Undiscovered Earth took on the purchase of the Chief Theater because we wanted to keep the Chief local in order to provide affordable space for performing arts organizations to thrive. The Chief is arguably the most iconic downtown building in Steamboat Springs and has been a space for community to come together for almost 100 years.

The building was constructed by Chief Harry Gordon, a member of the Miami tribe who came to Steamboat Springs after making his fortune in mining. This building has played a vital role in the development of arts and culture in town. 

Steamboat is not only known for its Olympic athletes, the arts have been a part of the fabric of the community since 1915. The power of art is transformative. The arts bring people together, increase empathy, expand ideas and beliefs, make people laugh and cry, and let them be part of something larger than themselves. Having a home for the arts at the Chief Theater would allow our young arts ‘Olympians’ a home to train and develop before they go on to influence the arts around the world in the same way our Olympic athletes do.

The Chief Theater could be something beautiful for the community to enjoy for the next 100 years — a place that remembers the values of kindness, welcoming and community that define Steamboat Springs. 

Undiscovered Earth will continue to pursue a performing arts center for the local performing arts nonprofits regardless of the outcome of this week. We are not giving up on finding or building a performing arts center that lets symphony, opera, dance and theater thrive. 

In the heart of rural Colorado, let’s build not just a home for the arts, but a sanctuary where creativity thrives, dreams are born, and every soul finds solace in the timeless embrace of artistic expression. 

Dagny McKinley
Steamboat Springs