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Wheeler director talks about new funds and what it means for you

Patrick Fort
/
Aspen Public Radio

It was announced last week that the Wheeler Opera House received over $100,000 to supplement its programming budget. Executive director Gena Buhler said this new money will mean bigger acts, and steadier ticket prices for locals. Buhler spoke with arts reporter Patrick Fort about what this all means.

Highlights of their conversation…

… On rebranding the Wheeler Opera House …

“A lot of people in town look at the profile of the Wheeler, and what Jazz Aspen does and what the Belly Up does and they say, ‘what’s wrong with that place if they can’t get these names that everyone else is getting.’ I think if we can say, ‘hey we’re getting these big names.’... It gives us a little bit more credibility.”

 

… Making sure locals aren’t priced out of the venue …

“I don’t want a ticket over $200. That gets tough when you have a $50,000 to $70,000 act. My goal right now is $150, but a Wheeler wins ticket goes down to $65 for something like that.”

 

Patrick Fort grew up in the suburbs of Pittsburgh, nurturing a love for ice hockey and deli sandwiches. After moving to Colorado in 2010 to attend the University of Colorado to study music, Patrick discovered his love for journalism. In 2013, Patrick created and hosted the award-winning radio program Colorado Stories, a news program that covered CU and the surrounding community. An avid mountain and road cyclist, Patrick also referees youth ice hockey. He loves '60s pop bands and and trying new recipes ranging from milk-braised carnitas to flourless cakes.
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