From gripping thrillers to immersive experiments, Colorado’s theater scene is vibrant and varied. Here are three ongoing stage shows in Boulder, Aurora and Golden highlighting the breadth and depth of local offerings.
Dry Living with The Catamounts
FEED: Dryat the Dairy Arts Center is an ambitious exploration of temperance versus hedonism, brought to life through a unique blend of culinary arts and performance. This latest installment from The Catamounts’ FEED series, directed by Joan Bruemmer-Holden, offers an immersive experience that marries the senses in celebration of the booze-free “Dry January” movement.
With a menu crafted by Bob Sargent of Boulder’s Savory Cuisines and drinks by Kelly Dressman of Longmont’s Dry Land Distillers, the event navigates the complex dance between abstaining and indulging.
ON STAGE: FEED: Dry. Through Feb. 10, Dairy Arts Center, 2590 Walnut St., Boulder. $90
Not So Fun Home
Emma Maxfield directs Vintage Theatre’s ambitious but uneven production of Fun Home, the Tony Award-winning musical based on Alison Bechdel’s 2006 graphic novel. The story, which beautifully depicts Bechdel’s coming-of-age experience as a young lesbian, struggles to find its footing on Vintage’s small stage.
On a positive note, the musical talents of the cast shine through. The performance, particularly with Bridget Burke stepping in as Alison on the Friday night I attended, showcases a cast capable of delivering the emotional depth and vocal range required by the score.
ON STAGE: Fun Home. Through Feb. 25, Vintage Theatre, 1468 Dayton St., Aurora. $20-$38
Misery Shocks at Miners Alley
Directed by the talented Warren Sherrill, this adaptation of Stephen King’s novel transforms the stage into a gripping tableau of suspense and psychological horror. The play’s brilliance lies not just in its faithful rendition of the story but in how it elevates the experience with impeccable pacing, stellar performances and technical mastery.
Emma Messenger dominates the stage as Annie Wilkes, capturing the essence of a fan’s descent into madness with terrifying authenticity. Her dynamic performance, alongside Torsten Hillhouse’s convincing portrayal of the tormented novelist Paul Sheldon, creates an electrifying chemistry. Mark Collins, as the diligent Sheriff Buster, adds a layer of earnest concern that contrasts sharply with the unfolding horror.
ON STAGE: Misery. Through Feb. 11, Miners Alley Performing Arts Center, 1103 Arapahoe St., Golden. $37-$56