AURORA | Love is blind — dating. Sometimes. However it’s always easy to fall for singing and dancing about blind dating, and there’s plenty of that in “First Date” this weekend at Aurora’s Vintage Theatre.
In the mood for Jazz, though? The Arvada Center has that covered, with a Latin flair, and the Aurora Fox brings Schoolhouse Rock to the stage. There’s more below, including a way to spend quality time on the Aurora prairie.
Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra offers fall Latin flair
The Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra is turning up the heat this weekend with Rhythm and Brass: A Latin Jazz Fiesta, a high-energy celebration of salsa and Latin jazz at the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities.
The powerhouse CJRO Big Band, led by Artistic Director Drew Zaremba, will headline the concert alongside acclaimed vocalist Marion Powers. The performance promises a bold mix of Afro-Caribbean rhythms, jazz harmonies and the fiery brass sound that has become the ensemble’s signature.
Organizers say audiences can expect “blazing horns, driving percussion and irresistible grooves” in a show that pays tribute to one of the world’s most danceable and dynamic musical styles. The program will highlight the rhythmic pulse of Latin jazz — from traditional salsa beats to modern interpretations — blending classic big-band arrangements with new twists.
Founded more than a decade ago by Executive Director Art Bouton, the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra has built a reputation as one of the state’s premier jazz ensembles. The group performs both large- and small-band concerts across Colorado, featuring some of the region’s top musicians and guest artists. Zaremba, known nationally for his work as a composer, arranger and saxophonist, has helped shape the CJRO’s innovative sound by merging traditional jazz foundations with fresh influences from soul and Latin genres.
The orchestra’s performances are known not only for their musical precision but also for their infectious energy and connection with audiences. With its blend of rhythm, melody and improvisation, “Rhythm and Brass” is expected to be one of the ensemble’s most vibrant concerts of the season.
IF YOU GO:
What: Rhythm an Brass: A Latin Jazz Fiesta, featuring vocalist Marion Powers
When: Saturday, Oct. 18, 7:30 p.m.
Where: Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities, 6901 Wadsworth Blvd.
Tickets: $28–$47
Details: coloradojazz.org or 720-898-7200
’First Date’ musical comedy at the Vintage Theatre
A fast-paced romantic comedy with a musical twist is set to open on the Berg-Young Cabaret Stage at the Vintage Theatre.
First Date, with book by Austin Winsberg and music and lyrics by Alan Zachary and Michael Weiner, follows blind date newbie Aaron and serial-dater Casey as their casual drink at a busy New York restaurant turns into a high-stakes evening.
As the date unfolds in real time, the couple’s inner voices come to life through the people around them. Other restaurant patrons morph into best friends, exes and parents, singing and dancing them through awkward ice-breakers, appetizers and conversational traps.
IF YOU GO:
Date: Through Oct. 23, 2025
Place: Berg-Young Cabaret Stage at the Vintage Theatre, 1468 Dayton St.
Tickets: $24
Details: www.vintagetheatre.org
Wagon tours explore life on the prairie at Plains Conservation Center
A ride through the shortgrass prairie is slated for select Saturdays in October and November at the Plains Conservation Center in Aurora. Participants will travel by wagon across open plains, keeping an eye out for prairie dogs, pronghorn antelope and birds of prey beneath the wide Colorado sky. Along the way, naturalists will share insights into the prairie ecosystem.
The two-hour experience includes stops at “soddie” homes and a Cheyenne camp, giving visitors a glimpse of life for both homesteaders and Cheyenne people on the prairie during the 1800s. Tours are open to all ages but this fall’s sessions are geared toward adults. Organizers note that tours are weather dependent, with cancellations communicated directly to registrants.
IF YOU GO:
Dates: 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Oct. 18 and Nov. 8
Place: Plains Conservation Center, 21901 E. Hampden Ave.(entrance is at East Hampden Avenue and South Picadilly Road)
Tickets: $15. Registration required at botanicgardens.org
Aurora Fox brings ‘Schoolhouse Rock Live!’ to the stage on Colfax
The Aurora Fox Arts Center will bring Saturday morning memories to life with “Schoolhouse Rock Live!” running on the Fox Mainstage Theater. Directed by Kelly Van Oosbree, the high-energy musical is based on the animated series that taught generations grammar, math and history through catchy songs.
The show follows Tom, a nervous young teacher whose TV characters leap off the screen to show him how to inspire his students through music and imagination. Audience members can expect classic favorites like “Conjunction Junction,” “I’m Just a Bill” and “Three Is a Magic Number.”
“This production is pure joy,” said Rich Cowden, executive producer of the Aurora Fox. “It’s educational, it’s fun, and it connects generations through music and storytelling.”
In addition to evening and weekend shows, nine daytime student matinees are scheduled, making the production a back-to-school field trip opportunity for young audiences.
IF YOU GO:
Dates: Through Oct. 18 Curtains vary greatly for day and night performances.
Venue: Aurora Fox Mainstage Theater, 9900 E. Colfax Ave.
Tickets: $17–$42
Details: aurorafoxartscenter.org
‘Merrily We Roll Along’ opens Sept. 12 at Vintage Theatre
The Tony Award-winning musical Merrily We Roll Along is set to open Sept. 12 at Vintage Theatre, bringing Stephen Sondheim and George Furth’s acclaimed story of friendship, compromise and the cost of success to Aurora audiences. Directed by Bernie Cardell, the show plays through Oct. 19 in the Nickelson Auditorium.
Told in reverse, the musical traces the lives of three friends from adulthood back to their youthful idealism, blending the excitement of a backstage show with a poignant examination of staying true to one’s dreams. The production won the 2024 Tony Award for Best Revival.
IF YOU GO:
Dates: Through Oct. 19
Venue: Nickelson Auditorium at Vintage Theatre, 1468 Dayton St., Aurora
Tickets: $39 general admission, $33 seniors, $20 students/children (12 or younger)
Details: 303-856-7830 or VintageTheatre.org
‘Unapologetically Chicano’ art experience
A six-week immersive celebration of Chicano culture at CHAC Gallery @40 West in Lakewood. “Unapologetically Chicano” will showcase traditional and contemporary works of art alongside music, food and community connection.
Curated by Rob and Tammy Yancey, the exhibition highlights the resilience and creativity of Chicano identity across generations. The opening reception runs from 5 to 9 p.m. and will feature local and regional artists, live music, DJs, authentic food vendors, classic cars from Los Compas Car Club and handcrafted spirits served by The Good Ol’ Time Mobile Bar.
A second First Friday event on Oct. 3 offers another chance to meet the artists and experience the work. Organizers describe the show as a celebration of heritage, resistance and joy.
IF YOU GO:
Dates: Through Oct. 24,
Opening reception: Sept. 5, 5 p.m.–9 p.m.
Venue: CHAC Gallery @40 West, 7060 W. 16th Ave.
Tickets: Free
Details: www.chacgallery.org/