How to Save on Theater Tickets in Denver

Denver’s vibrant performing arts scene offers everything from Broadway-caliber musicals and intimate indie plays to experimental dance performances and classical symphonies. With world-class venues like the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, the Buell Theatre, the Curious Theatre Company, and the historic Ahmanson Theatre, the city is a cultural hub for theater lovers. But with rising ticket prices—often exceeding $100 for popular shows—many residents and visitors wonder how to enjoy live theater without breaking the bank.

Thankfully, saving on theater tickets in Denver is not only possible—it’s a well-documented practice among locals who know the ins and outs of discounts, loyalty programs, and last-minute deals. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned theatergoer, this comprehensive guide reveals proven strategies to access premium performances at a fraction of the cost. From timing your purchase to leveraging community partnerships, this guide equips you with actionable, real-world tactics that have helped thousands of Denver residents enjoy live theater affordably.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Sign Up for Email Alerts from Major Theaters

The most reliable way to catch early access to discounted tickets is by subscribing to the email newsletters of Denver’s primary theater venues. The Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA), which operates the Buell, Ellen Stewart, and Space Theatres, sends out exclusive previews to subscribers. These alerts often include:

• Early access to ticket sales before the general public
• Special promo codes for 20–40% off select performances
• “Buy One, Get One” offers during slower weeks

Don’t overlook smaller companies like the Curious Theatre Company, Town Hall Arts Center, or the Edge Theatre. Many of these nonprofit organizations offer subscriber discounts of up to 30% for season ticket holders. Even if you don’t commit to an entire season, signing up for their mailing lists can unlock one-time discount codes for individual shows.

2. Purchase Tickets During “Early Bird” Sales

Most major productions announce their season schedules six to twelve months in advance. When ticket sales first open, venues often run “Early Bird” promotions to encourage advance bookings. These discounts are typically available for a limited window—usually 7 to 14 days after sales launch—and can range from 15% to 35% off regular prices.

For example, when “Hamilton” or “Wicked” were in Denver, early bird tickets were available at 25% off if purchased within the first week of the on-sale date. Set calendar reminders for the official announcement dates of your desired shows. These are usually posted on the theater’s website, social media, and in newsletters. Missing this window can cost you hundreds over the life of your theater-going habits.

3. Use Student, Senior, and Military Discounts

Denver theaters are among the most generous in the country when it comes to offering discounts for specific demographics. Nearly every major venue provides:

• Student discounts (with valid ID): 20–50% off
• Senior discounts (age 62+): 10–30% off
• Military discounts (active and veteran): 10–25% off

These discounts are often not advertised prominently on the main ticketing page. You may need to call the box office directly or visit in person to ask. Some venues, like the Arvada Center, even offer “Pay What You Can” nights for students and seniors on select dates. Always carry a valid ID—digital versions are often accepted, but physical cards are preferred.

4. Attend “Pay What You Can” or “Community Nights”

Many Denver theaters host monthly “Pay What You Can” nights to increase accessibility and support underserved communities. These events are typically held on weeknights (Tuesdays or Wednesdays) when attendance is lower. While you can’t choose your seat in advance, you’re guaranteed entry for any amount you can afford—often as low as $5.

Examples include:

• Curious Theatre Company: First Wednesday of every month
• Denver Center for the Performing Arts: “Community Nights” on select Wednesdays for $15–$25
• Town Hall Arts Center: “Pay What You Can” on the first Thursday of each show run

These nights are first-come, first-served, so arrive early. Lines can form hours before showtime, especially for popular productions. Bring cash or a debit card, as some venues do not accept credit for these events.

5. Join Theater Loyalty and Membership Programs

Membership programs offer long-term savings that compound over time. The DCPA’s “Season Ticket Holder” program grants:

• Up to 40% off single-ticket prices
• Free exchanges for different dates or shows
• Priority seating and early access to new productions
• Complimentary parking or discounts at partner restaurants

Even if you only plan to see 3–4 shows a year, the cost of a season pass (starting around $180) often pays for itself. Many programs also offer “Flex Passes”—a set number of tickets (e.g., 4 or 6) that can be used across any production within a season. Flex passes typically cost $120–$200 and are ideal for casual theatergoers.

Smaller theaters like the Buntport Theater and the Miners Alley Playhouse offer “Friends of the Theater” memberships for $50–$75 annually, which include free tickets, backstage tours, and invitations to opening-night receptions.

6. Shop for Discounted Tickets Through Local Apps and Websites

Several platforms specialize in discounted theater tickets in Colorado:

• TodayTix: Offers “Last Minute” deals for same-day or next-day performances. Often 30–60% off, especially for weekday shows.
• Goldstar: A membership-based service that sends curated discount offers for Denver theaters. Free to join; members get 2–5 offers per week.
• StubHub and SeatGeek: Use price alerts to track ticket trends. Prices often drop 48–72 hours before showtime.
• Denver Post’s “Theater Pass”: A weekly subscription that includes one free or deeply discounted ticket to a local production.

Always compare prices across platforms. Sometimes the same show on Goldstar is cheaper than on TodayTix, and vice versa. Set up price drop notifications and check these apps daily in the week leading up to your desired performance.

7. Take Advantage of Corporate and Employer Benefits

Many Denver-based employers—especially in tech, finance, and education—offer entertainment benefits as part of their employee perks. Check with your HR department to see if your company partners with:

• Denver Center for the Performing Arts for discounted group rates
• City of Denver’s Cultural Access Program (for city employees)
• University of Denver, CU Boulder, or Metro State (for faculty/staff)

Some companies even offer $25–$100 annual entertainment stipends that can be applied to theater tickets. Others host “Theater Thursdays” with group outings and subsidized tickets. Don’t assume your employer doesn’t offer this—ask directly.

8. Attend Free Outdoor and Pop-Up Performances

Denver’s outdoor theater scene is thriving, especially during summer months. These performances are often completely free and require no ticket:

• Denver Center for the Performing Arts’ “Outdoors at the Denver Center”: Free Shakespeare in the Park at the Civic Center Park (June–August)
• “Theatre in the Park” by the Aurora Cultural Arts District: Family-friendly musicals and plays in local parks
• “Festival of the Arts” in Cherry Creek: Includes free short-form theater performances
• “Open Air Theater” at Red Rocks Amphitheatre: Occasionally hosts theatrical readings and musical theater concerts

Bring a blanket, snacks, and a chair. These events draw large crowds, so arrive early to secure a good spot. They’re ideal for families, couples, or anyone looking to experience live theater without financial pressure.

9. Bundle Tickets with Dining or Transit Deals

Many theaters partner with local restaurants and public transit to create bundled experiences:

• DCPA + Denver Diner: Get a 20% discount on dinner at select downtown restaurants with your theater ticket stub.
• RTD + Theater: Use your RTD bus or rail pass for free parking at DCPA garages on performance nights.
• Denver Union Station + Theater: Show your ticket for complimentary valet parking or a $10 food credit at Union Station restaurants.

These deals aren’t always advertised on the theater’s website. Visit the venue’s “Plan Your Visit” page or ask at the box office. Sometimes, you’ll need to present your ticket at the restaurant counter to receive the discount.

10. Time Your Purchase Strategically

Timing is everything. The cheapest theater tickets are typically available:

• 48–72 hours before showtime: Prices drop as venues try to fill unsold seats.
• On Tuesdays and Wednesdays: These are traditionally slow nights, so discounts are more common.
• During the first week of a new season: Venues offer incentives to kick off the season strong.
• After holidays or major events: Post-Christmas, post-Super Bowl, and post-MLK Day weekends often see price drops.

Avoid buying tickets on Friday afternoons or Saturday mornings—these are peak demand times. Use a price-tracking browser extension like Honey or CamelCamelCamel (adapted for ticket sites) to monitor fluctuations.

Best Practices

1. Always Compare Prices Across Multiple Platforms

Never assume the theater’s official website has the lowest price. StubHub, SeatGeek, Goldstar, and TodayTix often have lower rates due to dynamic pricing, reseller discounts, or promotional partnerships. Use a spreadsheet or note-taking app to track prices across platforms for the same show, date, and seat section. The difference can be $30–$80 per ticket.

2. Avoid Third-Party Resellers Unless Necessary

While platforms like StubHub and Vivid Seats can offer savings, they often add service fees that negate the discount. Always check the final price—including fees—before purchasing. Sometimes, the official box office price is lower after fees are added. Use resellers only for sold-out shows or last-minute tickets.

3. Be Flexible with Dates and Times

Attending a Tuesday night performance instead of a Saturday matinee can save you 40% or more. Consider matinees (afternoon shows)—they’re often cheaper and less crowded. Many shows offer discounted “Preview Nights” (the first or second performance of a run) that are still high quality but priced lower.

4. Don’t Overlook Smaller Venues

While the Buell Theatre hosts touring Broadway shows, venues like the Miners Alley Playhouse, the Edge Theatre, or the Anomalie Theater offer equally compelling performances for $20–$40 per ticket. These local companies often feature original works, emerging playwrights, and talented regional actors. The experience is intimate, the parking is easier, and the cost is dramatically lower.

5. Use Cashback and Rewards Programs

Many credit cards offer cashback on entertainment purchases. Use a card that gives 3–5% back on “entertainment” or “travel” categories to maximize savings. Additionally, apps like Rakuten and Ibotta sometimes offer cashback on theater tickets purchased through their portals. Always link your payment method before checkout.

6. Group Discounts Are Hidden Gems

Most theaters offer group discounts for parties of 10 or more. Even if you’re not organizing a large group, ask if you can join an existing group booking. Many local book clubs, church groups, and alumni associations organize theater outings. You can often find groups on Facebook or Meetup.com looking for additional members.

7. Keep Your Ticket Stubs

Many venues offer “ticket stub rewards.” Bring your stub from one show to the box office and receive a discount on your next purchase. Some even give you a free drink or dessert at the theater café. This is especially common at smaller, community-focused theaters.

8. Follow Theaters on Social Media

Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter are where theaters announce flash sales, last-minute giveaways, and surprise discounts. Follow your favorite venues and turn on notifications. A post saying “50 tickets for $10 tonight!” can appear with just two hours’ notice. Missing this means missing out.

9. Consider Season Passes Even If You’re a Casual Viewer

Even if you only plan to see 2–3 shows a year, a Flex Pass or Mini Season subscription can still be cost-effective. For example, a 4-show Flex Pass at the Denver Center costs $180, while buying four individual tickets at full price could cost $400+. That’s a $220 savings—plus perks like free exchanges and priority seating.

10. Don’t Pay for Parking Unless Necessary

Many theaters offer free or discounted parking with your ticket. The Denver Center offers validated parking at the Garage at 14th and Curtis for $5 instead of $20. RTD public transit is free to many downtown venues. Plan your route in advance—parking can add $15–$25 to your total cost.

Tools and Resources

Official Theater Websites

Bookmark these sites for the most accurate information:

• Denver Center for the Performing Arts: denvercenter.org
• Curious Theatre Company: curioustheatre.org
• Town Hall Arts Center: townhallartscenter.org
• Miners Alley Playhouse: minersalleyplayhouse.com
• Arvada Center: arvadacenter.org

Discount Ticket Platforms

• Goldstar: goldstar.com – Curated local deals, free membership
• TodayTix: todaytix.com – Last-minute deals, app-based
• SeatGeek: seatgeek.com – Price comparison and alerts
• StubHub: stubhub.com – Reseller marketplace
• Denver Post Theater Pass: Available via subscription at denverpost.com

Community and Loyalty Programs

• Denver Arts & Venues: Offers discounted tickets to city-run venues. Visit denvergov.org/artsandvenues
• Colorado Creative Industries: Lists free and low-cost cultural events statewide. Visit coloradocreativeindustries.org
• Denver Public Library: Offers free or discounted theater tickets through its “Culture Pass” program. Visit any branch to sign up.

Apps for Tracking Prices

• Honey (browser extension) – Automatically applies coupon codes
• CamelCamelCamel (adapted for ticket sites) – Tracks price history
• Google Alerts – Set alerts for “Denver theater discounts” or “cheap tickets Denver”
• Google Calendar – Set reminders for early bird sales and community nights

Free Performance Listings

• Denver Post Events Calendar: denverpost.com/events
• Colorado Theatre Guild: coloradotheatreguild.org
• Eventbrite: Search “free theater Denver”
• Meetup.com: Search “theater group Denver” for communal outings

Real Examples

Example 1: A Student Saves $200 on “Wicked”

Sarah, a 20-year-old student at the University of Denver, wanted to see “Wicked” at the Buell Theatre. The regular ticket price was $145. She:

• Joined the DCPA email list and received a 30% student discount code
• Used her student ID to get an additional 10% off at the box office
• Purchased her ticket on a Tuesday, which had a 15% weekday discount
• Used her RTD bus pass for free transit and avoided parking fees

Total cost: $68. She saved $77—over 50% off the original price.

Example 2: A Couple on a Budget Sees Three Shows for $90

Mark and Lisa, both remote workers, wanted to enjoy live theater without spending more than $100. They:

• Used Goldstar to get $25 tickets for “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time”
• Attended a “Pay What You Can” night at Curious Theatre for $10 each
• Used their Denver Public Library Culture Pass for a free ticket to “The Glass Menagerie” at the Arvada Center

Total spent: $90 for three professional productions. They also received free parking and dessert coupons.

Example 3: A Group of Friends Gets 40% Off with a Flex Pass

Four friends from Lakewood bought a 4-show Flex Pass from the Denver Center for $180. They used it for:

• “Hadestown” – originally $130, discounted to $60
• “A Christmas Carol” – originally $90, discounted to $50
• “The Play That Goes Wrong” – originally $110, discounted to $45
• “The Band’s Visit” – originally $120, discounted to $25

Total value of tickets: $345. They saved $165. The Flex Pass also allowed them to swap dates when someone couldn’t attend.

Example 4: A Senior Gets Free Tickets Through a Church Group

Martha, 68, is a member of her church’s cultural outreach group. Each month, the group books a block of 12 tickets to a local theater for $15 each (normally $75). The church subsidizes the difference. Martha attends every month and has seen 12 shows this year for $180 total—less than $15 per show.

FAQs

Can I get free theater tickets in Denver?

Yes. Many theaters offer free performances, especially outdoors during summer. The Denver Center’s Shakespeare in the Park, community nights, and library Culture Pass programs can provide completely free access. Check local listings and sign up for alerts.

Are last-minute tickets cheaper?

Often, yes. Prices drop significantly 48–72 hours before a show, especially on weekdays. Use TodayTix, Goldstar, or check the box office directly. Some venues even offer “at the door” discounts if seats remain unsold.

Do all Denver theaters offer student discounts?

Most major venues do. Smaller theaters may offer them inconsistently. Always ask at the box office or check the “Plan Your Visit” section of the website. Bring a valid student ID.

Is it better to buy tickets online or in person?

Online is usually faster and offers more discount options. However, in-person purchases at the box office can unlock unadvertised discounts, especially for seniors, military, or groups. Call ahead to ask if any special rates are available.

Can I use coupons from newspapers or magazines?

Sometimes. The Denver Post and Westword occasionally print discount codes. However, most promotions are now digital. Always verify the code works on the theater’s website before assuming it’s valid.

Are there discounts for people with disabilities?

Yes. Most venues offer discounted tickets and accessible seating. Contact the box office directly to discuss accommodations. Many also offer sensory-friendly performances with adjusted lighting and sound.

What’s the cheapest time of year to see a show in Denver?

January and February are typically the slowest months for theater attendance. Venues often run promotions to boost sales. Avoid holiday weekends and summer festivals, when prices peak.

Can I resell my tickets if I can’t attend?

Yes, but check the theater’s policy first. Some venues prohibit resales. Others allow it through their official platforms (like DCPA’s ticket exchange). Avoid unauthorized resellers to prevent scams.

Do I need to be a Denver resident to get discounts?

No. Most discounts are available to anyone—students, seniors, military, etc.—regardless of residency. Tourists can benefit from all the same deals as locals.

What if a show sells out?

Check the theater’s waitlist. Many venues maintain standby lists and release tickets if others cancel. Also, check secondary marketplaces like SeatGeek or StubHub—but compare final prices with fees.

Conclusion

Saving on theater tickets in Denver isn’t about luck—it’s about strategy, timing, and knowing where to look. Whether you’re a student, a senior, a parent, or a casual culture seeker, the city offers a rich ecosystem of discounts, community programs, and hidden deals designed to make live theater accessible to everyone. By signing up for newsletters, leveraging loyalty programs, attending free events, and using price-tracking tools, you can enjoy world-class performances without the premium price tag.

The key is consistency. Set reminders, follow theaters on social media, and keep your ticket stubs. Over time, these small habits compound into significant savings. You’ll not only see more shows—you’ll experience the transformative power of live performance in a way that’s sustainable, meaningful, and affordable.

Denver’s stages are waiting. With the right approach, you don’t need to pay full price to take your seat.