The Wheeler Opera House is a historic building located at the corner of East Hyman Avenue and South Mill Street in Aspen, Colorado, United States. It was built during the 1890s, from a design by Willoughby J. Edbrooke that blends elements of the Romanesque Revival and Italianate architectural styles. The building was originally constructed as an opera house and was named after Jerome B. Wheeler, who financed its construction. On opening night, satin programs were scented with rose water, and the Wheeler glowed with some of the region’s first electric lights.
The Wheeler Opera House has played an important role in the cultural life of Aspen for over a century. It has hosted a wide variety of events, including concerts, plays, lectures, and film screenings. The upstairs auditorium hosts a number of events every year, ranging from nationally prominent music and comedy acts and some of the Aspen Music Festival’s events to productions by local community groups. The Wheeler Opera House is also home to the Wheeler Associates, a non-profit organization that supports the arts in Aspen and the surrounding area. Today, the Wheeler Opera House is a vibrant cultural center that continues to attract visitors from around the world. The building has been beautifully restored and features state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems. Visitors can explore the history of the opera house by taking a guided tour of the building. The tours provide an opportunity to learn about the history of the building, as well as the many famous performers who have graced its stage over the years.
In addition to its cultural offerings, the Wheeler Opera House is also a popular venue for weddings, corporate events, and other private functions. The building’s elegant architecture and stunning views of the surrounding mountains make it an ideal location for special events. The upstairs auditorium hosts a number of events every year, ranging from nationally prominent music and comedy acts and some of the Aspen Music Festival’s events to productions by local community groups. Some of the famous performers who have appeared at the Wheeler include Lily Tomlin, Renée Fleming, Phish, John Denver, Bill Maher, B.B. King, The Neville Brothers, The Smothers Brothers, The Beach Boys, The Doobie Brothers, The Temptations, The Four Tops, and The Manhattan Transfer.
John Denver
The Wheeler Opera House is a true Aspen landmark, and it continues to be an important part of the cultural and social fabric of the community.
