Denver Center for the Performing Arts

The Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) is a premier national non-profit theatre organization located in Denver, Colorado. Established from the vision of philanthropist Helen G. Bonfils and Broadway producer Donald R. Seawell, the DCPA has grown into one of the largest single-site performing arts centers in the world. Its inception dates back to the early 20th century, with significant developments in the 1960s and 1970s when Seawell and Bonfils aimed to bring professional theatre to Denver. The DCPA officially opened its doors in 1979, fulfilling Bonfils' dream of a professional theatre company in Denver and expanding into a multi-disciplinary arts campus. Over the decades, the DCPA has become a cultural beacon, offering a diverse range of performances including Broadway tours, theatre company productions, cabaret, and educational programs. It houses several theatres within its complex, such as the Buell Theatre, Ellie Caulkins Opera House, and the Garner Galleria Theatre, among others. The DCPA is also dedicated to theatre education, offering classes for adults, children, and teens, as well as resources for schools. The organization has been recognized for its contribution to the arts, including receiving the Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre. It continues to engage and inspire audiences with its commitment to producing and presenting live theatre, fostering new plays, and providing educational opportunities. The DCPA's leadership and strategic plans aim to ensure its legacy and impact on the community and the arts scene nationally and internationally for years to come.