For years the Denver Film Society bumped up against other film festivals and arts events by hosting its 10-day Starz Denver International Film Festival in October.
This year the 28th-annual Hollywood-style film fest, which in the past has lured the likes of Francis Ford Coppola, Jamie Foxx, William H. Macy and Morgan Freeman to Denver, will host opening- and closing-night parties in the Ellie Caulkins Opera House in November.
“For film viewing it’s going to be an experience like you’ve never been able to have in Denver,” Britta Erickson with the Denver Film Society said after touring the new facility. “We think that a gem like (the opera house) elevates all of the arts in the city. It will certainly elevate our festival.”
The Ellie Caulkins’ opening season is huge regardless whether patrons prefer the red-carpet style of Starz Denver International Film Festival or the more traditional productions by Opera Colorado and the Colorado Ballet.
Opening season
Saturday – The Ellie Caulkins Opera House Opening Celebration, starring Rene Fleming and leading opera stars (sold out). Sept. 11
Free Community Celebration and Ribbon Cutting at noon with performances by the Denver Municipal Band, the Denver Brass, the Colorado Children’s Chorale and the Denver Young Artists Orchestra. Sept. 23 – Oct. 16
Colorado Ballet presents “The Sleeping Beauty.” Nov. 3 – 13
Opera Colorado presents Bizet’s “Carmen,” featuring Denyce Graves in the title role. Nov. 10
28th Starz Denver International Film Festival Opening Night Gala. Nov. 19 – 28th
Starz Denver International Film Festival Closing Night Gala. Nov. 26
Colorado Ballet presents “The Nutcracker.” Feb. 16 – 25, 2006 – Opera Colorado presents Bellini’s “Norma.” March 4 – April 1
Colorado Ballet presents “Choreographer’s Showcase,” with Twyla Tharp’s “Nine Sinatra Songs,” Paul Taylor’s “Company B” and a Denver premiere by rising New York choreographer Jessica Lang, “From Foreign Lands and People.” March 4 – April 2
Colorado Ballet presents “Cinderella.” April 29ÐMay 7 – Opera Colorado presents Mozart’s “The Abduction From the Seraglio.”
