Tabor Opera House Preservation Foundation, Inc.

Help us preserve a National Treasure of the West, right here in Leadville, Colorado

Mission: Revitalize Leadville's Historic Tabor Opera House

Help us raise $90,000 to meet our 2025 goal, which will fund operations, and match grants and historic tax credits to complete the exterior restoration of this beloved landmark.

Built nearly 145 years ago by Horace and Augusta Tabor with the help of immigrants and working-class locals, the Tabor Opera House has long been central to Leadville’s history — and we believe it’s key to the region’s future. Recognized by the National Parks Service as a National Treasure, the Tabor brings performing arts to rural Colorado, and offers summer programming like theater, music, comedy, and film; fosters cultural exchange; and provides a space for youth programs and community events. 

Since the City of Leadville acquired the opera house in 2016, the Tabor Opera House Preservation Foundation (TOHPF) has driven extensive exterior renovations. Now, it’s time to reimagine the interior, which hasn’t been remodeled since 1902, into an accessible, year-round arts venue with educational programs and vibrant community spaces — a venue that strengthens the local economy. On our way to that goal, your generous support will help us continue delivering the programs that patrons have come to enjoy.

2025 Accomplishments:

• Completed restoration on the exterior four walls of the opera house after 6 construction seasons!

• Provided diverse, live entertainment in partnership with Lyric Theatre of Leadville and over 17 local nonprofits and groups

• Served over 5000 visitors

• Hosted free youth workshops with the Tabor Youth Collective, a free Central City Opera performance for Lake County High School and gave away more than 200 tickets to youth and their families

• Created local arts jobs for the community and expanded programming

• Raised half the funding needed to replace the roof

• Completed a capital campaign plan for our next phase of renovation

Help TOHPF bring this vision to life by reaching our year-end $90,000 goal!