Thunder River Theatre Company Description

Thunder River Theatre Company is an award-winning non-profit professional theatre in downtown Carbondale, engaging artists and audiences through inspired performances and innovative artistry. Driven by a passion to explore and illuminate the genuine heart of the human condition, TRTC has staged works ranging from beloved theatre classics to cutting-edge contemporary playwrights for over two decades. The company seeks to elucidate the unspeakable, reimagine the familiar, and awaken the ancient bond between storyteller and tribe, actor and audience.

Founded in 1995 by Lon Winston and founding member Valerie Haugen, TRTC was inspired by the resident theatre company model and the creative ensemble work of Peter Brook, Jersey Grotowski, and other leaders of physical and experimental theatre genres. The company performed in venues from Aspen to Glenwood Springs for 11 years before opening a stunning permanent facility in downtown Carbondale on New Year’s Eve 2005, paid in full through community support from local philanthropists, businesses, and individuals. More than 20 years and 65 productions since its founding, TRTC continues to offer professional-quality theatre productions and education.

The company presents an award-winning professional theatre season from September through July, featuring diverse productions that explore the human experience through compelling storytelling. Programs include year-round professional theatre, the Consensual Improv comedy troupe, and Diva Cabarets held twice a year featuring local talent in intimate evenings of music, song, and spirited storytelling. The Signature Cabaret Series develops intimate performances around particular themes in performers’ lives, combining music and storytelling. Educational offerings include comedy improv classes, theatre classes for youngsters and adults, educational and community outreach programs, free literary nights, an annual new play development program, a Latino theatre initiative, and Theatre for Young Audiences. Thunderchat events feature thought-provoking conversations with distinguished voices from diverse fields, sparking engaging dialogue and broadening perspectives through the power of storytelling.

TRTC now serves as the permanent home to Stage of Life Theatre Company, a local children’s program. The theatre is available for rental to nonprofit organizations and community events. Volunteer opportunities are available throughout the season for concession sales and other tasks, with no experience required. Volunteers receive free tickets to shows. The organization accepts underwriting support for specific programs and productions, with benefits applying for one year from the gift date. Thunder River Theatre Company is located on the Promenade in downtown Carbondale, providing a beautiful, contemporary, professional space accessible to residents and visitors throughout the Roaring Fork Valley. The theatre serves as a cultural hub drawing audiences from Aspen to Glenwood Springs and throughout the Rocky Mountain Region.

Services: Professional Theatre Productions, Improv Comedy, Theatre Classes, Educational Outreach, Cabaret Series, Theatre Rentals, Volunteer Opportunities, New Play Development
Category: Entertainment
Features: Family, Events, Theatre, Live Music
Address: 67 Promenade PO BOX 1773, Carbondale, CO 81623
Directions: View on Google Maps