Henry Strater Theatre

The world-renowned Henry Strater Theatre is one of the oldest and most prestigious continually running theatres in Colorado, offering more than 50 years of quality performances. Formally known as the Diamond Circle Theatre, the space has been extensively renovated, and now houses top-of-the-line stage lighting and surround sound for your viewing enjoyment.

This intimate and prestigious venue operates year-round as a community space and theatre. We welcome local and national live bands and touring productions of well known and loved theatrical performances.

Theatre History

The Henry Strater Theatre is one of Durango's oldest and most prestigious theatres, with over 50 years of theatre performances! A theatre this old has history equally entertaining as the shows that continue to appear season after season.

In 1961, next to the Strater Hotel was a dusty old car garage that was screaming for a transformation. The vision was of burgundy and rose and the idea was to entertain locals and tourists for years to come. The unique and attractive theatre opened its doors on June 23rd, 1962 with rave reviews earning national acclaims for the Four Corners region.

The Henry Strater Theatre has always showcased melodramas and vaudeville shows. The Diamond Circle Melodrama was launched in 1961 by Earl Barker and it rose to international fame for its charm and unique qualities, as well as its adherence to traditional theatrical form. The Diamond Circle Melodrama moved to the Durango Arts Center for the 2008 season while the rechristened Henry Strater Theatre turned to light musical comedies.

This summer, traditional melodrama returns with the Great Durango Melodrama and Vaudeville. Looking ahead, the theatre plans to bring in different varieties of world renowned shows. Comedy, bands, musicals, drama, magic and mystery, cabaret, and more! Visit our calendar to see what show is playing tonight. Let us dazzle, mystify, and entertain you.

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