Film Festival and Dance Festival This Weekend!
The Boulder International Film Festival, AKA BIFF, starts this weekend with the celebrated Laura Linney making an appearance for the premiere of her film, Wildcat. Also — Low Ticket Alert! Comedian Chris Fleming tickets are going fast so hurry if you want to catch “a master of his craft”! This weekend you can also enjoy a variety of plays, concerts and classes from Erie and Denver, to Lafayette and Longmont.
TODAY/TONIGHT, Thursday, February 22
ART & SIP: WATERCOLOR DOODLE CARDS
One of the reasons that watercolor is so loved is that the medium naturally lends itself to a chaotically organic expression. Transform that chaos into art as we make our
own custom greeting cards by drawing with ink on top of whimsical watercolor doodles.
Instructor Leigh Putman has designed the class for both beginners as well as experienced arts and crafters. Grab a drink and get creative – beer, wine, fizzy water and snacks are available to purchase at the Atrium Bar. Register below or call 303-651-8374.
Longmont Museum, 400 Quail Rd., Longmont
4:00 & 8:00 p.m.
Cost: $40
Info: 303-651-8374
THREE TO TRANGO
Curious? Come and check out these three on an inspiring evening delving into the remarkable journey of professional climbers Matt Segal, Jesse Huey, and Jordan Cannon. They will share their extraordinary achievement of completing the second-ever free ascent of the challenging “Cowboy Direct” route on Pakistan’s iconic Nameless Tower. These intrepid adventurers will take you on a gripping narrative through the heart of their 20,469-foot expedition, shedding light on the various challenges they faced, the unbreakable spirit that drove them forward, and the success that crowned their relentless efforts. Stick around after the presentation for an engaging Q&A session where you can interact with these legendary climbers and gain insights into their world of high-altitude exploration.
Chautauqua Auditorium, 301 Morning Glory Dr., Boulder
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $18
Info: 303-440-7666
CONCERT: MUSIC OF THE AMERICAN WEST(ERN)
Three musical amigos (classically trained and able to play just about anything and everything under the sun) take us on a musical journey through the American west a la some of your favorite Western film scores, including scores by the legendary Ennio Morricone. Presented in conjunction with the Museum’s “Picturing the West” exhibition.
The live performance by Montage features Deborah Schmit-Lobis (piano-accordion), Tracy LaGuardia (violin/vocals), and Nick Rossi (cello/guitar/banjo/vocals) was formed several years ago when Tracy was approached to do a sensory-friendly concert at the Boulder Public Library. She formed the trio and the event was such a huge success Montage was born. They weave their own special magic with original compositions as well, bringing all of the elements together in a lovely montage of image and sound.
Longmont Museum, Stewart Auditorium, 400 Quail Rd., Longmont
7:00-9:00 p.m.
Cost: $12-$18
Info: 303-651-8374
FRENSHIP
With their chart-topping hits and innovative soundscapes, FRENSHIP will guide you through a sonic landscape that transcends boundaries and connects hearts. From dance floor anthems to introspective ballads, their music will take you on an emotional rollercoaster with their infectious sound and heartfelt lyrics.
Formed in 2013, FRENSHIP began as a collaboration between friends, James Sunderland and Brett Hite, who met selling spandex at Lululemon. Drawing inspiration from folding pants, the duo set out to create music that embodied the essence of human connection. In 2016, FRENSHIP gained international recognition with their breakout hit single, “Capsize,” featuring Emily Warren which reached platinum certification in multiple countries. Since then, Frenship has garnered critical acclaim and Join the climb as FRENSHIP leaves their indelible mark on the industry and fans alike.
The Fox Theatre, 1135 13th St., Boulder
8:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $20
Info: 303-447-0095
LASER SHOW: ELTON JOHN
Elton John has sold 300+ million records over six decades — making him one of the best selling artists of all time. Celebrate his larger than life persona and the Rocket Man’s powerful music in gorgeous laser light at Fiske!
The cutting edge projection system from Laser Fantasy mesmerizes your eyes with vibrant colors cutting their way through the fog to our 360-degree wrap around screen – all while our laser engineers fly you through the universe in beat to your favorite jams! This week’s presentation of Elton John music showcases some of his well-known hits:
- Benny and the Jets
- I’m Still Standing
- Goodbye Yellow Brick Road
- I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues
- Levon
- Crocodile Rock
- Your Song
- Daniel
- Tiny Dancer
- Rocket Man
- AND MORE!
Fiske Planetarium, 2414 Regent Dr., Boulder
10:00 p.m.
Tickets: $10+
Info: 303-492-5002
Thursday-Saturday, February 22-24
ANON(YMOUS)
“Anon(ymous) is {a} stunning retelling of an epic quest.” St. Paul Pioneer Press
Separated from his mother, a young refugee called Anon journeys through the United States, encountering a wide variety of people — some kind, some dangerous and cruel — as he searches for his family. From a sinister one-eyed butcher to beguiling barflies to a sweatshop, Anon must navigate through a chaotic, ever-changing landscape in this entrancing adaptation of Homer’s Odyssey.
LOFT THEATRE, University Theatre Bldg. 261, Boulder
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $20
Thursday-Sunday, February 22-25
MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE
LAST WEEKEND for this extraordinary new dance show! Message In A Bottle is a spectacular new dance-theatre show from five-time Olivier Award nominee, Kate Prince, inspired by and set to the iconic hits of 17-time Grammy Award-winning artist Sting, including “Every Breath You Take,” “Roxanne,” “Walking On The Moon” and more.
With a mix of exhilarating dance styles, high-energy footwork and breathtaking athleticism, Message In A Bottle tells a unifying and uplifting story of humanity and hope. The peaceful village of Bebko is alive with joyous celebrations. Suddenly, under attack, everything changes forever. Three siblings, Leto, Mati and Tana, must embark on perilous journeys in order to survive. Message In A Bottle is the latest masterpiece from the ground-breaking choreographer behind several West End hits including Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, and features the astonishing talents of dance storytelling powerhouse, ZooNation: The Kate Prince Company.
“This is what dance is supposed to do. This is how it should make you feel.” Sunday Mirror
Buell Theatre, DCPA Complex, 14th and Curtis St., Denver
Tues.-Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sat./Sun., 2:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $30
IMPROVISED SHAKESPEARE
The Improvised Shakespeare Company® proudly presents an evening of spontaneous comedy featuring the language and themes of William Shakespeare! Based on one audience suggestion (the title of a show that has never been written), the dazzling players create a brand new, fully improvised Shakespearean masterpiece right before your eyes. Nothing has been planned out, rehearsed, or written. All of the dialogue is said for the first time, the characters are created as you watch, and if ever you’re wondering where the story is going…so are they! See the show TimeOut Chicago calls “Staggeringly brilliant!,” and “Downright hilarious!” You’ve never seen the Bard like this before!
Garner Galleria Theater, DCPA Complex, 14th and Curtis St., Denver
Thurs.-Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sat./Sun., 2:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $45
Friday, February 23
IMAGINE! NATION ART & MUSIC EVENT
Head to the Dairy Arts Center for an evening celebrating the talents of Imagine! artists and musicians. In conjunction with the artists on view, the event will showcase the incredible works of Imagine! artists; Gabe, Bobbie, Tessa, and Gerald. It’s not just an art exhibition; Imagine! musicians will be performing with students from School of Rock Broomfield. The music events take place in the Carsen Theater. Come and support these amazing artists.
**Admission is free, but tickets are required for the live music performances.**
Imagine! is a not-for-profit organization that supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We believe in the potential and abilities of all people. Our services include supporting artists to create and showcase their masterpieces.
Dairy Arts Center, Carsen Theater, 2590 Walnut St., Boulder
5:00-8:00 p.m.
Tickets: $25-$35
Info: 303-440-7826
HARPIST LEONARD JACOME
Leonard Jacome is a globally-celebrated harpist who brings together musical influences from all over the Spanish-speaking world. An experienced teacher and the inventor of his very own harp, he will discuss how all aspects of culture are communicated through music. Free admission, though a donation is suggested.
The Arts Hub, 420 Courtney Way, Lafayette
7:00 p.m.
REGISTRATION: $28
Info: 303-229-1127
SUPER DIAMOND – NEIL DIAMOND TRIBUTE
San Francisco’s Super Diamond has become one of the most popular live shows at major nightclubs, theaters, ballrooms and public events throughout the United States. For over a decade the band has consistently performed sell-out shows at venues such as Irving Plaza in New York, 930 Club in Washington D.C., Bimbo’s in San Francisco, and House of Blues venues in Chicago, Los Angeles, San Diego, Cleveland and Dallas to name but a few.
Many would say that Super Diamond has transcended the label of “tribute band” by passionately immersing themselves in Neil Diamond’s huge repertoire and delivering a high-octane show of unforgettable classics such as Cracklin’ Rosie, Sweet Caroline, Forever in Blue Jeans and many others. Super Diamond has also performed at landmark venues and events such as Hollywood Bowl, Taste of Chicago, Fenway Park in Boston, Coors Field in Denver and numerous fairs, festivals and corporate celebrations across the country and overseas.
Boulder Theater, 2032 14th St., Boulder
8:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $25
Phone: 303-786-7030
Friday-Sunday, February 23-25
BOULDER INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
The 20th Annual Boulder International Film Festival (BIFF) brings films and filmmakers from all over the world to Boulder and Longmont for a four-day celebration of the art of cinema. This year the BIFF is showcasing the best films by new and emerging filmmakers, as well as some of our industry’s most talented directors, producers, and actors.
Adding to the BIFF experience are events featuring nationally renowned chefs, filmmaker talk-backs, filmmaker happy hours, multiple opening night galas, legendary parties, talented musicians, an Adventure Film Pavilion, the BIFF (at) Home Virtual Festival (March 4-17), and much more.
Laura Linney will be on hand after the screening of Wildcat, in a Q&A with Ron Bostwick. The star of all four seasons of Netflix’s Ozarkand has received seven Emmy Award nominations and her 9th SAG Award omination for her portrayal of Jason Bateman’s on-camera wife, Wendy Byrde. Don’t miss the CineChef event – our own 24 Carrot Bistro is included in the line-up!
The main venue for BIFF 2024 will again be the historic Boulder Theater in downtown Boulder. You’re just a click away from the best party about film in Colorado!
Boulder Theater, 2032 14th St., Boulder
Starting at 10:00 a.m.
Tickets: Start at $25
Phone: 303-786-7030
MARIPOSA COLLECTIVE: EMERGENCE
“Emergence” marks the 30th anniversary of the Mariposa Collective, originally founded in 1994 in Boulder by Barbara Dilley, Diane Butler, Carol McDowel, and Polly Motley, and is their first full length evening production presented by Mariposa in almost 20 years. After a period of repose, Mariposa decided that the theme of “emergence” would be perfect to express their re-emergence into the Boulder community with new members in a new era.
The Mariposa Collective brings a diversity of styles and points of view to the stage in “Emergence”. Pieces all unite under the theme of “Emergence,” but achieve this theme through multiple styles including Hip-hop, Classical Indian Dance, Afro-Cuban, Contemporary, and Fusion Dance. The performance features choreography by Riley Bartlett, Cassy Clark, Aleighya Dawkins, Rachel Halmrast, Alli Jones, Jeny Jones, Evelyn Miller, Jesus Munos, Kim Olson, Celia Grannum Perarnaud, Nicky Shindler, Flora Silberman, Sara Swain, Betsy Tobin, Zhuldyz Tokbulatova, Shreya Venkatesh, and Brandon Welch.
Dairy Arts Center, Grace Gamm Theatre, 2590 Walnut St., Boulder
Fri./Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 2:30 p.m.
Tickets: $15-$25
Info: 303-440-7826
RUBICON
Based on a true story, Rubicon tracks the career of one of history’s most effective spies. Starting in the years leading up to World War II, the plot follows Elizabeth “Betty” Pack as she transitions from society wife and mother to steely, seductive agent for British and American Intelligence. As missions take her from Madrid to Warsaw to Washington, Betty uses her charm, beauty, and intellect as tools of espionage, leveraging her sexuality to influence global affairs.
Overflowing with intrigue and wit, Rubicon is an engaging portrait of an unsung heroine and the sacrifices she makes to change the course of the war. It addresses the stigma attached to choosing professional determination and personal agency over traditional gender expectations. It’s a work that’s suspenseful, alluring, and surprising all at once.
Kilstrom Theatre, DCPA Complex, 14th and Curtis St., Denver
Fri.-Sat., 7:00 p.m.; Sun., 1:30 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $35
CEBOLLAS
Three Latinas are forced to take an unexpected road trip from Albuquerque to Denver. Making their way north on I-25, they don’t travel for business or for pleasure. They just need to transport a dead body across state lines. But, then again, what are sisters for?
Speeding past the familiar locales of Bernalillo, Santa Fe, Huerfano, Colorado Springs, and Castle Rock, they reflect on shared family history and muse about the lives their daughters might live. On this seemingly endless stretch of highway, their bickering, laughter, singing, and discoveries will fundamentally change – and strengthen – their relationship.
New Mexican culture and the immutable bond of sisterhood take center stage in this outlandish comedy, which garnered stellar audience response at the 2022 Colorado New Play Summit. Join us for the world premiere of Cebollas!
Singleton Theatre, DCPA Complex, 14th & Curtis St., Denver
Fri.-Sat., 7:00 p.m., Sun., 1:30 p.m.
Tickets: $35-$62
Saturday, February 24
BLACK MOVEMENT FESTIVAL
The Black Movement Festival celebrates the vibrant tapestry of African-American culture and is dedicated to uplifting, empowering, and honoring the Black community of Colorado while fostering a global appreciation for Black history and culture.
Workshops include the infectious rhythms of Samba movement; an all-level slow-flow yoga class with sound immersion, a body percussion workshop with stepping, tapping, snapping, flipping and clapping (think STOMP) and multiple energetic performances and soul-stirring speeches.
Dairy Arts Center, 2590 Walnut St., Boulder
Various Times
Admission: $30-$60
Info: 303-440-7826
BELLA GAIA – BEAUTIFUL EARTH
Bella Gaia is a globally recognized immersive experience created by award winning director, composer, and violinist Kenji Williams.
Amazing imagery of the Earth from space, data visualizations, and stirring live performances of music and dance from around the world are threaded by an orbiting flight path and stunning NASA imagery from the International Space Station. Described as a silk road experience expanded to a global scale, the award winning Bella Gaia tells a cosmic story, exploring both human and natural expressions of the living universe, illuminating the relationship between human civilization and nature as we enter the
of the life changing power of seeing the Earth from space. This moving celebration of our cultural heritage leaves audiences with a transformative sense of wonder and inspiration seeing the Earth as a multifaceted, yet cohesive working organism.
Run time: 1 hour (30-minute film with a 30-minute related science talk with plenty of time to ask questions)
Fiske Planetarium, 2414 Regent Dr., Boulder
2:30-3:30 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $10+
Info: 303-492-5002
CHRIS FLEMING!
Chris Fleming was named one of Variety’s 10 Comics to Watch and has a new hour-long special out on Peacock titled HELL. He has amassed over 80 million views on his Youtube channel and has appeared in Comedy Central’s CORPORATE, Waffles and Mochi, Netflix’s Last Laugh as well as voicing characters in Adventure Time, Twelve Forever, Summer Camp Island and Bigtop Burger. The Huffington Post has called him “perhaps one of the best things on the internet.”
Of his live show, Chortle says, “you can’t take your eyes off this unpredictable, exciting performer.” “Glorious absurdity” proclaims the New York Times, “a master of his craft” according to AVClub, and “truly one of a kind” -Paste Magazine. Splitsider says Chris is, “a madman and…genius.” According to Vulture, “equal parts imagination and inferiority complex, a combination that has led him to create some of the most bizarrely funny performance art taking place online and onstage today.”
Boulder Theater, 2032 14th St., Boulder
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $35-$45
Phone: 303-786-7030
THE FRETLINERS
Winners of the 2023 band contests at both the 50th Annual Telluride Bluegrass and the 51st Annual Rocky-Grass Festivals, The Fretliners are a powerhouse progressive bluegrass quartet born around a single microphone in a barn in the Rocky Mountains. Influenced by many genres and steeped in that high and lonesome sound, the band carves through the bluegrass landscape leaving new pathways and possibilities in their wake.
Featuring Tom Knowlton on guitar, Taylor Shuck on upright bass, Dan Andree on fiddle, and Sam Parks on mandolin — these prolific pickers and singers have fluent musical conversations that invite their audiences into the dialogue. Expect hard driving energy, exhilarating solos, soaring vocals, and captivating lyrical stories. Buckle up, because The Fretliners show is sure to take you for a ride you won’t soon forget!
The Fox Theatre, 1135 13th St., Boulder
8:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $15
Saturday-Sunday, February 24-25
CHURCH BASEMENT LADIES
A celebration of the church basement kitchen and the women who work there. Church Basement Ladies is a musical comedy featuring five distinct characters and their relationships as they organize the food and solve the problems of a rural Minnesota Lutheran church about to undergo changes in 1965.
Jesters Theatre, 224 Main St., Longmont
Sat., 7:30 p.m; Sun., 2:00 p.m.
Tickets: $22-$50
Next Week: Thursday, February 29
ART & SIP: ACRYLIC SWIPE & SQUEEGEE
Learn about color mixing, layering and a new way to apply paint in this class. We will make cards, stationery and abstract art on paper with this squeegee and swipe technique.
Instructor Julie Benoit has designed the class for both beginners as well as experienced arts and crafters. Grab a drink and get creative – beer, wine, fizzy water and snacks are available to purchase at the Atrium Bar. Register below or call 303-651-8374.
Longmont Museum, 400 Quail Rd., Longmont
4:00 & 8:30 p.m.
Cost: $40
Info: 303-651-8374
TALK: PICTURING LONGMONT
Join Museum Director Erik Mason and the new Curator of History Elizabeth Beaudoin as they revisit Longmont’s early days through images selected from the Museum’s photo archive. Presented in conjunction with the Museum’s “Picturing the West” exhibition. Reservations Recommended.
Longmont Museum, 400 Quail Rd., Longmont
7:00-9:00 p.m.
FREE
Info: 303-651-8374
ELECTRIC AVENUE: AN 80s MTV EXPERIENCE
We don’t get to repeat even one minute of our time on this planet, but what if you could experience all the youthful energy and sonic celebration that was 1980s New Wave and Radio Pop? Every sound. Every nuance. Every vibe. That’s Electric Avenue. The Best 80s music hits performed the way you remember them.
Boulder Theater, 2032 14th St., Boulder
8:00 p.m.
Tickets: $45-$58
Phone: 303-786-7030
Thursday-Friday, February 29-March 1
OSCAR NOMINATED SHORTS
For the 19th consecutive year, Shorts HD and Magnolia Pictures present the Oscar-Nominated Short Films. These are the shorts in animation, and this is your annual chance to predict the winners (and have the edge in your Oscar pool)! A perennial hit with audiences around the country and the world, don’t miss this year’s selection of shorts. (The Academy Awards take place Sunday, March 10).
Dairy Arts Center, Boedecker Theater, 2590 Walnut St., Boulder
Thurs., 7:00 p.m.; Fri., 3:30 p.m.
Admission: $12
Info: 303-440-7826
Thursday-Sunday, February 29-March 3
UPSTART CROW: THE RIVALS
“Had I a thousand daughters, by Heaven! I’d as soon have them taught the black art as their alphabet!”
A capricious young woman with an appetite for sentimental novels, Miss Lydia Languish is determined to defy the established social order and love a man who is of a lower station than her. She has fallen for Ensign Beverly and is willing to surrender her fortune to marry him. This comes as a challenge to Captain Jack Absolute who has fallen for the lovely Lydia, (but is also Ensign Beverly in disguise). He must outwit Lydia’s aunt and guardian, Mrs. Malaprop, keeping up his ruse when in her company, and not revealing himself to his father, Sir Anthony, who is conspiring with Mrs. Malaprop to wed his son to her niece.
First published in 1775, The Rivals explores the exploits of many men vying to win the hand of Lydia and the women who are as devious as their male counterparts. It plays with the timeless ideas of rivalry, forgiveness, and, ultimately, true love.
Thursday 2/29 is Name-Your-Price-Night. Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. *NO reservations needed & NO ticket needed* – just show up at the Carsen Theater for the show. Donations of any amount are accepted in lieu of purchasing a ticket. TALKBACK: Saturday 3/2. Stay in the Carsen Theater after the show for an informal conversation with the cast and crew.
Dairy Arts Center, Carsen Theater, 2590 Walnut St., Boulder
Thurs.-Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 2:00 p.m.
Admission: $24-28
Info: 303-440-7826
Friday, March 1
ZIKR DANCE ENSEMBLE: INVOCATION
This stunning program will feature some of the company’s signature works, including “In Your Eyes”, to the famous music of Peter Gabriel, “Runes”, which features the use of a cyr wheel and monolithic set pieces engraved with runic alphabet symbols, called by critics “a masterpiece”, and “Parallel & Elevated”, a beautiful, atmospheric and otherworldly duet.
Dairy Arts Center, Grace Gamm Theatre, 2590 Walnut St., Boulder
7:30 p.m.
Admission: $25-$40
Info: 303-440-7826
Friday-Sunday, March 1-3
SWEENEY TODD
A tale of murder, mayhem and meat pies.
Determined to take his revenge on a society that abandoned and betrayed him, Sweeney Todd returns to his old barber shop, which happens to be above the failing pie shop of his old landlady, Mrs. Lovett. The two of them quickly discover that they can help each other – Mr. Todd can provide Mrs. Lovett with a certain crucial ingredient for her meat pies, and Mrs. Lovett can ensure that Mr. Todd’s murderous rampage will never be discovered. London will never be the same.
The Arts Hub, 420 Courtney Way, Lafayette
Fri./Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sat., 2:00 p.m.; Sun., 2:30 p.m.
REGISTRATION: $28
Info: 303-229-1127
Saturday, March 2
THE POLISH AMBASSADOR
Musician. Producer. Beatsmith. Recording artist. Composer. Dance-floor general. Label-head. A mystery man of many hats, The Polish Ambassador rocks more than just a trademark jumpsuit, authoring sublime, intentional artistic works, animated safaris in technicolor sound. At first breath, The Polish Ambassador was an experiment, David Sugalski’s sound-art passion project that came to life. , TPA is among the premier EDM/live crossover artists in the country with millions of listeners around the world; he’s consistently in-demand at the live music-focused gatherings and boutique electronic festivals from coast to coast.
The Fox Theatre, 1135 13th St., Boulder
8:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $25
Sunday, March 3
LIQUID SKY: BILLIE EILISH
Due to popular demand, we have classic songs like Happier Than Ever, everything I wanted, and bury a friend — in the dome alongside captivating liquid sky visualst, the Eilish show is one of the best – for Billie fans!
Fiske’s mind-melting Liquid Sky is a musical, all-you-can-eat eye candy buffet. The beats and rhythms of your favorite artists coupled with the “trippiest “visuals digitally rendered live, all on our 8K dome and in full surround sound. Let the Fiske engineers take you on a live-mixed journey in Fiske Planetarium’s unique immersive theater!
- Bury A Friend
- You Should See Me In A Crown
- All The Good Girls Go To Hell
- Bellyache
- Ilomilo
- Everything I Wanted
- Ocean Eyes
- Lost Cause
- Therefore I Am
- Bad Guy
- Idontwannabeyouanymore
- When The Party’s Over
- My Future
- Billie Bossa Nova
- Lovely (With Khalid)
- Happier Than Ever
Fiske Planetarium, 2414 Regent Dr., Boulder
2:30-3:30 p.m.
Tickets: $10+
Info: 303-492-5002
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