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Live
$5,695 raised by 27 donors
28% complete
$20,000 Goal
Protect the Past. Power the Future.
For more than 130 years, the Historic Elitch Theatre has been a cornerstone of Colorado’s cultural history — a place where art, community, and imagination have thrived since 1891. Once home to the nation’s oldest summer stock theatre, the Elitch hosted legends such as Grace Kelly, Douglas Fairbanks, Vincent Price, Edward G. Robinson, and Cecil B. DeMille. It was also the site of Colorado’s first motion picture screening in 1896 — a symbol of how innovation and artistry have always met under this roof.
Today, thanks to our incredible community of supporters, the theatre is once again alive with performances, children’s theatre camps, concerts, and neighborhood events. Together, we are ensuring this Denver treasure continues to shine for generations to come.
Your Generosity Has Made a Difference
Because of your support, we’ve been able to:
💡 Improve our lighting and sound systems — creating a professional-quality experience for audiences and performers.
🔒 Strengthen building security — protecting this 134-year-old treasure for all who visit.
🌬️ Begin fundraising for air conditioning — to make summer events comfortable for everyone.
🎨 Restore historic spaces — preserving the theatre’s beauty and legacy for future generations.
Your Support Keeps the Story Alive
Your continued generosity fuels our next chapter:
🎭 Bring Theatre to Life — Fund essential stage lighting, sound, and equipment to expand our growing lineup of performances.
🏗️ Preserve History — Support restoration projects and upgrades that protect the theatre’s archives and displays.
🎟️ Inspire the Next Generation — Provide scholarships for our Youth Theatre Camp, giving children from all backgrounds the opportunity to learn, perform, and experience the magic of the stage.
💡 Keep the Lights On — Every donation helps sustain daily operations and maintain this beloved landmark.
🌟 Be a Part of the Circle That Keeps the Lights On — Become a monthly donor today and make an even greater impact!
Your first month’s gift — up to $100 — will be matched dollar for dollar, helping us keep the lights shining and the magic alive all year long.
The Spirit of Elitch Lives On
“Our architects told us that if we had taken another 5 to 10 years to start the restoration it would’ve just been sticks on the ground.” — Greg Rowley (Board President), speaking about the restoration of the Elitch Theatre.
“One of the greatest cradles of the drama in American history.”— Cecil B. DeMille, Summer Stock Alumnus (1905)
“As one of Colorado’s most iconic theatres, I declare the summer of Historic Elitch Theatre.”— Governor John Hickenlooper (2016)
“I could almost feel the presence of the famous stage people who have trod the boards (of that marvelous playhouse)… and I know I’m going to love it!” — Jane Wyatt, reflecting on performing at the Elitch in 1939.
A historic treasure inviting the community to gather, create, learn, and inspire.
About Us
The theatre closed in 1991 and the amusement park moved downtown in 1995. The theatre was saved, but it sat empty for a decade.
A nonprofit organization, The Historic Elitch Gardens Theatre Foundation was formed in 2002 to raise funds for the restoration, as well as to maintain, preserve and restore the theatre and the carousel pavilion. (The Foundation now works under the 'dba' of Historic Elitch Theatre -- aka HET.)
In 2006, the Foundation received $5 million in federal, state, and city funding, plus grants and private donations. Work began on phase 1 -- saving and restoring the historic exterior. The process began with restoring the building's exterior, including a concrete foundation under the exterior walls. The roof, gable, main entrance/lobby, and exterior walls were replaced and painted. A section of dressing rooms and shops on the West side of the building was demolished. Exterior restoration on the historic auditorium was completed in 2007.
Phase 2 of the restoration (2013-2014) included various health and safety upgrades, including restoring electricity and lighting throughout the building and the addition of a fire suppression system. This upgrade allowed the theatre to get temporary occupancy and begin tours and limited events.
With the completion of Phase 3 (2020-2021) restrooms were added, a new roof was put on, and various other upgrades were made, allowing for the theatre to gain a certificate of permanent occupancy.
Fundraising continues for interior renovations, including the need for theatre rigging, lighting, and sound. The vision is to serve as a community arts center for the education and presentation of theatre, music, and film.
Organization name
Historic Elitch Theatre
other names
HET
2002
Tax id (EIN)
46-0492147
Category
Arts, Culture & Humanities
Organization Size
Small Organization
Address
4600 W 37th PlaceMailing
PO Box 12580 .Denver County, CO, US
Jefferson County, CO, US
Boulder County, CO, US
Adams County, CO, US
Arapahoe County, CO, US