When asking yourself about something to do near me in Boulder with a group of friends or family, consider
CU Presents
Why CU Presents is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
CU Presents stands as the vibrant heart of the performing arts on the University of Colorado Boulder campus, offering a diverse and rich calendar of events that include hundreds of concerts, plays, recitals, and more annually. This makes it an exceptional place for friends and families to gather, share memorable cultural experiences, and enjoy world-class entertainment in a beautiful collegiate setting. Whether your group is passionate about classical music, contemporary performances, theater, or unique artistic expressions, CU Presents offers something for everyone. The venue’s welcoming atmosphere and the variety of performances make it an exciting social hub where people can connect over shared artistic interests. Additionally, CU Presents supports the community with artist series sponsorships, providing opportunities for corporate and private partnerships that add to the vibrancy of the series. Attendees often benefit from exclusive perks such as reserved seating in opera boxes, special receptions during intermissions, and dedicated parking spots, enhancing the overall experience. Situated conveniently in Boulder, CU Presents also brings together both local residents and visitors, making it a cultural cornerstone perfect for celebrating creativity with friends and acquaintances.
Here's what people think of CU Presents
As of recent, CU Presents holds a 4.2-star rating based on 16 reviews.
With an overall rating of 4.2 from 16 reviews, CU Presents has been positively received by its audience, who frequently praise the venue for its diverse programming and the quality of live performances it consistently delivers. Positive reviews highlight the excellent production values, the caliber of artists featured, and the beautiful university setting that adds charm to every event. Attendees appreciate the friendly staff, convenient location, and the well-managed event logistics that contribute to smooth and enjoyable experiences. Additionally, corporate and season ticket holders often mention the added benefits such as reserved parking and exclusive receptions, which enhance their connection to the arts community. On the other hand, some negative reviews touch on occasional issues such as limited parking for general attendees outside of reserved spots, and occasional difficulties with ticketing or seating preferences. A few patrons have mentioned disparities in acoustics depending on where seats are located, though these instances appear to be rare. Overall, the reviews suggest that while there are minor logistical challenges that could improve, the overwhelming feedback is positive, supporting CU Presents as a reliable and engaging venue that users return to for enriching cultural experiences.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Charla Jestic
The performance was incredible!! The cast was so talented; the wardrobe and sets were elevated, intricate, and engaging and the live orchestra really added to the overall experience. I drove over an hour to see this iteration of my favorite movie and was so impressed!
Ann King
We saw Big Fish the musical and it was a great performance. It was tight, the transitions were incredibly well thought out, the musical talent from orchestra to performers was inspirational. The cast was diverse (happy to see that). Parking and bathrooms are the biggest challenges on the Boulder campus for performance venues. If you are new to a specific venue, come early to investigate so you will know for next time - and don't let that deter you. If you like live performance, you will love CU Performs.
Roxann Magee
We simply loved the musical Big Fish by CU presents. We highly recommend the play, for a variety of reasons, including engaging storytelling from start to end, wonderful production values, extraordinsry costuming, and most of all, we loved the whole cast for their honesty in displaying the feelings that created a flow which carried the story through each scene. Bravo to this company!
Sarah Catchpole
The Takacs Quartet played with such sparkling brilliance, incredible timing and hearting stopping warmth last night at CU. I hope I will never, ever forget this stunning performance. The Grusin Hall has a great acoustic and the line of sight from all seats is excellent. If you want to see and hear the very best music making, go to the Takacs.
Pace Ockerman
OH WOW the box office was WILD!! Firstly the staff at the window, so nice almost TOO nice you KNOW nice so nice that you think if they are secretly GEESE who just smile and pass around tickets. I mean. Seriously, they were THAT nice!!! BUT THEN the USHERS came, oh my god, I can't even get THEM to do that. They were useless, completely like they were running around like LOST GEEESES in a PARKING LOT, with no HELP to anyone at all. I asked where my place was but NO ONE showed me they just ran away like they had better things!!! AND then PUBLIC bathrooms yes, do you hear me? It wasn't like at KING soopers, where geese apparently weren't allowed to have toilets? Magical discovery was going in and then WOW finding a BATHROOM like a goose friendly WONDERLAND?! so yes the checkout staff were cute little GEESE BUT the ushers NO, forget it I would come BACK maybe but only if you give the USHERS a CARD like you do with geese when they fly
How to reach CU Presents
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Why CU Presents may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at CU Presents with your friends?
CU Presents offers an exceptional gathering spot for groups looking to enjoy a vibrant, culturally rich outing. Located on the University of Colorado Boulder campus, this premier performing arts venue provides a diverse array of performances that appeal to varied tastes—making it an ideal destination to rally your friends or family. The atmosphere combines the excitement of live shows with the intimacy of well-designed venues, creating memorable shared experiences. Whether you and your group are fans of classical music, contemporary plays, or unique cultural events, CU Presents curates hundreds of performances annually, ensuring there is always something fresh and engaging to see. Furthermore, the campus setting offers an inviting backdrop with easy accessibility, thoughtful amenities, and an overall welcoming ambiance that fosters connection and enjoyment among attendees. This balance of artistic excellence, variety, and social friendliness makes CU Presents a top choice to host meetups where conversation, entertainment, and shared enjoyment come together seamlessly.
What kind of performances and activities can groups enjoy at CU Presents?
CU Presents is notable for its extensive range of performing arts, ensuring that groups can find shows matched to everyone’s interests. From classic theater, such as the renowned Colorado Shakespeare Festival productions, to innovative contemporary works like new operas from the CU New Opera Workshop, the programming is diverse and high quality. Music lovers can experience everything from orchestral concerts with live scores, seen in productions like "Titanic the Musical," to more intimate performances such as ukulele orchestras, known for their charm and audience participation. CU Presents frequently hosts seasonal events and holiday concerts, providing festive occasions perfect for group celebrations. Educational and engagement opportunities often accompany performances, inviting audiences into a richer appreciation of the arts. This variety means any meetup at CU Presents can be tailored: from an elegant evening of classical music to a lively, interactive theatrical experience, groups leave entertained and inspired.
Why is CU Presents ideal for a group meetup in terms of venue and atmosphere?
The venues associated with CU Presents are thoughtfully designed to support both performance excellence and group comfort. The Roe Green Theatre, the current home for the Colorado Shakespeare Festival, offers a comfortable indoor setting with excellent acoustics and sightlines, ensuring every seat enjoys a clear view and immersive sound. For those who appreciate outdoor summer classics, CU Presents typically offers this option as well, though the Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre is undergoing renovations through 2025. CU Presents' location on the university campus means ample parking and easy transit options, making group logistics straightforward. The campus itself provides green spaces and dining options, allowing groups to extend their gatherings beyond the performance into socializing before or after shows. Accessibility is a significant priority, with accommodations ensuring that attendees with disabilities can fully participate. This attentiveness to audience needs shapes an environment where groups feel comfortable, welcome, and engaged, making CU Presents not just a place to watch a show but a destination for meaningful social connection.
How does CU Presents encourage participation and interaction among group members?
CU Presents goes beyond passive entertainment by frequently offering interactive and inclusive experiences. Some performances, like the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain concert, invite audience members to sing along or even bring their own instruments to play, fostering active participation. Such moments break down barriers between performers and audiences, creating a communal vibe that’s perfect for groups wanting to share the moment together. Additionally, many productions incorporate talkbacks, workshops, or educational programs that invite discussion, deepening the group’s engagement with the performance and with each other. CU Presents also encourages “pay what you can” options for certain shows, lowering barriers to attendance and making it easier for friends or families with diverse budgets to come together. This flexibility and focus on shared experience highlight CU Presents as a venue that values not just the art on stage but the social connections it can inspire.
What are some unique experiences and events that make CU Presents stand out for groups?
Beyond the typical concert or play, CU Presents offers unique and memorable events that are ideal for group outings. The Colorado Shakespeare Festival is a standout tradition, having celebrated Shakespeare’s works for over six decades with performances that blend classic literature with contemporary relevance. This festival alone offers multiple chances to gather with friends and immerse yourselves in theatrical history and innovation. The CU New Opera Workshop presents new works that bring fresh stories and voices to the stage, appealing to adventurous groups interested in cutting-edge art. Seasonal and holiday performances add charm and thematic celebrations to the calendar, perfect for year-end gatherings or special occasions. Moreover, CU Presents regularly hosts touring ensembles and specialty acts ranging from jazz bands to international music groups, broadening the cultural horizon for attendees. This rich programming ensures that every meeting at CU Presents feels distinctive, with each event adding a special flavor to your group's shared adventures.
How accessible and convenient is CU Presents for hosting a group meetup?
Accessibility and convenience are key strengths of CU Presents, especially for groups planning a meetup. Situated within Boulder’s well-connected university campus, the venue benefits from ample parking facilities and public transportation links, simplifying arrival and departure logistics for everyone involved. The performance spaces are designed with accessibility in mind, providing accommodations such as wheelchair access and assistive listening devices to ensure all attendees have comfortable experiences. Ticketing options often include season passes and group discounts, aiding budget-friendly planning for larger gatherings. Additionally, the campus environment includes numerous nearby dining options, cafes, and green areas ideal for pre-show dinners or post-show discussions, making the meetup more than just a performance but a full social event. CU Presents’ commitment to inclusivity, comfort, and logistical ease creates an environment where groups can focus on enjoying the arts and each other’s company without unnecessary hassle.
Why do attendees rate CU Presents highly, and what does the mixed feedback reveal?
With an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from sixteen reviews, CU Presents is generally well-regarded for its quality programming and enjoyable atmosphere. Many attendees praise the venue for its diverse offerings, intimate settings, and professional production values. For instance, concerts and musicals receive compliments for live orchestration and engaging performers. However, some mixed feedback reveals occasional disappointments, such as a holiday concert that was criticized for an incoherent mix of musical styles and distracting visual effects. This range highlights that while CU Presents largely delivers exceptional experiences, tastes and production choices can be subjective. Ultimately, these reviews reflect a venue open to experimentation and variety, where most groups will find shows that resonate with their interests. Knowing the program’s diversity and CU Presents’ responsiveness to audience preferences can help group planners choose the right events for a satisfying outing.
What makes CU Presents a cultural hub and community centerpiece?
CU Presents plays a vital role in Boulder’s cultural landscape, serving as a hub where residents and visitors connect through the performing arts. Hosting hundreds of performances annually across multiple genres, it acts as a dynamic platform for artistic expression, education, and community engagement. Its association with the University of Colorado Boulder enriches its programming with academic talent and innovative projects like the CU New Opera Workshop, merging education with public performance. Community outreach and engagement programs extend the impact beyond just ticket holders, nurturing a broad appreciation of the arts. CU Presents thus functions not only as an entertainment venue but as a cultural institution that inspires creativity, conversation, and social cohesion. For groups looking to rally at a place with meaningful artistic heritage and community relevance, CU Presents is a compelling choice that combines entertainment with cultural enrichment.
How can hosting a meetup at CU Presents enhance social bonds among friends and family?
Sharing live performance experiences at CU Presents offers groups a powerful way to deepen social connections. Live art triggers collective emotions—whether laughter, awe, or contemplation—that create lasting memories and common ground for conversation. CU Presents’ intimate venues and interactive shows encourage interaction not only between performers and audience but also within groups themselves, fostering shared moments of joy or discovery. The variety of event types allows friends or families with different interests to find something engaging together, promoting inclusivity and mutual enjoyment. The convenience of the campus setting supports flexible social activities before or after the show, extending quality time together. Ultimately, a meetup at CU Presents can transform a simple outing into a meaningful occasion that strengthens friendships and family ties through shared cultural experiences.
What should groups know about tickets, scheduling, and planning for an outing at CU Presents?
Planning a group outing to CU Presents is straightforward thanks to its organized ticketing system and comprehensive schedule. The venue offers season tickets, single-show tickets, and sometimes pay-what-you-can options, which can accommodate different budget levels and group sizes. Early ticket purchases are advisable given the popularity of many shows, particularly festivals like the Colorado Shakespeare Festival. CU Presents publishes detailed performance calendars well in advance, allowing groups to coordinate their schedules easily. The university campus provides good transit and parking information, and CU Presents offers guidance on accessibility and venue amenities to facilitate smooth visits. Groups should consider arriving early to explore dining or campus attractions, making the outing more relaxed and complete. By preparing around these tips, hosting a meetup at CU Presents becomes an enjoyable, hassle-free experience focused on delighting in the arts together.