate moviemakers.
International Film Series
Muenzinger Auditorium, CU Campus / 303-492-1531
www.internationalfilmseries.com
Established in 1941, IFS is dedicated to bringing eclectic, art-house cinema to Boulder. Check out this venue for the best international, independent and alternative movies.
UA Twin Peaks
1250 S. Hover Rd. Longmont / 303-651-2434
www.twinpeaksmall.com
Located in the Twin Peaks Mall, this is the main movie theater in Longmont. Expect to see the latest releases from a comfortable seat.
LANDMARK THEATERS
Landmark Theatres:
Chez Artiste
2800 S. Colorado Blvd., Denver / 303-352-1992
www.landmarktheatres.com
Esquire
590 Downing St., Denver / 303-352-1992
www.landmarktheatres.com
Mayan
110 Broadway, Denver / 303-744-6799
www.landmarktheatres.com
Landmark Theatres is the largest theater chain in the nation dedicated to showing independent films. Their movie houses are intimate and personal, and it’s a great place to check out what’s new outside the mainstream film industry.
GALLERIES / ART SCHOOLS / MUSEUMS
ArtMart Corp
1222 Pearl St. / 303-443-8248
www.artmartgifts.com
ArtMart features work from local and international artists. At this location, you can buy directly from the artist with no middleman.
Art & Soul Gallery
1615 Pearl St. / 303-544-5803
artandsoulboulder.com
This gallery features local and national artists who produce emotionally charged work. Art & Soul offers fine art, craft and jewelry in an intimate setting.
Art Source International
1237 Pearl St. / 303-444-4080
www.rare-maps.com
This is one of the primary sources for antique maps and prints. In the past 28 years, Art Source International has become a major tourist attraction in Boulder.
Boulder Arts & Crafts Cooperative
1421 Pearl St. / 303-443-3683
www.boulderartsandcrafts.com
This is one of the oldest artistic cooperatives in the United States. They feature a wide variety of art, including paintings, prints, photography, jewelry, pottery, wood, stained and blown glass, sculpture and furniture.
Boulder History Museum
1206 Euclid Ave. / 303-449-3464
www.boulderhistorymuseum.org
Founded in 1944, this building is located in the historic landmark Harbeck-Bergheim House on University Hill. The Museum rotates its displays two or three times a year and focuses on Boulder’s own unique history and politics. It also conducts programs and activities for youth and adults, and produces an annual community event called SummerFest in June.
Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art
1750 13th St. / 303-443-2122
www.bmoca.org
Established in 1972, the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art is a venue “dedicated to the presentation of significant art of our time.” BMoCA features national and international exhibitions and performance and has various programs dedicated to educating the public on contemporary art.
Clementine Studio
2590 31st St. / 303-443-2520
www.clementinestudioboulder.com
Clementine Studio provides educational enrichment programs for children to help develop their natural creativity and wellness. They feature a wide variety of classes, small class sizes and highly trained teachers.
Dairy Center for the Arts
2590 Walnut St., Ste. # 1 / 303-440-7826
www.thedairy.org
This non-profit is dedicated to providing affordable work and performance space for artists and arts organizations. Offering workshops and classes in dance, photography, acting and more, the Dairy also hosts live music, theater and dance performances, and visual art installments.
Earthwood Gallery
1412 Pearl St. / 303-444-3838
www.earthwoodartisans.com
One of Boulder’s finest young galleries, Earthwood specializes in “unique fine art and unique handcrafts,” including blown and fused glass, jewelry, paintings, pottery, tapestries, photography and metal art.
Leanin’ Tree Museum & Sculpture Garden of Western Art
6055 Longbow Dr. / 303-530-1442
www.leanintreemuseum.com
Leanin’ Tree exhibits the private art collection of Ed Trumble, Founder and Chairman of Leanin’ Tree, Incorporated, publisher of fine art greeting cards since 1949. The museum features Western art and is dedicated to encouraging art appreciation and education.
Mary Williams Fine Arts
2116 Pearl St. # C / 303-938-1588
marywilliamsfinearts.com
This gallery features a wide variety of art, from botanicals to decorative to natural history. This is a spot to look for interesting, contemporary art and find the perfect piece for your living room.
Open Studios
1301 Spruce St. / 303-444-1862
www.openstudios.org
Enjoy a day with friends while you experience the world of creation and imagination. Discover how artists have carved out their working spaces, many in their homes.
Rembrandt Yard
1301 Spruce St. / 303-301-2970
www.rembrandtyard.com
Rembrandt Yard’s three floors of gallery space and artist’s studios are a popular downtown destination. More than 6,500 square feet of gallery space on two floors features original works of art created by international and local artists.
Willow — An Artisan’s Market
1500 Pearl St. # C / 303-443-0835
This gallery features handmade gifts created by innovative artists. Willow promotes both local and international artists.
National Center for Atmospheric Research
1850 Table Mesa Dr. / 303-497-1000
www.ncar.ucar.edu
The leading spot in the country for atmospheric research, NCAR also displays the work of local and international artists.
Robert Feder Fine Art
1942 Broadway, Ste. 314 / 303-443-9119
www.federfineart.com
This local venue focuses on a small group of contemporary American artists whose work deals with modernism and experimental media.
The Shelby American Collection
5020 Chaparral Ct. / 303-516-9565
shelbyamericancollection.org
This organization is dedicated to the preservation of Shelby American automobiles. They participate in various races and events, and they also host displays of period-correct automobilia, tools and tributes to the greats.
Smith-Klein Gallery
1116 Pearl St. / 303-444-7200
www.smithklein.com
The Smith-Klein Gallery has been a fixture of Boulder for more than 20 years, and it attracts patrons from around the world. The gallery features paintings, art glass, sculpture and hand-created jewelry.
UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES
CU Heritage Center
Old Main, CU campus / 303-492-6329
www.cualum.org/heritage
This historical organization and museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the University of Colorado. The Heritage Center contains yearbooks from the past, books authored by various CU alumni, and historical photographs and documents.
UMC Art Gallery
CU campus / 303-492-6161
www.colorado.edu/umc
Located at the University of Colorado, this gallery is dedicated to educating the public on art as well as promoting local and international artists. The artwork often focuses on cultural traditions and experiences from around the world.
University of Colorado Museum of Natural History
CU campus / 303-492-6892
cumuseum.colorado.edu
This museum has more than 4 million artifacts and specimens in anthropology/archaeology, botany, entomology, paleontology/osteology and zoology. They offer a wide variety of activities and events for students and the general public.
THEATER / DANCE
Alchemy of Movement
2436 30th St. / 303-449-4410
www.alchemyofmovement.com
This is a holistic facility that encourages health through integrated movement forms. They are working to combine yoga, dance and other forms of movement with wellbeing.
Ballet Nouveau Colorado
3001 Industrial Ln., # 12, Broomfield / 303-466-5685
www.balletnouveaucolorado.org
This dance company pushes the boundaries of style and form to produce dance that defies categorization.
Boulder Ballet
2590 Walnut St. / 303-443-0028
www.boulderballet.org
Founded in 1982 by Barbara Demaree and Wanda Tierney, Boulder Ballet has grown to become Boulder County’s major professional dance company and school. Each year, Boulder Ballet reaches thousands through performances at historic Macky Auditorium on the CU campus, historic Boulder Theater, the Dairy Center for the Arts (where Boulder Ballet is one of three original resident organizations), and on tour.
Boulder’s Dinner Theatre
5501 Arapahoe Ave. / 303-449-6000
www.theatreinboulder.com
Featuring live, Broadway-style theater alongside fine dining, Boulder’s Dinner Theatre has earned dozens of awards since its curtains first opened in 1977.
Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art
1750 13th St. / 303-443-2122
www.bmoca.org
Established in 1972, the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art is a venue “dedicated to the presentation of significant art of our time.” BMoCA features national and international exhibitions and performance and has various programs dedicated to educating the public on contemporary art.
Boulder Performing Arts Company
3395 Vista Dr. / 303-859-4195
www.bpac.biz
A dance studio and training center for kids of all ages, BPAC has been spreading the love of dance in Boulder County for more than 28 years.
Boulder’s Upstart Crow Theatre Company
2131 Arapahoe Ave., Unit A / 303-442-1415
www.serve.com/upstart
Upstart is a local ensemble acting company that is committed to creating local theater productions. They are a true grassroots organization, working together to act, direct, build props, design wardrobes and raise money.
Constantly Risking Absurdity Baby
www.boulderfringe.com
C.R.A.B. is a monthly performance salon that is dedicated to supporting local artists of all types and raising the level of innovation in performance. There are no rules and performers are asked to risk it all every time they step on the stage.
CU Dance and Theatre
CU Campus / 303-492-7355
www.colorado.edu/TheatreDance
The University of Colorado has nationally recognized theater and dance programs that perform world-class productions on campus. The programs feature professors who have worked with some of the top theater and dance companies in the nation.
Dairy Center for the Arts
2590 Walnut St., Ste. # 1 / 303-440-7826
www.thedairy.org
This nonprofit is dedicated to providing affordable work and performance space for artists and arts organizations. Offering workshops and classes in dance, photography, acting and more, the Dairy also hosts live music, theater and dance performances, and visual art installments.
Danceophile Ballroom & Folk Dance Studio
250 31st St. / 303-499-6363
www.postoley.org
Learn how to salsa, swing and do the cha-cha. Danceophile teaches students numerous traditional and modern dances, and they also specialize in live performances.
Frequent Flyers
2590 Walnut St., Ste. # 5 / 303-245-8272
www.frequentflyers.org
Frequent Flyers is Colorado’s pre-eminent low-flying trapeze and aerial dance-theater company. This venue provides training, education and performance.
Helander Dance Theater
2590 Walnut St., Ste. # 7 / 303-589-2048
www.helanderdance.org
Helander has presented a new dance concert every year since 1980. They aspire to encourage local dance while confronting global themes.
Lemon Sponge Cake Contemporary Ballet
2590 Walnut St. / 303-545-2298
www.lemonspongecake.org
Lemon Sponge Cake Contemporary Ballet strives to bring “energy and fresh ideas to audiences and the dance world.” They are pushing the limits of live ballet performance.
FESTIVALS / ANNUAL EVENTS / FILM FESTIVALS
Banff Mountain Film Festival
www.banffcentre.ca
This festival celebrates mountain cultures, activities, sports and art. The films feature a wide variety of topics, including important environmental and social issues facing mountain societies around the world. This event normally takes place in February at the Boulder Theater.
Bike Shorts Film Festival
www.communitycycles.org
This festival explores the many aspects of bicycles and bicycling enthusiasts. They strive to educate the public on cycling and bicycle maintenance. This event normally takes place in September.
Boulder Adventure Film Festival
303-818-6402
www.boulderadventurefilm.com
The best in independent adventure films from local and international filmmakers. These films cover a wide range of human adventures and are often focused on social and environmental issues.
Boulder Asian Film Festival
www.boulderasianmovies.org
A local event that celebrates the Asian community’s continued contributions to film. This event is part of the Boulder Asian Festival. The next BAFF event is scheduled for Feb. 12-16, 2009.
Boulder International Film Festival
1906 13th St., Ste. 301 / 303-449-2289
www.biff1.com
This is one of largest film festivals in Boulder, and it has received international recognition. Filmmakers and cinephiles from around the world attend this prestigious local event, which usually takes place in February.
Moondance International Film Festival
303-545-0202
www.moondancefilmfestival.com
The focus of Moondance is to educate filmmakers and audience members concerning important social issues and inspire them to action. This event usually takes place in August.
The Shoot Out
1966 13th St., Ste. LL60 / 303-449-1515
www.theshootoutboulder.com
The Shoot Out is a filmmaking event that challenges participants of all ages and experience levels to create a film in just 24 hours. Filmmakers range from high schoolers to senior citizens, and the competition always inspires interesting results. This event takes place Sept. 25-27, 2009.
Toofy Film Festival
www.toofy.com
Toofy is a celebration of independent artists. The festival features everything from short, local films to full-length national movies. This event usually takes place in September.
MUSIC FESTIVALS
Boulder Bach Festival
2001 Ridgeview Dr., Longmont / 303-776-9666
www.boulderbachfest.org
This festival was established in 1981 to appreciate the music of the famous baroque composer Johann Sebastian Bach. Local and national artists show up for this one-of-a-kind event. This event usually takes place in March.
Colorado Music Festival
Chautauqua Auditorium
900 Baseline Rd. / 303-440-7666
www.coloradomusicfest.org
Founded in 1976, the CMF is dedicated to entertaining and educating the public about classical music. This event features world-class musicians and directors from across the globe. Concerts take place June 27 to Aug. 1, 2009.
NedFest
Jeff Guercio Memorial Baseball Park Nederland / www.nedfest.com
A three-day outdoor music event in an idyllic mountain setting, this event brings the best local musicians together for one big summer bash. This event takes place Aug. 28-30, 2009.
Planet Bluegrass
500 W. Main St., Lyons / 303-823-0848
www.bluegrass.com
RockyGrass
This is one of the premiere bluegrass festivals in the entire world. Musicians and fans come from all over the globe to listen to the best pickin’ around. For anyone who loves bluegrass, this is a must-see event. Buy your tickets early, because this popular festival sells out. This event takes place July 19-23, 2009.
Folks Festival
Every single folk musician worth their salt in Colorado will be at this annual event. This event takes place Aug. 14-16, 2009.
Song School
Teachers and students make music together in this educational event. This is a rare opportunity for up-and-coming musicians to learn from some of the best in the business. This event takes place Aug. 9-13, 2009.
Soul Rebel Music Festival
Jeff Guercio Memorial Baseball Park Nederland / 303-415-1352
One of the great reggae festivals in the United States, the Soul Rebel Music Festival celebrates the life of Wachen Vieira-an, an African immigrant who was murdered in Boulder in 2002. This event takes place July 11, 2009.
EVENTS AND FESTIVALS
Aerial Dance Festival
2590 Walnut, Ste. # 5 / 303-245-8272
www.frequentflyers.org
This two-week event from Frequent Flyers Productions features lectures, classes and performances focused around the art of aerial dance. Students will learn aerial techniques from trained experts and audiences can enjoy the results. This event usually takes place in August.
Asian Day at CU Boulder
A celebration of all things Asian: art, food, music, language and more. This is an opportunity to learn about the wide variety of cultures and traditions that compose Asia. This event is usually held in March.
BaoBao Festival
www.baobaofest.org/dancers
Traditionally, in West Africa, communities would regularly gather under the BaoBao Tree for singing, storytelling, drumming and dancing. The BaoBao Festival brings this tradition to Boulder and reaches out to the community through performing art. This event usually happens in March.
Boulder Asian Festival
This citywide festival features music, art, film and more from Asian artists around the world. Boulderites of all ages are encouraged to join in the festivities. This event usually happens in August.
Boulder Creek Festival
www.bouldercreekevents.com
This is one of Boulder’s most beloved citywide events. There will be live music, performances, games and the famous Great Rubber Duck Race down the Boulder Creek. This event usually takes place on Memorial Day weekend.
Boulder Creek Hometown Fair
www.bouldercreekevents.com
Every city needs a fair during the summer. Of course, Boulder does it a little differently. Zucchini races, pie-eating contests, chili cook offs… and of course the beer garden. This event usually takes place Labor Day weekend.
Boulder Fall Festival
This event showcases the local musical talent, including past performances by Hazel Miller, 17th Avenue All-Stars, Funkiphino, Rebecca Folsom and Chris Daniels and the Kings. There are also events for kids and microbrews for adults. This event usually takes place in October.
Boulder International Fringe Festival
www.boulderfringe.com
This is one of those unique events that only take place in cities like Boulder. It’s a chance for artists from around the world to let the creative juices flow. Why? It’s all about fun. This event takes place August 12-23, 2009.
Boulder Jewish Festival
www.boulderjewishfestival.org
Boulder County Courthouse Lawn and Pearl Street Mall (1200-1500 Pearl St.)
www.boulderjewishfestival.org
This one-day event celebrates Jewish culture in Boulder and across the globe. There will be art, dance and activities for all ages. This event takes place on June 7, 2009.
Colorado Shakespeare Festival
www.coloradoshakes.org
“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.” This is one of the most renowned summer festivals in the country. Performances take place at the Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre with the beautiful Rocky Mountains in the background. This event takes place mid-June to mid-August.
Frozen Dead Guy Days
Nederland / www.frozendeadguy.com
Some guy decides to put his grandpa on dry ice in a Tuff Shed in hopes that he’ll one day be revived and the folks in Nederland turn it into an excuse to eat, drink, listen to live music and generally party like rock stars. This event usually takes place in March.
Miramontes Festival
CU campus / miramontesfestival.org
The Miramontes highlights a variety of contributions from female artists and musicians. There is music, art, comedy, lectures and much more. This event usually takes place in March.
RADIO
Alternative Radio
P.O. Box 551 / 800-444-1977
www.alternativeradio.org
AR is a weekly one-hair radio program that focuses on information and analysis outside the mainstream media. This is an entirely independent station that highlights diverse topics and views for listeners who like a little alternative in their radio.
KBCO
2500 Pearl St., Ste. #315 / 303-631-2973
www.kbco.com
Started in 1977, KBCO-FM is an alternative radio station that serves the Denver-Boulder area. The station features a wide variety of music, including blues, reggae, folk, pop and rock from the late-1960s to the present.
KGNU
4700 Walnut St. / 303-442-4242
www.kgnu.org
KGNU is Boulder’s independent, listener-supported radio station — with a decidedly left bent. Seamlessly blending independent and alternative media with a vast variety of music, entertainment and educational programming, the station is run by more than 200 volunteers and 10 staff members. More than half of KGNU’s programming is music, and live music is a regular treat for listeners.
Radio 1190
CU Campus / 303-492-1190
www.radio1190.org
Radio 1190 is the exciting CU radio station that features local and national independent artists, passionate DJs and an eclectic play list of songs from a wide variety of artists. This is not a Clear Channel sycophant station; this is radio the way it was meant to be.
TELEVISION
Channel 8 TV
1000 Canyon Blvd. / 303-441-4395
City of Boulder Channel 8 TV is a television broadcasting station, as well as a video production facility. The station’s programming seeks to appeal to a wide variety of local needs, and includes arts and entertainment, employment, shows geared at teens and seniors, and local environmental and economic coverage, as well as coverage of City Council meetings, elections and many other local interests.
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