When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
Denver Center for the Performing Arts
Why Denver Center for the Performing Arts is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) is a vibrant hub of creative expression, offering a diverse range of theatrical experiences that cater to all tastes. Located in the heart of Denver, this esteemed institution is nestled within the expansive Denver Performing Arts Complex, a four-block, 12-acre site that boasts ten performance spaces and over 10,000 seats. Founded in 1972, the DCPA has evolved into a premier destination for live theatre, acting classes, and rental facilities, making it an ideal spot for gathering with friends to enjoy a Broadway show, explore immersive theatre through their Off-Center program, or simply immerse in the beauty of opera and symphony performances. The DCPA's commitment to community engagement and its role as a nurturing ground for new plays further enriches its appeal as a cultural centerpiece in Denver. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the DCPA provides a unique opportunity to connect with the city's thriving arts scene and create lasting memories with friends.
Here's what people think of Denver Center for the Performing Arts
As of recent, Denver Center for the Performing Arts holds a 4.5-star rating based on 288 reviews.
Reviews of the Denver Center for the Performing Arts are overwhelmingly positive, with an impressive 4.5-star rating from over 288 reviews. Many patrons express their delight with the variety of performances, from Broadway shows to immersive experiences, and praise the excellent facilities and navigation. One reviewer noted that the DCPA surpasses expectations even when compared to renowned performing arts centers in other major cities like New York and Los Angeles. The volunteers and staff are consistently highlighted for their knowledge, cheerfulness, and helpfulness, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.
On the positive side, reviewers frequently mention the exceptional quality of performances, such as those by Opera Colorado and the Colorado Symphony, which have moved audiences to tears with their powerful presentations. The immersive theatre experiences offered by Off-Center are also highly praised for their innovative storytelling and interactive nature. Some reviewers appreciate the contribution of the DCPA to Denver's cultural landscape, noting that it has helped dispel any notion of a lack of cultural sophistication in the city.
While negative reviews are rare, they often focus on minor issues such as accessibility or the occasional disappointment with a specific show. However, these criticisms are generally minor and do not detract from the overall high regard with which the DCPA is held. In conclusion, the reviews demonstrate that the Denver Center for the Performing Arts is widely regarded as a fantastic venue for cultural enrichment and social gatherings, offering a unique blend of artistic excellence and community engagement.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ashhh !
I went here on a school field trip to see Hamilton. This was such a pretty place. It was unfortunate that they didn't accept cash but the show and everything else made up for it. The show was amazing, the area was clean, and the view was magnificent. Would definitely come again.
c “cfl” lane
Such a great place to see a play! So many theater options, from Broadway to local shows. Musicals, drama and comedy. Symphony is wonderful as well. Decent places nearby for a drink or bite and several of the venues host private functions as well. Always a stimulating artistic adventure!
Jay Jay
Saw Mamma Mia today - amazing show. The ushers were all so kind! The security, however, sucks ass! They are obnoxious and rude - tried to ask two of them twice where the elevator was and they practically pushed my 85 year old dad walking with a cane through the line. Argus security is the worst!!!!!
Private Name
My husband and I saw A Christmas Carol on December 22nd at 7pm. It was packed and the show was AMAZING! The cast was just fantastic and the special effects made it kinda scary actually so we were impressed. Of course, you are not attending a public show unless a few people in the audience get confused and think they are the main event...This was the case for us as two teenagers behind us were talking the whole entire show. That did not spoil it though as the show was still a lot of fun and a cup of wine helped the immersion. This was one of those nights where it was in the negatives so it was very cold on our way out. We also had to go to the 7th floor of the parking garage despite getting there 45 minutes early (there are multiple plays going on at once so keep that in mind).
Chelsea C
Love this complex even if it’s quite a drive away from Colorado Springs. I usually find parking elsewhere down the street cuz the attached garage is quite pricy. Gorgeous design to the open area complex housing the gateways to many different shows and plays. Gorgeous to walk around outside before your show starts. Many different theaters within the same connected complex. Be sure to check ahead of your trip to see if there are street closures or construction. Give yourself extra time to get settled and not have to rush or be late to your show.
How to reach Denver Center for the Performing Arts
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Why Denver Center for the Performing Arts may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Denver Center for the Performing Arts with your friends?
Gathering your friends or family for an outing at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) offers a unique blend of cultural richness, entertainment variety, and vibrant social atmosphere that few places can match. With a stellar rating of 4.5 from nearly 300 reviews, its reputation as a premier venue stands strong. The DCPA acts as the heartbeat of Denver’s performing arts scene, located in the expansive Denver Performing Arts Complex that spans four blocks and hosts over 10,000 seats. This makes it ideal for groups seeking a memorable experience steeped in theater, music, and dance. Whether your group leans toward immersive, cutting-edge theater or classic Broadway-style productions, DCPA caters to all tastes with world-class performances and innovative programming. The center is not only a showcase for entertainment but serves as a social hub where groups can share inspiring moments, spark conversations, and even participate in acting workshops together. Its sizable venue space, multifaceted theaters, and integrated dining options provide diverse settings for reconnecting with loved ones. Rallying at DCPA means immersing in communal cultural delight that fosters both shared memories and appreciation for the arts.
What exciting activities and performances can you experience?
The Denver Center for the Performing Arts offers an unparalleled roster of activities designed to captivate groups with diverse interests. At its core, the venue features cutting-edge theatrical productions through the Denver Center Theatre Company and the Denver Center Broadway, including long-running Broadway hits and innovative new plays. Its spaces—like the Ellie Caulkins Opera House, the Temple Hoyne Buell Theatre, and the Helen Bonfils Theatre Complex—are known for their architectural beauty and superb acoustics, enhancing every performance experience. Beyond traditional theater, DCPA embraces immersive and interactive experiences, most notably through their acclaimed Off-Center program. This initiative pushes theatrical boundaries by positioning audiences "at the center of the story," creating live, richly textured performances where viewers become part of the narrative, ideal for adventurous groups. Music enthusiasts can relish concerts at the Boettcher Concert Hall, home of the Colorado Symphony, while dance lovers enjoy performances by Colorado Ballet. Moreover, the DCPA offers workshops and community classes, enabling groups to engage hands-on with acting and theatrical arts. This range of stimulating activities ensures any group visit is filled with variety, depth, and excitement.
Why is the Denver Center for the Performing Arts perfect for group meetups?
The DCPA is meticulously designed to accommodate groups seeking both large-scale and intimate gathering experiences. Its vast complex comprises ten theaters and multiple performance spaces spanning several blocks, allowing groups to choose from a variety of event formats—whether attending a grand musical or a smaller, experimental play. The conveniently connected theaters via the iconic glass galleria make movement between performances smooth and social, ideal for groups who want to explore multiple shows or socialize between acts. Additionally, ample parking combined with downtown Denver’s accessibility means your meetup won’t be hampered by logistical hassles. The center also boasts elegant lounges, bars, and dining venues on site, providing perfect spots for pre-show meetups or post-performance discussions, rounding out the group experience with comfort and style. The welcoming and inclusive atmosphere encourages conversation and celebration around arts appreciation, making it more than just a viewing venue but a communal event space. For groups desiring an enriching outing that blends entertainment, culture, and connection, the DCPA offers all the right ingredients.
How does the historic and architectural environment enhance your visit?
Visiting the Denver Center for the Performing Arts is also a feast for lovers of history and architecture, adding layers of meaning and ambiance to any gathering. Founded in 1972 as the brainchild of Donald Seawell, the center evolved from a visionary plan to transform Denver into a national arts destination. The venue seamlessly combines historic and modern elements: the Ellie Caulkins Opera House, once the Auditorium Theatre, was renovated into a state-of-the-art opera house retaining historical charm. Boettcher Concert Hall, opened in 1978, is the nation's first concert hall designed for theater-in-the-round, creating intimate concert experiences. The Temple Hoyne Buell Theatre, added in 1991, caters to grand Broadway shows with its soaring ceilings and technologically advanced stage. Surrounded by the vast Denver Performing Arts Complex, with its iconic 80-foot glass canopy connecting facilities, the entire space inspires awe and conversation. Such architectural grandeur and historic vibrancy give groups more than just entertainment—they get to share moments in a landmark cultural hub that represents Denver’s artistic growth over decades. This backdrop enriches the meetup experience, inspiring curiosity and admiration.
What makes the Off-Center program a standout for immersive group experiences?
Among the most innovative offerings at DCPA is the Off-Center program, which redefines how audiences engage with theater. Launched in 2010, Off-Center started as an experimental theatrical "test kitchen" and has blossomed into a signature element of Denver’s cultural footprint. This program creates immersive, interactive productions where audiences don’t just watch but become active participants in unfolding stories. Shows like "Sweet & Lucky" and collaborations with artists like David Byrne involve multi-sensory, 360-degree environments that invite exploration and personal connection, making them perfect for groups looking for unusual, unforgettable experiences. The program’s productions encourage lively group discussions afterward, as guests share their distinct interpretations and reactions, deepening the social connection. Off-Center’s cutting-edge approach has earned national acclaim and helped position Denver as a hub for immersive art, attracting visitors eager for theater that goes beyond traditional stagecraft. For groups craving fresh and dynamic entertainment, Off-Center offers a captivating blend of artistry and engagement.
How do community involvement and learning opportunities at DCPA benefit groups?
Beyond performances, the Denver Center for the Performing Arts serves as a nurturing ground for community engagement and education, providing enriching opportunities that benefit groups seeking cultural growth together. The center offers acting classes and workshops open to the public, which groups can sign up for to experience the craft of theater firsthand. These courses cater to a broad range of skill levels, from beginners looking for fun creative outlets to more serious hobbyists or aspiring artists. Participating in classes together cultivates camaraderie, sparks creativity, and provides a unique shared learning experience that extends the meetup beyond just attending shows. Additionally, DCPA’s commitment to developing new plays and supporting playwrights adds an educational dimension, with occasional talkbacks, artist panels, and behind-the-scenes tours that groups can attend to deepen their understanding of theatrical production. This combination of arts education and community involvement transforms group visits into holistic cultural excursions, combining enjoyment with personal and collective enrichment.
What dining and social amenities enhance group experiences at the center?
The Denver Center for the Performing Arts thoughtfully incorporates dining and social spaces that complement and extend the theatrical experience for groups. Its strategically located restaurants and lounges offer convenient spots to gather before or after shows, making it easy to plan a full evening of celebration or casual conversation. These venues provide menus ranging from sophisticated dining to lively bars, accommodating various preferences and budgets. The convivial atmosphere encourages guests to mingle and reflect on performances over shared meals or drinks, enhancing connection and engagement among group members. Furthermore, catering options are available for private events and receptions within the complex, ideal if your group wants to customize their outing or celebrate a special occasion in a dedicated space. These amenities ensure that socializing flows naturally with the cultural offerings, creating a balanced outing where enjoyment extends beyond the performance itself. For groups eager to combine fine arts with fine dining and friendship, the DCPA’s amenities make hosting meetups especially convenient and enjoyable.
How accessible and convenient is the Denver Center for the Performing Arts for groups?
Accessibility and convenience are major strengths of the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, making it an excellent choice for group outings. The entire Denver Performing Arts Complex is well connected via public transportation and motor routes, including easy access from major highways and pedestrian-friendly downtown streets. The presence of an eight-story parking garage with 1,700 spaces directly attached to the complex eliminates parking stress, a common concern for large groups visiting urban venues. The glass galleria linking theaters creates sheltered walkways, facilitating smooth movement between stages even in inclement weather, which is a valuable feature for comfort and safety when coordinating group excursions. The DCPA is also committed to accessibility for guests with disabilities, offering assistive listening devices, wheelchair-accessible seating, and services to accommodate various needs, ensuring everyone in your group can fully participate. The overall convenience of the location and thoughtfully designed infrastructure allow groups to focus on enjoying their time together without logistical worries.
What cultural significance does the Denver Center hold for Denver and beyond?
The Denver Center for the Performing Arts is more than a venue; it is a cultural cornerstone that has significantly shaped the artistic landscape of Denver and the wider region. Since its founding in 1972 by visionary Donald Seawell with support from the Helen G. Bonfils Foundation, the DCPA has helped transition Denver from a modest theater town to a nationally recognized arts and entertainment destination. Its role as a home for touring Broadway productions, original plays, opera, ballet, and symphony concerts showcases the city's deep commitment to cultural diversity and excellence. The economic impact of blockbuster shows and the consistent draw of audiences from across Colorado and the nation contribute to downtown Denver’s vibrancy and growth. Arts education and community outreach programs foster talent development, cultivate audiences, and enrich lives, making DCPA integral to the city’s identity and quality of life. For groups visiting or living locally, joining the Denver Center for the Performing Arts means connecting with a living tradition of creativity, innovation, and community pride that continues to inspire.
In sum, the Denver Center for the Performing Arts stands as an exceptional choice for hosting meetups with your friends or family. It provides a dynamic range of performances and activities, fosters strong social and educational engagement, and offers the perfect combination of convenience, accessibility, and ambiance. Whether seeking classic theater, groundbreaking immersive experiences, or enriching cultural education, groups will find DCPA an inspiring place to rally, connect, and create lasting memories.