Wheeleroperahouse Apr 2026

After the silver market crashed in 1893, Aspen entered its "Quiet Years". The Wheeler struggled to stay afloat by showing silent films until two suspicious fires broke out in November 1912.

: The theater was boarded up and abandoned for nearly 30 years, eventually purchased by the City of Aspen in 1918 for just $1,155 in back taxes. Renovation & Fame (1940s–Present) wheeleroperahouse

: Since its reopening, the Wheeler has hosted legendary performers like John Denver , Lyle Lovett , and Judy Collins . It also helped launch the careers of comedians like Dave Chappelle and Bill Maher through the HBO Comedy Arts Festival. After the silver market crashed in 1893, Aspen

In 1888, Jerome B. Wheeler—a Civil War veteran and former president of Macy’s—invested his fortune into the booming mining town of Aspen. He commissioned the Wheeler Opera House as the town's cultural centerpiece. Renovation & Fame (1940s–Present) : Since its reopening,

: Renowned architect Herbert Bayer led early renovations, initially keeping the fire-charred beams exposed as a minimalist design choice before a full Victorian restoration in 1984.