The DCPA was the original developer of the Denver Performing Arts Complex in 1978. The complex was…read morethen donated to the City of Denver. A City agency, Denver Arts & Venues, manages the overall complex and rents to the Colorado Ballet, Colorado Symphony, Opera Colorado, and others.
The Denver Center is now responsible for the Helen G. Bonfils Theatre Complex which includes the Wolf Theatre (640 seats, large thrust stage), the Kilstrom Theatre (380 seats, theater-in-the-round), the Singleton Theatre (233 seats, proscenium), and the Jones Theatre (196 seats, black box).
The DCPA also manages the Broadway show schedule at the Buell Theatre (2,830 seats, proscenium) and the Garner Galleria (213 seats, cabaret).
A $57 million renovation of the Theatre Complex facilities was completed between 2017 and 2023. This included a total modernization of systems, technology upgrades, a unified central lobby, new elevators, improved ADA access, and many backstage additions.
This is a state-of-the-art complex fueled by one of the top professional theater companies in the country. The DCPA is particularly noted for the Colorado New Play Summit which has repeatedly been the genesis of major new work that has become part of the national repertoire.
The DCPA runs a major administrative operation with six theaters staging classics, modern, and contemporary works, Broadway shows, and cabaret plus the 10,000 square foot Seawell Ballroom and a number of smaller event venues.
A highly-regarded educational operation provides school enrichment programs, professional training for all ages, and opportunities for students to explore careers in all aspects of theater.
The DCPA production shops are huge and well-worth a tour. All sets, props, and costumes are designed and built in-house. A large team of technical specialists, scenic artists, costume designers, and prop makers utilize the Scenic, Paint, Prop, Costume, and Wig/Makeup shops to put all the pieces of a production together.
Productions here are top professional quality in every aspect. The DCPA is a tremendous resource and offers such a wide variety of theater choices that there is always something for everyone.