WHEELER OPERA HOUSE ANNOUNCES MORE WHEELER PRESENTS 2023-24 SEASON SHOWS

Comedy, Family Shows, Award-Winning International musicians, and Aspen favorites to take the Wheeler stage.

Aspen, CO (October 5, 2023): On the heels of December’s pre-holiday shows announced last month, the Wheeler Opera House adds more diverse and exciting performances to the Wheeler Presents 2023-24 Season. In December, we’ve added a second performance of DanceAspen “A Snowy Soiree” and Aspen favorite Becky Robinson is back at the Wheeler with the “She Gone” Tour. January welcomes family-friendly programs with Shaun Boothe’s “The Unauthorized Biography Series” and SNAP, an eclectic ensemble of Korean Illusionists. February brings unbelievable music to the Wheeler with Black Violin: The Experience Tour and International Guitar Night’s XXIV annual tour. DanceAspen returns to the Wheeler stage with two performances of “Limitless.” More music in March with Classic Albums Live performing Dire Straits Brothers in Arms playing note for note, cut for cut. The Wheeler isn’t done yet though as additional holiday week and winter season shows, including the full Aspen Laugh Festival 2024 lineup, will be announced soon.

“At the Wheeler, we're all about embracing the unexpected and inviting you to witness something you've never seen before. We take immense pride in our amazing theater space, and we've curated an incredible lineup of family-friendly performances, side-splitting comedy, electrifying concerts, and so much more. Our mission is to fill your calendar with moments of joy, laughter, and awe,” says Lisa Rigsby Peterson, Executive Director of the Wheeler Opera House. “One thing you'll quickly discover about the Wheeler team is that we're always in motion, always announcing new shows that will capture your imagination. To ensure you get the best seats at the best prices, we encourage you to book early. We can't wait to welcome you into our beautiful historic venue.”

The Wheeler encourages patrons to buy early and save up to 15% off premium and standard seats, the listed price includes all ticket handling fees. Purchase tickets by midnight on November 4, 2023, to get the best seats at the best price. The affordability of Wheeler Opera House tickets is made possible through the support of the City of Aspen Real Estate Transfer Tax, ensuring accessible entertainment for all.

Tickets go on sale Tuesday, October 10, 2023, at 12 noon at the Wheeler Opera House Box Office (970.920.5770/ aspenshowtix.com). The Wheeler Opera House is located at 320 E. Hyman Ave., Aspen, CO.

Becky Robinson The “She Gone” Tour

Tuesday, December 26, 2023 | 6:30 PM

Tickets: $38 - $58

She’s baaack, and “She Gone”! Becky Robinson, Entitled Housewife, and more creative characters return to the Wheeler stage. Get your divots and your giggle quotas filled by witnessing the most action-packed, one-woman show in existence. Originally from Portland, Oregon, Becky Robinson is an LGBTQ+ LA-based comedian, writer, actor, and voice-over star. You may also know her for the “Entitled Housewife,” the outspoken viral golf character Becky created. Becky’s explosively unique character antics and viral videos have racked up millions of views and fans across social media. In addition to touring internationally as a stand-up comedian, Becky was named a JFL Montreal New Face of Comedy where her stand-out multi-character performance landed her a sketch show development deal and many voiceover jobs with DreamWorks, Nickelodeon, and Netflix.

 

Shaun Boothe’s “The Unauthorized Biography Series”

Wednesday, January 24, 2024 | 6:00 PM

Tickets: $38 Adults, $18 Child

Award-winning hip-hop artist Shaun Boothe is a TEDx speaker and creator of the critically acclaimed musical project, “The Unauthorized Biography Series” which celebrates the world's greatest cultural icons through biographical rap songs -­ Repackaging History through Hip-Hop.

The evening includes original hip-hop bios accompanied by video and photos of icons such as Serena Williams, Malala Yousafzai, Bob Marley, Muhammad Ali, Barack Obama, Kobe Bryant, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and more. Shaun has received praise from the families of many of the icons in his series - performing for MLK, III himself - and a feature on Forbes.com.

This family-friendly performance will take you on a journey of discovery through the lives of these important historical figures. Shaun’s magnetic speaking and 10+ years of experience working in the music industry with the likes of Snoop Dogg, Lauryn Hill, and Kendrick Lamar, the audience is sure to leave entertained and inspired.

"The power of hip-hop is in the stories we choose to tell.

Our stories can either build us up or tear us down" - Shaun Boothe

 

SNAP: Contemporary Mystery Performance

Wednesday, January 31, 2024 | 7:30 PM

Tickets: $21 - $48

Prepare to embark on a mind-bending journey as SNAP, a group of South Korean illusionists, takes the stage, playing with space, time, and the otherworldly to create a spectacle like no other. This family-friendly addition to our season program will boggle your mind with impressive powers of prestidigitation. Mixing dexterous sleight of hand, Chaplin-esque vaudevillian comedy, and ingenious visual effects, SNAP conjures a marvelous, magical cabaret perfect for the whole family.

“Wizards without wands!” - The New York Times

Selected as “The Best Magic Performance in Fringe” by Broadway World, SNAP went on to win the Best Production Trophy from “Asian Arts Awards” at the world-renowned Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2016. SNAP returned to Edinburgh Fringe 2017, selling out four shows at one of the largest theaters at the Fringe. SNAP has gone on to perform at prestigious arts festivals around the globe, leading them to a successful 23-show run at Broadway’s New Victory Theater in 2019. Come see what The New York Times review raved “Wizards without wands!” right here in the heart of downtown Aspen.

SNAP's performance is a true masterpiece of art, light, music, modern technology, and a myriad of other ingenious stage devices. Get ready to be transported into a world of wonder and amazement as SNAP redefines the limits of what's possible. It's a journey into the extraordinary that you and your family will cherish forever.

 

Black Violin: The Experience Tour

Friday, February 2, 2024 | 7:30 PM

Tickets: $32 - $58

Showcasing the two-time Grammy®-nominated duo Black Violin, brought to life by Kev Marcus and Wil Baptiste, you will experience a mystifying musical fusion of exquisite classical sounds and exhilarating hip-hop beats. Featuring Abraham Alexander on vocals, Alexander instills in his music a joyful passion and irrepressible spirit, giving way to songs that radiate undeniable hope. This concert performance boldly merges centuries of music and unites audiences with a message of hope and possibility. Fans can expect to be immersed in a sound that transcends categories and celebrates ingenuity and ambition, proving anything is possible.

On stage, Kev Marcus gives an electrifying violin performance along with Wil Baptiste’s magnetizing viola and vocal performance. Joining them are Nat Stokes on drums, DJ SPS on the turntable, and Liston Gregory on keys. Together they are reconceptualizing what a violin concert looks and sounds like, building bridges to a place where Mozart, Marvin Gaye, and Kendrick Lamar harmoniously coexist. Black Violin invites you to think outside of the box.

 

International Guitar Night XXIV

Friday, February 9, 2024 | 7:30 PM

Tickets: $32 - $58

Get ready for the 24th annual tour of International Guitar Night. We’re thrilled to bring this exceptional lineup to the Wheeler stage that promises to captivate the hearts of guitar and music enthusiasts alike. This performance is exactly the kind that the Wheeler was designed to showcase, with its impeccable acoustics and creating an intimate experience for the audience.

The visionary behind IGN, Brian Gore has once again curated a roster of accomplished musicians, including an exciting newcomer. The sensational Luca Stricagnoli from Italy, renowned for his mind-bending acoustic rock interpretations, will leave the audience in awe. Hailing from Vietnam, Thu Le plays effortlessly with nylon string artistry that spans the realms of classical to contemporary. From the vibrant streets of Brazil, Marco Pereira, a true master of composition and performance, embarks on his final tour with IGN in 2024, promising an unforgettable farewell. But that's not all; a fresh face to the IGN family, making her North American debut – Minnie Marks from the enchanting land of Australia. Prepare to be blown away by Minnie's irrepressible blues slide guitar skills and soulful vocals that are sure to leave you craving for more.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience the magic of IGN – where creativity knows no bounds, and the music never stops.

 

DanceAspen “Limitless”

Friday, February 16 & Saturday, February 17, 2024 | 7:30 PM

Tickets: $38 - $68

DanceAspen, the valley's premier contemporary dance company, returns to the historic Wheeler Opera House this winter presenting “Limitless.” This highly anticipated performance promises an evening of extraordinary artistry, innovative choreography, and world-class talent that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Don't miss the opportunity to witness this fusion of art and athleticism that is sure to be the cultural highlight of the season.

Since DanceAspen’s first performances at the Wheeler Opera House in September 2021, the partnership between DanceAspen and the Wheeler has shown how the arts can revitalize a community. As a historic venue, the Wheeler is not the traditional dance space, with a stage that is just shy of 28 feet wide and a stage depth of just over 26 feet. With ingenuity, creativity, and perseverance, DanceAspen brings choreography to the edge of dance, quite literally to the edges of the Wheeler's historic stage. By bringing together the best of the past and the present, the Wheeler is excited to be a part of DanceAspen creating a new and exciting future for dance in Aspen.

 

Aspen Laugh Festival 2024

Wednesday, February 21 - Saturday, February 24, 2024

Knock Knock Pass: $125*

We’re tickled to continue the long tradition of comedy at the Wheeler. No joke, the Wheeler opened in April 1889 with a production of A King’s Fool, hilarious! While we welcome funny to the Wheeler all-year long, nothing brings us more giggles and belly-aching laughs than presenting Aspen Laugh Festival in February. This year will be no exception, so save the dates!

Last year we introduced the Aspen Laugh Festival Knock Knock Pass, a full festival pass at a deep discount. So we decided to do it again, while the Wheeler team keeps working around the clock on the festival line-up. Remember, supplies are limited! What's a Knock Knock Pass you ask? Knock, Knock? Who's there? As soon as we know, we promise, you'll be laughing in the aisles. More to come on full line-up, single tickets, and festival pass sales.

*No additional discounts on Knock Knock Pass

 

Classic Albums Live performs Dire Straits: Brothers in Arms

Note for Note, Cut for Cut

Saturday, March 16, 2024 | 7:30 PM

Tickets: $38 - $58

Join us for a mesmerizing journey back to May of 1985, a time when music was forever changed by the release of Dire Straits' iconic album, "Brothers in Arms." This legendary masterpiece not only became one of the best-selling albums of all time but also catapulted the band to global superstardom.

The music video for "Money for Nothing" from this album became an MTV sensation and now, you can witness the magic of this entire album brought to life right before your eyes. Classic Albums Live doesn't just play the songs; they meticulously replicate every note, every beat, every lyric, and every quiet pause between songs ensuring that the experience mirrors listening to the original album itself.

Get ready to relive every classic note and every unforgettable cut as Classic Albums Live takes the stage for an unforgettable night of musical nostalgia and sheer brilliance!

 

Tito Puente, Jr.

Sunday, May 12, 2024 | 5:00 PM

Tickets: $38

Son of the legendary American salsa and Latin jazz musician Tito Puente, Tito Puente, Jr. has big shoes to fill. And boy does he! In celebration of the 100th anniversary of his father's birth, Tito Puente, Jr. embarks on an extraordinary 2023-24 Season Tour, paying tribute to the legendary "King of Mambo" and "King of Latin Music," Tito Puente.

Always honoring his father’s legacy, Tito Puente, Jr. has also made a name for himself as one of the most exciting Latin musicians touring today. Tito Puente Jr. carries his father with him – imprinted on his physical being and locked in his soul. It’s in his looks, his joy, and his music. Tito Jr. is on a passionate mission, determined to nurture the musical legacy left by his father. He has found captive audiences who echo his passion. Crowds lured to a venue by the father are returning to see the son — and to once again participate in the high-voltage celebration that takes place on stage.

“A dazzling show filled with charisma, flair and all the right dance moves. His skill at playing, singing, and dancing was undeniable…Tito Puente Jr. shined with a talent that was all his own.” –The Examiner

Tito Jr. reveres the magnificent, lasting impact his father had on our musical lives. “People who don’t know anything about Latin music know my father and people always, always smile when they say my father’s name,” he confides. “That is a very special gift I have been given.”

Tito Puente, Jr. and his Ensemble bring exhilarating Latin rhythms that will get your feet moving! This event has a dance floor in the front orchestra that is open to all attendees. Please note, the dance floor may cause an obstructed view for the first few rows of orchestra seating. Seating is general admission, so patrons are free to relocate to any open seats if their view becomes compromised.

Previously announced December shows, tickets on sale and eligible for discounts until November 4th.

 

Native Pride Productions “Inspired by Tradition. Powered by Dance.”

Sunday, December 3, 2023 | 1:30 PM

Tickets: $28 Adult, $18 Child

Colorful regalia, pulsating drumming, and fancy footwork are part of the excitement of a Native American powwow. Feel the excitement and experience the artistry of Native Pride Productions dancers as they perform flamboyant movements passed down by their ancestors through song and dance. Founder and Artistic Director of Native Pride Productions, two-time World Champion Fancy Dancer, Men’s Northern Traditional Dancer, and Eagle Dancer Larry Yazzie (Meskwaki, Dine) grew up on the Meskwaki Settlement in Tama, Iowa where he learned the traditional ways of his ancestors.

Showcasing an innovative blend of modern and traditional Native American dance styles, the performance also showcases beautiful Native American regalia, including vivid assortments of brightly colored ribbons, feathers, beads, and furs - all of which honor their nations’ elders and the legacy of their traditional arts.

“We’re excited to present Larry Yazzie and the Native Pride Dancers in this special Sunday matinee performance,” says Rigsby Peterson. “This same weekend, we will welcome Aspen Indigenous Foundation back to the Wheeler for the 5th Annual Shining Mountains Film Festival on Friday, December 1 and Saturday, December 2. When we can present complementary programming alongside our rental partners, we can truly see the impact and connections the Wheeler creates in our community.”

“By sharing life stories through music, dance, and storytelling, we nurture meaningful communication among all people” - Larry Yazzie

Larry’s notable stage performances include appearances at the Walker Art Center, Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, Cowles Center, Reif Performing Arts Center, the Olympic Games, The Kennedy Center, and the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C., and New York City.

 

Mark O’Connor’s “An Appalachian Christmas”

Featuring Maggie O’Connor

Saturday, December 16, 2023 | 7:30 PM

Tickets: $38 - $61

Grammy®-winning composer and fiddler Mark O’Connor has created several arrangements of Christmas classics and fashions a wondrous mixture of traditional and original music -- instrumental and vocal-- in bluegrass and other American music genres. Mark performs on four instruments: fiddle, acoustic guitar, mandolin, and mandocello, and is joined on fiddle and vocals by his wife, fellow Grammy Award winner Maggie O’Connor. Together on stage, Mark and Maggie have a dynamic energy that brings their individual expertise to holiday themes and classics in the most delightful and musically satisfying way!

“Heralded as one of the finest fiddle players of our generation, three-time Grammy Award winner and five-time Country Music Association Musician of the Year Mark O’Connor, joined by his wife Maggie, brings virtuosity to the Wheeler stage with “An Appalachian Christmas” -- a perfect way to greet the holiday season,” says Rigsby Peterson.

Allan Harris Sings “A Nat King Cole Christmas”
With special guests Gloria Reuben and Jumaane Smith
Sunday, December 17, 2023 | 7:30 PM
Tickets: $38 - $68

Join us for an evening of Nat King Cole’s music celebrating the holidays, with longtime Aspen favorite Allan Harris and special guests Gloria Reuben and Jumaane Smith, and featuring Arcoiris Sandoval on piano, Marty Kenney on bass, Norman Edwards on drums, Irwin Hall on saxophone. “This powerhouse line-up will have the Wheeler jumping and celebrating!” notes Rigsby Peterson.

A New York review put it best: “The song list reads like an album from the past by only the likes of Nat King Cole, but easily ones that might have come from Dean Martin, Rosemary Clooney, or any number of the great recording artists of the past. “White Christmas,” “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” …even “Jingle Bells.” …the room wasn’t filled entirely with those who remember those singing stars, but were instead all ages and ethnicities, ready to indulge in nostalgia but with the twist of jazz that always keeps things contemporary.” - Theater Pizzazz NY

Aptly described by the Miami Herald as an artist blessed with "the warmth of Tony Bennett, the bite and rhythmic sense of Sinatra, and the sly elegance of Nat 'King' Cole," Allan Harris is a Brooklyn-born, Harlem-based vocalist, guitarist, songwriter, and band leader. With an impressive discography boasting fourteen recordings as a leader, Harris has established himself as one of the jazz world's most acclaimed vocalists, possessing a potent combination of dynamic vocal abilities, impeccable phrasing, and powerful emotional resonance.

Gloria Reuben is an actress, singer, and author whose credits span television, film, theater, and music. She was a back-up singer for Tina Turner on tour and has recorded three of her original albums. Gloria’s acting credits on television include the hit television series ER (a role that garnered her two Emmy® nominations and a Golden Globe nomination. Film credits include Steven Spielberg’s Lincoln (with Daniel Day-Lewis), Admission (with Tina Fey), and Reasonable Doubt (with Samuel L. Jackson). Her stage credits include Outstanding Lead Actress in a Play (Lucille Lortel Awards) for her portrayal of Condoleeza Rice in David Hare’s Stuff Happens at New York’s Public Theatre.

Jazz trumpeter, vocalist, and composer Jumaane Smith toured and recorded for 17 years with Michael Buble as his lead trumpeter and vocalist. He also was the featured guest soloist for Jackie Evancho’s Songs of the Silver Screen world tour. Smith has performed on five Grammy Award®-winning records (selling more than 60 million copies), two Emmy Award-nominated TV performances, the Grammy Awards with Stevie Wonder, in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story (trumpet solo), at The White House, on The Today Show, The Tonight Show, Oprah, Good Morning America, and American Idol. He also tours with his band to such world-class venues as Jazz at Lincoln Center, Vail Jazz Festival, Joe’s Pub, and many more.

 

DanceAspen presents “A Snowy Soiree”

Saturday, December 23, 2023 | 1:00 PM Second Show Added! & 4:00 PM – SOLD OUT!

Tickets: $18 Adult, $12 Child

A captivating and intimate soirée awaits at the Wheeler this December. This holiday-themed show will be approximately thirty minutes and performed on the main stage to a smaller audience for a truly cherished experience. Featuring the DanceAspen company in vibrant, festive costumes, patrons can enjoy post-show cocoa and cookies. The Wheeler lobby will be decorated for the holidays, so you can also take a moment for photo opportunities with the dancers. Come join us for an amazing afternoon and prepare to be dazzled. This is an all-ages, all are welcome performance. Families are encouraged to attend and celebrate the holidays in the beautiful, historic Wheeler Opera House.

For more information about these and other upcoming events at the Wheeler, visit www.wheeleroperahouse.com 

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