The Ute Theater in Rifle, Colorado was designed and built in 1947 by town resident, Don Monson. For many years following its construction, Monson and his wife, Mary, were active community members who cared for and managed the theater’s events and happenings. Over the years, however, the once thriving community hub began to deteriorate and attracted fewer and fewer people.
In 2006, the City of Rifle acquired the building after it went up for sale. The town recognized the building as an economic asset due to its location in downtown just one block north of the main business district.
The 60-year-old theater had many issues including bats residing in the cedar siding, a leaking roof, sagging chairs, and aged heating and ventilation. The site became a verified brownfield after they discovered asbestos throughout the building.
The Colorado Brownfields Partnership guided the City of Rifle through the cleanup and concept planning of the property. The City was also supplied with a grant to remove the asbestos throughout the building.
Through the efforts of the City of Rifle, the Downtown Development Authority, and the Visitor Improvement Fund, plans were made to fund the remaining interior renovation of the theatre.
The Ute Theater and Events Center opened to the public in May 2014. Today, the theater remains owned and operated by the City of Rifle, and offers concerts, performances, films, community celebrations, wedding receptions, birthday parties, and more to the community.
In addition, The New Ute Theatre Society (NUTS) was created in 2009 to assist the City in marketing and operating the theater.
