Revitalizing the Mancos Opera House!

We envision the historic Mancos Opera House as a cornerstone for our community and region - a multi-use space where history, arts, creativity, and education converge to create connections and inspire people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds in Southwest Colorado.

About the Building: Located in the heart of downtown Mancos, the Mancos Opera House has been a central gathering place since 1910. The ground floor housed essential businesses, while the second floor featured a spacious auditorium that welcomed the region’s first motion-picture screenings, community dances, graduation ceremonies, and traveling theatrical performances.

Over the decades, the building has continued to evolve, once serving as a VFW hall, community meeting space, and, more recently, hosting a new generation of performers through local youth theater. Its enduring presence reflects the resilience and creativity of the Mancos community.

About the Campaign: Now, in 2025, The Mancos Creative District is launching a campaign to acquire, rehabilitate, and operate the historic Mancos Opera House. This project will help preserve and activate one of Southwest Colorado’s cultural treasures to serve as a vibrant hub for arts, education, and community events.

We have an overall goal of raising $1.5 million by May 2026. We have many grants in the works and we also need the support of our local community!

Extra Tax Benefits: The Mancos Opera House is approved as an Enterprise Zone Contribution Project by the State Economic Development Commission. This designation allows donors contributing $250 or more to claim a 25% State tax credit and a 12.5% State tax credit on in-kind donations. This credit is in addition to the Federal tax deduction for contributing to any 501 (c)(3) organization.

This is History in the Making!

What happens when you become part of the future of the historic Mancos Opera House?

You make music.

You make art.

You make memories.

You make community.

You make economic impact.

You make better lives.

You make a difference for generations to come.

You are part of history in the making.

The Mancos Creative District invites you to help preserve and elevate a cherished landmark at the heart of Southwest Colorado’s creative future. Your support will create a lasting legacy: a vibrant hub where arts, education, and community come together for generations.

Together, we can guide the Mancos Opera House into a bold new era, honoring its past, fueling creativity, and strengthening our community. Every gift helps write the next chapter of this remarkable story.

For more information and to talk about offering larger gifts, please contact Chelsea Lunders at chelsea@mancoscreativedistrict.com or 970-769-8429.