Crystal Valley Blog

This weekend and next, in and around Castle Rock, you can take in a world class ballet, enjoy first class aerial and acrobat entertainment right down the road or watch as The Outlets light up the biggest Christmas tree for miles around! It’s the season of sleigh bells, all near the master-planned community of Crystal Valley!

TODAY/TONIGHT: Thursday, November 7

NAT GEO LIVE: KILIII YÜYAN
Journey to the Arctic with National Geographic Explorer Kiliii Yüyan, whose photography celebrates the resilience, culture, and traditions of the diverse Indigenous communities in the Arctic. Yüyan has earned a reputation for portraying human experience in some of the world’s harshest natural environments through his stunning photography. Join Yüyan on this expedition and explore the connections between the people, animals, and land in this remote, wild, and mysterious place. Make your reservations for this student matinee series event.

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree
10:00 a.m.
Reservations
Phone: 720-509-1000

Thursday-Sunday, November 7-10

CIRQUE ITALIA AT THE FAIRGROUNDS!
Have you ever wished you could turn back time and go back to a simpler, happy season filled with sock hops, drive-in theaters, muscle cars, and bushy sideburns? Well get out your poodle skirts and leather jackets! Cirque Italia’s Gold Unit performers can’t wait to take you back hula hoops and soda fountains, when Elvis Presley dominated the airwaves, greased hair was all the rage, and street racing was a parent’s greatest concern!

Come along for the ride when a 1950s-obsessed adolescent falls asleep and dreams of living in this revolutionary era. This high-octane show is guaranteed to captivate and engage every kiddo and Daddy-O in the audience. Cirque Italia believes multiculturalism is one of our strongest assets. Our show features performers from Argentina, Brazil, Romania, and many other countries. Of course, these incredible artists are preparing to wow you with their astounding acts. Master jugglers, low wire fanatics, dazzling contortion, wild trampoline antics, and even a wheel of death! Want to know more? You’ll have to come ‘dream’ with us as we travel back in time. Cirque Italia’s mission is to provide high-class entertainment suitable for all age groups, where all are welcome at our strictly animal-free shows!

Douglas County Fairgrounds, 500 Fairgrounds Rd, Castle Rock
Thurs./Fri., 7:30 p.m., Sat./Sun., 1:30, 4:30 & 8:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $45

Friday, November 8

ITALIAN WINE TASTING AT THE CASTLE
Italian wines are produced in every region of Italy, home to some of the oldest and largest wine-producing regions in the world. Join the Castle sommeliers as they explore some of the wonderful Italian varietals! 

Mary and Natalie will lead you through a tasting of these delicious wines in a beautiful castle setting for what promises to be an entertaining and educational event. If you love Italian wines, then this is the tasting for you, complete with charcuterie appetizers to 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 and Castle, 6113 N. Daniels Park Rd., Sedalia
Doors Open/Tours: 6:30 p.m.
Appetizers and Tasting: 7:00 p.m.
Reservations: $62.75 

JOE GATTO: LET’S GET INTO IT
Joe Gatto is a comedian best known from the hit TV shows “Impractical Jokers” and “The Misery Index.” He has toured with the Jokers live comedy show to sold-out crowds throughout the world, including legendary arenas, such as Madison Square Garden in New York and the O2 Arena in London. Currently, Joe tours with his stand-up solo show “Joe Gatto’s Night of Comedy” in sold-out theaters across the United States. Joe is passionate about supporting anti-bullying organizations and animal rescue initiatives. He happily advocates for the “Adopt, Don’t Shop” movement with his non-profit Gatto Pups and Friends which operates on Long Island, NY catering to mainly senior and disabled pups. Joe also hosts a popular comedy podcast called “Two Cool Moms” on the iHeart Radio Podcast Network where he and his co-host dispense sage motherly advice to fans who write in with their dilemmas, and has written his first ever children’s book, Where’s Bearry?, which came out September 3 via Penguin Workshop. He also lives his life by a code of pastry and family, loving his wife, two children and cannoli.

Pikes Peak Center for Performing Arts, 190 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs
7:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $40
Phone: 719-575-9632

RHAPSODY IN BLUE
The Parker Symphony Orchestra’s 31st season taps into the adage, “Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue” by celebrating the 100 year anniversary of George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue.

Internationally renowned pianist Katie Mahan joins the orchestra in bringing an American classic to life!

·       (OLD) Capriccio Espagnole N. Rimsky Korsakov 18:00

·       (NEW) Supermaximum Kenji Bunch 12:00

·       (BORROWED) Pulcinella Suite I. Stravinsky 21

Praised as “one of the most outstanding talents coming up today,” American pianist Katie Mahan is capturing the attention of audiences throughout the world for her innovative musical personality, poetic interpretations, and graceful, charming stage presence.

PACE CENTER, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $29

Friday-Saturday, November 8-9

CHAD DANIELS LIVE!
With over a billion streams of his six albums to date, and averaging a million more every week, Chad Daniels is one of the most listened to comedians of all time. He has made six late night appearances to date and is one of only 13 comics to be featured on The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien. His previous album Footprints on the Moon was the most streamed comedy album of 2017.

Chad’s third stand-up special and fifth album, Dad Chaniels(filmed at Comedy Works South), was released on Amazon in 2019 and his hugely popular podcast, Middle of Somewhere with co-host Cy Amundson, is released weekly with extra content now available on Patreon. Chad recently launched his second podcast, Pretend Problems, alongside his girlfriend Kelsey Cook. His latest special, Mixed Reviews, can be found on YouTube.

Comedy Works South, 5345 Landmark Pl., Greenwood Village
Fri./Sat., 7:15 p.m.; Sat., 9:45 p.m.
Tickets: $35-$40
Phone: 720-274-6800

Friday-Sunday, November 8-10

NUNSENSE
Nunsense is habit-forming! This riotous show is a fundraiser put on by the Little Sisters of Hoboken to raise money to bury sisters accidently poisoned by the convent cook, Sister Julia (Child of God).

Updated with new jokes, additional lyrics, two new arrangements, and a brand new song, this madcap musical was recorded for television starring Rue McClanahan as the Mother Superior.

The Schoolhouse, 19650 Mainstreet, Parker
Fri./Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sat./Sun., 2:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $34

Saturday, November 9

BACK COUNTRY GUIDED HIKE
Enjoy the beauty that is Cherokee Ranch! This trek proceeds through game trails and rugged terrain so some hiking experience is necessary. You’ll visit the largest petrified woods in the state of Colorado, climb to the highest point on this pristine land, and loop through some of the more remote and fascinating parts of the Ranch not available to public visitors. 

These hikes are longer than three miles and include extensive steep off-trail hiking. Difficult hikes are recommended for experienced hikers in good physical condition. Participants can expect rugged terrain, challenging conditions and significant changes in elevation. It is recommended that you wear long pants and have good hiking shoes or boots. 

Cherokee Ranch and Castle, 6113 N. Daniels Park Rd., Sedalia
8:00 a.m. Meet in the Parking Lot
Reservations: $39.50

Saturday-Sunday, November 9-10

THE CITY DOG AND THE PRAIRIE DOG
Paloma is a prairie dog pup in a prairie dog town. She’s not a huge fan of prairie living, though — the boring cuisine, the scary predators, the annoying owls. So, when her cousin from the city comes to visit, Paloma jumps at the chance to leave the open plain behind. Will Paloma adjust to life in a metropolis of 22 million people (and who knows how many rodents)? Will she survive without her dog town behind her? Will they survive without her? Featuring lots of singing, dancing, and audience participation, The City Dog and the Prairie Dog (El perro de la ciudad y el perro de la pradera) is a bilingual story about exploring the world, learning new things, and maybe, just maybe, coming home again.

Fine Arts Center at Colorado College, 30 W. Dale St., Colorado Springs
Sat., 11:00 a.m. & 3:00 p.m.; Sun., 12:00 & 4:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $18
Info: 719-634-5583

MUMMENSCHANZ
“Mummenschanz succeeds brilliantly because of its originality, exceptional ingenuity, sense of surprise and deft satirical touches.”— San Francisco Chronicle

Since it was founded in 1972, Mummenschanz has delighted audiences of all ages with its unique brand of mask-based theater. Creating playful shapes and faces using props, light, and shadow, this whimsical experience will ignite the imaginations of children and adults alike. With appearances on Sesame Street, The Muppet Show, and The Johnny Carson Show throughout their history, this experimental group will leave audiences awed with wonder.

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree
Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30 p.m.
Tickets: $25-$50
Phone: 720-509-1000

Sunday, November 10

STRAIGHT, NO CHASER PERFORMS
“It is a privilege to get out on the road each fall,” said Straight No Chaser member Walter Chase. “Starting in October and through until New Year’s Eve, we tour across America sharing our love of the holiday season. For many families, we have become a holiday tradition some return each year for over a decade! It’s an honor, and it is one that we don’t take for granted.”

Initially formed at Indiana University, a cappella group Straight No Chaser emerged at the forefront of the modern day a cappella movement and has since sold more than three million albums worldwide, garnered more than a billion streams on Pandora alone, and sold more than 1.5 million concert tickets worldwide.  In the fall of 2023, the group performed in more than 50 cities across the US with multiple sold-out shows, including a record-breaking run in Indianapolis. 

Pikes Peak Center for Performing Arts, 190 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs
7:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $51
Phone: 719-575-9632

NEXT WEEK: Tuesday, November 12

DAVID SEDARIS LIVE
With sardonic wit and incisive social critiques, David Sedaris has become one of America’s pre-eminent humor writers. The great skill with which he slices through cultural euphemisms and political correctness proves that Sedaris is a master of satire and one of the most observant writers addressing the human condition today.

David Sedaris is the author of Barrel Fever and Holidays on Ice, as well as collections of personal essays, Naked, Me Talk Pretty One Day, Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim, When You Are Engulfed in Flames, and his most recent book, Let’s Explore Diabetes with Owls, each of which became an immediate bestseller. The audio version of Let’s Explore Diabetes with Owls is a 56th Annual GRAMMY Awards Nominee for Best Spoken Word Album. Sedaris’ pieces appear regularly in The New Yorker and have twice been included in “The Best American Essays.” There are over 10 million copies of his books in print and they have been translated into 25 languages.

He and his sister, Amy Sedaris, have collaborated under the name “The Talent Family” and have written half-a-dozen plays which have been produced at La Mama, Lincoln Center, and The Drama Department in New York City. David Sedaris’ original radio pieces can often be heard on the public radio show This American Life. David Sedaris has been nominated for three Grammy Awards for Best Spoken Word and Best Comedy Album.

Pikes Peak Center for Performing Arts, 190 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs
7:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $29
Phone: 719-575-9632

Wednesday, November 13

GRAND KYIV BALLET
For the 2024 season, the Grand Kyiv Ballet has prepared a surprise for their viewers. Their new Christmas ballet, The Snow Queen, is based on the world-famous fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen. This fascinating romantic story set to the music of Edvard Grieg, Jules Massenet, Mozart, and Vivaldi, will give unforgettable bright emotions of happiness for adults and children. Handsome Kai, robbers, forest fairies, funny Snowman, fabulous trolls, and, of course, brave beautiful Gerda who will pass all difficulties on her way. Kai and Gerda are sitting in their garden among roses when a shard of a witch’s mirror gets into Ka’s eye. His heart becomes hard and cold. One winter day a whirlwind of snow rises around him and he disappears. He is taken by the Snow Queen who lives in a world of ice and snow. Gerda goes in search of Kai. There are many challenges ahead but love helps her get through them and free Kai from the spell of the Snow Queen.

PACE CENTER, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker
7:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $49

Thursday, November 14

THURSDAY THROWBACK: GOLD RUSH DAYS!
Join the folks at the Castle Rock Historical Society for a presentation on “Gold in Douglas County” by local storyteller, Ron Claussen.Come and hear about various gold discoveries in the area and the lives of people and prospectors during the gold rush years. 

Castle Rock Museum, 100 S. Wilcox, Castle Rock
7:00-8:00 p.m.
FREE
Info: 303-814-3164

Thursday-Saturday, November 14-16

JP SEARS LIVE!
JP Sears is a comedian, author, and YouTuber known for his unapologetic stand for freedom and his satirical take on politics, fitness, and faith. His unique approach to comedy encourages his audience to question societal norms while embracing personal growth with laughter and authenticity. As a speaker and creator, he continues to inspire millions to find hope and freedom in the everyday absurdities.

Comedy Works South, 5345 Landmark Pl., Greenwood Village
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $35-$84
Phone: 720-274-6800

Friday, November 15

BRUBECK BROTHERS
“Once again the Brubeck Brothers Quartet attains that rarefied level where music is both relaxed and expressive, and their joy in its creation is contagious. There’s really nothing out there that comes close to their unique brand of inventiveness.”
— All About Jazz

Musicians Chris and Dan Brubeck have played a variety of styles throughout their lives, having learned from their father, jazz giant Dave Brubeck. Now, the brothers perform in a dynamic quartet that showcases the very best of what jazz has to offer. The group’s creativity, technique and improvisation can be heard in their uncompromising music, which reflects their dedication to melody, rhythm, culture, and the spontaneous spirit of jazz. They’re joined by special guest Lucas Pino, a tenor saxophonist and multi-woodwind player, whose unique and lyrical approach makes him one of the most in-demand side musicians across generations.

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree
7:30 pm.
Tickets: $35-$50
Phone: 720-509-1000

Saturday, November 16

NUTCRACKER
Celebrate the start of the Holiday season with Colorado Dance Center’s ‘Nano Nutcracker of November.’ Dancers ages 3-18 years perform Nutcracker Ballet classics alongside Jazz, Contemporary, and Hip-Hop dances. The ballet begins during a Christmas Eve party, where a girl named Clara is delighted when her godfather Drosselmeyer arrives with toys, including a nutcracker that she takes a liking to, but her brother Fritz breaks it (via Nutcracker Ballet). When Clara sneaks back to the tree at midnight to check on the repaired nutcracker, she shrinks, and witnesses a battle between an army of mice and toy, tin soldiers, led by her beloved nutcracker. It looks like the mice are going to win until Clara throws her slipper at their king, killing him; the nutcracker then escorts Clara through a land of snow, turning into a handsome prince in the process.

PACE CENTER, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker
6:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $15

Sunday, November 17

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA
Multi-platinum, progressive rock group Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO) returns to Colorado Springs with its winter tour, The Lost Christmas Eve for 2 spectacular shows. Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO) is a progressive rock band founded as an outlet for the many rock operas late rock industry veteran, producer, composer, and musician Paul O’Neill was writing.

TSO was created to push the boundaries of what was possible for a band to create – both musically and visually. Paul O’Neill dreamed of a different kind of “band” that is not limited by the confines of traditional rock acts and instead established one with multiple singers who could inhabit the various characters he was writing into his rock operas.

Although TSO is best known for their Capra-esque trilogy of holiday records – Christmas Eve & Other Stories, The Christmas Attic, and The Lost Christmas Eve – they have also released several other rock operas.

BROADMOOR ARENA, 3185 Venetucci Blvd., Colorado Springs
2:00 & 7:00 p.m.
Tickets: $69

ANNUAL TREE-LIGHTING AT THE OUTLETS
Experience the enchantment of the holiday season as the Outlets at Castle Rock illuminates Colorado’s tallest Christmas tree, turning the outdoor mall into a winter wonderland. Here’s what you can look forward to.

Live Music: Enjoy live music from three AMAZING performers – The All-American Boys Chorus, Nayah Damasen and Trevor Martin!

The Grand Illumination: Watch the magical lighting of the tallest Christmas tree in Colorado! This enchanting 55-foot tree is adorned with 8,000 lights and 5,000 ornaments. A towering symbol of holiday cheer!

Santa’s Arrival: Santa Claus is making a special trip to help us kick off the festivities by lighting the tree!

Holiday Shopping: ‘Tis the season of presenting presents and what better place to find the perfect gifts for your loved ones than at the Outlets at Castle Rock? Take advantage of incredible holiday deals and promotions from your favorite stores.

Fireworks Spectacular: As the evening’s grand finale, event-goers will witness a dazzling fireworks show that will paint the night sky with bursts of color and sparkle. It’s a breathtaking sight that you won’t want to miss. Bring your family, friends, and holiday spirit as the town comes together to celebrate the joy and wonder of the season.

Outlets at Castle Rock, 5050 Factory Shops Blvd., Castle Rock
4:00-7:00 p.m.
FREE 

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.