Peyton's Colorado Gives Day Campaign!

I have had the privilege to find my place here at Central City Opera earlier this year, and working here in my department has been an incredible eye-opener. By working in Development, I see directly who our audience is, what our organization means to people, and how our outreach impacts those in our community. Working with Central City Opera has shown me how the arts can truly change lives — how a single performance can move someone to tears, spark inspiration, or connect a community in ways words alone never could. This past summer, I watched audiences step into our historic Opera House, a jewel of Colorado’s cultural heritage, and experience that magic for themselves.

For those new to us: Central City Opera was founded in 1932 and is the fifth oldest opera company in the United States. Our annual summer festival brings world-class opera to the mountains of Colorado, showcasing both established stars and rising talent. Beyond the stage, our work continues all year through artist training, music education, and historic preservation — ensuring that the arts remain a vibrant part of Colorado’s identity.

Yet as public priorities shift and national arts funding faces uncertainty, organizations like ours rely more than ever on the support of individuals who believe in the value of creativity, culture, and community.

The arts mean the world to me. I got my BFA in Theatre, Film, and Television at CU because I believe in the power of the arts. To be one small cog in the giant machine of this very special organization gives me purpose, makes me excited to go to work everyday, and happy to know that I am helping keep the arts alive (in my small part).

Your gift this Colorado Gives Day helps Central City Opera continue its mission: to create extraordinary art, nurture the next generation of artists, and preserve a living piece of Colorado’s history. thuThese funds help keeps the lights on in our Opera House, the music in our schools, and the stage alive with stories that remind us who we are.

When you give to Central City Opera, you’re not just supporting an arts organization — you’re investing in the enduring power of music, storytelling, and shared experience.

Your gift would mean the world to me — Central City Opera holds a very special place in my heart. Thank you for supporting what we do.