I don’t want to overhype the artistry coming to the Community Concert Hall, but February and early March have me genuinely reeling – in the best way. What’s ahead is truly “outside the box,” with artists who expand what performance can be while grounding it in story, craft and community. This stretch of programming reminds me why we gather in the first place: to feel more, think deeper and leave changed.
In collaboration with Fort Lewis College Theatre, we present The Survivors’ Way at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday. A multimedia experience anchored by an immersive live-digital performance created by FLC graduate Alex Oliszewski, a storyteller, co-media designer and associate professor of media design at Ohio State University. The real-time cinematic event blends film, storytelling and visual art to follow one family’s story, inviting reflection on what truly matters: time, connection and finding beauty in the midst of grief and uncertainty. Surrounding the performance is a three-part art-therapy workshop series and an interactive public lecture – multiple doors into the same conversation.
Global strings return for a thrilling evening of virtuosity and collaboration with International Guitar Night XXVI: World on a String at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 26. This year’s tour features classical prodigy Thu Le, Brazilian guitar whirlwind Lucas Imbiriba, fingerstyle innovator Alexandr Misko and ukulele virtuoso Taimane. Solo spotlights melt into spontaneous duets and full-ensemble moments, showcasing breathtaking technique, rich cultural influences and the universal language of strings. If you love it when boundaries blur and sparks fly, lean forward – this night is for you.
Award-winning Navajo pianist and composer Connor Chee brings an unforgettable evening of music that marries classical training with his Diné heritage at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 28. Inspired by traditional Navajo chants, songs and the landscapes of Dinétah, Chee crafts lyrical piano works that are intimate, expansive and deeply personal. A Carnegie Hall performer since age 12 and a Native American Music Award winner, he bridges tradition and contemporary expression with grace. This performance is partially funded by the Buell Foundation and is part of the Colorado 150/America 250 Celebration, honoring the diverse cultural voices that shape our region and our nation.
We welcome Julia Keefe Indigenous Jazz Ensemble at 7:30 p.m. March 4, a dynamic nine-piece collective of Native and Indigenous jazz artists from across Indian Country, led by acclaimed Nez Perce vocalist, composer and bandleader Julia Keefe. The ensemble honors trailblazers like Mildred Bailey and Jim Pepper while elevating today’s Indigenous composers and bandleaders. With roots deep in jazz history and eyes on the future, this performance celebrates a living legacy of improvisation with artistry, charisma and purpose.
Ready to step outside the box? Reserve your seats now at DurangoConcerts.com, invite a friend and share the experience. If you’re able, bring a young person – first encounters with live performance can be life-changing.
Ticketing reminder: Purchase tickets for all Community Concert Hall events exclusively at DurangoConcerts.com to ensure authenticity and fair pricing. Beware of third-party resellers, who may overcharge or sell invalid tickets. For assistance, contact the Community Concert Hall Box Office, noon to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday at 247-7657.
Charles Leslie is director of the Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College.
