AURORA | Fire up the cultural grill, it’s spring theater season.
Belly up to the Fox Arts Center this weekend for the opening of ‘Fat Ham,’ a gastrotorical take on Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” classic. Take the family and relish in the fact that yours isn’t nearly as challenging as what you see on stage.
If local life is more your thing, like from several million years ago, check out who your neighbors would have been during the Cretaceous Period on Peoria Street. Also up is the Aurora Symphony, bringing listeners a Carnival of Animals, and a choir performance at Heather Gardens.
‘Fat Ham’ at Aurora Fox Arts Center
Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright James Ijames re-imagines Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” in this contemporary comedy-drama that unfolds during a family barbecue in the American South. The story follows Juicy, a thoughtful young man confronting family expectations and personal identity after the ghost of his father demands revenge. Instead of following the traditional tragic path, Juicy wrestles with whether breaking cycles of anger and violence might offer a different kind of resolution. The play mixes humor, music and emotional reflection while exploring themes of family, identity and self-determination.
IF YOU GO:
Date: Opens March 27; performances through April 19
Place: Aurora Fox Arts Center, 9900 E. Colfax Ave.
Tickets: $20–$42
Information: aurorafoxartscenter.org or 303-739-1970
“Prehistoric Aurora” exhibition at Aurora History Museum
The Aurora History Museum explores the region’s ancient past in “Prehistoric Aurora,” an exhibit examining the landscapes and creatures that existed in the area millions of years before modern development. Visitors can learn how the land that is now Aurora once supported prehistoric animals including mammoths, giant ground sloths and dinosaurs such as Triceratops and Tyrannosaurus. The exhibition traces the region’s geologic history through fossils, scientific displays and educational materials developed in collaboration with organizations including the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, the University of Colorado Museum of Natural History and Dinosaur Ridge. Through artifacts and interpretive exhibits, the show offers a look at how scientists study ancient ecosystems and how discoveries made in Colorado help tell the story of Earth’s distant past.
IF YOU GO:
Date: Through April 5; Tuesdays through Thursdays 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a .m. – 4 p.m.
Place: Aurora History Museum, 15051 E. Alameda Parkway
Tickets: $1-$5
Information: AuroraMuseum.org or 303-739-6660
“Bonnie and Clyde: The Musical” at The People’s Building
The notorious outlaws of the Great Depression take center stage in this dramatic musical telling the story of Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow. With a score by composer Frank Wildhorn and lyrics by Don Black, the production blends rockabilly, blues and gospel influences to capture the passion, ambition and danger that surrounded the legendary criminal couple. The story follows the pair from their humble beginnings in Texas through their rise to national infamy as bank robbers whose exploits fascinated newspapers and the public alike. As their fame grows, so does the danger, leading to a gripping finale that reflects both the myth and reality of their short but unforgettable lives.
IF YOU GO:
Date: Through 29, 2026; evening performances with select matinees
Place: The People’s Building, 9995 E Colfax Ave.
Tickets: $25–$50
Information: thepeoplesbuilding.com or call 720-819-6680
Aurora Symphony Orchestra presents “Carnival of the Animals”
Families and classical music fans can experience Camille Saint-Saëns’ whimsical orchestral suite in a concert designed to introduce young audiences to symphonic music. Each movement portrays a different animal, from the majestic lion to the graceful swan, through playful melodies and colorful orchestration. Narration and storytelling accompany the music to help listeners imagine the animals and scenes depicted in the score, making the program both entertaining and educational.
IF YOU GO:
Date: March 28–29
Place: Aurora Central High School Auditorium, 11700 E. 11th Ave.
Tickets: $10–$20
Information: aurorasymphony.org or 720-262-3850
9 to 5: The Musical — Vintage Theatre
Inspired by the beloved 1980 film, “9 to 5” returns to the Vintage Theatre stage with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and book by Patricia Resnick. The story centers on three female office workers fed up with workplace inequality who fantasize about overthrowing their sexist boss. Packed with infectious songs and dynamic choreography, this upbeat musical celebrates ambition, female empowerment and camaraderie in the workplace, with plenty of heart and hilarity along the way.
IF YOU GO:
Dates: Evening and matinee curtains on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through March 29.
Place: Vintage Theatre, 1468 Dayton St.
Tickets: $28–$45
Info: www.vintagetheatre.org or call 303-856-7830
“Ms. Destiny” exhibition at Center for Colorado Women’s History
This exhibition highlights the lives of seven Colorado women who challenged expectations and reshaped opportunities in their communities. Through artifacts, photographs and historical narratives, the exhibit examines how women navigated barriers related to work, finances, relationships and social expectations in order to build independent lives. Visitors can explore stories that span different eras and backgrounds, revealing the resilience and determination of women who shaped Colorado’s cultural and political history. By focusing on personal choices and turning points in these women’s lives, the exhibit illustrates how individual decisions can influence broader social change.
IF YOU GO:
Date: Through March 29,
Place: Center for Colorado Women’s History, 1310 Bannock St.
Tickets: $6–$10
Information: historycolorado.org or call 303-832-4092
“Spring Student Art Showcase” at Town Center at Aurora
This annual showcase transforms the mall into a vibrant, walkable gallery featuring hundreds of works created by Aurora Public Schools students. Visitors can explore a wide range of artistic styles and media, from detailed pencil drawings and bold acrylic paintings to sculpture and digital art. The exhibit highlights the creativity, cultural diversity and personal perspectives of Aurora’s youth, offering a glimpse into the next generation of artists while fostering community pride and support for arts education.
IF YOU GO:
Date: March 31–April 10, 2026
Place: 14200 E Alameda Ave.
Tickets: Free
Information: towncenterataurora.com or call 303-344-9764
“The World in a City: Cultural Exhibitions” at Aurora History Museum
Through immersive exhibits, artifacts and multimedia storytelling, this citywide initiative explores the rich cultural fabric of Aurora—one of Colorado’s most diverse communities. Displays highlight immigration stories, global traditions and the everyday lives of residents whose roots span continents. Visitors can engage with photographs, oral histories and interactive elements that reveal how different cultures intersect and shape the city’s identity, making it both an educational and deeply personal experience.
IF YOU GO:
Date: Through April 10,
Place: 15051 E. Alameda Parkway
Tickets: Free
Information: auroragov.org or call 303-739-6660
“Spring Craft and Artisan Market” at Arapahoe County Fairgrounds Event Center
This seasonal market brings together local artisans, crafters and small businesses offering handmade goods ranging from jewelry and textiles to fine art and home décor. Visitors can meet makers, watch live demonstrations and learn about the creative processes behind each piece. The event fosters a strong sense of community while supporting local creatives and providing unique, one-of-a-kind items.
IF YOU GO:
Date: March 28–March 29
Place: 25690 E Quincy Ave.
Tickets: $5–$10
Information: arapahoecountyeventcenter.com or call 303-795-4955
“Poetry Open Mic Night” at The People’s Building
Local poets and spoken-word artists take the stage to share original work in an inclusive and supportive creative environment.
IF YOU GO:
Date: April 1 at 7 p.m.
Place: 9995 E Colfax Ave.
Tickets: Free–$10
Information: thepeoplesbuilding.com or call 720-819-6680
“Family Art Day” at Plains Conservation Center
Families are invited to connect art with nature through hands-on activities inspired by Colorado’s plains landscape. Projects may include nature-based crafts, sketching and collaborative creations, all designed to encourage creativity while fostering an appreciation for the environment.
IF YOU GO:
Date: April 5, 2026
Place: 21901 E. Hampden Ave.
Tickets: Free–$8
Information: auroragov.org or call 303-326-8380
“Community Choir Performance” at Heather Gardens Clubhouse
A local choir presents a program of classical, folk and contemporary songs celebrating community and music.
IF YOU GO:
Date: April 3, 2026
Place: 2888 S Heather Gardens Way
Tickets: Free–$10
Information: heathergardens.org or call 303-755-3550
“Cultural Dance Workshop Series” at Beck Recreation Center
Participants are introduced to traditional dance styles from around the world in instructor-led sessions that emphasize both technique and cultural context. From Latin rhythms to global folk traditions, the workshops encourage movement, learning and appreciation of diverse artistic expressions.
IF YOU GO:
Date: March 28 and April 4
Place: 800 Telluride St.
Tickets: $5–$10
Information: auroragov.org or call 303-326-8650
“Photography Exhibition: Aurora Through the Lens” at Aurora History Museum
This exhibition presents a compelling visual portrait of Aurora through the eyes of local photographers. Featuring landscapes, portraits and candid street photography, the collection captures the everyday beauty and diversity of the city while offering insight into its evolving identity.
IF YOU GO:
Date: March 26–April 10, 2026
Place: 15051 E Alameda Parkway
Tickets: Free
Information: auroragov.org or call 303-739-6660
“Riverdance 30: The New Generation” at Paramount Theatre
Celebrating three decades of Irish dance excellence, this anniversary production of “Riverdance” blends traditional Celtic music with modern staging and choreography. Featuring a new generation of performers, the show continues to captivate audiences with its rapid-fire footwork, sweeping ensemble numbers and powerful musical score rooted in Irish heritage. )
IF YOU GO:
Date: March 27–March 29
Place: Paramount Theatre, 1621 Glenarm Place
Tickets: $45–$95
Information: paramountdenver.com or call 303-623-0106
“Shen Yun Performing Arts” at Buell Theatre
A vibrant showcase of classical Chinese dance, music and storytelling, “Shen Yun” presents ancient legends, ethnic traditions and historical narratives through elaborate costumes and orchestral accompaniment. The production blends Eastern and Western instruments to create a visually stunning and culturally rich performance.
IF YOU GO:
Date: April 2– April 4
Place: Buell Theatre at the Denver Performing Arts Complex, 1350 Curtis St.
Tickets: $80–$150
Information: denvercenter.org or call 303-893-4100
“First Friday Art Walk” in Denver’s Art District on Santa Fe
Galleries open their doors for an evening of visual art, live demonstrations and community engagement. Visitors can explore contemporary exhibitions, meet local artists and enjoy street performances throughout the district, making it one of the region’s most popular recurring arts events.
IF YOU GO:
Date: April 3, 5 p.m–9 p.m.
Place: Santa Fe Drive in Denver, from East 13th Avenue to East Alameda Avenue
Tickets: Free
Information: artdistrictonsantafe.com or call 720-773-2373
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
“Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors” at Denver Center for the Performing Arts
This theatrical comedy reimagines Bram Stoker’s gothic horror classic with rapid costume changes, physical humor and a small cast portraying dozens of characters. The fast-paced production transforms the familiar story of Count Dracula’s journey from Transylvania to England into a playful theatrical farce. With quick-fire jokes, theatrical surprises and exaggerated performances, the show offers a comedic take on one of literature’s most famous monsters.
IF YOU GO:
Date: Through May
Place: Garner Galleria Theatre, Denver Performing Arts Complex, 1050 13th St.
Tickets: $35–$65
Information: denvercenter.org or call 303-893-4100
“The Deluge” exhibition at Museum of Contemporary Art Denver
Artist Bethany Collins explores the intersections of language, history and identity in this multimedia exhibition featuring sculpture, text-based artwork and sound installations. Collins’ work often reinterprets historical documents and cultural symbols, examining how narratives about race and national identity are formed and remembered. The exhibition invites visitors to reflect on how stories about the past continue to shape contemporary society.
IF YOU GO:
Date: Through July
Place: Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, 1485 Delgany St.
Tickets: $8–$14
Information: mcadenver.org or call 303-298-7554