New rigging system coming to Wheeler Opera House

Aspen’s historic gem is entering a new phase of theatrical improvements.  

The Wheeler Opera House will receive a new rigging system this fall, the city announced in a Wednesday news release. The new system, managed in collaboration with Aspen Contractors and Barbizon Light of the Rockies, is an effort stemming from three years ago.

“This project began in the summer of 2021, when Wheeler staff and the Wheeler Advisory Board identified the rigging system replacement as the highest capital priority,” the release states. “The discovery phase included LIDAR screenings and a detailed analysis of the theater’s structural integrity, particularly focusing on beams affected by the historic fires of 1912. Following this analysis, necessary reinforcements were identified and will be completed by Aspen Constructors ahead of the rigging installation.”

The current rigging system, which supports essential stage elements such as lights, curtains, and other scenic components, has long been a critical part of the Wheeler’s backstage operations, the release states. Comprising motors, pipes, wires, and electrical connections, the system is being updated to meet modern standards and to continue supporting the rich array of performances for which the Wheeler is known.

“Following the Aspen Music Festival and School’s production of The Marriage of Figaro, 2,300 pounds of orchestra pit components were reassembled. Additionally, 20,000 pounds of steel and metal were removed for recycling, and 450 pounds of soft goods, including curtains, were folded and stored,” the release states. “A total of 3,000 pounds of lighting instruments were also removed and stored, and 6,000 square feet of plastic sheeting was deployed throughout the theater to protect it from dust during the rigging system replacement.”

While the mainstage will be closed during the structural upgrades and rigging installation, the Wheeler is excited to continue hosting performances in the Vault Lobby. This intimate space is perfectly suited for smaller concerts and events, ensuring that audiences can still enjoy live performances while the mainstage undergoes its transformation. Don’t miss Consensual Improv’s Halloween Spooktacular on Friday, Oct. 25, tickets on sale now.

Mainstage programming is scheduled to resume the week of Jan. 13, 2025, when audiences can look forward to a full calendar of exciting events and performances. The timing of this project was carefully selected to minimize disruption and coincide with a slower period in the performance season. When theater programming resumes, audiences can look forward to comic Brian Regan, the return of the Changemaker Speaker Series with Brian Skerry, Peter Hillary, and Cory Richards, family-friendly Cirque Kalabante, International Guitar Night, ABBA Mania, and more.

Stay updated on the progress of the rigging system replacement and all upcoming events by visiting the website, wheeleroperahouse.com, or following @wheeleropera.