WHERE ART COMESAlive
Aimee Mann performs upcoming musical “The Forgotten Arm” at The Cabaret Club
Chloé Captures Colorado Springs
The Colorado Springs Philharmonic welcomes our tenth music director in 99 years, Join us as generational talent Chloé Dufresne takes the helm.
DUFRESNE CHLOÉ
Music Director
Sat. Oct. 4, 7:30pm | Sun. Oct. 5, 2:30pm
Chloé Dufresne conductor
Awadagin Pratt piano firebird with Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto No. 1
Pikes Peak Center
Catch Me if You Can: The Music of John Williams
Fri. Oct. 10, 7:30pm | Sat. Oct. 11, 7:30pm
Thomas Wilson conductor
Pikes Peak Center
Mozart / BIzet
Van Cliburn Bronze Champion
Sat. Oct. 25, 7:30pm | Sun. Oct. 26, 2:30pm
Thomas Wilson conductor Evren Ozel piano
Ent Center for the Arts
a place to belong … through the arts
BY ANGELA SEALS Executive Director
Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region
This October marks 12 years of Arts Month in our community, and the 5th edition of the Local Arts Guide that you’re holding in your hands. Arts Month has grown here into a tradition that invites everyone to explore, connect, and celebrate our shared creativity! Each October, hundreds of local events remind us that the arts aren’t just entertainment — they are essential to how we understand one another, how we build community, and how we can build a vision for our shared future. This year, we debut the first Arts Month Passport! Think of it as your playful portal to connect directly with a local, fun, creative life. With the new passport on your phone,
you can check in at events, collect stamps and experiences, and win prizes throughout October. My hope is that you’ll use the Passport not only to track your October adventures, but to remind yourself that your participation is the key to keeping our creative vibrancy going. Every experience supports local small businesses, nonprofits, artists, and our community! Download the Passport at ArtsOctober.com
This fall also welcomes a new chapter for the Cultural Office. We are proud to have purchased a permanent home for our nonprofit in Downtown Colorado Springs, and we are moving in! In the heart of Arts Month, we’ll cut the ribbon and celebrate with cupcakes, music, and community cheer. Our new space in the up-and-coming Lowell neighborhood brings to life our commitment to accessibility, visibility, and welcoming warmth for our creative sector, through this new hub for resources, great ideas, and connection. Look for us at the corner of Weber St. and Fountain Blvd.
GUIDE
ON THE COVER
Arts Month’s theme, Open Your World with the Arts, is both an invitation and a promise. The arts open doors we didn’t even know were there: to new ideas, to new neighbors, and to new joy. I think of the moment in a theater when the whole audience gasps in unison, or the instant when strangers rise together for a final round of applause. I think of voices blending in song, or friends swapping book recommendations at a cultural festival. These are the moments when the arts open our world and remind us that in the midst of modern stresses and divisions, belonging is still right here.
And I’ll let you in on a secret: the creative energy we highlight each October is shining every day of the year. Local artists, cultural groups, and creative businesses are continually generating not just performances or exhibits, but economic vitality, tourism, education, health, and a higher quality of life for all of us! The Cultural Office is proud to steward these relationships and
opportunities — lifting up the work of our creative economy and making sure the arts remain visible and celebrated across our region. Tap into it all year at PeakRadar.com. As you flip through this year’s Local Arts Guide, I invite you to join us in planting a flag of joy in the Pikes Peak region. Use your Arts Month Passport, visit a new venue, support a local artist, or simply share an evening of laughter with your neighbors. The arts belong to all of us, and they are waiting to surprise, move, and connect you — not just in October, but always.
I’ll look for you in those audiences this fall. That’s where joy lives. And that’s where we’ll find each other.
— Angela
Arts and culture again take center stage across the Pikes Peak region this October as our creative community celebrates Arts Month 2025! This image designed by Neon Pig Creative invites you to “Open Your World With The Arts” this October.
Visit ArtsOctober.com for details on experiencing the strength and vitality of our arts community this month and all year round.
The Cultural Office Local Arts Guide was edited by Jonathan Toman and designed by Gina Pietramale.
A PROGRAM OF THE CULTURAL OFFICE OF THE PIKES PEAK REGION IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE GAZETTE
ANGELA SEALS, Executive Director
JONATHAN TOMAN, Program Manager, Cultural Promotion & Tourism
MELISSA O’REAR, Program Manager, Education
BECCA DAY, Office Coordinator
RICHARD WILLIAMS, President & COO
STACEY SEDBROOK, Vice President of Sales & Marketing
TRACI CONRAD, Director of Local Market Development
KAREN HOGAN, Revenue Operations Director
GINA PIETRAMALE, Creative Services Lead
SAMANTHA THOMAS, Graphic Designer
MICHELLE THOMSEN, Graphic Designer
ERIC ANDERSON, Advertising Sales
NIKKI DIRKS, Advertising Sales
YVONNE RAMOS , Advertising Sales
JACKI STAMBENE, Advertising Sales
KELLI ST. CLAIR, Advertising Sales
SUE WILLIAMS, Advertising Sales
14 Arts Month events
14 year-round events to experience
BY PEAK RADAR STAFF
ARTS MONTH
First Friday Art Walks
October 3
Downtown Colorado Springs, Old Colorado City, and Manitou Springs
Folk Songs, Hymns, Spirituals
October 3
Broadmoor Community Church
Face Vocal Band
October 3
Stargazers Theatre & Event Center
Brewfest
October 4
Manitou Springs Memorial Park
Harvest Festival
October 4
Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site
Buffalo Grass Music Festival
October 3–5
Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort
Buffalo Soldiers of Colorado and Beyond
October 10
Old Colorado City History Center
Alice Cooper & Judas Priest
October 10
The Broadmoor World Arena
“Cabaret”
Through October 12
Ent Center for the Arts
Rocky Mountain
Women’s Film Festival
October 17–19
Colorado College Edith Kinney
Gaylord Cornerstone Arts Center
Don McMillan Comedy Night
October 23
Phil Long Music Hall at Bourbon Brothers
Ghost Stories of Old Manitou
Walking Tours
October 3–24
Manitou Springs Heritage Museum
History Stroll: Law & Disorder +
Signature Cocktail Experience
October 4, 18, and 25
The Mining Exchange Hotel
Spirits of Sunnyside
October 4 & 25
Victor Lowell Thomas Museum
YEAR ROUND
Ice Festival
February
Cripple Creek
Carnivale Weekend
Late February/Early March
Downtown Manitou Springs
Meadowgrass Music Festival
Memorial Day Weekend
La Foret Conference & Retreat Center
Colorado Springs
Western Street Breakfast
June
Downtown Colorado Springs
Donkey Derby Days
June
Cripple Creek
Green Box Arts Festival
June/July
Green Mountain Falls
Taste of Pikes Peak
July
Downtown Colorado Springs
Mountain Arts Festival
August
Woodland Park Memorial Park
Commonwheel Art Festival
Labor Day Weekend
Manitou Springs Memorial Park
Fiestas Patrias
September
Downtown Colorado Springs
Rock Ledge Ranch
Annual Powwow
September
Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site
Three Nights of Horror
Film Festival
October
Ivywild School
Emma Crawford Coffin Races
October
Downtown Manitou Springs
Festival of Lights Parade
December
Downtown Colorado Springs
45º Gallery & Custom Framing: Celebrating Colorado creativity & craftsmanship
BY EMILY & REED FAIR Owners, 45º Gallery
Tucked into the heart of historic Old Colorado City, 45º has been connecting people to Colorado’s vibrant art scene since 2010.
What began as a shared vision for husband-and-wife team Reed and Emily Fair has become a destination where creativity, craftsmanship, and community come together.
“When we opened 45º, we wanted a space that highlighted both of our strengths,” Emily says. “A place for me to connect with Colorado artists and collectors, and for Reed to establish us as a trusted destination for framing. From both the gallery and custom framing, we wanted people to find something unexpected — a place to pause and consider all of the possibilities, from collecting to preserving what matters most to them.”
A HUB FOR LOCAL ART
The gallery now represents more than 30 Colorado artists, many of them based right here in Colorado Springs. Its collection spans paintings, pottery, jewelry, furniture, and sculpture. Each piece carefully selected to showcase the state’s creative talent.
“We know our artists personally,” Emily says. “We follow their journeys, celebrate their successes, and love sharing their stories with visitors. When someone purchases a piece here, they’re not just taking home art, they’re supporting the people who make this community vibrant.”
This emphasis on connection has made 45º a trusted source for both new and seasoned collectors. Visitors can expect to discover work that feels fresh and distinctive, whether they’re adding to a collection, choosing a meaningful gift, or simply finding inspiration.
Photo courtesy of 45° Gallery & Custom Framing.
BEHIND THE FRAMES
Equally integral to 45º is its custom framing studio. Reed brings over 20 years of experience in framing, with expertise in conservation techniques to protect and preserve art for generations. His craftsmanship ensures every piece is treated with care and presented at its best.
“Framing is often the quiet partner to art,” Reed says. “Done well, it elevates the work and creates a lasting connection between the piece and the person who owns it.”
Emily’s design sense complements Reed’s technical skill, resulting in presentations that are both thoughtful and unique. With mouldings sourced from around the world — including lines not available anywhere else in Colorado Springs — each framing project becomes as individual as the artwork itself.
A PLACE TO FEEL AT HOME
Step into 45º, and you’ll find more than just a gallery or framing shop.
The Fairs’ family presence is felt throughout. Moose, their gentle shop dog, greets visitors with a
wagging tail, and their daughter Hazel often lends a hand. It’s a reminder that 45º is rooted in personal connection as much as professional expertise.
Visitors can browse the everevolving collection, request free custom framing quotes, or even arrange for local delivery and personalized installation. Select pieces are also available online, offering flexibility for those who want to support local artists from afar.
LOOKING AHEAD
After nearly 15 years, 45º continues to evolve alongside Colorado Springs’ growing art community. Its mission remains the same: to make art accessible, personal, and enduring.
“We believe art should bring joy, spark conversation, and create a sense of place,” Emily says. “That’s what we strive for every day, helping people connect with something meaningful, whether it’s a handmade bowl, a treasured family photo, or a piece of art they’ll love for a lifetime.”
For more information, visit 45degreegallery.com or stop by Tuesday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Photo courtesy of 45° Gallery & Custom Framing.
The Heller Center is vital to the arts, humanities, social sciences, and culture of the UCCS campus and the Pikes Peak region, providing creative space and collaborative programming for the entire community
Chamber Orchestra of the Springs … leverages ‘musical flexibility,’ advances Opera 2030 programming
BY JACOB POPE Executive Director, Chamber Orchestra of the Springs
The phrase “chamber orchestra” invites questions for the musically curious: what’s the difference between you and a symphony orchestra? Do you do “chamber” music? What type of room is this chamber, and where is it located?
Despite the admittedly confusing name, a chamber orchestra occupies a unique and important niche in the classical music ecosystem. Smaller than a symphony orchestra, but large enough to usually still require a conductor to manage all of the moving parts, a chamber orchestra is a musical tradition reaching back centuries to when music was made in small “chambers” like salons or royal courts.
Many of the most famous classical music composers, including Mozart, wrote for such ensembles before later composers like Beethoven or
Mahler started writing music that demanded 70, 80, or 100 or more players, and gigantic concert halls in which to fit them.
The important bit is that chamber orchestras are smaller and a bit more musically nimble than their larger-scale counterparts — sometimes we’re 20 players, and sometimes we’re 50.
It was precisely that musical flexibility that musicians in Colorado Springs were seeking when they started the Chamber Orchestra of the Springs in 1983. The goal was to play with whomever they could get together, and specifically to explore music that they didn’t have the opportunity to play anywhere else: pieces off the well-worn path, often by newer or historically overlooked composers.
It’s a testament to the depth of Colorado Springs’ support for the arts that our ensemble thrived while exploring these lesser-
Photo by Allison Daniell/Stellar Propeller Photography.
known pieces. Collaborations with other arts organizations came quickly, too, as a chamber orchestra happens to be the perfect size for the pit orchestra of a musical or opera, or to accompany a choral concert. Lesser-known works and collaborations, to this day, remain the bread and butter of our work. And just last year, we added another type of “chamber” to our repertoire: chamber opera.
Following many of the same conventions as chamber orchestra music — written for smaller forces, and often performed in recitals, small theaters, or outdoor venues — chamber opera is a thriving genre, with new pieces being written every year.
In 2023, the Chamber Orchestra of the Springs partnered with Opera Theatre of the Rockies to perform Blind Injustice, a new opera that told the true story of six people in Ohio who were incarcerated for crimes they didn’t commit before being freed by the work of the Ohio Innocence Project. The performance was the first of its kind for the Chamber Orchestra of the Springs: a true coproduction, with both companies
equally involved in the planning, marketing, sales, and financial decisions. It was also the opera’s second-ever performance, and was such a hit that it saw later performances, including at the Lincoln Center in February 2025.
Our companies’ encore act came in April 2024, when we were joined by Art Song Colorado for a co-production of the opera Glory Denied, about America’s longestheld prisoner of war: Col. Jim Thompson. The three companies hosted the performance at the US Air Force Academy’s Arnold Hall, and we offered the show for free to anyone who might want to attend. Ultimately, over 1,000 people showed — which then spurred the inevitable conversation: if we were going to continue to work together on these chamber operas, this new partnership needed a name.
After looking far and wide for inspiration, Colorado Springs’ own Cultural Office provided our answer: Arts Vision 2030, the 10-year cultural plan for the region that guided so much of our decision-making that we chose to name this new three-company partnership in the plan’s honor. And so, Opera 2030 was born.
The next Opera 2030 performance will be The Knock, presented on Sunday, Nov. 23 at Lewis-Palmer High School. Set on Colorado Springs’ very own Fort Carson, and performed here for the first time, the opera explores the sacrifices and courage required both from those who serve and from their families.
We chose another opera with a military story because we believe
representative art-making requires speaking to the community that you serve. We are honored to live in a city with such a rich community of veterans and active military, and music is a powerful way to share their untold stories.
This city is our “chamber,” and we are grateful for the trust, support, and collaboration that facilitates the power of art-making and telling meaningful stories through music.
Photo by Allison Daniell/Stellar Propeller Photography.
Colorado Ballet Society: Cultivating excellence, creativity, and community through dance
BY MIA GERRISH Director of Operations, Colorado Ballet Society
Since its founding in 1997, Colorado Ballet Society has established itself as one of the premier dance training institutions in southern Colorado. Nestled in the heart of Colorado Springs, the studio has become a home for dancers of all ages and aspirations, offering classes that range from early childhood programs to rigorous pre-professional training. With a mission to nurture both artistry and character, Colorado Ballet Society stands out not only for its technical excellence but also for its commitment to cultivating well-rounded individuals who carry the values
of discipline, creativity, and community into every area of life.
A FOUNDATION OF EXCELLENCE
At the core of Colorado Ballet Society’s philosophy is a dedication to high-quality training with a balance of health and excellence. They follow a structured curriculum rooted in classical ballet, while also offering classes in contemporary, jazz, tap, acro, and more. This breadth ensures that students develop versatility, preparing them for professional careers, college dance programs, or simply a lifelong appreciation for the arts. The Pre-Professional Division is particularly notable. With a carefully designed curriculum, students receive training that rivals
CONTINUED ON PAGE 12
Raising the barre of excellence! Students receive expert guidance in classical ballet technique. Photo by Candidly Created.
Arts and Culture are taking over this October, as Arts Month in the Pikes Peak region celebrates its 10th year. Discover endless local opportunities and vibrant creative experiences that will surprise, move, and inspire you—not just in October, but all year round. There’s more than you think at
Celebrate Arts Month in the Pikes Peak region and discover endless local opportunities and vibrant creative experiences. You’ll be surprised, moved, and connected — not just in October, but all year round.
top national programs, while still being supported in a nurturing environment that prioritizes their holistic development. Alumni of the program have gone on to join respected professional companies all over the world, receive scholarships to leading universities, and achieve success in a variety of creative careers.
OPPORTUNITIES BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Colorado Ballet Society recognizes that the stage is a vital extension of the classroom. Students regularly perform in both full-length classical ballets and innovative contemporary works, giving them a chance to bring their training to life before an audience. Annual productions such as “A Colorado Nutcracker,” performed at the Pikes Peak Center, provide young dancers the opportunity to embody beloved roles, while original works and community performances foster creativity and
broaden their artistic horizons. The studio also partners with guest artists, choreographers, and educators, exposing students to diverse styles and professionallevel expectations. These experiences not only sharpen technical skills but also instill confidence and stage presence, qualities that extend well beyond the theater.
TRAINING YOUNG ARTISTS AND LEADERS
Colorado Ballet Society is home to several pre-professional performance companies, each offering unique opportunities for dancers to grow and share their artistry. From Colorado Youth Ballet to Connexus Dance Collective, Praise Dance Ensemble, and Competition Ensemble, dancers have access to diverse training and performance experiences. These companies provide stages for young artists to refine their technique, explore creativity, and
Sparkle Dance Program, where imagination meets movement and is perfect for boys and girls ages 2.5 – 5! Photo by Candidly Created.
Learn more about Colorado Ballet Society by visiting danceinthesprings.com or contacting them at admin@danceinthesprings.com or 719-272-7078.
bring inspiring productions to the community, while fostering teamwork, dedication, and a love for the art of dance.
From the youngest Sparkle dancers (ages 2.5–5) full of imagination and joy, to advanced pre-professional students (ranging from ages 9 –18) refining the most intricate details of technique, every child is valued. Teachers meet students where they are, balancing encouragement with the expectation of growth, so that dancers leave the studio not only as stronger performers but as more confident individuals.
COMMUNITY CONNECTION
Beyond its walls, Colorado Ballet Society has made a lasting impact on the greater Colorado Springs community. The studio regularly participates in local events and outreach performances, bringing dance to new audiences and inspiring appreciation for the arts. Partnerships with schools, senior centers, and other organizations extend the joy of movement to people of all ages, underscoring the studio’s belief that dance is for everyone.
A LEGACY OF GROWTH AND VISION
Under the guidance of its leadership team (Artistic Director & School Principal, Kate Walsh; Director of Operations & School
Vice Principal, Mia Gerrish; and Finance Director, Amanda Daubendiek) and dedicated faculty and staff, Colorado Ballet Society continues to grow as both an educational hub and a cultural asset to the community for over 28 years. With each passing season, it strengthens its reputation as a place where tradition and innovation meet, where students can explore the timeless beauty of ballet alongside the expressive power of other styles of dance.
INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION
At its heart, Colorado Ballet Society is about more than dance. It is about inspiring young people to dream, work hard, and discover the joy of expression through movement. Whether a child is stepping into their first pair of ballet slippers or preparing for auditions at the nation’s top companies and colleges, Colorado Ballet Society provides the foundation, guidance, and inspiration to help them thrive. For nearly three decades, the studio has served as a beacon of excellence in Colorado Springs, enriching both the lives of its dancers and the community it serves. With its blend of professional-level training, supportive culture, and deep community connection, Colorado Ballet Society continues to raise the barre for what a dance education can be.
Photo by Stellar Propeller Studio
Photo by 3 Peaks Photography
Colorado Ballet Society celebrates strength and teamwork, where boys of all ages develop technical skills and a love for dance. Photo by Candidly Created.
Henry J. Bradley, CFP®, CIMA®
Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor
Portfolio Manager
CA Ins Lic #4407397 | NMLS ID 1798916
Henry.Bradley@morganstanley.com
|719.577.6325
Jonathan D. Grant, MBA, CFP®
First Vice President, Financial Advisor
Insurance Planning Director
CA Ins Lic #0I90399 | NMLS ID 2544603
Jonathan.D.Grant@morganstanley.com
719.577.6327
Emily M. Hershberger
Financial Advisor
CA Ins Lic #4400215 | NMLS ID 2707035
Emily.Hershberger@morganstanley.com
719.577.6350
A 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Team
Source: Forbes (Awarded January 2025). This ranking was determined based on an evaluation process conducted by SHOOK Research LLC (the research company) in partnership with Forbes (the publisher) for the period 3/31/23–3/31/24. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors pid a fee to SHOOK Research LLC, for place¬ment on its rankings. This ranking is based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each Financial Advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations, and quantitative criteria, including assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research LLC and may not be representative of any one client’s experience; investors must carefully choose the right Financial Advisor or team for their own situation and perform their own due diligence. This ranking is not indicative of the Financial Advisor’s future performance. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is not affiliated with SHOOK Research LLC or Forbes. For more information, see www.SHOOKresearch.com.
Jeff W. Mohrmann, CFP®, CPWA® Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor
Portfolio Manager
CA Ins Lic #0L56444 | NMLS ID 1566223
Jeff.Mohrmann@morganstanley.com 719.577.6339
121 S. Tejon Street, Suite 700 Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC 4705060 08/25
Scott M. Perry, MBA, QPFC, CRPS® Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor Corporate Retirement Director CA Ins Lic #0H32363 | NMLS ID 1265220
Scott.M.Perry@morganstanley.com 719.577.6306
Herman Tiemens II, MBA, CFP® Executive Director, Financial Advisor CA Ins Lic #0G19414 | NMLS ID 2545675
Herman.Tiemens@morganstanley.com | 719.577.6312
Yucca Trail by Ben Bires
A breadth of artistic studies, performances available at the Colorado Springs Conservatory
BY NATHAN HALVORSON Chief Executive Officer, Colorado Springs Conservatory
The Colorado Springs Conservatory was established in 1994, with the goal of bringing performing arts education to high school students who were interested in pursuing opera as a career choice. Over the past thirty-one years, the CSC mission has expanded to include all students under the age
of eighteen interested in studying performing arts — including voice, drama, musical instruments, and music production.
Today, all under one roof, a student can study theatre, take a private lesson in voice, play in a jazz ensemble, and record an original composition in the recording studio. No other organization in the region provides the breadth of study found at CSC
From the serious to the curious,
From the world premiere production of Josh Franklin-Wolfe’s Searching for Santa , co-produced by the Colorado Springs Conservatory and Colorado College Department of Music. Photo courtesy of Jamie Foster.
From the 2025 Conservatory production of The Prom , part of their Musical Theatre Intensive Program. Photo courtesy of Jamie Foster.
CSC ’s after school program fosters a robust, inclusive, and joyful learning environment for all students. CSC staff have carefully curated a curriculum that can guide students in their discipline of study from infancy all the way through high school graduation.
The program is divided into four bands of age-based study that offer the most relevant, contemporary, and individualized performing arts experience in our community. Students can study music production, composition, piano, strings, percussion, guitar, bass, woodwinds, voice, drama, musical theatre and so much more. Whether they are exploring a new hobby or pursuing performance at a professional level, CSC classes promise to deliver the necessary skill development and inclusive community to encourage students to achieve their personal best.
The Conservatory prioritizes performance opportunities that are connected to the education students are receiving in their classes. Signature events like the Holiday Extravaganz, First Friday Concerts, and Spring Festival celebrate student achievements
and demonstrate marked growth.
Musical Theatre Intensive is the highly celebrated hallmark program that occurs every summer and creates a space for over 30 students, representing a dozen or more high schools in the region. These talented students commit themselves full-time to study, collaboration and performance, resulting in professional-level musical theatre productions for the entire community to enjoy. Past productions include sold-out runs of Titanic: The Musical, Curtains, and The Prom performed in venues like the Ent Center for the Arts and Colorado College.
CSC believes that access to performing arts studies creates more empathetic, thoughtful, confident young people who will have lasting impact on our community as they grow and become the changemakers of the future. A huge part of CSC ’s operations is committed to partner programs with school districts, homeschool academies, and community organizations.
CSC collaborates with school districts to identify the needs of the students and develops residencies, workshops, field trips, and programs that directly address them. Over the
CONTINUED ON PAGE 18
With the Arts We Thrive
Featuring a world-class art museum, award-winning theatre, and art classes for all ages.
From the 2025 Conservatory production of The Prom , part of their Musical Theatre Intensive Program. Photo courtesy of Jamie Foster.
BLUE PONY ARTISTS
last few years these programs have included staging full productions of plays and musicals at area schools, residencies in schools with no music or theatre in their core curriculum, professional development days, and field trips with youth-serving organizations like Inside Out Youth Services.
A Positive Note is a musicmaking program for young adults with special needs in the Pikes Peak region. APN empowers all participants to access a sense of joy, self-discovery, belonging, and accomplishment through music making, ultimately encouraging students to reach their highest potential. Since its inception, APN has served hundreds of young people in workshops, school year sessions, summer camps, and partner programs.
As we look to the future, CSC staff is thrilled to expand our vision in a new downtown location! After more than a year of searching, CSC has found a new home that fully supports our mission of delivering life-affirming arts education to students, families, and our broader community.
The Conservatory now resides in the south tower of First United Methodist Church, located at 420 N. Nevada Ave. in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs. With a dedicated entrance at the northwest corner of Boulder and Nevada, this new location allows the organization to continue its growth trajectory, collaborate with other community organizations while remaining autonomous, and maintain its focus on fiscal responsibility. This move marks an exciting new chapter in CSC ’s story — one filled with energy, opportunity, and deeper connection with our community.
The Conservatory is a safe, educational, inspiring, and accessible space where creativity and excellence thrive. Upcoming performances include a coproduction of Anastasia: The Musical with the Colorado College Department of Music, playing December 5–7 at Armstrong Hall, and the Fourth Annual Holiday Extravaganz on Dec. 10 at the Ent Center. Please visit coloradospringsconservatory.org for information and tickets.
BY RALPH GIORDANO Festival Director, Independent Film Society of Colorado
The Independent Film Society of Colorado was founded on a simple belief: independent film is vital. Founded in 2007 in Colorado Springs, IFSOC began with the idea that independent filmmakers deserve a platform. Colorado, and especially the Pikes Peak Region, has many creatives with fresh voices, and we knew they needed a place where their work could be seen, celebrated, and supported.
From Indie Spirit to a thriving independent film community
Our mission is simple: to promote independent filmmaking and filmmakers across Colorado. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, every program we create and every event we host comes back to that goal.
In 2008, we launched the Indie Spirit Film Festival. From the beginning, ISFF was more than just a film festival, it was a cultural event. For several days each spring, the city transformed into a stage for filmmakers from Colorado, across the U.S., and internationally.
Downtown Colorado Springs buzzed with energy as screenings took place at multiple venues spread across the community: Colorado College, City Auditorium, the
Antlers Hotel, Kimball’s Peak Three Theater, and more. Even Palmer High School and UCCS opened their doors to host screenings and panels. ISFF at its height felt like a true city-wide celebration of cinema, with audiences rushing between venues, and filmmakers gathering to discuss their craft and the future of independent film.
What began as a festival blossomed into a year-round commitment to showcasing independent film in all its forms. Screenings at venues like Ivywild School, the Tim Gill Center, and Cottonwood Center for the Arts gave filmmakers and audiences a place to gather outside of the festival calendar. When ISFF eventually went on hiatus, it could have marked the end of that momentum. Instead, it became a turning point.
IFSOC adapted, evolved, and expanded its vision. New programs were developed: the Colorado Short Circuit Film Festival, an annual event dedicated to highlighting the artistry of short films from Colorado Filmmakers; the Three Nights of Horror Festival, which tapped into the passionate fanbase for horror; and Peak Film Forum, a monthly networking
CONTINUED
gathering that features screenings, discussions, and a chance for artists to connect in person.
Today, IFSOC continues to carry forward what began with Indie Spirit to a broader vision of what independent filmmaking has become. It champions the work of Colorado filmmakers while also opening doors to stories from across the nation and the world.
Looking to the future, IFSOC is focused on growth and deeper connections with the community. The organization is committed to expanding its festivals, creating more opportunities for filmmaker Q&As, panel discussions with guest filmmakers, and workshops that bring artists and audiences together.
“We’re building something that will continue to grow with the community and create opportunities for local filmmakers and beyond,” says Jim Turner, IFSOC co-founder.
Independent film is thriving in Colorado and IFSOC continues with its mission to promote independent film and filmmakers.
The 2024 Colorado Short Circuit Film Festival at Ivywild School.
Photo by Mike Pach/ 3 Peaks Photography & Design.
The Manitou
Art
Center: A makerspace rooted in community
BY STEFFANY BUTTS BOUCHER Communications & Programs Manager, Manitou Art Center
Nestled in the heart of Manitou Springs, the Manitou Art Center has served as a 20,000 squarefoot creative forging ground for over 37 years. Its mission is to cultivate an inclusive and resilient creative economy of people and resources through active participation and outreach.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
My name is Steffany Butts Boucher — an artist, certified sound-practitioner, business-owner, community-builder, founder of Springs-Art-and-Seek, and manager of programming for the Manitou
Art Center.
My relationship with the MAC began through my work with art, meditation and sound. Over the last three years, on the Monday following each First Friday Art Walk, I transform our gallery into a meditation space inspired by the work on the walls each month. From there, I applied for a solo show in the Hagnauer Gallery. As an artist and owner of a creative business, I was a natural fit as the MAC ’s most recent hire.
I have now been with the art center for over a year. It is my aim that through this article, that you too can find yourself in a space that supports who you are at this makerspace and community art center.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 22
Glass artist Jordan Fitzgerald at work in the Glass Lampworking Studio.
Photo courtesy of the Manitou Art Center
DEFINING THE MANITOU ART CENTER (A MAKERSPACE AND MORE)
At its core, the MAC operates as a makerspace — a collaborative environment where artists, crafters, and creators can access specialized studios, tools, and creative classes. Members have opportunities to engage in spaces such as a woodshop, metalshop, ceramics, textiles, darkroom photography, printmaking, dye lab, glass beadmaking, forging & raku area, digital design and lasercutting, papermaking, welding, jewelry, and much more.
Daily passes are available at $10/day, business-hour access for $20/month, and after-hour badge access for $55/month.
THE MAC’S TRIPLEGALLERY SHOWCASE
MAC ’s creative ecosystem extends beyond the studios into three distinct galleries. The Hagnauer Gallery, a juried gallery where artists submit their works for selection, offers a high-quality exhibition space for established
and emerging creatives. The First Amendment Exhibit is a non-juried, community-based show where anyone may display two artworks every two months. And Gallery 515 is a juried, artistcurated space where individuals organize and present their own exhibits.
These galleries serve as vital stages where makers take their creations from concept to public display, enhancing visibility and connection.
THE NONPROFIT SPIRIT AND COMMUNITY EVENTS
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit, one of the MAC’s cornerstones is an array of free or donation-based activities, such as Art for Older Adults, Art in Meditation, and Manitou Yoga. Visit during business hours to reserve a meeting space for free, work in the co-working space, play a board game with a friend, join a knitting group, make a button, or fold paper at the origami station. With over 150 classes or events offered each month, there’s a lot happening.
Are you participating in the freeto-join Springs-Art-and-Seek this year on Saturday Oct. 18? Make your artist trading card to hide for others to seek at the MAC’s free artist trading card station!
MANITOU MADE AND THE LAUNCHPAD PROGRAM
The MAC hosts an entrepreneurial initiative known as Manitou Made — a broader effort to highlight local creatives and sustain the cultural economy.
The Manitou Made Creativity Engine is now hosted on the MAC website where local creatives and businesses can be showcased. Also under the Manitou Made umbrella is the LaunchPad Program, a collaborative initiative of the MAC , Creative Alliance Manitou Springs, Visit Manitou Springs, and the Pikes Peak Bulletin. Its mission: to shine a spotlight on existing creatives, grow new ones, and invest in spaces and resources they need to thrive. This purposefully echoes the MAC ’s roots as the Business of Art Center (est. 1988).
City Above the Clouds
LaunchPad businesses include Hart & Horn (unique metaphysical fashion), Mythical Bird Boutique (vintage-inspired clothing and upcycled goods), and Obaid Afghan Treasures (Afghan-American fusion fashion and crafts) — each bringing distinctive aesthetic and cultural voices to the MAC environment.
CLASSES FOR CREATIVITY AND BEYOND
At the MAC , creativity comes alive through a kaleidoscope of classes. Explore our 14 makerspaces or find renewal in meditation and wellness. Every class is an invitation to ignite imagination and create together. The MAC invites all to join in a vibrant, collaborative celebration of art.
YOU’RE INVITED
The MAC kicks off Arts Month with a First Friday Artwalk on Oct. 3 from 5 –8 p.m., featuring an Open Studio for MAC Studio Artists, as well as three exhibitions and live music. Additionally, the MAC is thrilled to be partnering with CRANE , Visit Manitou Springs, and other local galleries.
DID YOU KNOW George Washington refused to have his image placed on coins? He was horrified at the thought! Only monarchs put their likenesses on money. Therefore, Lady Liberty — an allegory of freedom — graced America’s first coins.
A peek into the … Edward C. Rochette Money Museum
BY AMANDA MILLER Marketing & Communications Director, American Numismatic Association
Did you know Colorado Springs is home to America’s largest museum dedicated solely to money? Conveniently located on the Colorado College campus, the Money Museum is a hidden gem that’s fun for the whole family!
Boasting more than 250,000 objects, the Money Museum explores CASH — culture, art,
science, and history. Visitors are immersed in the fascinating stories behind money through exhibits that illuminate how cash transformed the way people lived and interacted with each other.
Though divided by creed, culture, and continents, humanity is united by the simple act of exchange.
In 5,000 square-feet of gallery space, guests can view spectacular rarities — coins worth millions over their face value — and experience exhibits that explore a variety of
topics through the unique lens of money.
A visit to the Money Museum begins with a step back in time. The Silk Road(s) exhibit is a journey of discovery across Eurasia. Cuttingedge technology brings Marco Polo and Rabban Sawma to life as museum tour guides, directing visitors along the 5,000-mile trade route. Through the economic tool of currency, guests travel the world’s first global trade network, which fostered the exchange of
CONTINUED ON PAGE 24
Photo courtesy of Shayla Marin Photography.
LARGEST SELECTION FOR CUSTOM FRAMING
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23
people, goods, and ideas. Following the trail of coins, they discover the empires that developed in tandem with the Silk Road and learn about their complicated military, economic, and political relationships.
The next stop is the Americana Gallery — a feast for the eyes, glittering with gold. This exhibit presents the history of America told through its money. Featuring some of America’s most rare coins, including California and Colorado gold, it relays the rags-to-riches story of a struggling, gold-poor nation that blossomed into the world’s greatest economic power.
Money used today developed over thousands of years. In the History of Money exhibit, visitors explore currency’s evolution. From the earliest forms of traditional money, such as shells, furs, and cocoa beans, to modern polymer notes used around the world today, the History of Money features a diverse collection. Guests can see the first coins ever made over 2,600 years ago, or the largest denomination note ever produced by the United States. A journey through time, the exhibit follows the remarkable development of money from cows to cowries and metal to polymer.
Kids (and parents) can take a break to play at the Kids’ Zone. Little spenders can barter and trade, design their own money,
and negotiate inside a Mongolian yurt. Additionally, kids are invited to dive into the museum’s treasure chest filled with coins from around the world and earn prizes through exhibit-based trivia.
Finally, the Money Museum showcases several spectacular rarities. The 1804 Dollar, or “King of U.S. Coins,” has a royal value upwards of $4 million. Visitors won’t want to miss the mysterious 1913 Liberty Head nickel, which sparked a national treasure hunt. And on display is a 1792 Half Disme, minted in the presence of George Washington and personally distributed by Thomas Jefferson. The Half Disme announced to the world that the United States was now a sovereign and independent republic.
At the Money Museum, visitors will discover that money truly does make the world go round. Currency is a common thread that stitches humanity together, passing through every hand, every day. Today, coins are among the most valuable artifacts available to historians. They represent the economic power of empires. They present how a culture viewed itself. They provide dates for important moments in history. Without coinage, many of the facts we take for granted today would be lost to the sands of time.
Photo courtesy of the American Numismatic Association.
Find creative space in the mountains at Reserve Our Gallery
BY GAYLE GROSS
Owner and Artist, Reserve Our Gallery
Art in Woodland Park is elevated to 8,465 feet above sea level. The welcome sign as you drive into town says you are entering the “City Above the Clouds” and it’s true.
This past summer Reserve Our Gallery hosted a cloud-themed art show in honor of the city’s motto and it was the largest art exhibit the gallery had ever seen. Awards were given for Best of Show to Michael Gault and for People’s Choice to Ed McKay. “Art Above the Clouds” will return next June.
Imagine a blank canvas sitting before you and the first swash of color is applied. Reserve Our Gallery opened at 400 West Midland in May 2021, featuring 19 local artists. The blank canvas was an opportunity to develop a
unique program for the area where everyone could add their own flair.
This has grown into a masterpiece where there are monthly art shows and galas to enjoy. There’s a gift shop and consignment area for art supplies in the gallery, which enhances the creative space. The gallery started hosting Artists Sunday in 2022 and also opened an art school in 2023 and art studios in 2024. Peak Art Adventure, a plein air painting competition and juried art show, celebrated three years in 2025.
Reserve Our Gallery started a lot of things that are now part of regular programs happening in Woodland Park because people embraced them quickly. We manage two other galleries in town as a way to enhance art experiences.
The Eichman Gallery at Park State Bank & Trust displays the
work of three new artists each month. They also host a large art reception twice a year. The most recent offering is the Woodland Park Art Gallery, which is a town-inspired format where the gallery exists inside established companies. The first art walk that will bring Woodland Park Art Gallery to the main stage is a business stroll on Friday, Oct. 3 from 4 –7 p.m.
Art can be one of the greatest values in life because it has monetary worth as well as aesthetic, emotional, and cultural significance. There are few things that offer the same benefit for health and wellness as art. For me, it was the best thing during high school and college to keep me on track when there wasn’t a clear path. It provided security, peace and freedom.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 25
For more information about Reserve
Our Gallery, visit reserveourgallery.art. The gallery is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays during the winter. Regular hours are 12 – 4 p.m., and on Fridays until 6 p.m.
You have
the vision.
We have the tools. At PPLD, you can:
You belong at the Library.
Use 3D printers, engravers, sewing machines, CAD software
Display your art
Take classes to learn to create, craft, explore
Use our studio for podcasting, record music and movies
All at no cost!
Now, Woodland Park is becoming a destination for art, which makes sense. There are so many talented people living in the area and the time is ripe.
Our inaugural First Friday Art Walk is set for Oct. 3 from 4 –7 p.m. The Woodland Park Art Gallery has multiple venues in town and there will be a shuttle from Reserve Our Gallery beginning at 4:30 p.m. Live music will be performed by the House of David Music Center, Ray De Mers, and Dave Meeker at a variety of locations. There will also be a map and “paint the town” game.
Reserve Our Gallery believes that art is many forms of expression, and we value each one. A visual artist hangs artwork in a gallery while a chef hangs their work hat on a hook when
they leave the restaurant. A musician plays a tune of harmony while a singer creates a tune with words. A writer shapes a story for our reading pleasure while a sculptor gives shape new form. Art makes the world a better place and a person’s participation in art activities enhances shared experiences.
For more information about Reserve Our Gallery, visit reserveourgallery.art. The gallery is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays during the winter, our regular hours are noon to 4 p.m. and we are open late on Fridays until 6 p.m. We always serve something fun on Fridays from 4 – 6 p.m., and right now that is s’mores and cider. We hope to see your forms of expression soon in the city above the clouds!
HARD ROCK
Artisanal keepsakes and nights to remember. The arts scene in the Pikes Peak region has it all — and then some.
CHECK IT OUT FOR YOURSELF AT PEAKRADAR.COM
Dylan Pierce teaches watercolor to Fred Hatch during a workshop at Reserve Our Gallery. Photo courtesy of Reserve Our Gallery.
