Crystal Valley Blog

In the mood for some five-star improv? How about a corn maze experience for the whole family? You can see first-class comedians, award-winning musicians and attend Veteran’s Day activities. There’s plenty to do this weekend and next in Castle Rock and nearby locales!

TODAY/TONIGHT: Thursday, November 3

WHOSE LIVE ANYWAY?
The current cast members of the Emmy-nominated TV show Whose Line Is It Anyway? are proud to present their new improv tour: Whose Live Anyway?
Whose Live Anyway? is 90 minutes of hilarious improvised comedy and song all based on audience suggestions. Cast members Greg Proops, Jeff B. Davis, and Joel Murray and Special Guest Drew Carey will leave you gasping with the very witty scenes they invent before your eyes. Audience participation is key to the show so bring your suggestions and you might be asked to join the cast onstage! WHOSE LIVE ANYWAY? showcases some of the improv games made famous on the long-running TV show as well as some exciting new ones, featuring musical direction by Bob Derkach

Broadmoor World Arena, 3185 Venetucci Blvd., Colorado Springs
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $34-$59

Thursday-Saturday, November 3-5

DARRELL HAMMOND
Darrell Hammond is the longest running cast member on Saturday Night Live. The actor and comedian has brought to life a cavalcade of politicians, media figures, celebrities and newsmakers on television through his impressions. Amongst the great number of people he has mimicked include Bill Clinton, Sean Connery, Regis Philbin, John Travolta, Jay Leno and Donald Trump. Darrell is known for being one of the most prolific comedians of his time.

In addition to his SNL appearances, Hammond has been seen in a number of feature films and television shows. As a truly versatile actor Darrell has displayed his talents in both dramatic and comedic roles. He has appeared in the TBS comedy series Are We There Yet?, on the acclaimed F/X series Damages, and on the Law and Order franchise. Some of his feature films include Screen Gems feature Weiners, Warner Bros’ New York Minute, as well as Scary Movie 3 and Scary Movie 6. In addition, Darrell is the author of his critically acclaimed memoir, “God If You’re Not Up There, I’m F***ed,” which was released to rave reviews.

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

Thursday-Sunday, November 3-6

LATE NIGHT LOOP
Join the folks at the Fine Arts Center 30 minutes south of us for a late-night dance party following the mainstage performance of Songs from the Border starring Satya Chávez, Brian Quijada, and Nygel D. Robinson performing pop and musical medleys. Who knows? You might just hear an epic Encanto mash-up.Performance will take place in the Fine Art Center’s music room.

Fine Art Center, Music Room, 30 W. Dale St., Colorado Springs
9:30 p.m.
Tickets: $16 – Add On: $10
Info: 719-634-5581

Friday, November 4

WARREN MILLER’S DAYMAKER
It’s hard to feel the weight of the world when you’re flying through snow so deep, it may as well be the sky. Stress can’t keep up; anxiety won’t do the bumps, and frustration forgot a glove and had to go home. This is where Warren Miller Entertainment’s 73rd annual ski and snowboard film takes place: on peaks that replace the mountains in your mind with ones that free your mind. Join Crazy Karl Fostvedt, Michelle Parker, Katie Burrell, Hanna Beaman, Daron Rahlves, Ryland Bell, Cam Fitzpatrick, Connery Lundin and more on the hill, and you can’t really have a bad day.

British Columbia’s Monashees, the literal throne of the gods in Greece’s Olympus Mountains,  Alaska twice and Snowmass, for the biggest party of the winter. The highlight – a surprise for a Warren Miller superfan at the base of Snowbasin who gets whisked away to ski with Jonny Moseley and Marcus Caston. We follow one of Europe’s most legendary mountain guides, rewrite the rules of adaptive backcountry riding, and try to keep up with some of the most exciting young skiers and snowboarders on the planet. Not just for winter sports lovers – but if you are one — this will make your day.

Pikes Peak Center for Performing Arts, 190 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $24
Phone: 719-575-9632

THE BODEANS
With countless tunes you know from the first note, rip-roaring gigs you can count on, and a whole lot of energy you’ll take home with you, BoDeans continue to contribute to the American songbook as a tried-and-true institution. The Wisconsin-based rock band rose to fame during the late ’80s and early ’90s with a signature sound that spanned Midwestern roots rock and adult alternative pop-rock. Following a hiatus, BoDeans, perhaps best known for the hit single Closer to Free, have returned to the recording studio and are once again bringing their live shows to venues across the United States.

Parker Arts Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Avenue, Parker
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $45-$59
Phone: 303-805-6800

Friday-Sunday, October November 4-6

CORN MAZE AT CHATFIELD FARMS
Have you been to Chatfield Farms in the fall? It’s THE place to be for kids and adults who want to wind their way through seven acres of corn! The maze can be viewed from a 15-foot-tall bridge. This year’s maze promises a dino-mite exploration of prehistoric epochs. Here is a map of Corn Maze. In an effort to reduce waste, printed maps will not be available at Corn Maze. Visitors under the age of 10 can explore the corn mini-maze and don’t miss the Escape Rooms! Available for an additional fee during Corn Maze hours, you can step into a pirate ship filled with exciting props, clues and locks used to solve your way out while trying to beat the clock. 

Once your family has conquered the Corn Maze, explore Deer Creek Discovery, Patrick Dougherty’s immersive sculpture One Fell Swoop, the wildlife observation area and a barnyard full of feathered and furry friends. You’ll find food vendors on site selling fall favorites like funnel cakes, corndogs, freshly squeezed lemonade, kettle corn and roasted nuts. (NOTE: Halloween costumes not permitted on the premises).

Chatfield Farms, 8500 W. Deer Creek Canyon Rd., Littleton
9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Admission: $7-$10
Info: 720-865-3500

Saturday, November 5

VETERANS DAY PARADE & FESTIVAL
The Denver Veterans Day Parade is comprised of local Veterans organizations and supporters. Thousands of spectators line Civic Center Park and nearby streets to show respect and honor for our local Veterans. Please join the community in the appreciation of our Veterans and support this important cause. 

The Parade is broken down into serials that represent a different conflict in military history: Revolutionary War, Civil War, WWI, WWII, etc. Each serial representation will feature military memorabilia from that era – i.e. old uniforms, vehicles, and weapons. The Veteran organizations have agreed to march together to showcase their organization’s historical roots in these eras. Spectators will also enjoy corporate floats, car clubs, marching units, bands, and more. 

Then, join hundreds of families at an event downtown to honor and celebrate the brave men and women – our own veterans and heroes and pay homage for their sacrificial service. This event offers free admission, a music stage, craft beer garden, games and family-friendly activities, military displays and food trucks and more. You can’t put a price on patriotism!

Downtown Denver, 14^th St. and W. Colfax Ave., Denver
10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
FREE

CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOOMOBILE
Can porcupines shoot their quills? Do cockroaches serve any purpose? Learn the truth about some well-known animal myths as the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo brings the Zoo to YOU! This experience brings animals out into the community to engage with guests of all ages!

PACE Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker
Tickets: PACEtickets@parkeronline.org
INFO: 303-805-6800

PIE BAKE-OFF
Come on, all you home pastry chefs! It’s that festive time of year where families gather around to enjoy good company, hearty food, and most importantly, pie! Do you have what it takes to rise to the occasion? Don’t be afraid to take whisks in the Town’s pie baking competition. The pie bake-off is open to all bakers. There will be two categories for judging: fruit and non-fruit pies. Pies will be assessed based on appearance, crust, filling and overall flavor and taste. Don’t have baking skills? No worries! Come to the competition free of charge and try the pies by the slice or bid on your favorite flavor in an auction.

The Millhouse, 1381 W. Plum Creek Pkwy., Castle Rock
10:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
REGISTRATION Entry Fee: $35

SARA EVANS IN PARKER
Multi-platinum entertainer SARA EVANS is at the top of her game. As the fifth most-played female artist at country radio in nearly the last two decades — her five No. 1 singles include “No Place That Far,” “Suds In The Bucket, “A Real Fine Place To Start,” “Born to Fly,” and “A Little Bit Stronger,” which spent 2 weeks in the top spot and was certified platinum by the R.I.A.A. Sara’s “stunning, country voice” (Rolling Stone) has earned her the prestigious Academy of Country Music Top Female vocalist accolade as well as numerous American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, Country Music Association, CMT and Grammy Awards nominations. 

In addition, the CMA awarded Video of the Year honors for her hit chart-topping single, “Born to Fly” from her landmark double-platinum album of the same name. Evans’ discography also includes the platinum-selling studio albums Real Fine Place and Restless as well as the gold-certified projects Stronger and No Place That Far.

PACE Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $74-$89 
Phone: 303-805-6800

STRAIGHT NO CHASER
Straight No Chaser has had an amazing decade. Ten years after turning a collegiate hobby into a recording career that has taken them around the world on tour, the a cappella group tells its story through music on ONE SHOT. 

Their seventh LP features 16 genre-spanning songs, and 10 entertaining conversational interludes, as the members of Straight No Chaser trace their unlikely rise from an undergraduate singing group at Indiana University to a beloved Atlantic Records act with a devoted international fanbase. Along the way, Straight No Chaser has sold more than 1.6 million albums in the U.S. and amassed more than 100 million YouTube views thanks to tightly arranged songs, impeccable vocal harmonies, and a healthy sense of humor. Yet Straight No Chaser’s success was never a given—these singers have worked hard to make the most of an unexpected opportunity when they signed with Atlantic and released their first album, HOLIDAY SPIRITS, in 2008.

So much of what Straight No Chaser has done over the past 10 years is the stuff of dreams: They’ve collaborated with Paul McCartney, Stevie Wonder, Elton John and Dolly Parton, to name a few. They’ve performed on national TV early in the morning, on Today; and long after dark, on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon. They’ve toured North America, Europe, and Australia, and consistently rank among Pollstar’s top 100 touring acts in North America. The group is 10 years in the game, and are still a successful act. What started just for fun is now a career, and the guys have no intention of stopping. 

Pikes Peak Center for Performing Arts, 190 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs
8:00 p.m.
Tickets: $25-$70
Phone: 719-575-9632

NEXT WEEK: Monday, November 7

STUDENT MATINEE: COMMANDING SPACE
For all you homeschoolers – check this out. In the midst of the Civil Rights Movement, young Annie Easley knows she can be something more. In this true story of dreams, hardships, and self-determination, Annie becomes one of the first African American human computers at NASA. Initially working on airplanes, she soon realizes her destiny is to be on the team of mathematicians that launch the Centaur Rocket into the Space Race. Commanding Space is an important story about a persistent and intelligent woman whose desire to succeed in science and technology proved stronger than the prejudice that would have denied her. For groups – fill out the reservation form.

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree
AFTERNOON TBD
Tickets
Phone: 720-509-1000

Tuesday, November 8

SEEDLINGS: DIA DE LOS MUERTOS
Decorate your own sugar skulls, create paper marigolds and your own papel picado while learning about the history and traditions of Dia de los Muertos (and how it’s different from Halloween). Seedlings is a family program designed to engage parents and young children in arts, culture, and science at the Lone Tree Arts Center. Everyone in attendance must have a ticket – children that are 12 months and younger require a free ticket. Please call the Box Office to make arrangements. 

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree
9:30 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.
Showing Info
Phone: 720-509-1000

BLACK JACKET SYMPHONY
Don’t let the name fool you. The Black Jacket Symphony is bringing Led Zeppelin IV to life. Black jackets for them, blue jeans for you. 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 Led Zeppelin’s iconic album Led Zeppelin IV live in its entirety – note for note, sound for sound – plus a full set of Led Zeppelin’s greatest hits. Over the past ten years, the Black Jacket Symphony has performed more than 40 classic rock albums, bringing an incredible night of entertainment to more than a million music lovers across the U.S. 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. Once you see one, you won’t miss another!

Pikes Peak Center for Performing Arts, 190 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs
8:00 p.m.
Tickets: $33-$89
Phone: 719-575-9632

Wednesday, November 9

ARTS AFIELD
ARTS AFIELD  “en plein air” program allows small groups of visual artists special access to varied locations on the property on certain Wednesdays, several months each year, serving artists who paint, sketch, draw, or take photos at the group site. Picnic House view. Artists pre-register for each date here and meet in the parking lot on the Arts Afield days. Everyone carries in and carries out their supplies, to enjoy the day from 8:30am – 1pm (8am in summer). Artists may use the garage restroom (near the Castle). People have stated these are inspiring days, for capturing images of the vistas, land, wildlife, and structures. Each date requires a $32 access fee and a signed Land Liability Waiver form.

Cherokee Ranch & Castle, 6113 N. Daniels Park Rd., Sedalia 
1:30 p.m.
Admission: $34.50
CALL: 303-688-5555

ARTS IN THE AFTERNOON: SCOTT JOPLIN
Join Scott Kirby for this lecture-concert, as presented at the Smithsonian Institute. This program is a lecture/concert which combines live piano music, historical information, and insight into the life and the music of one of America’s most important composers, Scott Joplin…Classic Ragtime at its best, by one of Joplin’s finest interpreters.

Arts in the Afternoon is a monthly hour-long. The series features some of the finest classical, jazz, opera, and other musicians from the metro Denver area. Each show includes a significant educational component, with the professional musicians or their narrators sharing historical and artistic insights about the music they play. You can enjoy complimentary refreshments and conversation with artists after each performance.

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree
1:30 p.m.
Tickets: $34.50
Phone: 720-509-1000

SO, YOU WANT TO BE A BEEKEEPER?
Are you thinking about taking up beekeeping but don’t know where to start? This informational session will review the time and financial commitments involved in keeping a hive, advice and a timeline for preparing for your first season, and the potential rewards and pitfalls you’ll experience as a first-year beekeeper. The session will conclude with a panel discussion where you’ll receive insight and valuable advice from long-time beekeepers and those just finishing their first full year.

This class will be presented via the Zoom platform.  All registered participants will receive a link to the class several days prior to the class.

Hudson Gardens, 6115 S. Santa Fe, Littleton
6:00 p.m.
Cost: $25
Info: 303-797-8565

Thursday, November 10

LEE GREENWOOD: 40 YEARS OF HITS!
Music has always been a part of Lee Greenwood’s life. He started playing the piano when he was seven and the saxophone at 12 and in junior high, he started his first group called the Moonbeams. Lee Greenwood has won numerous industry awards including, Male Vocalist of the Year from the Academy of Country Music in 1983, two Male Vocalist of the Year awards from the Country Music Association in 1983 and 1984 and a Grammy for Top Male Vocal Performance in 1985 for “I.O.U.”. The CMA also named “God Bless the U.S.A.” its Song of the Year in 1985.

With seven #1 songs & 25 charted singles to his credit, choosing songs proved to be a success for Greenwood. His country hits include: “It Turns Me Inside Out”, “Ring On Her Finger Time On Her Hands”, ”She’s Lying”, “I Don’t Mind the Thorns If You’re The Rose”, “Dixie Road”, “Somebody’s Gonna Love You”, “Going Going Gone”, “You Got A Good Love Comin”, “Fools Gold”, and “Mornin Ride” while he already garnered several crossover hits such as “Touch & Go Crazy”, “IOU” and the duet with Barbara Mandrell, “To Me”.

“God Bless the USA” went far beyond what Greenwood expected when he wrote it in the back of his tour bus in 1983. The song has been in the top five on the country singles charts three times (1991, 2001 and 2003), giving it the distinction of being the only song in any genre of music to achieve that feat. It was also number 1 on the pop charts after 9/11 in 2001. In addition, CBS News voted “God Bless the U.S.A.” the most recognizable patriotic song in America. It is performed at all military and patriotic events throughout the year all across America. “USA” has also been in several movies and is now part of the film shown by The Department of Homeland Security when new citizens are sworn into the United States.(There will be an hour of pre-show activities prior to the show.)

Parker Arts Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $74-$89 (10% Military Discount)
Phone: 303-805-6800

Friday, November 11

VETERAN’S DAY RACES AND FESTIVAL
Recognized as Denver’s official run for Veterans, this is a memorial 5K & 10K virtual run, open to everyone. ALL proceeds of your registration (and donations!) goes directly to helping Colorado Veterans. The Denver Veterans Day Run is hosted by Colorado Veterans Project, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that hosts special events in order to raise awareness and funds for local Veteran organizations. Our mission is to enhance pride and patriotism in all Coloradans by building a stronger, more supportive community around our Veterans.

Then, join hundreds of families at an event downtown to honor and celebrate the brave men and women – our own veterans and pay homage for their sacrifices – those among us and those who have left this terrestrial form. This event offers free admission, a music stage, craft beer garden, games and family-friendly activities, military displays and food trucks and more. You can’t put a price on patriotism. 

Civic Center Park, 101 W. 14^th Ave., Denver
6:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Race Registration: $40-$55
Festival: Free!

Friday-Saturday, November 11-12

CELTIC SPIRIT
Described as “the Jimi Hendrix of the violin” by The New York Times, Eileen Ivers and the Philharmonic take you on a Celtic journey. Through music and song, Ivers celebrates the emotional journey of the Irish immigrant and how Celtic music has integrated with various roots music along the way to become a fundamental part of today’s American music. Eileen brings amazing energy to the stage with her phenomenal fiddling and ignites crowds across the country in the Celtic Spirit, paying homage to the great Irish traditions with her creative edge, contemporary style and exciting passion for this music. This Celtic program has it all.

Pikes Peak Center for Performing Arts, 190 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $28-$84
Phone: 719-575-9632

Saturday, November 12

David Parks

FABULOUS EQUINOX ORCHESTRA
“… a fiery hot and soulful Southern big band that is the ‘Hope Diamond’ of entertainment. That is to say, there is only one and it is spectacular!… This is Great American Music at it’s finest.”– Broadway World

All across America and around the world, audiences have fallen in love with these two sophisticated Southern gentlemen and the high-energy show featuring the Fabulous Equinox Orchestra. Along with the greatest songs, the best original arrangements and phenomenal musicianship, these two bring their rich camaraderie and charm to the stage. Inspired by the style and swagger of legendary entertainers like Frank and Dean and Sammy, Davis & Johnson are making their own revisions to the Great American songbook. This recipe for 100% audience approval includes the favorite melodies from recent history–a dash of Motown, a shot of Country, some folk and rock sprinkled on top–and the stories behind them, serving up a musical banquet that feeds every soul.

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree
1:30 p.m.
Tickets: $26
Phone: 720-509-1000

Sunday, November 13

CLEO PARKER ROBINSON
The Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble presents a colorful tapestry of movement and storytelling, sharing elements of the rich and storytelling, sharing elements of the rich cultural diversity that weaves us together. 

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree
1:30 p.m.
Tickets: $26
Phone: 720-509-1000

Things to Do Near 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, Richmond American Homes, and Century Communities. Picture yourself in your very own dream house — ranch-style or two-story models priced from the $500s.