More than a century after hosting its first show, Red Rocks Amphitheatre remains one of the country’s most beloved concert venues. The natural beauty of Red Rocks Park and the amphitheater’s excellent acoustics certainly contribute to rave reviews. But innovation is another driver of its popularity. Here are some changes and additions you can expect in the coming year at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, 15 miles west of downtown Denver and a half hour from AMLI’s Broomfield apartments.
New art installations
Andrew Dufford of Chevo Studios was selected to commission a permanent art installation for Red Rocks Amphitheatre. By the end of 2018, Red Rocks should house three new stone sculptures. The interactive sculptures, located in parts of the park where natural and man-made elements converge, will double as seating.
Red Rocks Depot
Ground broke on a new operational support facility for Red Rocks Amphitheatre in November 2017. Red Rocks Depot is an eco-friendly structure being built into the hillside west of the upper north parking lot. It will house four new unisex restrooms for visitors, as well as Red Rocks’ recycling and compostables separation materials. The sandstone structure and its green roof are expected to mesh well with the amphitheater’s existing design. Construction on Red Rocks Depot will wrap up in time for Red Rocks’ spring opening in April 2018.
Tech-driven ticketing and new seating procedures
New digital ticketing and seating procedures will soon be in place at Red Rocks Amphitheater. Starting May 15, you’ll have to purchase digital tickets through the Red Rocks app or Flash Seats. Digital ticket verification will require a registered Flash Seats ID or Red Rocks app account. Paper tickets will still be available for a fee, unless picked up from the Coliseum Box Office on Saturdays. While these changes reflect the changing times, they’re also intended to deter ticket scalping and unauthorized use of limited-mobility seating.
Safety railings and more accessible stairways
According to the City of Denver, Red R0cks Amphitheatre has long been in violation of safety code. This will change with the addition of safety railings on platforms. Red Rocks has also been criticized and sued for discriminating against mobility impaired patrons. The venue will address this problem by more clearly marking wheelchair accessible rows and walkways. Denver Arts and Venues also plans to deter able-bodied fans from booking wheelchair-friendly and limited mobility seats at Red Rocks.
Fitness on the Rocks
Coloradoans are known for being physically active. But even among Denver’s sizable weekend warrior population, Fitness on the Rocks stands out. The one-of-a-kind event is an exposition for and by fitness freaks. Organizations and studios host information booths. Instructors lead introductory sample courses and full-length fitness classes. Health and wellness experts run educational workshops. And popular DJs showcase their talent, using Red Rocks’ extraordinary acoustics to pump attendees up. This year’s fitness festival will feature new challenges for putting your endurance, power, and strength to the test.
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View All Posts by Jason Ernst