Feel the energy. The Ogden Theatre stands before you. A Denver landmark. It whispers stories of vaudeville and Hollywood glamour. Of rock concerts and sold-out shows.
The Ogden Theatre opened its doors in 1917. Designed by Harry W J Edbrooke it’s a stunning example of Mediterranean Revival architecture. Initially it wasn’t a cinema. It hosted organ recitals dances lectures and even vaudeville acts. The legendary Harry Houdini graced its stage. Can you imagine the magic filling this space?
In 1937 the Ogden transformed. It became a movie theatre. It showed everything from classic films to avant-garde masterpieces. Then came the Fox Theatre circuit. But the Department of Justice forced Fox to divest its theatre holdings. The Ogden changed hands many times.
The 1970s brought a major remodel. A new marquee. A revamped lobby. Updated seating. Improved acoustics. The screen even got an upgrade to show anamorphic and flat films. The sound system got an upgrade too. They could now play both optical and 4-track magnetic soundtracks. It’s amazing how far technology has advanced isn’t it?
In the 1980s the Ogden became a revival house. It famously showed The Rocky Horror Picture Show every Saturday night. It was a cult classic movie experience. Can you see the crowds dressed in their costumes? The energy must have been electrifying.
By the late 1980s the Ogden faced closure. It was even slated for demolition. But Doug Kauffman saw its potential. He purchased the building in 1992. His vision was to turn it into a music venue. A premier one.
Kauffman succeeded. The Ogden reopened in 1993. Today it hosts around 150 concerts a year. It’s a testament to Kauffman’s vision and to the enduring spirit of Denver. It’s a place where legends are made and memories are forged. A place where the echoes of the past blend seamlessly with the vibrant sounds of today. Colorado bands like The Fray 3OH!3 Flobots Pretty Lights and The Lumineers have all played here. Even Prince played two shows here one night in 2013.
The Ogden Theatre. A Denver treasure. A living testament to the power of music. To the resilience of a building. To the vision of one man. It is more than just a venue. It’s a piece of history. It’s a part of Denver’s soul.