Telluride may be best known as a ski town, but it is also rich in history. Everywhere you look in the town of Telluride, you will see something that serves as a reminder of that history, including the Sheridan Opera House. From the outside, the red brick building is quite unassuming, but inside, the beauty of a different time shines brightly.
About Sheridan Opera House in Telluride
The Sheridan Opera House, built in 1913 as a vaudeville theater, is called the “Crown Jewel of Telluride” and offers a history that extends well beyond the 238-seat theater. In its century of existence, some of the biggest names in showbiz have appeared on its wooden stage, including Jimmy Buffett, Jewel, and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. Today, it is the center of entertainment in our Colorado mountain town, hosting a number of events and festivals, including our annual documentary film festival, Mountainfilm.
Location and Getting to Sheridan Opera House
The beautiful red brick building is located in the heart of downtown Telluride. You won’t be able to miss it, especially with the lighted marquee hanging over the entryway, its Edison-style bulbs highlighting the word SHOW.
- Address: 110 N Oak St, Telluride, CO 81435
Types of Performances Hosted Throughout the Year
The Sheridan Opera House events are as unique and varied as the people who call Telluride home. The Young People’s Theater puts on three performances throughout the year, and as we mentioned earlier, some of the music world’s biggest performers have sung from the stage. In February, laughter rings out through the rafters as the Comedy Fest takes place on the grand stage, and over the Memorial Day weekend, documentaries take center stage with the Mountainfilm Festival.
Tickets, Seating, and What to Expect Inside
Sheridan Opera House tickets to the various events can be purchased on the theater’s website, with each event offering a different pricing structure. The intimate size of the theater, just 238 seats in total, can lead to sold-out events, so if there is something you are interested in, buy your tickets early.
When you step inside, prepare to be amazed. The historic restoration will have you feeling as if you stepped back into the days of flappers and bootleggers. Vintage wood theater seats face a stage, surrounded by lights and covered by a velvet curtain that puddles on the wooden floor. Restored balcony boxes line the walls, and hand-painted stencils on the plaster ceiling have been painstakingly restored by local artists.
Dress Code, Arrival Timing, and Day of Show Tips
Life is pretty casual here in the mountains, so whether you dress fancy or arrive in jeans, you will fit right in at the Sheridan Opera House. Doors open 30 minutes before each performance, and although there may be a line, it won’t be long due to the theater’s intimate size. The theater is 21 and over, but children are permitted when accompanied by adults and are especially welcome at Young People’s Theater performances.
Restaurants, Bars, and Pre-Show Dinner Options Nearby
A night out on the town should take up most of the evening, starting with dinner and perhaps ending with drinks at nearby establishments. Being in the center of town ensures that pretty much everything is within walking distance, but the spots listed below are our favorites.
The Chop House Restaurant at the New Sheridan Hotel
As you may have guessed from the name, this wonderful steakhouse is located just steps away from the Sheridan Opera House, making it a perfect pre-show option. Also, a wine bar, it closes at 9, so you shouldn’t count on it being open for after-show drinks, unless you are watching a matinee.
- Address: 231 W Colorado Ave, Telluride, CO 81435
- Hours: Dinner 5:30 PM to 9 PM daily
- Brunch 10 AM to 2 PM Thursday-Sunday
- Dinner Menu
The Last Dollar Saloon, 100 E Colorado Avenue
There is a bar at the Sheridan Opera House (The SHOW bar), but if you want to experience a little more of Telluride, you should stop at the Last Dollar Saloon for post-show drinks. Offering a rooftop bar and over 60 different types of beer, this wonderful spot is known as the “Best Skier Dive Bar in the World!”
- Address: 100 E Colorado Ave, Telluride, CO 81435
- Hours: 3 PM to 1 AM
- Drink Menu
Your Telluride Sanctuary
You can easily create a meal in your rental’s fully equipped kitchen. Come back after the show to enjoy drinks in the hot tub found on many of the decks of our properties and finish the night out on a serene and tranquil note.
Book Your Telluride Vacation Rental Near Sheridan Opera House
Whether you are attending one of the many Sheridan Opera House events or have come into town to enjoy a live musical performance, our vacation rentals are sure to be near the venue. Contact us to reserve your favorite retreat today!
