Top Theatrical Shows To See This Fall On A Budget In Denver
When it comes to live theatre, a lot of people think you have to shell out hundreds of dollars for prime seats at the big theaters downtown. Yet, you may not be aware of just how many truly affordable options there are out there for great live theatre. For less than $20 per ticket, you can find so many fantastic shows that you may end up coming back again and again. These fine local companies all have wonderfully intimate spaces, letting you get closer to the actors than any of the big stages, and there is never a bad seat in the house. Take a look at these great, and affordable, shows at local theatre companies.
I Never Promised You A Rose Garden
Miners Alley Playhouse
1224 Washington Ave.
Golden, CO 80401
(303) 935-3044
www.minersalley.com
Dates: Sept. 13 through Oct. 27, 2013
Price: General Admission is $19
The famous novel "I Never Promised You A Rose Garden" is adapted to the stage in this powerful play directed by Miners Alley favorite Rick Bernstien. It tells the story of Debra, a mentally ill patient, and her therapist Dr. Fried, as the two work for three years to find answers to the voices in her head. This is a re-mount of the very successful premier of this show, which was originally presented by Miners Alley in 2004. If you've never been up to Golden to see at show at Miners Alley, this a great first experience. The warm and welcoming lobby, beautiful views and full bar just add to the wonderful quality theatre performed here year after year. The reserved seating is a bit more expensive, but if you get the general admission seats, you can enjoy the production for less than $20.
Much Ado About Nothing
Spark Theater
985 Santa Fe Drive
Denver, CO 80204
(720) 346-7396
www.sparktheater.org
Dates: Sept. 6 through Oct. 5, 2013
Price: Tickets range from $15 to $20
The classic bard's take comes to life in this intimate theatrical re-telling. Directed by Roger Winn, you'll re-live this favorite Shakespeare comedy that is all about mistaken identities, criss-crossed love notes and lots of very colorful characters. Plus a visit to Spark Theatre is always a delight as it is located right in the heart of the Santa Fe Arts District. Arrive early and spend some time browsing the many art galleries in the area, most of which are free to peruse. Plus, then you will have a full evening of wonderful entertainment for less than $20.
Related: Top Outdoor Theaters In Denver
Witness For the Prosecution
Spotlight Theatre Company
7653 E. 1st Place
Denver, CO 80230
(303) 562-3232
www.thisisspotlight.com
Dates: Oct. 12 through Nov. 9, 2013
Price: Tickets range from $18 to $20
Everyone's favorite mystery writer brings another fabulous tale to the Spotlight stage. If you loved "Murder on the Nile" and "The Mousetrap," then you will really love this one. "Witness For the Prosecution" by Agatha Christie is all about the brutal murder of a very wealthy woman. After a man is quickly arrested, his wife is called to the stand as a witness for the prosecution and she denies his alibi. This Christie classic will be brought to vivid life by director Linda Suttle and will be the perfect take of mystery and intrigue for the spooky month of October. Plus, every show at Spotlight's intimate space, the John Hand Theatre, is warm and welcoming, thanks to the wonderful staff and friendly atmosphere.
Evil Dead: The Musical
Equinox Theatre Company
3654 Navajo St.
Denver, CO 80211
(720) 984-0781
www.equinoxtheatredenver.com
Dates: Aug. 23 through Sept. 14, 2013
Price: $20 in advance
Any fans of the cult horror movie classic "The Evil Dead" and its campy sequels will fall in love with this hysterical musical. "Evil Dead: The Musical" is a combination of the first two films with a bit of "Army of Darkness" thrown in for good measure. It's the story of five college kids that go to a deserted cabin in the woods on spring break. While they are there, they accidentally unleash the evil forces of the candarian demons and things get bloody, very bloody. This is the only musical with a splatter zone. And you'll be laughing in the aisles with all the campy songs and fun musical numbers like "All the Men In My Life Keep Getting Killed By Candarian Demons" and "Do The Necronomicon." (Disclaimer, the author of this article works with Equinox and is involved with this production.)
Veronica's Room
Vintage Theatre
1468 Dayton St.
Aurora, CO 80010
www.vintagetheatre.org
Dates: Sept. 13 through Oct. 6, 2013
Price: $20 in advance
The writer of "Rosemary's Baby" brings another thriller to life. Ira Levin's "Veronica's Room" is a deep psychological thriller about a college student who is convinced to impersonate the deceased Veronica. As she does, the lines between reality and fantasy blur and getting out may not be as easy as she thought it would be. Directed by Vintage favorite Bernie Cardell, this thriller is sure to be another fantastic show at the beautiful Vintage Theatre Space. Make sure to stay after for a few drinks at the lovely bar and you may just get to meet your favorite actors as well.
