Crystal Valley Blog

Comedy from Billy Gardell and Jeff Allen, concerts by Dan & Shay, Chris Isaak and Pentatonix, and the Parker Fall Fest start this weekend and next, in and around Castle Rock, near the master-planned community of Crystal Valley!

TODAY/TONIGHT: Thursday, September 12

EYEWITNESS TO HISTORY
Journalist Catherine Fitzpatrick presents an eyewitness account of 9/11 – sights, sounds, smells, and fears. Hear an almost minute-by-minute testimonial of what 9/11 was like for those at or near the towers in Lower Manhattan. Journalist Catherine Fitzpatrick will talk about her book and her experience at the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001. 

Philip & Jerry Miller Library, 100 S. Wilcox St., Castle Rock
7:00 p.m.
Free
Info: 303-814-3164

Thursday-Saturday, September 12-14

GARETH REYNOLDS
Gareth Reynolds is an internationally touring stand-up comedian whose brilliantly clever quips perfectly offset Dave Anthony’s hilarious snark on their smash-hit podcast The Dollop which garners over 5 million downloads every month.

Gareth has written on Arrested Development, Flaked and Hoops for Netflix as well as You’re The Worst on FX and I’m Sorry for truTV. Previous to that he wrote on Comedy Central sitcom Idiotsitter, took the lead on ABC show Hail Mary and has been seen on IFC’s Maron. His debut stand-up album Riddled With Disease was released December 2019 on Comedy Dynamics and reached #1 on Billboard that week.

Originally hailing from the streets of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Gareth moved to Los Angeles where he began producing and writing his own material, eventually making shows at Comedy Central, the Travel Channel, and MTV.

Comedy Works South, 5345 Landmark Pl., Greenwood Village
Thurs., 7:30 p.m.; Fri./Sat., 7:15 p.m. & Sat., 9:45
Tickets: $25-$35
Phone: 720-274-6800

Friday, September 13

VANCE JOY
You don’t sell over two million copies of your debut album without some serious hard work, and Australian singer/songwriter Vance Joy has never been shy of major elbow grease. When Vance Joy first cut his teeth performing at open mic nights in Melbourne, he was feeding on a diet of artists like The Pogues and Paul Kelly. By 2013 he was ready to introduce the world to his ukulele-led charm ‘Riptide,’ which became an instant global classic. The connection and journey his music was about to have on the world in years to come was an unexpected reward to the young songwriter.

It’s no surprise that listeners all over the world connect to Vance Joys intimate yet anthemic songwriting. His lyrics take you on a journey that will reach out and hold you for a delicate moment. Bringing together a unique, charming mix of folk music with pop influences, these songs capture the familiar pulse of everyday experiences in a unique and celebratory manner.

Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre, 6350 Greenwood Plaza Blvd., Greenwood Village
7:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $49

GERALD ALBRIGHT’S G-FUNK
G Funk is Gerald Albright’s salute to James Brown, an artist that has inspired generations of fans and fellow artists alike. Citing Brown as an influence in R&B and contemporary jazz, Gerald Albright will perform his personal favorite James Brown tunes alongside featured artist Leon Timbo!

“Albright is not only a master saxophonist, he is also a multi-instrumentalist, who takes extreme pride in producing extraordinary music that resonates deep into the hearts and souls of people on a global scale.” —Scheen Magazine

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $40-$60 Limited
Phone: 720-509-1000

FRIDAY NIGHT JAZZ: BACK TO BRAZIL
At its core, the Brazilian beat is characterized by syncopated rhythms, intricate percussion, and irresistible grooves that invite people to dance and lose themselves in the music. From the sultry sway of the bossa nova to the fast-paced energy of samba, the evening will encompass a diverse array of styles and genres, each with its own unique flavor and personality.

PACE Center, The Schoolhouse, 19650 E. Mainstreet, Parker
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $27

38 SPECIAL
After more than four decades, 38 SPECIAL continues to bring their signature blast of Southern Rock to over 100 cities a year. At each and every show, thousands of audience members are amazed by the explosive power of the band’s performance.

Their many Gold and Platinum album awards stand in testament to the endurance of a legendary powerhouse.

With sales in excess of 20 million, most associate the band with their arena-rock pop smashes, “Hold On Loosely,” “Rockin’ Into the Night,” “Caught Up in You,” “Fantasy Girl,” “If I’d Been the One,” “Back Where You Belong,” “Chain Lightnin’,” “Second Chance,” and more – timeless hits that remain a staple on Apple Music, Amazon Music and satellite radio. Fans immediately recognize their hits, from the first opening chord, and their longevity has paved the way to their present-day touring regimen.

Pikes Peak Center for Performing Arts, 190 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs
8:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $45.95
Phone: 719-575-9632

Saturday, September 14

COMEDY ZONE
Two A-list comedians entertain this weekend at The Schoolhouse of the Parker Arts Center. Brent Gill has devoted his life to comedy. Through his stand-up, he reports back to audiences on the terrible life decisions and ridiculous misadventures that make up his daily existence. His comedy is fun, energetic and authentic with a splash of filth… because who doesn’t like a good old-fashioned dirty joke every now and then?

Currently, Brent is featured on several tour stops with David Spade, and over his many years at Comedy Works, he has featured for Dave Chappelle, Ron White, Shane Gillis, Sebastian Maniscalco, Taylor Tomlinson, Chris Redd, Nate Bargatze, Bob Saget, Whitney Cummings, and so many more. 

Comedian Matt Cobos rapid, punchy style, and kick-ass attitude quickly get audiences onboard and ready to party. He also says “dude” and “hell yeah” WAY too much. Matt has opened for Frankie Quiñones, Melissa Villaseñor, Josh Blue, Sam Tallent, Adam Cayton-Holland, and more.

PACE Center, The Schoolhouse, 19650 E. Mainstreet, Parker
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $27

PENTATONIX
Three-time Grammy® Award-winning and multi-platinum-selling artist Pentatonix has sold more than 10 million albums worldwide and performed for hundreds of thousands of fans at their sold out shows across the globe. Their YouTube channel boasts close to 20 million subscribers, yielding more than 5.5 billion video views.

Pentatonix has had two #1 albums on Billboard’s Top 200 Chart – 2015’s gold-certified self-titled album and the 2x platinum That’s Christmas To Me. The group has received multiple RIAA certifications for multi-platinum, platinum and gold-selling albums and singles, a Daytime Emmy nomination, starred in three holiday specials on NBC and appeared in the feature film Pitch Perfect 2.

Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre, 6350 Greenwood Plaza Blvd., Greenwood Village
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $48

RALPH BARBOSA
One of the shyest attention hogs to ever do comedy, Ralph Barbosa’s disarming and laid-back style has made him a headliner across the country and later this year he will star in his first hour-long Netflix stand-up special. The past year has been momentous for the 26-year-old.  In August, Ralph recorded his first Netflix special, in January he made his debut on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and his Comedy Central Stand-up Featuring: Ralph Barbosa set topped 3 million views on YouTube. In November 2022, Ralph starred in the HBO Max comedy special, Entre Nos: The Winners 3, and earlier that year his Don’t Tell Comedy performance was released on YouTube and now has over 4.5 million views. In 2021, Ralph won the New York Latino Film Festival Stand-Up competition and in 2019 he won the Funniest Comic in Texas competition. The show is for ticketholders 18 and older.

Pikes Peak Center for Performing Arts, 190 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs
8:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $35
Phone: 719-575-9632

Saturday-Sunday, September 14-15

THE WIZARD OF OZ
Littleton Youth Ballet, the non-profit youth ballet company associated with Littleton Ballet Academy will be presenting the return of The Wizard of Oz! Performances are presented with beautiful backdrops, full sets, and costumes. Enjoy Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Tinman, and Lion, (and yes Toto too) as they journey through Oz and find that there’s no place like home! This production is family-friendly and is the perfect way to introduce your children to ballet.

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree
Sat., 6:00 p.m.; Sun., 12:00 & 5:00 p.m.
Tickets: $35-$45
Phone: 720-509-1000

KACEY MUSGRAVES
Texas-native and Nashville-based singer/songwriter, Kacey Musgraves released her Mercury Records Nashville debut album, Same Trailer Different Park, in the spring of 2013 to massive critical acclaim and recognition.  The album, which she co-produced with Shane McAnally and Luke Laird, debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart making her the first solo female in five years to open at No. 1 with a rookie release, and just seventh in the 22-year Nielson SoundScan era.  The gold-certified album includes her top 10, platinum-selling single “Merry Go ‘Round” and gold-certified hit “Follow Your Arrow.” Musgraves has taken home the award for “New Artist of the Year” at 2013’s CMA Awards and also won two Grammy Awards for Best Country Song (“Merry Go ‘Round”) and Best Country Album (Same Trailer Different Park), the ACM Award for Album of the Year (Same Trailer Different Park), and most recently the 2014 CMA Award for Song of the Year (“Follow Your Arrow”).

Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre, 6350 Greenwood Plaza Blvd., Greenwood Village
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $87

Sunday, September 15

FESTIVAL PARK FARMERS MARKET
Enjoy these fabulous, locally grown, harvested and crafted  seasonal goods at The Farmers Market at Festival Park. Don’t miss locally raised meats, farm-fresh eggs, a variety of fresh produce, delicious baked goods, artisan-made products and more from nearly 40 vendors. Support local business and agriculture while getting outside, meeting neighbors and enjoying delicious local fare. The market runs every Sunday through mid-October.

Festival Park, 300 Second St., Castle Rock
9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
FREE

CHRIS ISAAK
Over the course of his three-decade plus career, Platinum-selling and GRAMMY-nominated singer & actor Chris Isaak has performed to sold-out crowds across the globe. His music and film credits include thirteen critically acclaimed studio albums, twelve chart-topping singles along with several motion pictures, such as The Silence of the Lambs and That Thing You Do!. His work has also taken him behind the scenes, creating music for multiple film soundtracks, including Eyes Wide Shut, True Romance, Wild at Heart, and Blue Velvet. Isaak has starred in his own critically acclaimed television series The Chris Isaak Show on SHOWTIME, has previously served as a judge on The X Factor Australia, and hosted the music talk show, The Chris Isaak Hour on BIO. 2019 marked the 30th Anniversary of Isaak’s beloved Heart-Shaped World album, which includes his breakthrough classic “Wicked Game”. Isaak was recently honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award for Performance by the Americana Honors.

Pikes Peak Center for Performing Arts, 190 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs
8:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $49.9
Phone: 719-575-9632

NEXT WEEK: Monday, September 16

VIETNAM
Over seventy years ago, France, under pressure from Soviet-backed forces, ended its colonial control of Vietnam.  Thereafter, the U.S. increased its troop presence in the region, an escalation that led to the Vietnam War. Over half a century after US withdrawal, Vietnam is a very different country with a bustling economy and relatively friendly relations with the United States. Join Active Minds as we take a look back at the evolution of Vietnam with a particular focus on its relationship with its neighbor China.

Castle Pines Library, 360 Village Square Ln., Castle Pines
6:00 p.m.
Free
RSVP: 303-791-7323

Wednesday, September 18

A RALLY OF HOPE
The Castle Rock Police Department is rallying together to bring more awareness to mental health and suicide. CRPD invites the community to talk about mental health at its fifth annual A Rally of Hope event with access to Colorado-based mental health providers who will be available to answer questions and provide information and resources.

Festival Park, 300 Second St., Castle Rock
5:30 p.m.
FREE

Thursday, September 19

CRYPTOCURRENCY DISCUSSION
The introduction of Bitcoin in 2009 ushered in a new era of digital money. Since then, cryptocurrencies have proliferated in what many would describe as a wild west atmosphere with minimal regulation. Speculators have made and lost millions as the values of various “coins” have fluctuated wildly. Join Active Minds as we take a look at the evolution of cryptocurrency and discuss what makes this technology both compelling and concerning.

Lone Tree Library, f10055 Library Way, Lone Tree
6:00 p.m.
Free
RSVP: 303-791-7323

TUNES FOR TRAILS
Celebrate the end of summer and participate in a good cause with the Tunes for Trails / Perks for Parks free concert series. Face is an internationally acclaimed all-vocal rock band from Boulder who have been captivating audiences for over two decades with their infectious energy punctuated by an endearing love of performance. “Blending modern popular tunes with complex harmonies, brilliant beat-box rhythms and superb singing … Face takes their audience on a musical journey and it’s fantastic fun.” (fringereview.co.uk)

Performing over 100 shows per year around the world, the band has also competed on the hit NBC series “The Sing-Off,” headlined at Edinburgh, Scotland’s prestigious festival fringe, and has been scheduled in front of legendary performers such as Jon Bon Jovi, Jay Leno, Manhattan Transfer, Culture Club & Boy George and Barenaked Ladies.

The concert will begin at 6:30 p.m. so pack a picnic and enjoy some time with the family before the show. Food and drinks will also be available for purchase. No outside beverages are allowed except one factory-sealed water bottle per person. While this is a free event donations and proceeds from alcohol sales support the Castle Rock Parks and Trails Foundation.

Philip S. Miller Amphitheater, 1375 W. Plum Creek Pkwy, Castle Rock
6:30 p.m.
FREE
Info: 720-724-2083

Thursday-Saturday, September 19-21

BILLY GARDELL
Billy Gardell currently stars in the CBS series Bob Hearts Abishola, from award-winning creator, executive producer and writer Chuck Lorre. Prior, Billy starred in the CBS hit television series, Mike & Molly. Mike & Molly continues to air in syndication to this day. He starred as Col. Tom Parker in the CMT series, Sun Records and has had a recurring role on the hit series, Young Sheldon. In 2016 he received a daytime Emmy nomination as best gameshow host for Monopoly Millionaires Club. Gardell co-starred in the critically acclaimed television series Lucky. His other television credits include Yes Dear and Judging Amy, My Name is Earl, The Practice, Monkand Gary the Rat.

Gardell’s comedy act took him to Los Angeles where his dedication to acting, along with touring as a stand-up comedian, allowed him to grow in both arenas. His grounded, down-to-earth point of view strikes a strong chord with American audiences. Stories about his rough childhood, wild adolescence and new family life are executed with the skill of a master craftsman. 

Comedy Works South, 5345 Landmark Pl., Greenwood Village
Thurs., 7:30 p.m.; Fri./Sat., 7:15 p.m.; Sat., 9:45 p.m.
Tickets: $30-$40
Phone: 720-274-6800

Friday, September 20

JEFF ALLEN
Jeff Allen’s rapid-fire humor, which centers on marriage and family, is a hit with all ages. A live comedy favorite, Jeff has appeared on Dry Bar Comedy, America’s Got Talent, Netflix, Amazon, Huckabee, PureFlix, Showtime, Comedy Central, VH1, and more. He starred in the critically acclaimed film, Apostles of Comedy, the syndicated comedy series, Bananas, his own one-hour comedy special, Happy Wife, Happy Life, and the Warner Bros. comedy film, Thou Shalt Laugh. Jeff has been featured at Montreal’s Just For Laughs festival and HBO’s Comedy Arts Festival. His Dry Bar Comedy videos have amassed over 400 million views on social media and other platforms, introducing him to tens of millions of new fans worldwide. At times both gut-wrenching and hilarious, Jeff’s new tour offers a unique glimpse into his crazy world.

PACE CENTER, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $44

DANCE ASPEN
A fresh voice and champion for new choreography, DanceAspen returns to the Lone Tree Arts Center with its innovative dance inspired by artistry and athleticism! Founded by members of the former Aspen Santa Fe Ballet, the company features world-class professional dancers from around the country who have made Colorado their home. Always inspiring, this performance includes new works by esteemed choreographers in a variety of contemporary styles that feature unparalleled athleticism combined with emotional artistry.

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $35-$55

Phone: 720-509-1000

Saturday, September 21

OKTOBERFEST
A Downtown Castle Rock event staple with stein hoisting competitions, traditional German music and dancers including the Austrian Connection (traditional German music) and DJ Markus who will oversee the annual Castle Rock Dance Party.

Bring the kiddos for free kids’ activities, vendor booths ranging from Wire on Fire Jewelry and Lillie’s Closet, Henna Body Art, Passante’s Home Food Service, Tagawa Gardens and The Cake Company to more than 14 different breweries to try.

Wilcox Square, 4^th & Wilcox Streets, Castle Rock
1:00-9:00 p.m.
Free

DAN + SHAY
Dan + Shay’s mark upon country music – and beyond – continues to grow. Earlier this year, the pair took home a third consecutive GRAMMY for Best Country Duo/Group Performance, making them the first artist to do so three times consecutively since the category’s inception (2021 – “10,000 Hours,” 2020 – “Speechless,” 2019 – “Tequila”), and have garnered more than eight billion global career streams. Appearing as judges on The Voice has upped their popularity and exposed them more personally to a wider audience. The reigning three-time ACM Awards and two-time CMA Awards Duo of the Year also recently claimed Best Duo/Group of the Year at the 2021 iHeartRadio Music Awards as the only country act in the category and swept their 2020 American Music Awards categories, becoming the first country artist ever to win Collaboration of the Year. The duo will return to the road on their explosive and highly anticipated headlining Dan + Shay The (Arena) Tour making this stop at Fiddler’s Green at the top of their tour.

Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre, 6350 Greenwood Plaza Blvd., Greenwood Village
6:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $48

Saturday-Sunday, September 22-23

THE PARKER FALL FEST STARTS 9/22!
Fall Fest returns to downtown Parker Sept. 21 through 28, and this year’s celebration is bigger and better than ever! The Town of Parker invites residents and visitors of all ages to celebrate the start of autumn at O’Brien Park in downtown Parker. This year’s celebration will feature an expanded offering of free family-friendly events and activities.

Kick off the festivities with giant table games and lawn games in O’Brien Park with Sam the Scarecrow and Parker’s Mayor and Town Council on September 21 from noon to 1:00 p.m., while a hay bale maze for young children will also be on display all week long. Scavenger-hunt enthusiasts are also encouraged to participate in our “Prowl for Pumpkins” contest. From September 21 through 28, pumpkin signs will be hidden throughout Parker for residents to discover. Those who find a pumpkin and take a selfie can enter to win prizes!

Highlighting the weeklong celebration will be Fun and Games Day on Saturday, September 28, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Kids can participate in the Colorado Avalanche’s “Game On” street hockey program, face painters, lawn games led by Scarecrows, a rock climbing wall and carnival games with prizes. Adult-friendly attractions will include an axe-throwing booth, beer garden (tickets available onsite) hosted by the Downtown Business Alliance, as well as an axe-throwing booth. Several food vendors will be on site for visitors to grab a tasty snack. 

O’Brien Park, 10795 Victorian Dr., Parker
Various Times and Events
Costs Vary

Sunday, September 22

DANCES WITH BERNSTEIN
Join the Denver Concert Band for an exhilarating evening of music as they present “Dances with Bernstein,” a concert dedicated to the vibrant and diverse world of dance-inspired compositions. The highlight of the evening will be Leonard Bernstein’s masterful “Symphonic Dances from West Side Story,” where you’ll experience the dynamic rhythms and poignant melodies of this timeless musical. In addition, the DCB will present “Huapango” by José Moncayo, a spirited work that captures the lively essence of Mexican folk dance, and “Juba Dance” by Florence Price, a piece that brings the rich cultural heritage of African-American music to the forefront with its infectious rhythms and joyful energy. This concert promises to be a memorable celebration of dance in its many forms. Don’t miss this enchanting evening of music and movement!

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree
2:00 p.m.
Tickets: $7-$25
Phone: 720-509-1000

Things to Do Near Crystal Valley!

Just minutes from downtown Castle Rock is the master-planned community of Crystal Valley – where nature is around every corner of the neighborhood! Looking for a new home you can add your signature style to? Check out the beautiful model homes from Taylor Morrison, D.R. Horton, and Richmond American Homes. Picture yourself in your very own dream house – ranch-style or two-story models priced from the $600s.