Business Details
Experience World-Class Performing Arts in Boulder, CO
CU Presents serves as the premier hub for performing arts on the University of Colorado Boulder campus, delivering world-class entertainment through hundreds of annual performances. Our offerings span diverse genres, including the historic Artist Series, Colorado Shakespeare Festival, and Takcs Quartet, alongside educational programs that engage audiences of all ages. With a legacy of excellence spanning decades, we combine artistic innovation with academic rigor to create transformative cultural experiences. Our mission extends beyond the stage, fostering community connections through lectures, school tours, and masterclasses that enrich the educational landscape of Colorado. Services
Concerts
Plays
Recitals
Educational Programs
Masterclasses
Highlights and features
- We host over 300 annual performances across multiple venues
- Our Artist Series has brought international talent to Boulder for 80+ years
- We offer educational programs for all age groups
- We combine academic excellence with professional artistry
- We operate historic venues like Macky Auditorium
Services
Artist Series
The Artist Series presents world-renowned musicians and dance companies in historic Macky Auditorium. This 80+ year-old tradition brings international talent to Boulder audiences through curated performances. Each season features diverse genres from classical to contemporary, offering cultural enrichment through professional artistry.
Shakespeare Festival
Colorado Shakespeare Festival produces professional theatre performances of Shakespeare's works and contemporary plays. The summer season features classic Bard productions alongside modern interpretations in unique outdoor settings. Educational workshops and behind-the-scenes experiences enhance audience appreciation for theatrical arts.
Educational Programs
Our educational initiatives include lectures, school tours, masterclasses, and youth camps that connect performing arts with academic learning. Programs cater to K-12 students, university participants, and lifelong learners through hands-on workshops and performance-based education. These initiatives emphasize arts accessibility and community engagement.
Holiday Festival
The annual Holiday Festival showcases CU Boulder's musical talent through festive performances combining traditional and contemporary holiday music. This beloved community tradition features faculty, student, and guest artist collaborations in a celebratory atmosphere. The free event series creates accessible cultural experiences for local audiences.
Chamber Music
The Takcs Quartet and other chamber ensembles deliver intimate musical experiences with technical precision and artistic interpretation. As CU's resident string quartet, they combine international acclaim with educational outreach through performances and masterclasses. Their programming spans classical repertoire to modern compositions.
Questions
How do I purchase tickets for CU Presents events?
Tickets can be purchased through our website or by calling the box office at 303-492-8008 during business hours (Mon-Fri 10am-5pm).
What types of performances does CU Presents offer?
We offer concerts, plays, recitals, and educational programs across multiple series including the Artist Series, Shakespeare Festival, and Holiday Festival.
Are there educational opportunities for students?
Yes! We provide school tours, masterclasses, youth camps, and lecture series for K-12 students, university participants, and lifelong learners.
Where are performances held on campus?
Main venues include Macky Auditorium, University Theatre, and various campus performance spaces. Specific locations are listed for each event.
What is the history of CU Presents?
We've been bringing world-class performing arts to Boulder since 1948 through our Artist Series, with expanded programming added over subsequent decades.
Can I donate to support CU Presents?
Yes! Donations help fund performances, artist residencies, and educational programs. Visit our website to make a contribution.
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Reviews (2)
David Cain
Oct 02, 2019
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I've always had a great time attending productions from CU presents, including Baroque ensemble orchestra concerts and Eklund opera program productions (most recently, Eugene Onegin, which was sung in the original Russian). The ticket prices are reasonable and the talent - whether they are CU students or professionals - is always top-notch. We're lucky to have this world-class series at CU, and a venue as nice as Macky Auditorium in which to enjoy the shows.
Jane G.
Feb 07, 2009
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We went to see CU's production of Twelfth Night last night, and it was superb. Excellent acting, terrific set, gorgeous costumes, and an abundance of exuberance and physical comedy. Even if you think Shakespeare is not your cuppa tea, this performance makes the Bard totally accessible and entertaining. This might be the only production I've seen of TW where Viola and Sebastian actually look enough alike to make the comedy of errors plausible. The student playing Sir Andrew Aguecheek was hilarious, and deserves special mention, but the entire cast was simply wonderful. It runs this
