That’s what makes the Evergreen Mountain Art Celebration such a great event, and it’s even bigger and better in its 8th year. The event is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 28 and Sunday, June 29 at the Evergreen North Shopping Complex, 3719 Evergreen Parkway.

The juried fine art and fine craft show highlights 75 professional artists from Colorado and beyond. All of them use a range of mediums, including painting, jewelry, ceramics and more, to create works that honor mountain living and Western, Southwestern and rustic themes.

In addition to the art, visitors can enjoy live music. Colorado Roots Rock Unplugged, a duo that specializes in acoustic versions of classic rock, will be performing on Saturday and Link&Chain, a band of brothers performing reggae, will be on hand on Sunday. There will also be a drawing for a $1,000 Art Festival Shopping Spree at noon on Sunday.  

We interviewed Amber Calanni with Colorado Art Weekend about the event and what visitors should know.

Interview edited for brevity and clarity.

What were you looking for in artists this year?

We want to feature art that fits into the “Mountain Modern” flavor. “Mountain Modern” is a style that blends contemporary aesthetics with rustic, nature-inspired elements, but feels personal and connected to nature and elevated in presentation.

If someone has never attended the Celebration, what should they know?

They should know this festival is more than an art show, it’s a true celebration of Colorado mountain culture and “Mountain Modern” art. It’s free to attend, easy to access and full of authentic charm. Whether you’re an art lover or just looking to explore something new. Evergreen is a relaxed setting where you can enjoy art, meet the artists and connect with a creative community.

Why is it important to celebrate the arts at a time like this?

In a time when so much feels uncertain, the arts remind us of what grounds us; hope, beauty, self-expression and connection. Art gives us a chance to slow down, reflect and engage with something meaningful. This festival also gives families and individuals a reason to get outdoors, support artists and feel part of something positive and inspiring.

What do you hope people come away with?

We want visitors to leave feeling uplifted, like they’ve spent their weekend immersed in something special. Whether it’s a new piece of art, a meaningful conversation with an artist, hearing a great musical performance or simply the peaceful experience of walking the festival grounds, we want guests to take away memories that last well beyond the weekend.

For more information, visit www.EvergreenArtShow.com.

Learn About the Life of a Colorado Hat Maker

The Littleton Museum, 6028 S. Gallup St., is looking at the history of a renowned hat maker in its new exhibit, Kate Ferretti: The Life of a Colorado Hat Maker.

The exhibit opens on Friday, June 27, and focuses on Ferretti, a nationally-recognized hat maker. She entered the workforce at 13 and went on to build a family business that spanned nearly five decades. According to provided information, “this exhibition explores sources from Ferretti’s family, as well as oral histories from the collections of the Littleton Museum and History Colorado, to help tell the full story of this fascinating local maker’s life.”

For more information, visit https://visitlittleton.org/event/kate-ferretti-exhibit/.

Big Belmar Bash Brings Party to Lakewood

The City of Lakewood is celebrating Independence Day a little early, but with no less pomp and circumstance, with its Big Belmar Bash from 5 to 10 p.m. on Thursday, July 3, at Downtown Belmar, 7337 W. Alaska Drive.

The evening will feature something for all ages, including live music and children’s activities. There will also be a range of local vendors selling unique items and plenty of food and drink options.

Of course, the highlight of the night is a drone light show, which will begin at around 9:15 p.m. It will feature a fleet “of 250 cutting-edge drones with state-of-the-art LED lights” illuminating the night and “MIX 100 will provide a curated soundtrack for the drone light show,” according to provided information.

More information is available at www.Lakewood.org/BBB.

Clarke’s Concert of the Week — Elvis Costello & The Imposters at Bellco Theatre  

Elvis Costello is one of the greatest living songwriters we have and has been proving that repeatedly since his classic debut album was released in 1977. In the ensuing decades, he’s released several bulletproof records and worked with some absolutely amazing songwriters. In celebration of his stellar career, he’s bringing his band, The Imposters, andguitarist Charlie Sexton on the Radio Soul!: The Early Songs of Elvis Costello tour.

The tour is coming to Denver’s Bellco Theatre, 1100 Stout St., at 8 p.m. on Sunday, June 29. The music of Costello’s early career is some of his best, so this will be performance not to be missed. Get tickets at www.axs.com.

Clarke Reader’s column on culture appears on a weekly basis. He can be reached at Clarke.Reader@hotmail.com.

The post Clarke Reader: Head to Evergreen for an Arts Celebration appeared first on Colorado Community Media.

June is Pride Month and the Arvada Center is going big with three events that celebrate LGBTQ+ communities all over the state.

“We’re excited to invite the community to celebrate Pride with these three unique events this June,” said Sarah Kolb, marketing and communications director, in a provided statement. “Each event creates a sense of belonging and understanding, and learning through the arts has such a special ability to connect and entertain us. Working with these incredible collaborators from all across Denver allows us to bring events that celebrate pride and community to the Arvada Center, and we’re so grateful for their partnership.”

The first event will be held at the Center, 6901 Wadsworth Blvd., on at 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 12 and is called Pride In Place: A Colorado Country Concert celebrating LGBTQ+ country and bluegrass musicians.

The free event is hosted in partnership with Jefferson County Public Library and will feature performances from Amy Martin, Trace & Baerd, Morgan Harris Guitar, and Rosales and Summers. According to provided information, each group will take audiences on a journey as they explore important themes like place, sexuality, identity and love.

The next event is from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 14, and is Drag Queen Storytime with Miss Shirley. Another free, all-ages event co-hosted with the library, this one features an interactive story time and the opportunity to get to know Miss Shirley. It will also feature complimentary snacks and drinks.

Finally, there’s the Leather & Lace concert presented by the Denver Gay Men’s Chorus and Denver Feminist Chorus. The concert is at 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 15.

“It’s been a while since we’ve collaborated together, so it felt like a great idea for Pride Month to do something fun we haven’t done in a while,” said Dr. Clelyn Chapin, artistic director for the Denver Feminist Chorus. “All our concerts espouse a message that’s important to us and every song we sing has a reason for it.”

The show highlights the uniqueness of everyone’s gender expression and sexuality, which is something both musical organizations do throughout the year with their performances.

“We both have the same goal, but we approach it from a different artistic standpoint. When you put it all together, their style and our style, you get a new combined style that’s really powerful,” said Johnny Nichols Jr., artistic director for the Denver Gay Men’s Chorus. “This concert is about the things that bind us together as a community: love, family, friends and organizations that bring us together. The songs we’re singing highlight these experiences.”

Whichever event you attend, you’re going to get a powerful mix of entertainment and connection, both of which are extremely important these days.

“We hope to inspire freedom and openness and give everyone in the audience encouragement to be who they truly want to be,” Chapin said.

“We’re all in a community of love and we should be protecting, supporting and learning from each other,” Nichols Jr. added.

For more information on the Center’s Pride events, visit https://arvadacenter.org/events.

Celebrate All Things Puerto Rico at the Festival Flamboyán

The 40 West Arts District in Lakewood is celebrating the arts and culture of Puerto Rico with the Festival Flamboyán, beginning at noon on Sunday, June 8. The event will be held at The Three Leaches Theater, 1560 Teller St.

The festival will feature an artisan market from noon to 4 p.m., including a book fair, live music, a salsa class and food and drinks. From 5 to 10 p.m. attendees can see El Espectáculo — a variety show with two short plays, improv comedy, spoken word poetry and a special dance performance.

For more information, visit https://40westarts.org/events.

Take Advantage of Annual Aquatic Plant Sale 

The Colorado Water Garden Society is hosting its annual Aquatic Plant Sale from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 8 at the Hudson Gardens and Event Center, 6115 S. Santa Fe Drive in Littleton.

Attendees can browse through a diverse assortment of aquatic plants. like lilies, lotus and many other marginals at the free event. There will also be fertilizer tablets for sale. Additionally, staff will be on hand to share their advice with those in need.

For more information, visit colowatergardensociety.org or contact Vicki Aber at 303-423-9216 or docvicki@msn.com.

Clarke’s Concert of the Week — Coldplay at Empower Field

I’ve always connected to musicians that wear their hearts on their sleeve, and few bands have done so as wonderfully as Coldplay. They’ve made a career full of music that can be absolutely soaring and moving if you just allow it into your heart.

The band doesn’t tour often, but they’re bringing their Music of the Spheres World Tour to Empower at Mile High, 1701 Bryant St. in Denver, at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, June 10. They’ll be joined by openers Elyanna and Willow for what is sure to be a magical night under the stars.

Get tickets at www.ticketmaster.com.

Clarke Reader’s column on culture appears on a weekly basis. He can be reached at Clarke.Reader@hotmail.com.

The post Clarke Reader:Arvada Center Hosts a Range of Pride Events appeared first on Colorado Community Media.

Ever since the development of film as an artistic medium, women have been some of its most dynamic storytellers, both in front of and behind the camera. They’ve often been denied the recognition they deserve, but with its annual Women+Film Festival, Denver Film strives to ensure the works made by these creative voices are seen.

“We look through hundreds of films — both features and shorts — to ensure our final selections create a welcoming space for underrepresented voices, our local community and people new to the independent film scene,” wrote Ambriehl Turrentine, programming manager with Denver Film, in an email interview. “Getting to see audiences and filmmakers connect, reflect and empower one another through further dialogue is such a beautiful experience and reminder of why festivals matter.”

The festival begins on Friday, May 30 and runs through Sunday, June 1 at the Sie FilmCenter, 2510 E. Colfax Ave.

Attendees will be able to see features and short films as part of the event, as well as take part in a range of special discussions and activities. One of the event highlights is the annual Barbara Bridges Inspiration Award, which is going to Julia Stiles, who will be on hand to screen her directorial debut film “Wish You Were Here.”

We interviewed Turrentine about the festival, what she hopes audiences take away and more.

Interview edited for brevity and clarity.

What kind of films were you looking for this year?

Beyond the films being directed by and about women, I like to program films with care and purpose by looking for complex stories that can ultimately broaden our understanding of the world and each other. This year’s curated lineup certainly leans into that mission — from our Opening Night film, “Sally,’ which explores the career of astronaut Sally Ride and the sacrifices made in her personal life for social acceptance, to our Closing Night film, “The Librarians,” which showcases librarians (some of whom will attend in-person) on the frontlines fighting against censorship in the US.

If someone has never participated in the festival, what do you want them to know?

For someone new to Women+Film or film festivals in general, I’d want them to know that they are not only welcome to attend but also to participate. Attendees can expect to take a walk with compelling, independent stories from around the globe celebrating women in all their glory as well as engage with filmmakers, panelists and cinephile strangers (who hopefully won’t be strangers for long). This festival is just as much about our audiences as it is what’s presented on screen.

What do you hope audiences come away with?

Our goal is always transformation, so I hope our audiences leave moved, inspired and challenged to assess life differently — whether that be about identity, experiences or the power of storytelling itself. I hope they develop a deeper appreciation for the independent film scene, and especially stories told by women, because there are so many gems out there to be discovered. The films programmed in our festival of course honor women, but they also acknowledge the various societal factors that make each person unique and worthy of understanding — emphasizing that women cannot be defined by their gender alone.

The full schedule and tickets are available at www.denverfilm.org/.

Lakewood Kicks Off INSPIRE Arts

INSPIRE Arts Lakewood is the city’s monthlong celebration of Lakewood’s dynamic arts scene and it begins this year on Friday, May 30 and runs through Thursday, July 3.

The annual event is presented by Lakewood Heritage, Culture & the Arts and features a wide range of free and low-cost arts and cultural experiences at more than 20 galleries, cultural centers, shops and other venues across the city, according to provided information.

For more information, visit Lakewood.org/INSPIRE.

Get ‘On Your Feet!’ at Littleton Town Hall

The music made by Gloria and Emilio Estefan is the soundtrack for a whole generation of fans and also introduced the world to Latin rhythms and culture.

The story of the Estefans is coming to the stage as “On Your Feet!” at Littleton’s Town Hall Arts Center, 2450 Main St., from Friday, May 23 through Sunday, June 22. Most performances are at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday.

With a book written by Alexander Dinelaris Jr. and score built around the Estefan’s music, the show follows the arc of Gloria and Emilio’s careers. Tickets are available at https://townhallartscenter.org/event/on-your-feet/.

Clarke’s Concert of the Week — billy woods at the Marquis Theater

New York City’s billy woods doesn’t make the kind of rap music that you put on for a good time. His music is searing explorations of the struggles of life at the margins and the fight to have your voice be heard. His latest album, “GOLLIWOG,” uses the rich genre of black horror to chronicle the nightmares and ecstasies of modern living.

In support of the album, woods is performing at the Marquis Theater, 2009 Larimer St. in Denver, at 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 5. Don’t miss the chance to see one of the genre’s best—tickets are available at www.livenation.com.

Clarke Reader’s column on culture appears on a weekly basis. He can be reached at Clarke.Reader@hotmail.com.

The post Clarke Reader:DFF Women+Film Festival highlights power of story appeared first on Colorado Community Media.

On a recent Saturday evening at Green Spaces in Denver’s Five Points neighborhood, the air pulsed with rhythm, laughter and movement. Locals of all backgrounds swayed to the sounds of salsa, Cuban son and reggaetón at Tumbao Social, a new free monthly dance event created to honor Latinidad and foster a more inclusive and connected Latinx community in Denver.

At the heart of the event is Jesús David Muñoz, a Latinx dance artist and percussionist whose work bridges Indigenous, Mexican and Cuban traditions with ballet, modern and contemporary forms. With more than two decades of experience as a performer, educator and choreographer, Muñoz sees dance as both an ancestral language and a tool for liberation.

Muñoz is a current ensemble dancer with Cleo Parker Robinson Dance and a recent MFA graduate from the University of Colorado Boulder. With over 20 years of involvement in the international Latinx dance community, he has worked as a freelance artist, educator and choreographer. His work is grounded in his Mexican-Indigenous identity and is shaped by both traditional and Eurocentric dance forms from folklórico and Afro-Cuban rhythms to ballet and modern technique.

The Tumbao Social event, held at 2590 Walnut St., features a DJ, live percussion and community-led dance instruction. Attendees range from seasoned dancers to first-timers who come simply to move, listen and find community. Organizers describe it as a joyful experiment in redefining what Latinidad can look and feel like in today’s Colorado.

In this conversation, Muñoz reflects on his journey, the power of cultural dance, and the urgency of building accessible spaces for Latinx communities in Colorado.

🎙️La Ciudad: How did dance first enter your life? What was the moment it became part of your identity?

Jesús David Muñoz: I was 4 years old when I first saw my uncle perform the deer dance “La Danza del Venado” in my hometown of Delicias, Chihuahua, Mexico. He was a soloist in the Amalia Hernández company and danced as the deer in this Indigenous Yaqui tradition, portraying the journey of a hunted deer. That performance stayed with me. My whole family danced, at quinceañeras, parties, anywhere. Movement was part of life, of joy, of culture. Later, when I came to the U.S. at 12, I started learning Latin percussion and Cuban dance while also entering the world of ballet, modern and contemporary techniques.

Dance has always been natural for me, but realizing it could also be a career — a way to open doors for others — came with time and training. There’s wisdom in the body, in how our elders move and celebrate. That joy is deeply cultural and also political. Dance became part of how I understood who I was and who I could become.

🎙️La Ciudad: You often talk about creating accessibility spaces through dance. What does that look like in practice?

Muñoz: I’ve spent years learning both cultural and Eurocentric dance forms. That dual training helped me see how much generational wealth and institutional power is embedded in ballet and concert dance. But ballet is also a cultural form. It comes from the Italian and French courts. It’s ethnic, too. What’s missing in mainstream spaces is that same recognition and investment in Latinx cultural dance.

For me, building accessible spaces means creating pathways for our communities to see cultural dance as high art, as something complex and worthy of respect. It also means training in a way that honors tradition while opening doors, especially for young people, to pursue dance professionally. That’s why I partner with institutions like Cleo Parker Robinson Dance and BMoCA to bring cultural dance into established venues.

🎙️La Ciudad: You’ve worked across the U.S., Mexico and Cuba. How have these experiences shaped your work today?

Muñoz: Each place has deepened my understanding of how dance is rooted in resistance, survival, and connection. Working with Cleo Parker Robinson Dance, a company grounded in the African-American experience, showed me how cultural dance and concert dance can exist in unity. Cleo keeps those two worlds alive in one space, and that inspired me to do the same for Latinx communities.

There aren’t many people in the U.S. writing, theorizing or institutionalizing Latinx cultural dance in this way. So I see my role as both an artist and a cultural broker.

🎙️La Ciudad: You’ve said that some institutions or instructors use business models to teach cultural dance without honoring its roots. Do you see this as a form of erasure or appropriation?

Muñoz: Absolutely. What we’re witnessing is a pattern where elements of our culture — our rhythms, our movement, our stories — are being extracted from their original contexts and repackaged without the community, the history or the pain that shaped them. It’s not just about dance steps; it’s about erasing where those steps come from and who they belong to. And when that happens in elite or commercial spaces, it’s often done without credit or care. So yes, I see it as a form of cultural erasure. That’s why I teach the history before the choreography. It’s not enough to learn the movement, you have to understand the people behind it.

🎙️La Ciudad: How are your classes and community events, especially those with live music, different from traditional dance classes?

Muñoz: Right now, I’m focused on Tumbao Social at Green Spaces. … It’s open to everyone. We’re educating people before the dancing starts, about the history, the rhythms, the culture behind the movement. That’s what sets it apart. It’s not just about learning steps; it’s about context, connection and honoring where the dance comes from. I want the space to be a platform for other artists and community members, too.

🎙️La Ciudad: What message do you have for young Latinx, Chicanx or Indigenous artists who feel invisible in the mainstream arts world?

Muñoz: First, believe in your power. Courage is more useful than safety. We often think we need to feel safe before we act, but the truth is, we need to step into our own power and capacity. Build your community, find your people, and keep showing up, even when it’s hard.

Also know this: cultural dance is high art. It carries complexity, legacy and beauty. We need more of our people leading that conversation, not just participating in it. I want to build spaces where others can see themselves reflected and take that as a call to action.

🎙️La Ciudad: Where can people find more information about your upcoming events, classes and your work with cultural liberation through dance?

Muñoz: The best way to stay connected is through my website boulderafrolatindance.com. I regularly post about upcoming classes, events like Tumbao Social, and new collaborations. Whether you’re a dancer, a musician or just someone looking for community, that’s where you can find everything we’re doing to build spaces of movement, healing and joy.

The post Jesús David Muñoz uses dance to reclaim Latino identity and challenge cultural erasure appeared first on Colorado Community Media.

Invertebrates represent many of the most ecologically important species on the planet, as well as some of the most culturally relevant. They’ve inspired religious beliefs, landscapes, traditions and much more.

Now the critical role invertebrates play in Mexican culture is explored in Legacies: Invertebrates of Mexico, the Butterfly Pavilion’s latest exhibit. Legacies not only provides a look at some of the insects that live in Mexico, but allows visitors to learn about their importance to modern life.   

“A lot of people don’t necessarily think of insects as animals,” said Jennifer Quermann, senior director of communications and marketing at the Pavilion. “But when they meet them and learn about their personalities, people are more likely to want to help protect them.”

The exhibition runs at the Butterfly Pavilion, 6252 W. 104th Ave. in Westminster, through next year and is included with a general admission ticket. To put Legacies together, the Pavilion collaborated with several partners, including the Consulate General of Mexico in Denver, the National Institute of Anthropology and History of Mexico, Calaveras en mi Ciudad and Harvest Of All First Nations.

As part of the exhibit, visitors have the opportunity to check out live animals like millipedes, scorpions, tarantulas, slipper lobsters and more, and learn about the various roles they play in life in Mexico. That includes everything from food sources to red dye, which is made from cochineal bugs.

“It is important to us that these stories are told,” said Sara Stevens, director of animal collections. “Without invertebrates, the stories and culture of Mexico would be very different than it is now.”

In addition to the animals, the exhibit also features sensory elements like soundscapes and natural scents to bring guests to the Mexican landscapes, and interactive educational activities that emphasize the importance of partnerships and local conservation.

“You can’t just do conservation work in one place,” Quermann said. “Community science is so important and there are many ways to get involved. We all need to be thinking of ways to work together.”

The importance of collaboration is highlighted in the annual Monarch butterfly migration, one of nature’s most stunning displays. The Pavilion does volunteer work in Mexico’s Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve to protect the butterflies’ winter habitat, while also encouraging people in Colorado to plant Milkweed, a critical fuel source on their migration.

The aim of the Pavilion’s work is people will come away with a new appreciation of the animals and an interest in protecting them.

“One great thing about insects is that with minimal effort, you can make a big impact,” Stevens said. “It’s a great return on investment.”

Information and tickets are available at https://butterflies.org/legacies-invertebrates-of-mexico/.

Denver Ballet Theatre Dances to PACE Center 

Ballet, much like opera, deals in big emotions. That’s what makes it so compelling. And that’s what the Denver Ballet Theatre is bringing to the Parker Arts, Culture & Events (PACE) Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., at 1 and 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 3 and Sunday, May 4, with its presentation of “Paquita.”

According to provided information, “Paquita” is a “breathtaking, romantic ballet featuring gypsies, a murderous plot, forbidden love, a heroic rescue and a grandiose wedding set in the south of Spain.”

Don’t miss this top-tier cultural experience at https://parkerarts.org/event/denver-ballet-theatre-presents-paquita/.

Colorado Stars of Magic Bring an Unforgettable Evening to Lakewood

Those who love a good magic show are in for a real treat with the Colorado Stars of Magic’s performance of One Unforgettable Magic Show at 7 p.m. on May 9 at the Lakewood Cultural Center, 470 Allison St. 

The show has been designed by Cosmo Solano, the organization’s director, to offer a completely unique spin on the magic performance. Solano hand-selected magicians like Shane Cohen, Shawn Preston, Brad Montgomery and Scott McCray to give audiences a night full of hilarious moments and heart-stopping surprises. Each magician has their own special talents and act, and together, they’re sure to create an unforgettable evening. 

Information and tickets are available at www.coloradostarsofmagic.com.

Clarke’s Concert of the Week — Jack White at Mission Ballroom

Jack White is one of the modern-day embodiments of indie rock. Ever since he burst onto the scene with The White Stripes, he’s never lost his passion for the guitar or music. He’s constantly experimenting, not only in how he makes music but what that music sounds like. It doesn’t always hit, but his latest album, “No Name,” is a certified banger and his best in years. It’s an eclectic and electric record that truly rips.

In support of the album, White is coming to the Mission Ballroom, 4242 Wynkoop St. in Denver, at 8 p.m. on Thursday, May 8 and Friday, May 9. These will be concerts of rock music in the truest sense. Don’t miss it.

Get tickets at www.ticketmaster.com.

Clarke Reader’s column on culture appears on a weekly basis. He can be reached at Clarke.Reader@hotmail.com.

The post Clarke Reader: Butterfly Pavilion celebrates insects’ legacies in Mexico appeared first on Colorado Community Media.

People may have certain perceptions in their mind when they hear the name Angkor Wat or the Khmer Empire that inhabited Cambodia for centuries. Some of those perceptions may be true, but others are the results of limited knowledge and lack of information.

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science’s newest temporary exhibition, “Angkor: The Lost Empire of Cambodia,” aims to provide greater insight into the fabled empire and what daily life looked like for the people.

“The name of the exhibit turns a lot of the ideas we may have about the Khmer Empire on its head,” said Dr. Michele Koons, director of Anthropology and curator of Archaeology at the museum. “While French explorers were the ones who made the western world aware of Angkor, it was never lost. It was still used by the Cambodian people for religious and cultural purposes.”

“Angkor: The Lost Empire of Cambodia” runs at the museum, 2001 Colorado Blvd., through Aug. 24. The exhibition is included as part of a general admission ticket.

The exhibit explores all areas of life in the empire, which lasted from the 9th to 15th centuries. Angkor was the capital city of the Khmer Empire and the world-famous Angkor Wat temple complex is located in the city.

According to provided information, visitors will be able to see more than 100 carvings, sacred sculptures and ancient relics, many of which are being seen outside of Cambodia for the first time. Given the history of artifacts being stolen from the country, it’s important to note the exhibit was created in partnership with the Cambodian government.

The museum also worked with members of the local Cambodian community to enrich the exhibition’s offerings.

While the details of and scope of the items on display are breathtaking, there are also interactive components seamlessly built into it, so guests can try some hands-on learning. These include a Bayon Wall Scanner, which allows guests to explore bas-reliefs, revealing scenes of daily life, work and worship in Angkor, and a Lidar Mapping Display, which shows how this cutting-edge technology was used to deepen our understanding of the Khmer.     

“These allow guests to see how the city was laid out and provides a picture of the empire’s infrastructure,” Koons said. “They had developments that we still use today, including roads and hospitals and religious facilities.”

Those interested in a visual history lesson shouldn’t miss “Angkor: The Lost Empire of Cambodia,” at the Museum’s Infinity Theatre, which gives a more in-depth story of the empire.

It’s was critical for organizers that the exhibit end with a look at modern Cambodia and the many ongoing efforts to reclaim pieces of their history that have been stolen and sold over the years. It shows that these sites are still vital to the Cambodian people and have always been.

“This is a part of the world that not many think of when they think about the major ancient civilizations,” Koons said. “Everyone knows about Egypt, but the Khmer Empire is a reminder that there are many important civilizations worth investigating.”

More information and tickets are available at www.dmns.org. 

Denver Home Show Returns for Another Year of Inspiring Design

The ever-popular Denver Home Show is back from Friday, March 21 through Sunday, the 23rd at National Western Complex, 4655 Humboldt St. in Denver. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

According to provided information, this year’s lineup features more than 250 experts in kitchens and baths, flooring, windows, cabinetry, home décor and more, making it the perfect place to ask questions and get advice for your spring and summer projects. Craig Conover, star of Bravo’s “Southern Charm” will also be on hand as part of the festivities.

The show offers something for everyone, so get details at www.denverhomeshow.com/.

‘The Putnam County Spelling Bee’ Comes to Northglenn

William Finn and Rachel Sheinkin’s perpetual musical favorite, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” is coming to Northglenn’s Parsons Theatre, 1. E. Memorial Parkway, thanks to the Phamaly Theatre Company and Northglenn Arts, through Sunday, April 6.

Phamaly is a disability-affirmative company and so they have a few special performances during its run, including a “Relaxed Performance” (similar to sensory-friendly), Access Performances and a Masked Performance. There will also be special guests spellers like Miss Colorado, Denver 7’s Nicole Brady, CPR’s Ryan Warner and Drag Queen Jessica L’Whor.

More information and tickets are available at https://northglennarts.org/programs/northglenn-arts-presents/.

Clarke’s Concert of the Week — Yasmin Williams at Swallow Hill

For some people, it’s difficult to get into instrumental music. But, if you find the right musician, instrumental works can be just as gripping as anything with vocals. Yasmin Williams is the right musician. She mixes up a brew of folk, progressive rock and even some jazz, and the end result is absolutely beautiful. Last year she released “Acadia,” and it was one of my favorite albums of the year. I’m certain it will sound beautiful in the spring weather.

In support of the album, Williams will be performing at Swallow Hill Music’s Tuft Theatre, 71 E. Yale Ave. in Denver, at 8 p.m. on Friday, March 21. This will be an evening of masterful music, so get tickets at https://swallowhillmusic.org/event/yasmin-williams/.

Clarke Reader’s column on culture appears on a weekly basis. He can be reached at Clarke.Reader@hotmail.com.

The post Clarke Reader: Explore the Wonders of Angkor at DMNS appeared first on Colorado Community Media.

A rising tide lifts all boats, and that may just be the case with the film scene in Colorado. Not only is the state’s film community constantly becoming more dynamic and diverse, but people outside the state are catching on. With Boulder’s status as one of the finalists for the Sundance Film Festival, there’s no telling what the future will bring.

But we do know the 21st Boulder Film Festival (BIFF) is here to celebrate another great year in film, with plenty of movies and events to delight cinephiles of all kinds.

“We’re excited about so many aspects of BIFF this year. Our line-up of films is excellent,” wrote Robin Beeck, co-founder and executive director of the festival, in an email interview. “The world can feel chaotic these days, but great film can offer inspiration and escape.”

This year’s festival runs from Thursday, March 13 through Sunday, the 16th at locations all over the Boulder area. Passes for multiple screenings and events are available, or patrons can purchase single tickets for individual films.

This year, BIFF features 68 films from 18 countries and will include around 60 filmmakers—20 0f whom are from Colorado. The event also features three world premiers and six U.S. premieres, according to provided information.

“We have a lot of special guests attending screenings this year, including the world-renowned fashion designer Kenneth Cole, who is featured in a moving documentary about his activism over the years,” wrote Kathy Beeck, co-founder and director of BIFF, in an email interview. “We will also host Eileen Collins, the first female spacecraft commander in history, whose documentary Spacewoman will be featured as our closing night film; Mark Mothersbaugh from the influential 1980s band Devo; and Olympic gold medalist Edwin Moses.”

The festival is particularly well-known for its special events, which include CineCHEF, where award-winning Colorado chefs create dishes inspired by their favorite films and compete against their peers, and The Adventure Film Program, which highlights new adventure films. Audiences can check out adventure shorts, features and discussions with filmmakers and world-class adventurers, plus Call2Action conversations with community groups, according to provided information.

There are also numerous filmmaker Q&As and opening and closing night parties.

When it comes to what films to check out, both Kathy and Robin encourage people to explore and try something new. That’s the best way to embrace the myriad of opportunities BIFF presents and come away with a new perspective.

“We hope that attendees are inspired and entertained by the unique and fascinating stories that are told at BIFF this year,” Kathy wrote. “We hope they enjoy great food, fun parties and good music. We hope they meet some of the 60 filmmakers in attendance and that BIFF 2025 is an experience that they won’t soon forget.”

See the full schedule and purchase tickets at https://biff1.com/.

Parker Celebrates Student Artworks

The Parker Arts, Culture & Events (PACE) Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., is hosting a display of some of the best work by students in the district with the Student Art Exhibit: Bright Futures 2025.

Running through Thursday, March 27, the exhibit includes pieces from local high schools: Denver East, Douglas County, Grandview, Legend, Rock Canyon and Chaparral. All the participating students took place in this year’s Portfolio Day, an enrichment day for high school students to have their portfolios reviewed by industry professionals, according to provided information.

More details available at https://parkerarts.org/event/art-exhibit-bright-futures-2025/.

Denver’s ‘Catalysts’ Honored by DTD

The Denver Theatre District (DTD) announced “Catalysts,” a new exhibit by British-American artist Jann Haworth (co-designer of The Beatles’ “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” cover), which will be installed on the side of the Buell Theatre, on Champa Street between 13th Street and 14th Street.

The work features a collage of 34 stenciled portraits of behind-the-scenes individuals, who are integral to the success and vibrancy of Denver arts and culture, as selected by participating arts organizations, according to provided information. The work began in summer 2024 and will be on display on the billboard, which consists of three panels, each 26 feet by 24 feet, until 2027.

For more information, visit www.catalystsproject.com.

Clarke’s Concert of the Week — Adrian Younge at the Marquis

Adrian Younge is one of the modern musicians keeping jazz alive and thriving. Not only has he worked with some of hip-hop’s best voices and brought a jazz element to their music, but he co-founded the Jazz Is Dead record label with Ali Shaheed Muhammad, of A Tribe Called Quest. The music he produces is always vibrant and dynamic and sounds both classic and contemporary. 

It seems like Younge is always working on some new project, but he’s taking time out to stop by the Marquis Theater, 2009 Larimer St. in Denver, at 7 p.m. on Saturday, March 15. Get tickets for the show at www.livenation.com.

Clarke Reader’s column on culture appears on a weekly basis. He can be reached at Clarke.Reader@hotmail.com.

The post Clarke Reader: BIFF goes big in its 21st Year appeared first on Colorado Community Media.

Relationships between mothers and daughters are frequently explored in fiction for a reason — these relationships are often dynamic and complex, raising all kinds of questions about how people connect to each other and find common ground.

This familial relationship goes under the microscope in Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Marsha Norman’s “’night, Mother,” which runs at the Town Hall Arts Center, 2450 Main St. in Littleton, through Sunday, March 9. The production is part of the Center’s Limited Engagement Series and performances are at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday.

According to provided information, the show focuses on one night in the lives Thelma Cates (Billie McBride) and her daughter, Jessie (Megan Van De Hey), as they struggle to make a critical and irreversible decision.

“It’s a gladiator fight between a mother and a daughter. A force of wills,” said director Joye Cook-Levy in an email interview. “A question of autonomy. ‘Where do I start, and you end?’ ‘Are we our mothers, or are we ourselves?’”

By using only two actors, the show allows these two powerhouse performers to stretch their creative muscles and work together to find the truth and humanity in each character.

“It’s not often that I get to be onstage with the likes of a Billie McBride, and discovering this piece together has been so enlightening,” Van De Hey wrote in an email interview. “It’s a marathon as an actor and we leave every night, spent but excited to come back the next night and see what we find throughout this rehearsal process. I feel so lucky to get to work on a piece that’s so rich and heavy with meaning.”

It rare that audiences are treated to a story that is so relationship-driven and for the actors it was a challenge to which they had to fully commit. Each woman has her own reasons for her choices and by the end of the play, audiences will better understand who the characters are and their decisions.

“By the end of the play, these two women have learned and know more about each other, than they did in their entire lives together,” McBride wrote in an email interview. “It’s funny and sad, but it opens a door to an amazing kind of discovery.”

The characters aren’t the only ones who have been transformed by the end of “’night, Mother.’” The hope is that audiences will go on their own journey as the story unfolds and they get a window into each woman.

“What you leave with is a transformational, cathartic experience as an audience member,” Cook-Levy wrote. “You are choosing to have a soul-whispering, emotional journey. And we need those experiences in our all-too-disconnected way of living these days. This play is like going to a gym for your soul.”

More information and tickets are available at www.TownHallArtsCenter.org.

A Fabricated Reality at RRCC

As part of Month of Photography Denver, the ART Gallery at Red Rocks Community College, 13300 W. 6th Ave. in Lakewood, is hosting “Fabrications,” a solo exhibition by lens-based installation artist, Melanie Walker.

The show runs through Wednesday, March 26, and features immersive installations that are both beautiful and unsettling. According to provided information, Walker uses photography in ways that push the boundaries of the form and create works that will take the viewer to a new place.

Find more information at https://denvermop.org.

Celebrate the Beginnings of Spring with the Highlands Ranch Community Association

Spring is just on the horizon and the Highlands Ranch Community Association Spring Bazaar is welcoming the season with the opportunity to purchase some unique items.

The bazaar is from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 1, at the Eastridge Recreation Center, 9568 University Blvd. The free event will feature more than 100 vendors displaying and selling unique and high-quality products, such as photography, sculpture, specialty foods and more.

The bazaar is the perfect opportunity to find just the right decorations for the warm months, so don’t miss it. Information is available at https://hrcaonline.org/Events/Details/spring-bazaar.

Clarke’s Concert of the Week — Joy Oladokun at Summit Music Hall

Arizona’s Joy Oladokun is a singer/songwriter in the style of artists like Tracy Chapman and Chris Stapleton — she has such a distinctive pen and vocal approach that you instantly recognize it when their music comes on. Over the course of their albums, including last year’s “Observations from a Crowded Room,” they’ve cultivated a dedicated fan base that includes peers like Maren Morris, Chris Stapleton and Noah Kahan.

In support of the album, Oladokun is coming to Summit Music Hall, 1902 Blake St. in Denver, at 7 p.m. on Saturday, March 1. They’ll be joined by singer/songwriter Luke Tyler Shelton for what is sure to be an uplifting night of music.  

Buy tickets at www.livenation.com.

Clarke Reader’s column on culture appears on a weekly basis. He can be reached at Clarke.Reader@hotmail.com.

The post Clarke Reader: Of Mothers and Daughters at Town Hall Arts Center appeared first on Colorado Community Media.

Marching band instruments, ballet costumes and painting supplies are just a few things that have been funded in recent years by a Littleton program that supports arts and culture initiatives.

The Arts and Culture Grant program, which started in 2023, will open later this month for its third annual grant cycle. The program, funded by the city’s 5% lodger’s tax on hotels, motels and short-term rentals, provides grants to support and cultivate arts and culture in Littleton, according to the city.

“These grants help realize our shared vision of Littleton as a community where creativity will thrive,” said Anna Dyste, the city’s public art administrator. “I think everyone who lives and works here agrees that arts and culture are a vital part of Littleton’s unique character.”

In its first two years, the program distributed about $500,000 in grant awards to 93 recipients. The number of recipients more than doubled — from 30 to 63 — from the first year to the second year, Dyste said.

“This grant program has proven that our community wants, and needs, continued investment in the arts,” Dyste said. “We are only able to fund a fraction of requests. Last year, for example, we received about $4 in asks for every $1 we had to spend.”

For the upcoming grant cycle, the city adjusted eligibility requirements to narrow the program’s focus. Applicants are now required to be registered nonprofits and must provide publicly-accessible programming within the designated boundaries of Littleton, Dyste said. Groups must also have a minimum of three consecutive years in operation, the program’s website states.

The Littleton Arts and Culture Board reviews applications and makes recommendations to the city council for disbursement of the funds. Organizations may apply for up to $30,000, and funding may be spent on anything that advances the organization’s goals and supports the mission of promoting the arts in Littleton, the city’s website states.

The Littleton Independent is among the recipients of the second cycle of funding from the city’s Arts and Culture Grant Program. (As a matter of policy, funders exercise no control over editorial decisions.) The newspaper received a grant from the city to support coverage of arts and culture in Littleton and the south metro area, in honor of Sonya Ellingboe.

Ellingboe, a longtime force in Littleton’s civic and cultural life, was an arts and culture journalist and columnist until her retirement in late 2023. Her articles regularly appeared in the Littleton Independent, as well as Colorado Community Media’s other newspapers in Arapahoe and Douglas counties. She was recognized last year with the first-ever Arts and Culture Award from Littleton.

Ellingboe’s daughter, Kirsten Orahood, said her mother was pleased to learn about the Littleton Independent’s grant in her name.

“What a wonderful honor for her,” Orahood said. “That’s very exciting. I got goosebumps when you told me about it.”

Other recipients of the Arts and Culture Grant in the current cycle include the Alley Arts Studio, the Arapahoe Community College Foundation, the Bega-Littleton Sister City Exchange program, Cycling Without Age Littleton, the Littleton Symphony Orchestra, Voices West, Western Welcome Week and many more organizations.

Just over 25% of the revenue from the city’s lodger’s tax goes towards the Arts and Culture Grant program, Dyste said. Other revenue from the tax goes towards Bemis Public Library, the Littleton Museum, the Town Hall Arts Center and Hudson Gardens & Event Center — the four “major cultural institutions” in the city, as designated by the city council, Dyste said. Some of the funds also go towards the city’s communications department and other programs like murals, public art and other requests.

Applications for the Arts and Culture Grant program will be open from Feb. 28 to April 11, and funding will be available to recipients in January 2026, according to a factsheet about the program. More information about the program and how to apply is available on the Littleton Museum’s website.

Dyste said she encourages anyone who may be on the fence about applying to apply for the grant.

“Sometimes, all it takes is a small investment for big, impactful things to happen,” she said.

The post Littleton Arts and Culture Grant program heads towards third year of supporting arts initiatives appeared first on Colorado Community Media.

It seems like as long as New Orleans has been around, it’s been a cultural hub. And one of its most impactful exports is jazz — legends like Louis Armstrong, Jelly Roll Morton and the Marsalis family all hail from the city.

To celebrate the immortal music that comes from the Crescent City, the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra (CJRO) Sextet presents “A Night in New Orleans” with Tatiana LadyMay Mayfield in two special performances. The first is at 3 p.m. at Sunday, Feb. 16 at the Lakewood Cultural Center, 470 S. Allison Parkway, and the second is at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 21 at the Parsons Theatre, 1 E. Memorial Parkway in Northglenn.

“New Orleans is the place where jazz took root,” said Mayfield, a vocalist who has been making a name for herself all over the country. “For this show, we’re embracing the city as a melting pot of music. It’s going to have different vibes throughout — funk, classics and original works written to fit in with the theme.”

The CJRO Sextet features bandleader Jared Cathey (saxophone/reeds), Shane Endsley (trumpet/horns), Adam Bartczak (trombone), Tom Amend (piano), Eric Hitt (bass) and Dru Heller (drums). It’s led by artistic director Drew Zaremba.

“We’re not only doing music written in New Orleans, but also music written about New Orleans or associated with the city,” he said. “There will be a lot of music folks know and recognize and some they’ll learn about. We want to remind people that jazz is more than historical — it’s a current, living art form.”

Zaremba and Mayfield went to the same college and she was featured on the CJRO’s fourth album, “Golden Lady.” In addition to her vocal work, she’s a musician, composer and educator who is currently the Assistant Professor of Contemporary Popular Music at Lamont School of Music at the University of Denver. Mayfield said she’s built up a sincere rapport with her fellow musicians and thoroughly enjoys performing with them.

“Everybody on stage is bringing 100 percent to the music and every time I’m on stage, it’s like I’m playing with friends and family,” Mayfield said. “The CJRO is one of my favorite bands to play with.” 

For Zaremba, all the CJRO’s performances are a chance to connect with audience members and remind them of the power of jazz as a dynamic music genre. And he hopes listeners will connect with the musical vibrancy of New Orleans.

“I hope audiences listen and dig in in a way they maybe haven’t before,” he said. “It’s a chance to really get into the tradition of this beautiful music and I hope people leave with big smiles from the great time they had.”

Information and tickets are available at www.coloradojazz.org/concerts.

CSO Scores The Infinity Saga at Boettcher

Marvel Studios’ execution of The Infinity Saga is one of the crowning cinematic achievements of this century, and the music for each film and character add to the unifying experience of seeing everyone join together at the story’s end. The Colorado Symphony is hosting a celebration of the music and films with its Infinity Saga Concert Experience.

Conducted by Christopher Dragon and held at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 15 and at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 16 at Boettcher Concert Hall, 1000 14th St. in Denver, the concert covers 23 films in one massive experience, with scenes from the films shown on screens. It’s an opportunity to catch up with some of your favorite super heroes and recreate that same rush you had in the theater.

Assemble your tickets at www.coloradosymphony.org.

Parker Welcomes the Year of the Snake

The Town of Parker is joining with numerous organizations, including the Dragon Boat Festival, Denver Chinese School and Douglas County School District, to celebrate the Year of the Snake with its 2025 Lunar New Year Celebration.

Held at the PACE Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 15, the event will feature culturally-rich performances and activities, all designed to provide enjoyment and understanding. Attendees can sample mini classes, live entertainment and much more.

Information and reservations are available at https://parkerarts.org/event/lunar-new-year/.

Clarke’s Concert of the Week — David Gray at the Buell Theatre

The music made by British singer/songwriter David Gray is perfect for this mid-to-late winter time we find ourselves mired in. His blend of acoustic songwriting and electronica touches create just the right kind of tunes to wrap yourself in. His latest album, “Dear Life,” continues his streak of enchanting and experimental releases.

In support of the album, Gray will be performing at the Buell Theatre, 1350 Curtis St. in Denver, at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 18. It’s the perfect meeting of artist and venue, as I’m certain his lovely music will sound great in the theater.

Get tickets at www.axs.com.

Clarke Reader’s column on culture appears on a weekly basis. He can be reached at Clarke.Reader@hotmail.com.

The post Clarke Reader: Take a Sonic Trip to New Orleans with the CJRO appeared first on Colorado Community Media.