Crystal Valley Blog

This weekend and just minutes from the new home community of Crystal Valley in Castle Rock you’ll find plenty of things to do, from the Martin Luther King, Jr. celebrations around town, to whiskey tasting at the Castle, to performances by Caroline Rhea and Sydney Justin, former NFL defensive back, now Smokey Robinson sound-alike!

TODAY/TONIGHT: Thursday, January 16

WHEN A KING CAME TO TOWN
Kicking off events that will celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is the film screening and discussion of the movie, When A King Came to Town. MLK, Jr. came to Colorado in the 1960s and documentarian Adam Dempsey Morgan created a film about King’s visit and the ensuing years as well as reactions to his assassination in April 1968. 

History Colorado Center, 1200 Broadway, Denver
6:30 p.m.
Registration: FREE

Thursday-Saturday, January 16-18

CAROLINE RHEA’S BACK!
Caroline Rhea is a stand-up comedian and actress, best known for her role as Hilda Spellman on the ABC hit series Sabrina the Teenage Witch, and numerous comedy specials on Comedy Central, HBO and Showtime.

Caroline is currently starring in Disney Channel’s Sydney to the Max, and hosts Caroline and Friends, her hit game show for Game Show Network, now in its second season. She is a regular panelist on ABC’s Match Game with Alec Baldwin, and is often on other game shows such as Hollywood Squares and Funny You Should Ask.

Comedy Works South, 5345 Landmark Pl., Greenwood Village
Thurs., 7:30; Fri., 7:00 & 9:30 p.m.; Sat., 6:30 & 9:00 p.m.
Tickets: $25-$40
Phone: 720-274-6800

Friday, January 17

MLK PEACE BREAKFAST 
The MLK Peace Breakfast was created to commemorate the philosophy and values of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by promoting diversity and equality for all humanity, within the Metropolitan State University of Denver campus community and the Denver community at large. The principal feature of the MLK Peace Breakfast is the awards ceremony, which recognizes and celebrates individuals within MSU Denver and the Denver community who keep the spirit and dream of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. alive through their actions and contributions to peace, justice, diversity, equality and social change.‌ This year’s keynote speaker, Erika Alexander, is an actress, trailblazing activist, entrepreneur, creator, producer, director and one of the country’s boldest, most daring and powerful voices. As co-founder of Color Farm Media, she is on a mission to bring greater equity, inclusion and diverse representation to both media and electoral politics.

Mile High Station, Metro State University, 2027 W. Colfax Ave.
8:30 a.m. (Check In)
Tickets: $50

HAIRBALL!
A band puts on a concert – Hairball puts on an event! Hairball is a Rock & Roll experience you won’t soon forget. The lights, sound, smoke, fire, bombs, and screaming hoards of avid fans…to merely call it a concert would be like calling Mount Rushmore a roadside attraction! These Rock & Roll soldiers pride themselves on nailing some of the most memorable licks and chops of all time, while adding their own style and flare that they’ve cultivated over decades of tireless performing. This isn’t a side job. These guys eat, sleep and breathe Rock & Roll! Whether it’s a pre-show meet and greet, hanging out at the merch booth, or chatting online, Hairball has a lot in common with its fans and it’s always a good time when they get together. Don’t confuse Hairball with the countless “80’s Tribute” bands across the country. Hairball is an experience, an attitude, and expression of music that isn’t simply a retro flashback, it’s a way of life!

Pikes Peak Center for Performing Arts, 190 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs
8:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $37-$50
Phone: 719-575-9632

Sunday, January 19

LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION
The gift of the Red Envelope! All you have to do to get yours is visit the Outlets at Castle Rock customer service and wish them a “Happy Lunar New Year”! You’ll receive a Red Envelope.* At Lunar New Year, it’s traditional to give the gift of a bright red envelope and part of the joy in receiving one lies in the surprise to what lies inside! These envelopes symbolize good wishes and luck for the new year ahead and for the kids who visit customer service they can grab a fun Lunar New Year accessory while supplies last!

The Guiding Mountain Dragon and Lion Dance Association of Denver will present a traditional lion dance with a nine-person dragon performance and live band in the 4th Street courtyard between H&M & Polo Ralph Lauren.  *While supplies last and must be 18 or older 

Outlets at Castle Rock, 5050 Factory Shops, Castle Rock
2:00 p.m. Performance
FREE

NEXT WEEK: Monday, January 20

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. MARADE
The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Marade begins at the MLK monument at Denver City Park with the step-off planned for 10:45 a.m. Marchers will head to Civic Center Park for performances, vendors, food trucks and a closing ceremony.

Other events around town include free admission today at The Denver Botanic Gardens and Chatfield Farms, and a music/dance/spoken word performance at the Dairy Arts Center in Boulder to honor the civil rights leader.

MLK Monument Denver City Park, 2001 Colorado Blvd, Denver
9:30 a.m.
Free

MLK JR AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE RODEO
The National Western Stock Show is underway right now (and continues through Jan. 26), with a jam-packed schedule of rodeos, The Great American Petting Farm, swing and country line dancing, rodeo clowns, Muttin’ Bustin’, the Pink Pro Rodeo. Tonight, the MLK, Jr. African American Heritage Rodeo will take place to celebrate the history and heritage of America’s Black cowboys and cowgirls. The rodeo also honors the legacy of Bill Pickett and his influence on Black Western Heritage. Check out the fancy trick roping, bull riding, livestock displays, agricultural culture, and competitions. Check out the schedule and get your event tickets to enjoy this Colorado tradition. 

National Western Stock Show, Parking at Coors Field 1601 Park Ave. W., Denver
All Days, Various Times
Tickets: Start at $7 for Grounds Admission

Tuesday, January 21

COLLECTIVE SOUL
Since launching a major label career in 1994, Collective Soul has charted a path that most rock bands dream of, but only few achieve. They cut through a noisy 1990s rock scene with a knack for stick-to-you-like-glue melodies, roof-shaking guitars, and a touch of Southern grit. Behind enduring singles like “Shine,” “December” and “The World I Know,” the band hit the ground running for what would not be a short-lived sprint, but a steady marathon of uncompromising – and always catchy – albums. Collective Soul has become one of the most reliable rock bands in America, a tried-and-true force in a world often defined by turmoil and turbulence.

Pikes Peak Center for Performing Arts, 190 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs
8:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $31
Phone: 719-575-9632

Wednesday, January 22 

ARTS IN THE PM: RAGTIME AND BEYOND

Rice Music House

Scott Kirby has achieved a rarified status as a performer of ragtime and related American styles. His unique presentation highlights the worlds of Classic Ragtime, New Orleans Jazz, and Blues, then expands to include the marches of John Philip Sousa, the songs of Stephen Foster, Latin-American styles, Afro-Cuban rhythms, European Romanticism, Rock & Roll, and original works. Kirby will be joined for a few songs by his partner Eileen Henry on vocals, formerly of New York City Opera.

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree
1:30 p.m. 
Tickets: $24
Box Office: 720-509-1000

INTERROGATION: TRUE CRIME STORIES
Veteran on the force, Korey David, and a special guest host lead you on a wild storytelling journey that makes you the interrogator!

Comedians tell their own true crime stories, then sit down at the interrogation table for questioning. Audience members can even text in their own crimes to be read live on stage. With the help of the crack detectives, it’s up to the audience to get to the bottom of the case!

Comedy Works South, 5345 Landmark Pl., Greenwood Village
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $14
Phone: 720-274-6800

Thursday, January 23

KEVIN SHEA
 First off, let’s start by acknowledging that Kevin Shea is pretty interesting. If he wasn’t, he’d be an accountant or anything else besides a comedian and he wouldn’t have to write a self-indulgent bio in third person. Born in South Korea then bought, (yes bought, not brought) into the U.S. He graduated College, moved to San Francisco, was hired for a job at Alta Vista, got laid off and started standup.

Kevin has performed on Bill Burr’s Monday Morning Podcast, Kevin Hart’s LOL, ABC’s Dr. Ken, The Arsenio Hall Show, HBO’s Down and Dirty with Jim Norton, Tosh.0, Jimmy Kimmel, Comedy Central’s Premium Blend and Asia Street Comedy. He has competed on the Montreal Comedy Festival as well as the HBO Las Vegas Comedy Festival

Comedy Works South, 5345 Landmark Pl., Greenwood Village
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $14
Phone: 720-274-6800 

Thursday-Saturday, January 23-25

MAYHEM IN THE MANSION
Step into the grandeur of Beaumont Manor, where you’re a guest at an opulent party filled with dazzling performances of dance, drama, and aerial artistry. But as the night unfolds, eerie warnings echo, “Leave before the final performance.” Rumors of misfortune and mystery haunt the manor’s final act.

Will you heed the warnings, or will you test your fortune and see if you survive the night?

For mature audiences.

Millibo Art Theater, 1626 S. Tejon St., Colorado Springs
Thurs.-Sat., 7:00 p.m
Tickets: $25-$28
Box Office: 719-465-6321

Friday, January 24

RUN WITH SCISSORS-PARTY BAND
Run with scissors is a lively rock band from Colorado Springs. Formed in 2014, founded on the principles of having a good time and not conforming to the norm. Founding member Russ Reygana and Richard Duffney both share duties of lead vocals and lead guitar, trading off and singing harmonies. The rhythm section is led by Tony Letezia on drums and vocals and Jon McDaniel on bass guitar. Keyboardist extraordinaire Tommy Duhon is the 5th member rounding out a powerhouse of rockers who hold nothing back and leave it all on stage. Their song list is vast and deep, featuring both classics and originals with an edge.

Stargazers Theatre, 10 S. Parkside Dr., Colorado Springs
7:00 p.m.
Tickets: $15 

Friday-Saturday, January 24-25

BOURBON AND RYE TASTING
Care to celebrate the New Year with the Spirit of America – Bourbon and Rye Whisky?! Well make your reservations now because Castle Tastings sell out like new Apple offerings. Castle whiskey expert Scott Beach will explore and help you discover the many diverse tastes, styles, and histories of of one of the oldest and best loved liquors in America! The tasting night is a wonderful choice for both experienced whiskey lovers and those completely new to the world of whiskey. The Bourbon and Rye tastings are a great evening of fun for a friends’ night out, a birthday fête, a work party or a romantic date night. Dress and business attire is encouraged.

The five tastings will be accompanied by heavy appetizers and a cash bar will open for the purchase of wine, prosecco, beer, and whisky specials.

Cherokee Ranch & Castle, 6113 N. Daniels Park Rd., Sedalia 
6:00-7:00 p.m. – Doors, Bar, Tours
7:00 p.m. – Appetizers
7:30 p.m. – Presentation 
Cost: $84.95 (Reservations Required)
CALL: 303-688-5555

THE MIRACLES
Motown’s “soul supergroup,” The Miracles featuring Sydney Justin are true trailblazers in the story of popular music. The first group to sign with Motown records, this unstoppable group continues to keep the Motown sound alive with their vibrant music and energetic choreography. Armed with some of the greatest songs ever written like “Shop Around,” “I Second That Emotion,” “Tears of A Clown,” and more, this incredible quartet is attracting enthusiastic audiences all over the world. Act now – limited ticket availability!

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree
7:30 p.m. (both nights)
Tickets: $50-$75
Box Office: 720-509-1000

IAN BAGG
Ian Bagg is a world-touring comedian whose comedy was recently described as “dangerously flawless” on the JRE. But he is not just a comedian he is also the cohost of the weekly hockey podcast, Enjoying Orange Slices with Jeff and Ian.

Life has been fantastic for this energetic and wildly funny boundary-pushing entertainer. His fast-paced, off-the-cuff, quick-witted, animated style has him winning over television audiences. He placed in the finals of NBC’s Last Comic Standing.  He made appearances on Late Night with Conan O’Brien and The Tonight Show, a half-hour comedy featured on Comedy Central and HBO, not to mention one-hour specials on Showtime and Amazon Prime. (Saturday’s early show has sold out.)

Comedy Works South, 5345 Landmark Pl., Greenwood Village
Fri., 7:00 & 9:30 p.m.; Sat., 9:00 p.m.
Tickets: $10-$15
Phone: 720-274-6800

Saturday-Sunday, January 25-26

BRAHMS SYMPHONY NO. 4
The Colorado Springs Philharmonic will be performing Dvorak’s Violin Concerto, Assad’s Baiao N’ Blues and Brahms Symphony No. 4. Regarding the latter, from Alan Tang, Classical Notes, “one of those pieces that have both the beauty of lyrical lines and the complexity of its texture and inner workings among motifs and themes.” And Conductor Leonard Bernstein described the finale ending in “rage and fury”, with “no final repose, no glorious sunburst in the major mode”. And that Brahms’s “last symphonic statement is that clenched fist raised in hot defiance to the heavens”. Don’t miss this dynamic performance by the Philharmonic!

Pikes Peak Center for Performing Arts, 190 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs
Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 2:30 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $40
Phone: 719-575-9632

Monday, January 27

LITERATURE TO LIFE: THE GREAT GATSBY
Literature to Life takes on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic work as their newest title in their Signature Performance series. Set in the Jazz Age of the roaring 20s, this story about dreams, love, and American idealism follows Nick Carraway and his interactions with mysterious millionaire neighbor Jay Gatsby and his former lover, Daisy Buchanan. The novel touches on the treatment of different social classes, “old money” versus “new money” ideology, gender, race, environmentalism, and the price of the American Dream. This is an hour-long student matinee that is open to the public.

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree
10:00 a.m.
Tickets: $9
Box Office: 720-509-100

Crystal Valley – Away From It All AND Close to Everything!

Just minutes from downtown Castle Rock is the master-planned community of Crystal Valley – where paths and trails take you into natural surroundings, bluffs and parks. Homes here are designed for every lifestyle and budget, built by D.R. Horton, Richmond American Homes and Taylor Morrison. Picture yourself in the home of your dreams, either ranch-style or two-story from the state’s premiere builders — priced from the $600s.