Setting the Stage
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We need your help
Impacting the arts in Western Colorado
Colorado Mesa University and the State of Colorado are investing in the future of performing arts in western Colorado by prioritizing the building of a new state-of-the-art theatre. The Colorado Joint Budget Committee, the General Assembly and Governor Polis approved $39 million for the project. CMU will invest an additional $5 million.
We need your help to raise the additional funds that will allow us to build a truly transformative theatre on par with front range facilities and establish CMU as a regional cultural destination.
The Numbers
$39.5M State Funding + $5.5M CMU Capital Funds + $8M Capital Campaign = $53M Project
Donation Options
Legacy Circle
Under $500 to $100,0000A tiered donation option starting with website recognition up to season tickets and more.
Founder's Circle
$100,000 to $6 millionDonate to the Founder's Circle for naming rights, VIP ticketing and parking to all performing arts events.
Or you can call the Colorado Mesa University Foundation at 970.248.1902
Our Supporters
To join these organizations by pledging your support to CMU’s Setting the Stage initiative, email Communications and Market Development Manager Laura Bradley.
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A tale of two Colorados
Addressing the urban-rural divide
Urban areas such as the Denver metro area are dense with organizations focused on the arts. However, our rural communities are cultural deserts when it comes to the amenities so common in densely populated urban areas. It’s no wonder the urban-rural divide exists so strongly. Investing in the arts in our rural communities has never been more critical to bridging divides and building a better future.
The power of the arts
Some say our country has never been more divided, whether through race, gender or politics. Throughout history, the arts have served as our conscience, helping all of us tackle difficult issues in creative ways and to provide shared experiences that bring us closer to each other. Our ability to connect with each other grows when we experience collective emotion through the arts.
Nothing brings us together like witnessing the growth of talented young artists and CMU is cultivating some of the top talent in the industry. The Open Studio Series showcases the artistry of CMU’s music and theatre students and faculty. Enjoy the series and support this initiative by giving what you can.
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An Iconic Project
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New Theatre
New Theatre
Auditorium
Auditorium
Main lobby
Main lobby
Upper lobby
Donor room
Club level
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Rebuild Benefits
The Ripple Effect
A new theatre...
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Better prepares students for their careers.
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Establishes CMU as a destination for high-quality music and theatre for prospective students.
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Better connects local music and theatre nonprofits with our students, programs and facilities.
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Allows CMU to bring world-class performances and touring groups to western Colorado.
Cultivating talent
Three-time Grammy Award-winning artist and CMU alumnus, Kalani Pe'a, uses his talents to harness the power of the arts.
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William S. Robinson started his career at Mesa College as a theatre professor in 1960, and worked tirelessly to build a viable theatre program for the students and the community. During his tenure, a new theatre was built in 1971 and would eventually bear his name after a dedication ceremony in 1993. Bill Robinson established the popular summer theatre program at the institution, which was an integral part of the theatre program for 30 years, and received the Distinguished Faculty Award in 1986 before his retirement in 1988. He passed away in 2015, leaving behind a legacy of student talent and a community’s love for the performing arts.