Historic Chautauqua Auditorium

MAKE HISTORY WITH US

Join us on our incredible journey as we transform the historic Chautauqua Auditorium into a year-round space that inspires, engages, and connects people from around the world. With your support, this once in a generation project will position the Auditorium as a year-round cultural hub ideal for hosting one of the world’s most influential arts events - the Sundance Film Festival

With the Sundance Film Festival debuting in January 2027, designers, architects, engineers, and builders aret ransforming the space to stay warm and welcoming all winter, making it possible to gather here year-round. Geothermal heating and carefully integrated insulated panels will keep audiences comfortable in every season while preserving the open-air feeling that has defined summer at Chautauqua for generations.

Chautauqua’s investment will preserve and protect the Chautauqua Auditorium, Boulder’s crown jewel, for generations to come.

The project includes:

• State-of-the-art nitrogen-based fire suppression system
• Structural reinforcement of historic building elements, including columns and trusses
• Insulated fabric shell, lining interior walls
• Radiant heating system powered by geothermal energy to ensure winter comfort
• Industrial generator with both single and three phase capabilities
• Acoustic and lighting upgrades to meet the technical requirements of high-profile film screenings
• Adjoining tent structure for taking tickets, events, etc.
• Accessibility enhancements so that all audiences can share in the experience

The Chautauqua community has an opportunity to bring this dream to life. We invite you to join us as one of the visionary leaders who will be forever etched in Colorado Chautauqua history and celebrated by generations tocome. Your generosity will help us create a new chapter in Chautauqua’s legacy of innovation. Together, we can keep thelights on all winter—and the story telling happening all year long.

Watch this video to learn more about the once-in-generation project

Watch this timelapse to see the construction in process!

Inside the 2027 Sundance Film Festival Venues: Chautauqua Auditorium Welcomes a New Era of Film

Westword: Chautauqua Auditorium is prepping for Sundance and a new century

November 10, 205: Boulder Daily Camera Article - Chautauqua Auditorium is Being Winterized For The First Time