From Curran Opera House to Movie Palace

The Boulder Theater’s story begins in 1906, when it first opened as the Curran Opera House. Built by James Curran, the venue quickly became the cultural center of Boulder, hosting stage shows, silent films, orchestras, and even political rallies. In 1920, Franklin D. Roosevelt spoke there while campaigning for vice president, adding to the building’s early prestige.

By the mid-1930s, the aging opera house needed a facelift. In 1936, architect Robert O. Boller transformed it into the Boulder Theater, a glamorous Art Deco movie palace. The remodel gave the building its signature pastel murals, stylized terracotta details, and the neon marquee that still glows brightly over 14th Street today.

Reinvention and Renewal

The theater thrived for decades as a movie palace but eventually struggled against modern multiplexes, closing its doors in 1982. Luckily, the story didn’t end there. In 1988, the Boulder Theater reopened with a new focus on live music, cabaret, and special events. That pivot proved to be a winning formula, sparking a cultural renaissance that continues to this day.

Preservation efforts also played a major role in saving the Boulder Theater. Recognized as a local landmark and added to the National Register of Historic Places, it has been carefully protected and restored over the years. Most recently, a façade restoration project was launched to address water damage and safeguard its iconic Art Deco details for future generations.

Legendary Performances

While the Boulder Theater has hosted countless acts, a few stand out in its long history. Phish played several early shows there in the 1990s, helping cement their cult following. Local favorites Big Head Todd and the Monsters have headlined the venue many times, building a deep connection with the Boulder crowd. The String Cheese Incident, another Colorado powerhouse, has played memorable runs across the decades.

The stage has also welcomed international stars and legendary songwriters such as Lucinda Williams and Graham Nash, as well as homegrown jam bands like Leftover Salmon. Comedy has found a home here too, with Dave Chappelle among the big names who have brought laughter to the intimate space.

Fun Facts About the Boulder Theater

• The Boulder Theater’s neon marquee is one of the most photographed landmarks in the city.

• Opening night of the newly remodeled Art Deco theater was January 9, 1936.

• Portions of the original 1906 Curran Opera House were incorporated into the remodel, giving the building layers of history.

• The venue is flexible, with seating for around 850 guests or standing room for up to 1,000, making it both intimate and energetic.

• Beyond concerts and films, the theater hosts weddings, conferences, film festivals, and community gatherings.

Today’s Boulder Theater

Now operated by Z2 Entertainment, the Boulder Theater continues to thrive as one of Colorado’s premier venues. Its calendar blends concerts, film festivals, comedy shows, and private events, creating a year-round schedule that draws both locals and visitors. Just steps from Pearl Street Mall, the theater remains a vital part of downtown Boulder’s identity.

More than just a performance space, the Boulder Theater is a living piece of history. It represents Boulder’s love of the arts, its commitment to preservation, and its flair for reinvention. Whether you’re watching a national headliner, attending a film festival, or simply snapping a photo under the marquee, the Boulder Theater delivers an experience that connects past and present in unforgettable ways.

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