When so many people make plans to visit the coast, road trip or travel abroad for spring break, it may sound unappealing to stay in Denver for the week. However, for those stuck on or near campus, there is still plenty to do. Denver has countless opportunities to satisfy a craving for entertainment during vacation from school.
Film
One of the most anticipated movie releases both for Disney and for film in general is the live-action remake of “Beauty and the Beast.” The project was announced two years ago and has been creating buzz ever since with casting, sneak peeks, teasers and trailers. “Beauty and the Beast” has an all-star cast, featuring Emma Watson (“Harry Potter”), Dan Stevens (“Downton Abbey”), Luke Evans (“Dracula Untold”), Sir Ian McKellen (“The Lord of the Rings”), Josh Gad (“Frozen”) and Emma Thompson (“Love Actually”), among others. Although Disney has become quite practiced at remaking their own films, director Bill Condon and the creators have a lot to live up to after the success of the beloved classic version of the fairytale from 1991. “Beauty and the Beast” hits theaters March 17, and it will be playing at multiple locations around Denver. Make this movie a must-see for the week of spring break.
Music
Also on March 17, the Pepsi Center will host Panic! At The Disco on their Death of a Bachelor Tour. Panic! At The Disco will be joined by indie bands Misterwives and Saint Motel. The concert starts at 7 p.m., and, falling the first Friday evening after final exams, it would be a great way to unwind and get excited for vacation. Tickets start at $29.50 and are on sale now. If massive rock concerts do not sound appealing, the Colorado Symphony is performing at 7:30 p.m. on March 24 and 25 at the Boettcher Concert Hall. Tickets start at $29 for this excellent performance featuring the soundtracks and scores of the best superhero movies, shows and games.
Theatre
Denver has some amazing opportunities to see live theatre that all students should take advantage of. The Denver Center for Performing Arts has a massive complex downtown with multiple venues, restaurants, shops and cafes, and they have both local and traveling shows performed throughout the year. One of the current productions is called “An Act of God,” and it runs until April 18. “An Act of God” is a can’t-miss hit written by 13-time Emmy Award winner David Javerbaum (“The Daily Show with Jon Stewart”). The hilarious and crude play originally starred Jim Parsons (“The Big Bang Theory”) as God and has been wowing Denver crowds since October. Tickets start at $47 for a seat in the Garner Galleria Theatre at the DCPA.
Comedy
March 16 and 17, Comedy Works Downtown in Larimer Square will host comedian, actor and writer Michael Che. The New York native is best known for his work on ““Saturday Night Live,” “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart” and “Michael Che Matters.” Enjoying some comedy is an excellent way to destress, and Che has often been noted as an up and coming comedian to watch for. Shows are March 16, 17 and 18. Tickets are $25 and going quickly; the shows are 21+.
Art
Visiting the Denver Art Museum is the perfect way to enjoy downtown and to explore some unique culture. With ever-changing events, collections and exhibitions, take advantage of some down time and spend a day at the Denver Art Museum. Some of the current exhibits include Star Wars and the Power of Costume (at an extra charge), Shock Wave: Japanese Fashion Design, 1980s–90s and Mi Tierra: Contemporary Artists Explore Place. A new exhibit, Word Dance: Selections from the Collection of JoAnn Gonzalez Hickey, opens March 19. There are also collections of countless variations on display year-round. Adult tickets are $10 (or $8 with a student ID), and there is so much to see.
