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Central City Opera House: A Jewel in the Rockies

Experience world-class opera in a historic jewel-box theater nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies. Est. 1878.

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The Central City Opera House, a National Historic Landmark, has been the centerpiece of Central City, Colorado, since 1878. Founded by Welsh and Cornish miners, it's the home of the nation's fifth-oldest opera company, hosting world-class performances in an intimate, historic setting.

A brief summary to Central City Opera House

Local tips

  • Check the Central City Opera's website for the summer festival schedule and special events.
  • Consider taking the Opera Bus from Denver for a convenient and scenic ride to Central City.
  • Book parking in advance, as the Teller Lot next to the Opera House often sells out.
  • Explore other historic sites in Central City, such as the Teller House Hotel and the Gilpin History Museum.
  • Note that Central City is at a high elevation (8,500'), so take it easy when you first arrive and stay hydrated.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Central City Visitor Center at 139 Nevada St, head east towards Eureka Street. Turn left onto Eureka Street. The Central City Opera House will be on your left at 124 Eureka Street. The walk is less than 5 minutes and involves a slight uphill grade.

  • Public Transport

    The Central City Free Ride operates on a 30-minute schedule with service to existing bus stop locations in Black Hawk and Central City. The Central City Opera House is a couple of blocks up the hill from either the Famous Bonanza or Johnny Z bus stops. If Main Street is closed, the closest shuttle stop will be at Dragon Tiger Casino- just across from the Century Casino parking lot. The shuttle is free.

  • Driving

    From I-70, take Exit 243 for the Central City Parkway. Follow the Central City Parkway to Central City. Turn left at the stop sign onto Main Street, then left again onto Eureka Street. The Opera House is up the street on your left at 124 Eureka Street. Parking is available in the Teller Lot adjacent to the Opera House for $20 per performance, or free covered parking is available at Century Casino, a block down the hill.

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Discover more about Central City Opera House

Nestled in the heart of the Central City/Black Hawk National Historic Landmark District, the Central City Opera House stands as a testament to Colorado's rich cultural heritage. Built in 1878 by Welsh and Cornish miners, the opera house was envisioned as a grand venue befitting Central City's reputation as “the richest square mile on earth”. Denver architect Robert S. Roeschlaub designed the Renaissance Revival stone and brick structure, while San Francisco artist John C. Massman added elaborate trompe l'oeil murals to the interior. For a time, Central City was considered Colorado's cultural capital, drawing prominent actors and performers. However, with the decline of mining, the Opera House eventually fell into disrepair and was used as a movie house. In 1932, a volunteer-driven restoration, led by Ida Kruse McFarlane, Edna Chappell and Anne Evans, revived the opera house and launched an annual summer festival. This tradition continues to this day, attracting patrons from across the country and abroad. The Central City Opera is the fifth oldest opera company in the United States. Each summer, the opera festival presents multiple performances, family matinees, and other events. The Opera House is also home to the Bonfils-Stanton Foundation Artists Training Program, which supports aspiring young opera singers. The 550-seat theater features plush seating installed in 1999, with many chairs commemorating Colorado pioneers and notable performers.

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