Looking for something to do this weekend in Colorado?
Check out a big-time comedy festival in Aspen or a smaller-scale one in Denver, learn square dancing in Longmont or three brand new exhibitions at the Museum of Contemporary Art. There are also First Friday events in creative districts throughout the state.
March 5-11
Aspen Laugh Festival. Seven national stand-up acts take the stage at the Wheeler Opera House next week during the Aspen Laugh Festival, an annual comedy lineup that has, in the past, welcomed comedians like Jerry Seinfeld, Trevor Noah and Taylor Tomlinson to the Roaring Fork Valley.
This year’s lineup includes a little stand-up something for everyone, whether you’re into razor-sharp observations (Iliza Shlesinger), smooth-flowing storytelling (Ali Siddiq) or some road-tested dry humor (Daniel Tosh).
Tickets to each show are sold separately, and they are selling out quickly. If you aren’t able to snag one, but don’t mind staying up late, every night of the festival ends at the Late Night Lounge at the Hotel Jerome, a close-up “comedy hang” hosted by comedian Gabby Bryan. No ticket is necessary to drop by these sessions, which start at 10:30 and feature quick sets and spontaneous shows from festival performers and special guests.
Various prices; March 11-14; Wheeler Opera House, 320 E. Hyman Ave., Aspen
Other events to consider
- Speed comedy. Looking for comedy that’s a little lighter on its feet? “Drop Your Shorts” is a night of seven 10-minute plays, culled from submissions by two-dozen Colorado comedy playwrights, competing for cash prizes. $30; 7 p.m., March 10; Meow Wolf’s Convergence Station, 1338 First St., Denver
- Square dancing. A beginner-friendly square dance evening at the historic Altona Grange in Longmont. All dances will be taught by “the caller,” so no prior experience is required. Live music by David Scrivner and the New Pleasant Valley String Band. $10; 7-10 p.m., March 6; Altona Grange, 9386 N. 39th St., Longmont
- Spring shows. Head to the MCA Denver tonight for the opening reception of three spring exhibitions, featuring work from Korean American artist Sammy Seung-min Lee; Chicago-based artist Bethany Collins; and Argentine-born, Colorado-based Ana María Hernando. $32; 7:30 p.m., March 10; Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, 1485 Delgany St., Denver
Note: This is a curated list by the reporter to give readers a sense of arts and culture events happening across Colorado that they may not have otherwise known about. This is not meant to be an exhaustive account of things to do.