Crystal Valley Blog

A master ventriloquist, award-winning comedians, and the stunning, breathtaking artistry of the Chinese dance troupe Shen Yun – and all within 30 minutes of Castle Rock and Crystal Valley!! Just minutes from the new home community you’ll find even more music, comedy and performances to choose from!

TODAY/TONIGHT: Thursday, March 7

JEFF DUNHAM: STILL NOT CANCELED
After 18 years of working comedy clubs, building to theaters and ultimately to arenas, Dunham has secured his status as a global touring star, playing live to over 7,250,000 people with 1,390 performances from June 2007 through May 2022, earning the title of Billboard’s Top Comedy Tour for three consecutive years.

Dunham has completed nine international tours, with shows in more than 20 countries, including arenas in Canada, U.K., Switzerland, Holland, Belgium, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, France, Australia, New Zealand, United Arab Emirates, Israel, Malaysia, Singapore and South Africa (where he is the highest-selling international comedian). 

Of note, Dunham sold over 12,000 tickets in the city of Amsterdam alone. The man Slate called “America’s favorite comedian” has 11 record-breaking comedy specials to his credit and holds four of the top-five, highest-rated programs on Comedy Central:

As a way of giving back while on tour, Dunham and his wife Audrey created the Jeff Dunham Family Fund, and through their organization, a portion of every ticket sold is given to various charities and charitable organizations.

Broadmoor World Arena, 3185 Venetucci Blvd., Colorado Springs
8:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $60-$289
Info: ticketoffice@broadmoorworldarena.com

Friday, March 8

WINE TASTING AT THE CASTLE
Let’s raise our glasses to the remarkable women who are making waves in the world of wine. These talented winemakers have broken through barriers, transformed their craft and left an indelible mark on the industry. Come join neighbors and friends in a beautiful castle setting and celebrate women’s history while tasting six of the finest wines made by female wine makers.

Charcuterie appetizers and delicious desserts will accompany your tasting. When the tasting is completed, you can enjoy a complimentary glass of your favorite wine, and admire the castle’s centuries’ old art and antiques. A cash bar will be available to purchase additional glasses of wine.  You may also purchase your favorite bottles to take home.

Cherokee Ranch & Castle, 6113 N. Daniels Park Rd., Sedalia 
6:30 p.m. Doors/Tours/Cash Bar
7:00 p.m. Appetizers
7:30 p.m. Tasting
8:30-9:00 p.m. Enjoy complimentary glass
Cost: $59.75 + $3.50 fee (Reservations Required)
CALL: 303-688-5555

CHANGEMAKER SERIES: JODI COBB
Jodi Cobb is an esteemed and influential photographer who has made a significant impact in the world of photojournalism. She gained unprecedented access to Japan’s Geisha community in 1992, shedding new light on this elusive subculture. As one of the first female photographers (and the only staff photographer) hired by National Geographic in the late 1970s, Jodi paved the way for future generations of female photojournalists. Her groundbreaking story “21st Century Slavery” exposed the global issue of human trafficking and generated more reader accolades than any other story in the magazine’s history. For more than four decades, Jodi has documented a changing world, focusing on women and sweeping societal change. One of the first western photographers allowed to travel across China when it first reopened to the West, Jodi was witness to a land and culture frozen in time. She has received numerous awards and honors for her work, including the Robert Capa Gold Medal and the Missouri Honor Medal for Distinguished Service in Journalism.

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree
8:00 p.m.
Tickets: $30-$40
Phone: 720-509-1000

Friday-Saturday, February 8-9

TROUPE VERTIGO-ESPAÑA
With highly stylized choreography, lighting, music, and cirque performances, Troupe Vertigo combines captivating scenes and enchanting visuals. Marvel in this artistic wonder featuring Latin music as the incredible artists of Troupe Vertigo gracefully unveil stunning circus feats.

Pikes Peak Center for Performing Arts, 190 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $25-$91
Phone: 719-575-9632

NICK SWARDSON
WOW. Nick Swardson is Pop-U-Lar! Nearly every Colorado performance is sold out so if you’re a fan – book your tickets now! Comedian, actor, writer and producer, Swardson has found success on the small and silver screens as well as the live stage. His unique comedic view has made him a regular guest on late night shows and as a stand-up, he tours regularly on a bill with Adam Sandler, David Spade and Rob Schneider. 

He can be seen on Netflix as part of Comedians of the World where he was one of four comedians selected to represent the U.S. And he starred in two one-hour specials for Comedy Central, Nick Swardson: Taste It and Nick Swardson: Seriously, Who Farted. He has a half-hour Comedy Central Presents special, and his first comedy album, Party, was certified Platinum.

Comedy Works South, 5345 Landmark Pl., Greenwood Village
Fri./Sat., 9:45 p.m.
Tickets: $35-$45
Phone: 720-274-6800

Saturday, March 9

CHRISTIAN MCBRIDE PERFORMS!
“McBride is a gifted musical prodigy who soaked up influences from every direction.” – New York Trend

Christian McBride is an eight-time GRAMMY Award winning bassist, composer, bandleader, as well as host of NPR’s “Jazz Night in America.” From jazz to R&B, pop/rock, hip-hop/neosoul, to classical, he is a luminary with one hand ever reaching for new heights, and the other extended in fellowship—and perhaps the hint of a challenge—inviting us to join him. For this show he is joined by four rising young master instrumentalists including saxophonist Nicole Glover, guitarist Ely Perlman, pianist Mike King, and drummer Savannah Harris.

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree
8:00 p.m.
Tickets: $40-$58
Phone: 720-509-1000

Sunday, March 10

PASSPORT TO CULTURE: TREKKING MEXICO
Take a deep dive into folk traditions, both ancient and contemporary. This colorful educational show takes you on a Mexican expedition of historic and geographic regions through folkloric music and dance.

From feeling the rumbling drums of Tenochtitlan to the sweet sounds of the stringed Jaranas of Veracruz, audiences are transported to the jungles of Tabasco and trek the mountains of Guerrero, this multimedia show will whisk you away on a joyful ride through this culturally rich republic.

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree
1:30 p.m.
Tickets: $15
Phone: 720-509-1000

DENVER BRASS: A CELTIC CONCERT
Head to Sedalia to be immersed in the sound of Colorado’s deep Celtic roots, ancient threads that connect us all and echo from the walls of Cherokee Castle. This is an awaited return of the award-winning and beloved Denver Brass Quintet.

In honor of upcoming St. Patrick’s celebrations, the DB5 is joined by Celtic pipers for iconic favorites including Amazing Grace, Scotland the Brave, Highland Cathedral, Londonderry Air, and much more! Goosebumps are guaranteed!

Make sure to bring your camera, for stellar photo ops as you explore the Castle with our friendly docents before the concert. Reserved seating for your comfort! A cash bar is available and afternoon refreshments are provided at intermission. Recommended for all ages (except babes in arms). 

Cherokee Ranch & Castle, 6113 N. Daniels Park Rd., Sedalia 
2:00 p.m. Doors open, Castle Tours
3:00-5:15 p.m. Performance in two acts (one intermission)
Cost: $65-$74 Reservations Are Required
CALL: 303-688-5555

LOUIS JOHNSON
Louis Johnson has been seen on Showtime, Comedy Central, A&E, B.E.T. and his own Showtime Comic of the Month Special. Plus, over 20 U.S.O. World Comedy Break Tours for troops. Currently headlining comedy clubs, major cruise lines, colleges, corporate events. He’s also a founding member of the critically acclaimed The S.E.L.L.O.U.T. Comedy Tour. He recently headlined at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

The Indianapolis News says, “His jokes make fun of life’s everyday occurrences that break all racial and economic barriers.”

CBSDenver.com said Johnson is the “Owner of the gift that every comic craves-the ability to draw the long hearty laughs from start to finish.”

The Boulder Daily simply says, “There was only one difference between us. He was funny-very funny.”

Comedy Works South, 5345 Landmark Pl., Greenwood Village
7:00 p.m.
Tickets: $14
Phone: 720-274-6800

ONE NIGHT OF QUEEN
One Night of Queen is a touring two-hour stage show, paying tribute to the stage theatrics and music of Queen. It is performed by Gary Mullen & The Works, a band headed by Freddie Mercury imitator Gary Mullen, who had previously won the talent show Stars in Their Eyes with his vocal and visual imitation of Mercury. You’ll hear lots of Queen’s best-loved hits, and appreciate the homage to one of the great rock artists of all time. The other members of the band are David Brockett on guitar, Jon Halliwell on drums and Malcolm Gentles on keyboards.

Pikes Peak Center for Performing Arts, 190 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $30-$60
Phone: 719-575-9632

NEXT WEEK: Monday-Tuesday, March 11-12

THE THORN
The Thorn tells the epic Easter story of God’s love for the world and the spiritual battle for all humanity. Often described as cirque meets the passion of Jesus, The Thorn is an immersive show featuring live music, drama, aerial acts, movement arts, modern dance, and big visual effects. Join more than one million fans who have experienced The Thorn live! 

The Thorn is not connected to any one particular church or denomination. It was created by a youth pastor as a way to communicate to young people the love of Jesus and the reality of the spiritual battle for our choices, destiny and identity. The Thorn is a Christian-owned production company and the show is performed by high-level, talented artists who want to use their talent to tell God’s story. It is biblically-based and has a 25-year history. Recommended for ages 12 and older.

Pikes Peak Center for Performing Arts, 190 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs
7:00 p.m.
Tickets: $53-$109
Phone: 719-575-9632

Wednesday, March 13

ARTS IN THE AFTERNOON: OPUS TWO DUO
Opus Two Duo has been internationally recognized for its “divine phrases, impelling rhythm, elastic ensemble and stunning sounds.” The Violin and Piano duo of William Terwilliger and Andrew Cooperstock, both frequent artists with Colorado Chamber Players, will perform a stunning program of Latino composers. On the program are works by Turina, Sarasate, and deFalla (Spain); Ginastera and Piazzolla (Argentina); and by American-Peruvian Latin Grammy winner Gabriela Lena Frank.

Arts in the Afternoon is a monthly hour-long program that features some of the finest classical, jazz, opera, and other artists from the Denver metro area. 

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

STEVE GILLESPIE
Steve Gillespie has appeared on CONAN, Amazon Prime’s, Inside Joke, and FOX’s, Laughs – All Stars. Gillespie’s second comedy album Alive on State reached #1 on iTunes Comedy Charts and hit the top 10 on the Billboard charts. His 3rd comedy album Liminal Bliss was released earlier this year with Helium Comedy Records. It reached #2 on the iTunes Comedy Charts, so he is getting worse.

Gillespie’s act a is a slap happy balance of aggression and absurdity, coupled with a delightfully pushy persona that has earned him spots at some of the best festivals in country including the Bridgetown Comedy Festival, Boston Comedy Festival, 10k Laughs, and High Plains Comedy Festival in Denver, CO. He was named a finalist in CMT’s Next Big Comic, runner up for Best of the Midwest at Gilda’s Laughfest, and his debut album “Steve Fever” was named a top 10 comedy album of the year by ComedyReviews.com

Gillespie has also had the pleasure of sharing the stage with some of the best comics in the country, including opening appearances for Rory Scovel, Dave Attell, Jim Breuer, Tom Segura, Kyle Kinnane, Tom Green, Harland Williams, Shane Mauss, Doug Benson, Emo Phillips, and Gilbert Gottfried.

Comedy Works South, 5345 Landmark Pl., Greenwood Village
Fri./Sat., 9:45 p.m.
Tickets: $14
Phone: 720-274-6800

BLACK JACKET SYMPHONY
Remember putting on an album and listening from start to finish?  Relive that moment with a live concert experience unlike any other as The Black Jacket Symphony recreates Pink Floyd’s iconic album The Dark Side of the Moon live in its entirety—note for note, sound for sound—plus a full set of Pink Floyd’s greatest hits. Over the past ten years, the Black Jacket Symphony has performed over 40 classic rock albums, bringing an incredible night of entertainment to over a million music lovers across the US. The group of hand-picked musicians changes based upon the album being performed—and no sonic detail is overlooked, with the musicians doing whatever it takes to reproduce the album. It’s a full night of rock and roll magic—plus a visual experience unlike any other. Fans across the country flock to their shows—and once you see one, you won’t miss another!

Don’t let the name fool you…known for their incredible live recreations of some of classic rock’s greatest albums, The Black Jacket Symphony is bringing Pink Floyd’s iconic album The Dark Side of the Moon to life. It’s a full rock-and-roll experience! Black jackets for them, blue jeans for you.

Pikes Peak Center for Performing Arts, 190 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs
8:00 p.m.
Tickets: $30-$40
Phone: 719-575-9632
Thursday, March 14. 

BROTHERS IN ARMS
“Classic Albums Live are good at what they do, and the approach they choose highlights the music over the musicians.” —DC Metro Theater Arts

In May of 1985, Dire Straits released what would become one of the best-selling albums of all time; delivering a stream of classic songs and propelling the band into global superstar status. Classic Albums Live will recreate the album note for note, cut for cut live on stage in its entirety. With hits like “Money for Nothing,” “Walk of Life,” and “So Far Away,” it’s no wonder that Brothers in Arms is on the list of the 100 Greatest British Albums Ever.

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $35-$48
Phone: 720-509-1000

GREGORY ALAN ISAKOV
Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, and now calling Colorado home, horticulturist/musician Gregory Alan Isakov has cast an impressive presence on the indie-rock and folk worlds with his six full-length studio albums: That Sea, The Gambler; This Empty Northern Hemisphere; The Weatherman; Gregory Alan Isakov with the Colorado Symphony; Evening Machines (nominated for a Grammy award for Best Folk Album), and his newest album, Appaloosa Bones. Isakov tours internationally with his band, and has performed with several national symphony orchestras across the United States.

Isakov’s new record, Appaloosa Bones, was released on August 18, 2023 (via Dualtone/Suitcase Town Music). Of the album, MOJO states, ““Prime Isakov: his velvet baritone glides over elegant and shimmering Wild West mirages.” The Associated Press proclaims, “He has that magical ability to convey both urgency and grandeur at the same time…Simple. Straightforward. Utterly evocative.” And No Depression declares, “this is Isakov’s genius. He turns a short poem into a magnificent piece of music that can captivate for hours.

Pikes Peak Center for Performing Arts, 190 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $40-$85
Phone: 719-575-9632

Thursday-Saturday, March 14-16

TRIXX
Taboo shattering, searingly honest, and painfully funny, Frankie “TRIXX” Agyemang is one of North America’s rising comedic stars. Trixx is the 2021 winner of the Boston Comedy Festival, the 2018 Winner of the World Series of Comedy, also 2013 Winner of Just for Laughs’ JFL42 Big Break Competition. He’s been featured on Kevin Hart’s LOL Network, Sirius XM Radio and has opened for such comics as: Tracy Morgan, Damon Wayans, Cedric the Entertainer, Mike Epps, Ryan Hamilton and Sugar Sammy.

Trixx has written and performed sold out theatre shows including his last show, a two-hour solo show, TRIXX: Unspoken Words, was sold out Toronto’s Jane Mallett Theatre. He has also performed internationally including: London, Boston Comedy Festival, Jamaica Comedy Festival and New York Comedy Festival.

Trixx has developed a cult following with his no-holds-barred, take-no-prisoners brand of comedy. Mixing boisterous commentary on topics like pop culture, relationships, music, clubbing, and sex, with acute insights on being black in North America, Trixx’s streetwise, boundary-pushing humor fearlessly takes on everyone and everything in his sights.

Comedy Works South, 5345 Landmark Pl., Greenwood Village
Thurs., 7:30 p.m.; Fri./Sat., 7:15 & 9:45 p.m.
Tickets: $18-$26
Phone: 720-274-6800

Friday, March 15

LUNASA
“An Irish music dream team.” Folk Roots Magazine
Named for an ancient Celtic harvest festival, Lúnasa was formed in 1997 from members of some of the greatest Irish groups of the previous decade. From the start, the band’s complex arrangements and unique sound reshaped the boundaries of traditional music and energized audiences the world over. Having since sold over a quarter of a million records and performed over 2,000 shows,

Lúnasa has won multiple awards and become one of the most influential bands in the history of traditional music.

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree
8:00 p.m.
Tickets: $35-$50
Phone: 720-509-1000

Friday-Sunday, March 15-17

SHEN YUN
For 5,000 years, China was home to a deeply spiritual civilization, one that treasured virtue, kindness, loyalty, and integrity. Based in New York, Shen Yun is now reviving this lost heritage through mesmerizing performances. It is 5,000 years of civilization—reborn.

Today, Shen Yun has seven companies that simultaneously tour the world, giving hundreds of performances in over 100 cities globally. It’s the only performing arts group of its kind, dedicated not just to preserving but also to reviving traditional Chinese culture. Audience members often express intrigue piqued by the many rave reviews, and want to see what the “world’s premier classical Chinese dance company” looks like in action.

Audiences leave having all expectations filled and more, because Shen Yun is unique among performing arts companies as well, choreographing over a dozen new dances every season with a full-scale production that rivals top opera houses’ most lavish performances.

The company’s Shen Yun Symphony Orchestra combines the exquisite beauty of Chinese melodies with the grandeur of a Western symphony orchestra.

Jared Madsen, emcee for Shen Yun Performing Arts explains, “The production value is incredibly high. Given that alone, this is a show you can really get immersed in,” with its one-of-a-kind costumes, dazzling digital backdrops, and the deeply-held values and principles that characterize timeless Chinese traditions.

“Exquisitely beautiful. An extraordinary experience for us and the children.”

—CATE BLANCHETT, ACADEMY AWARD-WINNING ACTRESS
Pikes Peak Center for Performing Arts, 190 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs
Fri./Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sat./Sun., 2:00 p.m.
Tickets: $84-$184

Phone: 719-575-9632

Saturday, March 16

HARLEM GLOBE TROTTERS
Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters global tour as they take the court with moments of extreme basketball innovation and unparalleled fan FUN. See the Globetrotter stars LIVE as they DRIBBLE, SPIN and DUNK their way past their relentless rivals, the Washington Generals! You’ll be amazed by new levels of mind-blowing trick shots, expert ball-handling skills, and BIG LAUGHS with NEW unrivaled opportunities for pre-game, post-game and in-game fan engagement.

See Hammer, TNT, Bulldog, Cheese, Torch, Hot Shot, Jet, Wham and Thunder – just to name a few – as they run circles around the Washington Generals ON THE COURT and bring the HYPE TO THE CROWD. YOU might even find yourself mid-court as part of the ALL-NEW, FAN-FILLED Halftime Skills Showcase!

Broadmoor World Arena, 3185 Venetucci Blvd., Colorado Springs
2:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $38-$158
Info: ticketoffice@broadmoorworldarena.com

Castle Rock’s Close-Away Crystal Valley!

Enjoy life in Castle Rock within minutes from 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 Kauffman Homes, 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.