Red Rocks is an extraordinary music venue. With its stunning natural acoustics and breathtaking location, this venue brings a memorable vibe to each performance – making Red Rocks an enviable destination for musicians to perform at and fans eagerly waiting to witness them perform there. Artists hope to play here, while fans hope for the chance to witness them perform.
Location adds mystique, with sunset painting the rocks with vibrant pastel colors.
Venue
Red Rocks Amphitheatre is an outdoor concert venue and cultural behemoth where nature, history and humanity come together harmoniously. Over its 100 year history, numerous music artists have performed here, creating one of the world’s most unique venues.
Red Rocks’ natural acoustics create an unforgettable concert experience. Sound waves travel freely between rocks and audience. Some bands such as The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix have played here so often that they have become legends themselves.
Not only do major musical acts perform at this venue, but there are also symphonic concerts. These outdoor orchestra performances can be especially enjoyable during summer nights when temperatures allow them to perform outdoors.
History
Red Rocks Amphitheatre consists of natural rock formations that rise high above its surrounding mountains and canyons, distinguished by red hues caused by oxidized minerals. Millions of years ago, geological upheavals tilted and raised these rocks, creating the stunning amphitheater.
Garden of the Titans first opened its doors to music lovers in 1906 with Pietro Satriano and his 25-piece brass band performing opera, classical and chamber music performances until rock and psychedelic music became increasingly prevalent during the 1960s and ’70s.
Red Rocks was designed by Denver architect George Cranmer to incorporate natural acoustics into formal theater elements and designed continental seating without an aisle. Red Rocks is best known as a popular music venue, but also hosts Yoga on the Rocks and Film on the Rocks (live concerts with projected movie screen). Red Rocks offers events to cater to audiences of all types: Parrot Heads flock there for Jimmy Buffett concerts while families flock there for Easter sunrise services; there is something here for all kinds of visitors at this iconic destination.
Music Acts
Red Rocks has long been known as an impressive musical venue since it first opened its doors. The inaugural concert held there back then under its original name of Garden of the Titans took place in 1906 with Pietro Satriano performing a brass band performance there.
Over the following decades, the amphitheater became home for orchestras and opera singers; one notable presence during this era was Lily Pons, whose voice and persona won over audiences both at home and abroad.
From rock artists to Broadway performers, everyone has had their moment at Red Rocks. Many artists have also used it for music videos or album releases.
Yoga on the Rocks and Film on the Rocks events take place regularly at the park, featuring movies with local bands performing live before each showing. I have attended both events and found them both to be quite enjoyable experiences – I especially loved Raiders of the Lost Ark and Mamma Mia this year among many classic titles featured. Film on the Rocks offers an easy and cost-effective way to watch some of your favorite movie stars without paying full concert prices.
Yoga on the Rocks
Red Rocks Amphitheatre has hosted many music acts, but this natural wonder also makes an ideal setting for yoga and outdoor workouts. Yoga enthusiasts will delight at taking their practice to one of the world’s most picturesque settings!
Red Rocks’ distinctive acoustics make it a natural choice for recording albums, drawing artists like U2 to record their iconic 1983 record there as well as The Beatles recording their eponymous 1964 LP at Red Rocks.
Red Rocks has hosted many legendary performers over its history, such as Igor Stravinsky, Liberace and Carole King – among many others. The spectacular rock formations at Red Rocks create a mesmerizing environment for both performers and audiences.
This venue is an idyllic backdrop for professional photos. Popular for weddings, engagements, and family portraits alike. To take full advantage of its charms for professional photographs you can rent the amphitheater and surrounding areas or hire a local photographer; additionally there are also plenty of beautiful spots throughout the park where landscape and portrait pictures can be taken.
Film on the Rocks
Red Rocks National Park’s jaw-dropping scenery and natural geological formations alone make it worth your while to visit, but there is even more to do here – whether hiking the stunning rocky landscapes, practicing yoga on its sandstone steps, touring its museum and gift shop, etc.
On non-concert days, the park hosts locals and tourists exercising or enjoying its breathtaking views. Furthermore, guided tours provide insight into its rich musical legacy.
Film on the Rocks provides an easygoing alternative for movie night. Enjoy pre-show concerts by local bands before relaxing back and watching classic or cult favorites on an outdoor screen with blankets, stadium chairs or upgraded VIP seating options available. Many events also feature food trucks, beer vendors and full bars; you might even see your performer make an unexpected guest appearance! Check their schedule here.