Tag Archives: music

Upcoming Events in June

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As this year’s kickoff to the 60th annual Colorado Shakespeare Festival, CU Boulder is putting on a performance of “The Taming of the Shrew”.  Opening on the 11th, this classic comedy takes place in New York during the 1940’s, following Kate, a world war 2 pilot just returned home.  She’s paired up with Petrucio, but the two end up in a hilarious battle of wits and night time dancing that eventually leads to a deeper understanding of each other.  Tickets for these events are on sale for $20, and patrons are also able to pre-order dinner to enjoy during the show from Boulder’s Savory Cuisines.

All month long, the Tebo Train is running down Pearl Street Mall.  Monday through Thursday, kids 10 and under, along with their parents, can enjoy a comfortable ride through the outdoor mall in a miniature train right out of a picture book.  The train is already making rounds, and is scheduled to go all the way through August, so there’s plenty of time to make it down and catch a ride.  The train departs and arrives right in front of Wells Fargo Bank.  Make sure to get there on time, as the last train of each day departs at 11:15AM.

The 14th of this month will be the second week of the annual Band on the Bricks in downtown Boulder.  This 10 week long outdoor concert event is a special tradition that few places besides Boulder can claim to have.  The variety of music is wide, and gives the public a great taste of what the local musicians have to offer.  Plus, local breweries also come out to contribute to the beer, wine, and margarita garden that opens at 5:30.  This year marks the 20th anniversary of the event, with the final day landing on the 40th anniversary of the Pearl Street Mall, so the lineup is poised to be one of the best.  Everyone’s free to attend and enjoy the music, but of course drinks and food will be charged.

Events to Look Forward to in May

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While the majority of people probably know him as an actor, Kiefer Sutherland has taken on many other careers in his life.  In 1992 he started working as a cattle rancher as well as a competitive cowboy.  In 2002 he started his own record label called Ironworks.  It wasn’t until 2015 that Sutherland recorded two songs of his own, initially meant as demos for other artists. Those songs were eventually expanded into his own 11 song album ‘Down in a Hole’.  To hear what Sutherland describes as “the closest thing I’ve ever had to a journal or diary”, his performance at the Fox Theater on May 10th is the one to see.

The 13th of May is a lucky day for any mountain bikers out there.  The 10th annual MTB demo day is back at Valmont bike park once again.  Starting with just a few small manufacturers in a small space in North Boulder, MTB now hosts top of the line vendors at the 62 acre Valmont bike park where anyone can come and try out these brand new bikes.  Attendees will be able to test ride bikes from Yeti, Pivot, Santa Cruz, Rocky Mountain, and many more.  Plus, the event is free for the first 400 people to register.  This is an all ages event, but those who want to test out a bike for themselves should bring an ID to checkout with the vendors.

Why not treat the kids to a fun event of their own on May 18th with the weekly storytime hosted by Clothes Pony & Dandelion Toys.  This children’s store is locally owned by two sisters who opened up shop from Fort Collins.  Aside from having everything a child could need from newborn to tween, they also have bring in a local retired teacher to read stories to children every week.  It is intended for kids aged 2-6, and parents are encouraged to sit in as well.

The 19th of this month brings another annual event, this time the 3rd 15th street design district, or 15SDD, block party.  All along 15th street, between grove and canyon, will be blocked off to traffic for this pedestrian event.  Admission is free for everyone, and will host many food and dessert trucks to peruse while learning about Design Studio.  This event is completely family friendly, zero waste, and will have plenty of live music, performances, and giveaways.

Rounding out the events for this month is James Kakalios and his book signing at the Boulder Book store on the 23rd.  His book ‘The Physics of Everyday Things’ examines the amazing things we encounter on a daily basis, yet almost always overlook.  Kakalios gets into the fine details of things like how refrigerators keep food cool, planes stay in the air, and our wrist pedometers count our steps.  Each example is accompanied by a narrative explaining all the forces at work that are invisible to the human eye in a captivating way.  As always, vouchers for the event cost $5, but are good for that same dollar amount off either his book or any other product purchased that day.

Events to Kick off Spring

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April is a great transitional month.  Not only does it usher in the change from winter to spring, but with it a great variety of new events to look forward to.  Here are 5 events to shake up your schedule and welcome in the new season.

Starting off on April 17th, the SmithKlein Gallery is presenting Peter Burega’s artwork.  The gallery, open from 2-6pm, showcases a new series of oil paintings by the talented artist.  His work draws from nature and the appearance of light on different surfaces.  However, unlike more traditional artists, Burega only works with trowels, scrapers, and knives.  These tools create a vastly unique texture on the board.  And everyone’s individual interpretation is a key motivator for the artist.  With no fee, it’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon on Pearl Street.

 

Just two days later, on April 19th, the Boulder Bookstore is hosting another author to speak about her book.  This month will feature Jessamyn Stanley and her book “Every Body Yoga.”  Her book focuses on inspiring all people to discover yoga.  She takes a very uplifting and body-positive approach to help people of all shapes and sizes.  But, her book isn’t just for people just beginning on their path to yoga.  People already well versed will find her book to offer great new motivations.  Ultimately, the book aims to showcase yoga’s mental benefits over the physical.  A $5 voucher is required to attend, but is also good for $5 off the author’s book.

Switching gears on April 21st is September School’s Battle of the Corporate Band at the Boulder Theater.  September School is Boulder’s longest running independent high school, starting back in 1973.  At that time 5,000 independent high schools opened their doors, but as of 2001 only 2% remained.  They have remained active thanks to their strong relationships they have built with the local community.  This event is just one of their efforts to partner with the people of Boulder to raise money for their scholarship fund.  Tickets are $25 and all proceeds will go toward aiding local students.

If you’re looking for an event that really says Spring, keep April 22nd open.  The Butterfly Pavilion is having one of their $5 days from 9-5pm.  The entire pavilion is open for explorations, including the new and improved crawl-a-see-em.  Those brave enough can hold Rosie, the famous tarantula.  Or, perhaps a starfish is more comfortable.  Whatever the case, 1,600 butterflies await in their little Tropical Rain forest.

Finally, on April 23rd, is the Taste of Pearl.  This event, running from 2-6, is a full on celebration of Boulder’s culinary arts.  Not only will there be plenty of food on offer, but local wines and distilleries are also showcased.  Plus, even more local boutiques and galleries will be open to explore while enjoying the local flavors.  Ticket prices are $65, but include samples from all vendors, food, wine, and spirits and a few other goodies.  This event is for 21 and up, and tickets are likely to sell out so make sure to grab some fast.

 

5 Great March Events in Boulder

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It might be hard to believe March is already here, but with so many events coming up there’s no time to look back.  This month is packed with events for the entire family to enjoy.  Or, if it’s a more mature crowd looking for entertainment, there’s still plenty of choices.  Here’s a breakdown of 5 events that should have something for all audiences.

On March 14th at 7:30pm, the Boulder Bookstore is hosting author Daniel Pinchbeck to speak about his book.  Titled “How Soon is Now?” his book looks at what he calls an ecological mega-crises on Earth.  Actions taken now may determine what kind of world and lives future generations have.  Pinchbeck, a futurist and philosopher, wrote his book as a social guide to avoid this crises.  It covers subjects ranging from agriculture, energy, and ideology.  Vouchers cost just $5, but are also good for $5 off the author’s book or other item bought that day.

The people of Boulder are known for, among many things, their love of supporting fellow locals.  In celebration of that, the Seeds Library Cafe is hosting an event called Dinner On the Bridge.  Providing food from local farmers and artisans, a five course meal is created by some of Boulder’s top chefs.  And, if that wasn’t enough, live music and a complementary cocktail are provided to attendees.  At just $50 per ticket, it’s a steal for the quality of food on offer.

The Five “Mother Sauces” Cooking Class on March 28th will teach what the basis is for all great sauces.  Hosted at the Food Lab from 6-9pm for $79 per person, this class is the perfect first step for learning how to make any classic sauce on your own.  The five mother sauces being taught are Bechamel, Espagnole, Hollandaise, Tomato and Veloute.  Because this class is sauce focused, a proper meal isn’t going to be made.  However, the amount of tasting and snacking is sure to be enough to fill anyone up.

 

Matisyahu’s “Release the Bound Freedom Tour” continues at Boulder Theater March 19th.  The show will feature music from his newly released album, “Release The Bound via Thirty Tigers”.  This long awaited collaboration with The Polish Ambassador and Salt Cathedral, hasn’t been performed live until this month.  His previous songs, such as “King Without A Crown”, have reached the number 1 spot on alternative rock charts.  And, his follow up album was even nominated for a Grammy.  At just $25 a ticket, this all ages show is certain to be the most unique of the month.
The Boulder Dinner Theater Academy is putting on another musical aimed at kids and their families.  This comedic take on Jack and the Beanstalk will be performed from March 16 through the 27th for just $8 a ticket.  The story focuses on a forgetful boy named Jack who sells his family’s cow for beans instead of food.  This drives his mother mad, but all is well when Jack makes friends with a giant.  Teaching morals about unlikely friends and patience, this play brings the audience in to participate in the performance throughout.

 

February Events

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February may be a short month, but is not short on Boulder events.   Valentine’s day is not dominating this month, though any of these events would make a great date night.  Here’s a look at just four events this February has in store for Boulder.

Boulder Bookstore: February 10th, 7:30pm-Laird Hunt and Eleni Sikelianos

Authors Laird Hunt and Eleni Sikelianos will be speaking about, and doing signings, for their new books.  “The Evening Road” by Laird Hunt, is the story of two women on the run through Jim Crow-era Indiana.  The two travel a violence and hate filled America in search of a new life and escape their pasts.  “Make yourself Happy” by Eleni Sikelianos offers an answer for one of the greatest questions: How to live.  This unique book has both text and images sprawled out across the pages in a fresh take on mimicking ideas.  “Humanity, happiness, and the survival of the biosphere spin each section forward, species are wiped out, yet the poem endures.”  Vouchers are $5, and good for $5 off the author’s book or any purchase made that day.

Boulder Public Library: February 12th, 3:15pm- The Boulder Choral

The Boulder Public Library is hosting this all ages event showcasing the Boulder Choral. As part of their concert series, this free event will be an afternoon of live choral music by local performers.  Everyone can come enjoy these beautiful sounds at the Library’s Canyon Theater  with no reservations or tickets required.

Mountain Sun: February 19th, 10pm-1am- Hello, Dollface

If you’re looking for a more instrumental live music experience, Mountain Sun has you covered.  Hello, Dollface, a 2-10 piece band, will be playing live all night.  Their style embraces the energy and soulful nature of music rather than being perfectly precise.  The event is free to enter, but drinks and food are available.  This event is for those 21 and up.

POSHsplt: February 25th, 9-11am- Kid’s Saturday Morning Art Exploration

For those under 21, there’s still plenty of fun to be had.  This event is designed to allow kids a chance to be fully creative.  Participants are encouraged to use all types of materials to create works of art. while working together and independently.  Each group is hosted by an art therapist to make sure everyone is having fun.  Kids will be given as much assistance and support as they need to make something all their own.  With clay, beads, paint, and much more at their fingertips, imaginations can run wild.  At $20 per child, this weekly event is great for inspiring creativity.

January Events

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Why not make your 2017 resolution to enjoy more of the events Boulder has to offer.  January is shaping up to be a great month to make your resolution a reality. Let’s take a look at some events kicking off 2017.

Boulder Theater: Jan 26th Chevelle

The alternative rock group Chevelle will be performing at the Boulder Theater.  Chavelle has nearly 2 decades of experience and a newly released album.  Opening for the band is Black Map and Dinosaur Pile Up.  The event is for all ages, but kids 15 and under will need a parent with them.  The tickets are tightly priced at $27.50-$30 and are sure to sell out fast.

Boulder Bookstore: January 12, 7:30PM – Adrienne Russell

Adrienne Russell will appear at the Boulder Bookstore on January 12th to speak about her new book, titled “Journalism as Activism.”  The book explores the important aspects of journalism and how it is changing in the modern age.  “Journalism as Activism” delves into the effects of digital journalism as a means to cover issues.  Adrienne Russel will sign books after the appearance.  The voucher to attend is $5 and good for $5 off the book price or any other item the day of the event.

Puzzah! at the Flatiron Mall: All January Long – Escape Room

Escape rooms have been growing in popularity for the past few years all across the country.  A unique puzzle experience where groups of 2-6 must solve puzzles as a team in 60 minutes.  Puzzah! Is a Colorado based company creating unique puzzle rooms for teams to solve.  All through January they are running the Specimen rooms, based on escaping an alien ship.  At $25 per person, it is a great afternoon with friends and family for a fun team building experience like no other.  In addition, there are 2 escape rooms in Boulder if you’d prefer to stay in Boulder.

Jester Dinner Theature: Every Thursday, Friday, & Sunday in January – Seussical

A collection of Dr. Seuss’s most loved characters come together in this original musical.  A young child, Jojo, brings all these characters together in a lighthearted musical.  Familiar characters such as The Cat in the Hat, Horton, and the Whos are just a few of Seuss’ creations to appear.  The music spans a wide range of genres, from Pop, to Latin and Funk.  All the charm of the original stories make this a great show for all ages.  The show will play at the Jester Theatre every Thursday, Friday, and Sunday in January.  Tickets range from just $7.50-$15 so there’s no reason to miss this great family outing.

 

Boulder Events in October 2016

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October is always a moth filled with unique events in and around Boulder, and this year is no exception.  Here are just a few ideas for those looking to get out and do something unique this month.

City Events: A visual trip through Boulder’s history

For hundreds of years Boulder has been the inspiration to countless artists.  These visual artists have left a history of work that inspired the History of Visual Arts event to begin featuring these works as a means of storytelling and history.  Over 300 local artists’ work spanning the past 121 years will be on display all the way through January 15th, with work on display ranging from famous artists to unknown and even children.  The event is split into 50 smaller features, including 18 galleries, film screenings, and panels throughout Boulder and Longmont.  Every event is free and open to the public, so there’s no reason to miss any of the events that peak your interest.

 

Music: Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra: Opening Night, Cold War Kids, Cake

October is shaping up to be a great month for anyone looking to go out for night of live music.  For the orchestra fans out there, the Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra’s opening night is happening on October 8th at 7:30 pm in Macky Auditorium on CU campus.  Tickets for the event range from $13-$35, and promises to bring classical music back into relevancy.  For those who are looking for a more modern show, the Cold War Kids playing at the Boulder Theater on October 10th is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for all fans of indie rock.  Tickets are still available for $25 if you purchase in advance, or $27 on the day of the event.  Cold War Kids are just a few days behind CAKE, also at the Boulder Theater, on the 14th and 15th.  (SOLD OUT)

Talks: The Nobel Lecture Series Fall 2016

Once again the Boulder Bookstore and University of Colorado at Boulder are hosting their annual Nobel Lecture Series.  The first event of the season is set to focus on the 1994 Nobel Prize for literature winner Kenzaburō Ōe.  Ōe’s short stories, novels, and essays have made him a very important figure in the contemporary literary scene in Japan.  His works often examine philosophical, social, and political issues through the unique lens of his culture.  His ideas on nuclear power and social non-conformism are particularly applicable to current issues in the world.  The event will be hosted by Assistant Professor David Atherton from the department of Asian languages and civilizations at CU Boulder on October 10th at 7pm in the Boulder Bookstore.  The event is free and open for everyone.

 

Film: Halloween screening of Rocky Horror Picture Show

What better way to celebrate Halloween night than with a live performance of the now not so cult classic Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Boulder theater.  The event is being put on by Colorado’s Elusive Ingredient, or CEI for short, who are the premier shadow cast of the Rocky Horror Picture show.  Starting their performances in 2000, CEI is a group recognized on a national scale and even hold the world record for the largest live Rocky showing at over 8,000 people.  The show is open for all ages at a $5 ticket price with doors opening at 7pm and the show starting at 8, so why not get in costume, toast some bread, bring a newspaper, and enjoy the show.