Loretto Heights | Denver Arts & Venues

Dancers perform Edgar L. Page's "Intersection of Truth & Beauty" on one of DAV's flex stages for community programming - Jonathan Phillips Photography

THEATRE AT LORETTO HEIGHTS

Theatre Renovation

Denver Arts & Venues plans to create a new cultural hub for southwest Denver as part of the Loretto Heights Area Plan led by Westside Investment Partners to redevelop the 72-acre historic campus. DAV's focus is renovating the historic theatre dedicated to arts and cultural programming. This project will broaden access to the arts across Denver, attract and welcome diverse audiences, and support small arts organizations needing performance and rehearsal space.

With help from Councilman Kevin Flynn (District 2), Denver voters approved $30M in RISE Bond funding in 2021 to support the first phase of the project which includes renovation of the theatre building, improved accessibility and ADA compliance, upgraded technology and building code compliance.

PROJECT OVERVIEW

History

Named for Denver heiress and philanthropist, May Bonfils Stanton, the theatre is located at what was originally Loretto Heights College, established as an educational institution for women in 1888. Designed by G. Meredith Musick, the theatre was added in 1963, at the time Denver’s second largest indoor theatre, after the Denver Auditorium Theatre. Loretto Heights College closed in 1989, and became Teikyo Loretto Heights University, then Colorado Heights University before closing in 2016.

Goals

Advancing Cultural Equity & Access. Returning the theatre to public use allows us to intentionally expand to an area that has been underserved by the arts. The spaces and programming will be designed to reflect the character and culture of the neighborhood, and the needs of artists and arts organizations.
Demonstrating that Thriving Communities Include Arts & Culture. Renovating the theatre and surrounding area will attract the creative community and neighborhood residents, enhancing the vibrancy of the new campus with space for performances, rehearsals, exhibitions, classes, etc.
Preserving Part of Denver’s History. The mid-century modern building, known as the May Bonfils Stanton Theatre, is a treasured performance space that originally opened in 1963. It was the second largest and most professionally equipped theatre, making Loretto Heights a top undergraduate theatre program nationally. By restoring the theatre, we are preserving an important part of Denver’s history for future generations to enjoy.

Scope

PHASE I (2022-2027)

Theatre Renovation

Improve accessibility and ADA Standards compliance - Replace all audience seating, increase row spacing, install passenger elevators and wheelchair ramps
Upgrade technology - Improve lighting and AV systems, update stage rigging system, replace orchestra pit hydraulics
Ensure building code compliance - Increase public restroom facilities, remove hazardous materials, replace mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems

FUTURE PHASES (TBD)

Parking Garage and Library

Elements that are not under the approved RISE Bond theatre renovation are being evaluated now to create a cohesive destination for the full building envelope
Full Design and construction for these elements is on hold pending future funding sources