As we bid farewell to April and welcome the vibrant month of May, the Durango Arts Center is buzzing with excitement and a full calendar of events to kick off the summer season. Located right here in the heart of Durango, the DAC stands as a beacon for creativity, community and artistic expression. This month is packed with performances, exhibitions and opportunities to engage with the arts in all its forms.
Friday marks the First Friday gallery walk, a beloved tradition that brings art enthusiasts and community members together. Our current exhibition, “That’s So Durango,” captures the essence of our unique town, and our Artisans Market showcases the incredible talent of local artists and makers. And while you’re there, nosh on some fantastic appetizers and deserts provided by the historic Strater Hotel.
Looking ahead, prepare to be enchanted by “Shakespeare: Sing Me a Song” at 7 p.m. May 10 and 3 p.m. May 11. This collaboration with the San Juan Symphony Chamber Singers and the Durango Arts Rep Theatre promises a beautiful blend of classic Shakespearean texts and music, a true treat for the senses ... and a wonderful Mother’s Day gift!
The Durango Youth Theatre is also gearing up for an exciting weekend May 16 to 18. The DYT Company will present “Tut Tut,” an Egyptian-themed retelling of “The Prince and the Pauper,” while the DYT Jr. Company takes us back to prehistoric times with a hilarious rendition of that modern stone-age family we all know and love from Bedrock. These performances are sure to delight audiences of all ages.
Our 15th annual 10-Minute Playfest, May 30 to June 1, is an event you won’t want to miss. This annual celebration features the best submissions from more than 125 entries, brought to life by local directors and actors. It’s a fantastic showcase of short-form theater and a testament to the thriving artistic community we have here in Durango.
As summer approaches, consider enrolling in our summer classes for art and theater. We have a variety of offerings for all ages and skill levels, with exciting new collaborations with the YAY foundation on the horizon. These classes provide a wonderful opportunity to explore your creativity, learn new skills and connect with fellow art lovers.
Supporting the Durango Arts Center means supporting your local creative community. By becoming a member, you not only gain discounts on tickets, classes and gallery purchases but also play a vital role in ensuring that the arts continue to thrive in Durango. The benefits of membership are numerous, and the satisfaction of contributing to something truly special is priceless. The DAC is more than just a building; it’s a gathering place, a source of inspiration and a cornerstone of our community.
Join us as we embrace the summer season with a celebration of art, theater and creativity. And of course a special thanks and appreciation to all our moms out there who have supported our growth, loved through adversity and triumph and guided us through our own individual journeys.
To learn more about all these exciting events and how you can be a part of something amazing, visit DurangoArts.org.
Jason Lythgoe is executive director of Durango Arts Center.
