AURORA | Don’t just expect the unexpected, get out there and find it. From bold, boundary-pushing theater to hands-on art experiences, Aurora’s cultural scene is buzzing with “different” this weekend and beyond. You can laugh and cringe your way through “Clown Sex Ed” at the People’s Building or take in the sweeping, edgy drama of “Angels in America” at Vintage Theatre. Maybe something more interactive? Help create a community masterpiece at the Human Tapestry print crawl. And if music is calling, Gregorio Uribe’s cumbia dance party promises to get you moving. Whatever your mood, Sentinel Muse has you covered. Scroll down and start planning your culturally unexpected days ahead.
“Angels in America, Part One” at Vintage Theatre
Tony Kushner’s Pulitzer Prize-winning epic unfolds against the backdrop of the AIDS crisis in 1980s America, weaving together multiple storylines that explore love, illness, politics and spirituality. The play follows a diverse group of characters grappling with personal and societal upheaval, blending realism with dreamlike sequences and supernatural elements. This production brings emotional intensity and visual imagination to a work widely considered one of the most important pieces of modern American theater.
IF YOU GO:
Date: April 23–May 10, curtains vary
Place: Vintage Theatre, 1468 Dayton St.
Tickets: $20–$40
Information: vintagetheatre.org or 303-856-7830
“Clown Sex Ed” at The People’s Building
Combining physical comedy, satire and candid storytelling, “Clown Sex Ed” revisits the awkward and often inadequate ways sex education is taught. Performers use humor and exaggerated characters to explore themes of consent, identity and communication, creating a space where audiences can both laugh and reflect. The show balances absurdity with sincerity, offering a fresh perspective on a topic that is frequently misunderstood or avoided.
IF YOU GO:
Date: April 24, 7 p.m.
Place: The People’s Building, 9995 E. Colfax Ave.
Tickets: Varies
Information: thepeoplesbuilding.com or 303-739-1970
“Gregorio Uribe: Mad Cumbia Dance Party” at Manos Sagrados
Colombian singer and accordionist Gregorio Uribe leads a vibrant musical experience that blends traditional cumbia rhythms with contemporary influences such as jazz, pop and blues. The performance transforms the venue into an energetic dance floor, encouraging audience participation and celebration. Known for his charismatic stage presence and inventive arrangements, Uribe creates a joyful atmosphere that bridges cultures and generations through music.
IF YOU GO:
Date: April 26, 7 p.m.
Place: Manos Sagrados, 9995 E. Colfax Ave.
Tickets: $14-$20
Information: manossagrados.com
“Studio Saturdays Artist Demo” at Denver Art Museum
Visitors can observe professional artists at work during this engaging weekly program, which highlights a variety of artistic disciplines including painting, sculpture and mixed media. Artists demonstrate their techniques while discussing their creative processes, offering insight into how ideas evolve into finished works. The program provides a rare opportunity to interact directly with creators in a museum setting.
IF YOU GO:
Date: April 25, daytime hours
Place: Denver Art Museum, 100 W. 14th Ave. Parkway.
Tickets: Included with admission
Information: denverartmuseum.org or 720-865-5000
“Wild Women: Hear Us Roar” at Su Teatro Cultural Center
This dynamic theatrical production celebrates the voices and experiences of women through a lively combination of storytelling, music and performance. Drawing from historical and contemporary narratives, the show highlights themes of resilience, empowerment and cultural identity. With humor and heart, the performers create an engaging and thought-provoking experience that resonates across generations.
IF YOU GO:
Date: April 24–April 26
Place: Su Teatro Cultural Center, 721 Santa Fe Drive.
Tickets: $15–$30
Information: suteatro.org or 303-296-0219
“Colorado Symphony: Spring Concert Series” at Boettcher Concert Hall
The Colorado Symphony presents a series of concerts featuring a diverse repertoire of classical masterworks and contemporary compositions. Performed in Denver’s premier concert venue, the program showcases the orchestra’s range and technical excellence. Audiences can expect an immersive musical experience that highlights both beloved favorites and innovative new works.
IF YOU GO:
Date: April 24–26
Place: Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver Performing Arts Complex
Tickets: $19-$151
Information: coloradosymphony.org or 303-623-7876
“First Friday Art Walk” at RiNo Art District
This popular monthly event transforms the RiNo neighborhood into a bustling hub of creativity, with galleries, studios and street artists opening their doors to the public. Visitors can explore cutting-edge contemporary art, enjoy live music and experience large-scale murals that define the district. The lively atmosphere makes it one of Denver’s most anticipated cultural gatherings.
IF YOU GO:
Date: May 1, in the evening
Place: RiNo Art District, Denver
Tickets: Free
Information: rinoartdistrict.org or 303-308-7100
“First Friday Art Walk” at Santa Fe Arts District
A cornerstone of Denver’s arts community, this long-running event features dozens of galleries and creative spaces showcasing new exhibitions each month. The walk offers opportunities to meet artists, discover emerging talent and experience a wide variety of artistic styles in a festive, pedestrian-friendly setting.
IF YOU GO:
Date: May 1, 5:30 p.m.–late
Place: Santa Fe Drive, Denver
Tickets: Free
Information: denversartdistrict.org or 720-773-2373
“Aurora Quilt Showcase” at Aurora Center for Active Adults
This exhibition highlights the artistry and craftsmanship of regional quilters, featuring intricate designs that range from traditional patterns to modern interpretations. Visitors can learn about quilting techniques, meet creators and gain insight into the cultural significance of textile art. The showcase celebrates both creativity and community heritage.
IF YOU GO:
Date: May 2, 9 a.m.–noon
Place: 30 W. Del Mar Circle
Tickets: Free
Information: auroragov.org or 303-739-7950
“Improv Comedy Night” at Rise Comedy
Local comedians take the stage for a fast-paced evening of unscripted performance, creating scenes and characters based entirely on audience suggestions. Each show is unique, blending quick wit, creativity and collaboration to deliver an engaging and often hilarious experience.
IF YOU GO:
Date: April 24–May 2
Place: Rise Comedy, 1260 22nd St.
Tickets: $10–$20
Information: risecomedy.com or 720-420-0195
“Contemporary Photography Exhibition” at Center for Visual Art
This exhibition showcases the work of emerging and established photographers exploring themes such as identity, environment and storytelling. Through a range of styles and techniques, the featured artists offer compelling visual narratives that invite viewers to reflect on their own perspectives.
IF YOU GO:
Date: Through May
Place: Center for Visual Art, 965 Santa Fe Dr.
Tickets: Free
Information: msudenver.edu/cva or 303-294-5207
“Poetry & Spoken Word Night” at Mercury Cafe
An open and inclusive event where poets and performers share original work in an intimate setting. The evening highlights diverse voices and perspectives, blending personal storytelling with performance art in a supportive community environment.
IF YOU GO:
Date: April 30
Place: Mercury Cafe, 2199 California St.
Tickets: Donation-based
Information: mercurycafe.com or 303-294-9258
“Indie Film Screening Series” at Sie FilmCenter
Denver Film’s flagship venue presents a rotating lineup of independent, international and documentary films. Many screenings include discussions or special programming, offering audiences deeper insight into the filmmaking process and themes explored on screen.
IF YOU GO:
Date: April 23–May 6 (various screenings)
Place: Sie FilmCenter, 2510 E. Colfax Ave.
Tickets: $10–$15
Information: denverfilm.org or 720-381-0813
“Modern Dance Showcase” at Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Theatre
This performance features contemporary choreography rooted in African American traditions, blending storytelling with movement and music. The program highlights both established and emerging dancers, offering a powerful and visually engaging experience.
IF YOU GO:
Date: May 2 and May 3
Place: Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Theatre, 119 Park Avenue West
Tickets: $25–$45
Information: cleoparkerdance.org or 303-295-1759
“Chamber Music Concert Series” at Newman Center for the Performing Arts
This intimate concert series features small ensembles performing works from the classical repertoire, offering a close-up listening experience that emphasizes musical nuance and collaboration.
IF YOU GO:
Date: May 5 and May 6
Place: Newman Center, 2344 E. Iliff Ave.
Tickets: $10–$40
Information: newmancenterpresents.com or 303-871-7720
Django Jingles — Jazz Manouche and more with the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra
Hot swing and spirited improvisation take center stage as the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra presents Django Jingles: Jazz Manouche N More at Lakewood Cultural Center. Led by artistic director Drew Zaremba, the concert pays tribute to legendary guitarist Jean “Django” Reinhardt and violinist Stéphane Grappelli, whose groundbreaking work with the Quintette du Hot Club de France helped define the vibrant jazz manouche style.
Blending American jazz traditions with Romani musical influences, jazz manouche—also known as “hot club jazz”—is characterized by its acoustic instrumentation, driving rhythms and high-energy improvisation. The CJRO brings that sound to life with a dynamic ensemble featuring saxophonist Jared Cathey, pianist Ben Hall, guitarist Mike Abbott, bassist Eric Hitt and vocalist Marion Powers.
The concert also features special guest violinist Enion Pelta-Tiller, co-founder of the internationally recognized band Taarka. Known for blending Gypsy and Eastern European folk traditions with modern sensibilities, Pelta-Tiller adds a fresh dimension to the performance, honoring Reinhardt’s legacy while expanding the sound with her own distinctive style.
Organizers describe the evening as a celebration of rhythm and melody, capturing the infectious energy of early 20th-century jazz while showcasing the CJRO’s signature blend of tradition and innovation. The orchestra, one of the region’s premier jazz ensembles, continues to push boundaries with inventive programming and performances that highlight the depth and versatility of the genre.
IF YOU GO:
Date: 3 p.m. April 26
Lakewood Cultural Center, 470 S. Allison Parkway
Tickets $36 – $38
www.coloradojazz.org or call 303-987-7845
Ari Lennox – “The Vacancy Tour” at Summit Music Hall
Celebrated R&B artist Ari Lennox brings her soulful voice and emotionally rich songwriting to Denver as part of her national tour. Known for her smooth vocal delivery and deeply personal lyrics, Lennox creates a concert experience that is both intimate and electrifying. Her setlist blends tracks from her latest album with fan-favorite songs, offering a journey through themes of love, vulnerability and self-discovery. Backed by a live band and thoughtful stage production, the performance promises to be a standout moment for R&B fans.
IF YOU GO:
Date: April 26 at 7 p.m.
Place: Summit Music Hall, 1902 Blake St.
Tickets: $66-$354
Information: www.summitdenver.com or call 303-487-0111
Immersive Concert Experience at Meow Wolf Denver
Blending live music with interactive art installations, this immersive concert event invites audiences to explore a surreal environment while enjoying a live performance. The venue’s imaginative design creates a multi-sensory experience where sound, light and visual storytelling intersect. Guests are encouraged to move through the space, discovering hidden rooms and artistic elements that enhance the music and create a one-of-a-kind cultural event.
IF YOU GO:
Date: April 25
Place: 1338 First St.
Tickets: $25–$45
Information: meowwolf.com or call 866-636-9969
Skizzy Mars Live at Marquis Theater
Hip-hop artist Skizzy Mars takes the stage for an energetic performance that blends introspective lyrics with catchy, genre-crossing beats. Known for his engaging stage presence, Mars creates a lively atmosphere that encourages audience participation and connection. The intimate setting of the Marquis Theater allows fans to experience the performance up close, making for a memorable night of live music.
IF YOU GO:
Date: April 28, 2026; 7 p.m.
Place: 2009 Larimer St.
Tickets: $25–$40
Information: marquistheater.com or call 303-487-0111
Candlelight Concert Series at Trinity United Methodist Church
This atmospheric concert series transforms a historic church into a glowing performance space illuminated by candlelight. Featuring classical interpretations of well-known works, the concerts provide an intimate and visually striking setting that enhances the emotional power of the music. Try “90s Unplugged” or “Tribute to Fleetwood Mac”
IF YOU GO:
Date: April 17–25, 2026
Place: 1820 Broadway, Denver
Tickets: $30–$60
Information: trinityumc.org or call 303-839-1493
Spring Arts Market & Performances at Southlands
Combining artisan vendors with live entertainment, this outdoor event showcases local artists, musicians and performers. Visitors can explore handmade goods while enjoying live cultural performances throughout the day.
IF YOU GO:
Date: April 25
Place: Southlands Shopping Center, Aurora
Tickets: Free
Information: shopsouthlands.com or call 303-627-5000
Ecosystems: Opening Reception at Downtown Aurora Visual Arts
Celebrate the opening of “Ecosystems,” a printmaking exhibition at Downtown Aurora Visual Arts reflecting biodiversity and environmental dialogue through the medium of print. The show features work by local and guest artists, and the opening reception invites the public to engage with innovative techniques and thematic depth.
IF YOU GO:
Date: 10 a.m.– 5 p.m. weekdays through May 15
Place: Downtown Aurora Visual Arts, 1405 Florence St.
Tickets: Free
Info: www.davarts.org or call 303-367-5886
“The Deluge” exhibition at Museum of Contemporary Art Denver
Artist Bethany Collins examines American history, language and identity in this multimedia exhibition that combines sculpture, sound, text and installation. Collins is known for transforming historical documents and cultural symbols into artworks that explore how stories about the nation are constructed and remembered. The exhibition includes pieces created from materials connected to historic monuments as well as works that reinterpret literature and music through erasure, repetition and sound. By reshaping familiar texts and symbols, the exhibition invites visitors to consider how narratives about race, justice and national identity continue to evolve over time.
IF YOU GO:
Date: Through July 5,
Place: Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, 1485 Delgany St.
Tickets: $8–$14; free for members
Information: mcadenver.org or call 303-298-7554
“World’s Largest Dinosaurs” at Denver Museum of Nature and Science
This traveling exhibition explores how the largest land animals in Earth’s history lived and functioned. Rather than focusing solely on fossil bones, the exhibit examines the biology of giant sauropods, which are dinosaurs whose massive bodies required unique adaptations for breathing, circulation and movement. Through interactive displays, models and scientific research, visitors can learn how scientists study both fossils and modern animals to understand how these enormous creatures survived and thrived millions of years ago. The exhibition also explores the evolutionary advantages and challenges of extreme size, offering a deeper look at how the scale of these animals shaped their behavior and ecosystems.
IF YOU GO:
Date: Through Sept. 7
Place: Denver Museum of Nature and Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd.
Tickets: $6-$9
Information: dmns.org or call 303-370-6000