May Bonfils Stanton Theatre

Named for Denver heiress and philanthropist, May Bonfils Stanton, the theatre is located at what was originally Loretto Heights College, established as an educational institution for women in 1888. Designed by G. Meredith Musick, the 1,000-seat theatre was added in 1963, at the time Denver’s second largest indoor theatre, after the Denver Auditorium Theatre. Loretto Heights College closed in 1989, and became Teikyo Loretto Heights University, then Colorado Heights University before closing in 2016.

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Pfeiffer's design efforts will result in the renovation of the theatre and its support spaces, construction of a new parking structure and, when funds become available, transformation of the adjacent library building to accommodate new arts, educational and cultural activities, local arts organizations as well as touring productions.  Back-of-house spaces including dressing rooms, green rooms, etc. will also be provided.  Similarly, the lobby will be upgraded to be fully accessible, meeting the expectations of audiences today, while the building's mid-century exterior will be preserved.  Recognizing the importance and popularity of outdoor spaces, landscape improvements will provide opportunities for special events, small performances and a host of cultural activities. The multi-phased project is being funded by a voter-approved 30 million bond—part of the city RISE bond package—that represents the largest city investment ever in southwest Denver.