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

Designers, architects, engineers, and builders are working together to create a spectacular interior Auditorium Tent, harkening back to a time when tents were commonplace at Chautauqua. 

This  temporary venue is designed to provide a warm, welcoming space for 1,000 filmmakers, festival goers, performers, and community members during Colorado’s snowy winter.

Without changing the Auditorium’s exterior, footprint - or its historic charm - this creative adaptation will be installed each October and removed every May - ensuring the guests continue to experience the Auditorium’s unforgettable ambiance during the remainder of the year.

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 shell
• 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

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