Show goes on over Theatre Aspen’s permanent structure discussion
Courtesy rendering
Theatre Aspen has been working on a proposal for a new venue at Rio Grande Park, which aims to transition it from a semi-permanent structure to a permanent, year-round facility.
The extensive collaboration between Theatre Aspen and the Parks and Open Space staff was presented to Aspen City Council during a Monday workshop to consider the ramifications of moving the project forward.
Producing Director Jed Bernstein and architect Carles Cunniffe of Charles Cunniffe Architects said the revised design features a predominantly underground structure with earth-tone coloring to blend into the Colorado landscape, offering a low profile similar to the existing temporary structure.
“We think the project has many public benefits, not just for Theatre Aspen, but for the public. Our proposed uses are completely consistent with how the space has been used for two decades,” said Bernstein. “We are willing to collaborate with the City Council. This is a big deal, and it’s a precious park and asset. We get that and we are willing to work through any obstacles to make this happen.”
Theatre Aspen has been a staple of Rio Grande Park since 1987, evolving from temporary infrastructure to a semi-permanent building. The current proposal seeks to establish a permanent venue, increasing theater capacity from 199 to 291 seats and adding a rehearsal space. This development aims to enhance the park’s usability and aesthetic appeal, following feedback from the OSTB and the community.
The original design, introduced in August 2022, envisioned a structure covered with soil and vegetation to integrate with the park’s landscape. But concerns about compatibility, usability, and long-term maintenance led to revisions. The updated design, presented in August 2023, includes green roofs and visible structures to better align with park aesthetics.
City Councilmember Bill Guth raised concerns about the building’s partial underground placement and its proximity to the water table.
“The thing that comes to mind for me is dewatering of the site,” he said. “That seems like a more expensive and more complex construction.”
Cunniffe later assured that the building would be designed to withstand flooding and changes in the water table.
Councilmember Ward Hauenstein expressed reservations about the visual impact of the proposed 26-28 feet fly area (weighted ropes for moving seats, curtains, set pieces) and the potential loss of vegetation.
“Coming from the Rio Grande Trail, no matter what direction you’re coming from, it’s still a pretty substantial piece of building,” he said.
Environmental impacts include typical construction and what it does to the surrounding park area. Construction activity would be mainly along Mill Street and utility runs are anticipated to extend through existing park areas, further affecting the landscape.
Theatre Aspen highlighted the environmental benefits of the new building, such as increased energy efficiency, durability, and reduced transportation needs related to the current temporary performance trailers.
Aspen Mayor Torre questioned the year-round usage of the venue and its impact on traffic.
“What would be the intensity difference between today and a new iteration, and is that appropriate?” Torre asked. “I am a fan and supporter of Theatre Aspen. I think all of us (City Council) are. Can we or should we do better than what we have currently? Yes.
“But if what you are proposing is the appropriate scale and intensity for the location, I have questions about that.”
Torre further mentioned that he would be open to an advisory vote to get the public more involved.
Both parties will review a draft letter of intent outlining the general terms of the new lease and construction details. If supported, this letter may be presented to the City Council in late summer.
Theatre Aspen is expected to bear the financial burden of the project, estimated at $38 million, while the City will incur associated labor expenses during the design, planning, and construction phases. The exact nature and extent of these costs are yet to be determined.
The next step involves initiating the land use application process to ensure a thorough evaluation of all aspects. Theatre Aspen would prefer to start construction in 2026 and have everything completed by 2028.
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