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Christopher Alleman
Producing Artistic Director
Incorporated March 10, 1993, The Lake Dillon Foundation for the Performing Arts (LDFPA) was founded to raise funds for a capital expansion project for the Lake Dillon Amphitheater and subsequently produce a free summer concert series now known as the Sunset at the Summit Concert Series. After a successful capital campaign, the organization expanded to include a chamber concert series, a youth educational series now called the Youth Theatre Workshop, and an amateur theater company now operating as a professional, regional theatre.
In 1995, the Black Coffee Theatre joined with the LDFPA and became The Lake Dillon Theatre Company (LDTC). Soon after, the LDTC moved into a historic building built in 1899 that once served as Dillon Town Hall. The LDTC added a lobby, a workshop, and lighting booth. In 2002, the LDTC hired its first full-time employee, an Artistic/Executive Director. Fundraising efforts in 2003 enabled the company to expand its lobby and a lighting booth, upgrade audience bathroom facilities, and add office space, a dressing room and a green room.
In the last decade, the LDTC has grown from a seasonal community theatre to a financially and artistically successful year-round professional theatre company. The LDTC season pass holder and donor bases increased almost 500% from 2006 to 2014. Through ongoing partnerships with The Summit Foundation, the LDTC is the most visible and patronized year round arts organization in Summit County.
In recent years, the LDTC has experienced strategic, steady growth. Total earned revenues and contributions have grown from $457,759 in 2008 to $1,090,743 in 2014. Year-round staff has expanded from one and a half in 2008 to a full time staff of nine in 2015, including an Executive Director position created in 2010 and a Director of Development position created in 2012.
In 2012, the Board of Directors and senior staff drafted a strategic plan outlining several goals including increased community programming, increased financial stability, and eventual expansion into a larger location. Since then, the organization has worked diligently to implement the goals outlined in the strategic plan.
Today, the LDTC has achieved a 16-member Board of Directors, a full-time staff of eight, an enthusiastic volunteer base, and a growing season pass holder program. Since January 2016, more than 2200 new patrons have been added to our list of growing supporters. Most importantly, our community of donors has demonstrated its enthusiasm through the continued contributed support of our programs and operations.
In December 2019, the LDTC successfully completed the capital campaign for our new home with generous support from longtime LDTC patrons and friends Valerie Williams and Chuck Lenzmeier, renaming the largest venue in the Silverthorne Performing Arts Center the CVA Flex Theatre in honor of Valerie, Chuck, and their daughter Anna.
In March 2020, the LDTC, like nearly all performance-based businesses, closed its doors for a temporary pause on productions. The LDTC staff pivoted online and outside, offering more than 22 unique virtual and/or outdoor, physically-distanced theatre, education, music, and outreach programs. During this time, the LDTC has maintained its mission while shifting the ways in which we connect with our audiences and patrons. The LDTC continues to engage families and friends with meaningful theatrical and cultural experiences. We are dedicated to providing uplifting and innovative programming online and outside until we are able to welcome audiences again to in-person and indoor performances at Silverthorne Performing Arts Center.
During the Covid shut down – it became abundantly clear that the area was changing and there was a deluge of newcomers to the county. The LDTC decided it was finally time to start researching what a new brand and new naming process would look like. Working with the Cincinnati based firm lpk, it became abundantly clear that although the LDTC had a strong brand with its friends and patrons, our brand in the community wasn’t nearly as strong.
Thus, the process began to form a new brand that included a new name that reflected where the organization was geographically and creatively. The SilCo name was born. It is both is a love letter to Silverthorne, Colorado (the place where we call home) and fresh bold rebirth of an organization that is embedded in the community with our programming and outreach.
Theatre SilCo is a professional theater committed to enhancing the quality of life in Summit County and the Colorado Front Range by providing unique and accessible cultural experiences through the Performing Arts. We increase imagination, engagement, and empathy in our community through our performance, educational and outreach programming.
Theatre SilCo will continue to earn the respect of our community. We are committed to financial transparency and maintaining public trust. We act with honesty and adhere to our artistic integrity and our community’s values.
From the boardroom through the office to the stage, Theatre SilCo focuses on a culture of professionalism. Our management team creates high quality programming by integrating professional directors, actors, designers, technicians, musicians, and educators into our programs.
Our welcoming environment and Black Box Theater offer a unique, shared theatrical experience between audience and artists. The Theatre SilCo Board of Directors, staff, and creative artists believe intimacy refers to the total experience. Intimacy is not just what we do; it is who we are.
Theatre SilCo strives to produce a season with enriching experiences for everyone including a theatrical season of comedies, dramas, musicals, and provocative theatre plus a diverse program of concerts, educational opportunities and community outreach.
Looking for a unique venue to elevate your next event? Theatre SilCo offers a variety of spaces for rent, perfect for corporate events, parties & celebrations, and more!
We are proud to offer the Encore Lounge experience to groups who would like a private space to get together on show nights. Explore our Lounge today!
Get Involved with Theatre SilCo: From seasonal and full-time positions, to volunteering your time as an usher or in the shop. Find out how you can join the team!
Get your big break with The SilCo! We are a professional theatre located in the Rockies.
More info coming soon.
It takes a team of dedicated individuals to produce high-quality professional theatre on the Front-Range.
Rob Barnes (he/him) has been performing since childhood. Originally from Flagstaff, Arizona, Rob received his MFA in Acting from the University of Connecticut in May of 2020. Past credits include: Yepikhodov in The Cherry Orchard, Clifford Bradshaw in Cabaret, Reverend Parris in The Crucible, and Melchior Gabor in Spring Awakening: A New Musical. Rob is thrilled to be making his Theatre Silco debut in Patrick Barlow's A Christmas Carol.
Originally from North Carolina, Morgan has been working with young performers for over a decade. She has earned her BFA and MFA in theatre with a specific focus on Theatre for Young Audiences. She loves sharing her passion for the arts and education with Summit County and she looks forward to exciting programing and partnerships for the community!
Kate Groninger hails from the world of museum philanthropy where she has worked at the Art Institute of Chicago, the Guggenheim, and the Detroit Institute of Arts. She is the founder and editor of two academic journals for the museum community, and spends time serving on diverse nonprofit boards. Kate completed her PhD at the University of St Andrews (Scotland), and holds degrees in art history from Princeton, and in arts administration from NYU.
A recent Chicago transplant, Kate lives happily in Frisco with her chubby foxhound where they dabble in outdoor activities. Kate is a former beekeeper, aspiring accordion player, and enjoys ordering two desserts when out to eat. She loves watching British sports (cricket, rugby, polo) though she doesn't know the rules, and can recite the movie 'Clue' word for word.
Amanda grew up on her family's farm near Shickley, NE. She carries that rural upbringing, surrounded by wide open spaces, everywhere life has taken her. She received her Broadcast Journalism degree from the University of Maryland, College Park and her MA in Communications and Public Relations, with a nonprofit focus, from CU Denver. She and her husband, Clark, moved to Summit County from Denver just over 3 years ago, where they opened a photography gallery in Frisco featuring Clark's work - Wilderness Exclusives Fine Art Photography.
Amanda's experience in and passion for the art of utilizing organizational marketing and communications for the betterment of our communities is something she has fostered through her work with nonprofit organizations like CASA in Nebraska and the Civic Center Conservancy in Denver. Most recently, she worked as the Operations and Staff Manager for a local real estate company, leading a team of 12 employees in their marketing support of the company's real estate agents, while also serving as the Board Chair of the Slifer Smith & Frampton Charitable Foundation. Amanda was honored with the company's Frampton Award for Community Service in 2024.
Amanda is absolutely thrilled to be a part of the Theatre SilCo team! She has always enjoyed the performing arts, having been a state qualifer in duet acting and persuasive speech in High School, and a member of the University of Maryland's Concert Band as first chair alto sax. She is looking foward to supporting the Theatre Silco team in their ongoing growth and positive impact in our Summit County communities!
Emily MacIntyre (Production Manager) holds a BA in Theatre from California Lutheran University and an MFA in Creative Writing from Mississippi University for Women. Emily began her career as a Production Stage-manager for Kingsman Shakespeare (Thousand Oaks, CA) and moved into Production Management in 2005 for the Mizel Arts and Culture Center in Denver, CO. From 2016-2018 she was also the MACCs Education Director. Most recently, Emily has been working as a Production Manager for Denver School of the Arts while freelancing for theatres in the Denver area. Emily has served as Guest Artist for the Stagecraft department at DSA, teaching and mentoring stage management students since 2005; she also teaches Playwriting and Immersive Storytelling for the Creative Writing department. Emily has been honored to appear as a spoken word artist with Davis Contemporary Dance and Women’s Voices Theatre Festival. Favorite production credits include The Tempest (Kingsmen Shakespeare), Poignant Irritations (Mizel Arts and Culture Center), Rumpelstiltskin (Denver Children’s Theatre), Tomato Plant Girl (Denver Children’s Theatre), Chicago (Denver School of the Arts), Ms. Clause Storyhour (Denver Zoo), and Shout (TownHall Arts Center).
Seamus has been a member of the Denver Metro Theatre Community for over 24
years. Spending the majority of that time at BDT Stage, Boulder’s Dinner Theatre,
where he worked his way from a dining room busser to ultimately becoming Artistic
Director in 2021. His skill sets range from technical theatre and stage management to
administrative duties and everything in between! He’s been involved in approximately
90 productions at BDT Stage. Credits include, but aren’t limited to; Fiddler on the Roof,
Something Rotten, White Christmas, The Noteworthy Life of Howard Barnes, Ragtime,
Rock of Ages, Mama Mia, The Little Mermaid, Shrek, Singin’ in the Rain, & Gypsy.
Seamus was a driving force in the reopening of the theatre post COVID and mindfully
crafted its 46 th and final season before the theatre’s closing in 2024. Other credits
include: Master Electricia/Master Carpenter Foothill Theatre Company (Nevada City,
CA), Stage Manager/ Master Carpenter Sierra Shakespeare Festival (Nevada City, CA)
and Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival (Lake Tahoe, CA). Seamus is honored to begin
the next chapter of his career at Theatre Silco and is excited to make lifelong memories
with his wife and 3yr old daughter in beautiful Silverthorne, CO!
Sorrel joins us as she transitions from the hospitality and software sales world where she paved her way working in both B2B and B2C to help customers. With a passion for working with people, building and fostering relationships, and contributing to the success of Summit County, Sorrel is excited to be a part of the Theatre Silco team.
Sorrel moved to Summit County in 2019 after completing the 480-mile Colorado Trail and passing through Breckenridge along her travels. Since then she has become an avid skier and hiker, joined the Reply All Improv Troupe, and adopted a puppy from the Summit County Animal Shelter. After work, you can find her on the trails with her dog, practicing yoga, or spending time with friends.
Ben Whitmore has been a part of Theatre SilCo's productions since he joined the Lake Dillon Theatre Company back in 2006. As the Director of Production and Facilities, he’s overseen everything from set design, lights, and sound, pouring his expertise into creating shows that are as polished as they are immersive. Ben has been part of helping Theatre SilCo grow and evolve, embracing new ideas and technology while staying true to the company’s roots in high-quality, accessible theater here in our mountain community. He’s all about delivering unforgettable experiences, believing that the magic of live performance comes down to getting every detail just right. Ben's vision helps keep Theatre SilCo pushing boundaries and bringing powerful stories to life for the Summit County community and beyond, season after season.
Originally from North Carolina, Morgan has been working with young performers for over a decade. She has earned her BFA and MFA in theatre with a specific focus on Theatre for Young Audiences. She loves sharing her passion for the arts and education with Summit County and she looks forward to exciting programing and partnerships for the community!
(they/them) (Production Assistant): Theatre SilCo debut! Carpenter at Dallas Children's Theatre, Circle Theatre, Wellfleet Harbour Actors Theatre, and University of Texas at Arlington. They would like to thank Theatre SilCo for the opportunity to work with them this summer and their friends for all of their support.
Emma Grace recently graduated in May from Drake University with her BFA in Acting. She has been visiting Summit County with her family for nearly 10 years and is so happy to be living somewhere she loves so much. Emma Grace is happy to help out the community and open herself up to more experiences. She is a fan of trivia, especially about movies.
Credits include: The Bacchae (Director), Silent Sky (Williamina), Vigilantes (Director), Directing Program (National Theatre Institute)
Career Highlights include: At Phillips Hall Theatre: Antony and Cleopatra, Sebastian, Springtime, Mrs. Warren's Profession, Heights, Sebastian, 30 Plays in 60 Minutes, A Sick World, Brown Bag Theatre Company: Culture Clash, Quebrando El Silencio, Lydia, Just Like Us, Ni de Aqui Ni de Alla.
Thank you to my family, my partner, and all my friends.
Morgan “Mo” Damato is overjoyed to be joining TheatreSilco and Vivo! She is a proud New Jerseyan and grew up on the beach. Ever since she was little, Mo has been involved in the arts and has had a driving passion for music, theatre and artistry. Currently, Mo is a seasoned semi-professional musical theatre performer, a passionate teacher, a lifelong singer, and a dedicated ukulelist. Some of her favorite roles include: Trix(Drowsy Chaperone), Catherine(Pippin) and Ariel(The Little Mermaid). She has studied Music Therapy at Montclair State University and strongly believes that young artists need spaces to thrive. The marriage of the arts and education is crucial for the development of young artistic minds and ultimately, the progression of education and the arts. lead with love!
Nicole grew up in the Appalachian Mountains of Pennsylvania, and has been mesmerized by the Rocky Mountains since she arrived in Denver in 2019. A multi-disciplinary artist, Nicole has created new works and performed with theatre and dance companies across the country. In Colorado: The Pastisserie (co-creator), Zotto (Kaibyo), and Clown Lung (staged reading). Additional credits include: The Three Musketeers (Sabine), Blithe Spirit (Ruth), The Threepenny Opera (Jenny), Romeo and Juliet (Juliet), Midsummer Night's Dream (Titania), Our Town (Emily), The Importance of Being Earnest (Cecily), Mad Forest (Lucia), Translations (Sarah), and Nicole's own solo shows Unmarked Boxes and Sisrahtac I: American Character. Nicole holds an M.F.A. in Acting from the University of South Carolina.
Lynn has been a writer for 14 years and writes for the screen and stage. She currently lives in Dillon, Colorado. She has written and produced 8 sketch holiday shows at the Bovine Metropolis Theatre in Denver. Three of her short plays were produced in London at Southwark Playhouse and the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. Past theatrical positions include writer, actor, assistant director, producer, improvisor, and co-head writer. She holds a Master of Fine Arts in Writing for Stage and Broadcast Media from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London.
(she/her) (VIVO Teaching Artist): Hannah is a musical theatre performer and is thrilled to be joining Theatre SilCo for the year as a teaching artist. Hannah grew up in the beautiful mountains of Colorado and graduated from NYU Steinhardt with a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance: Music Theatre. She recently completed her apprenticeship with the Commonweal Theatre Company. NYC credits include The Wild Party, Assassins, and Damnation! The Musical!, which Hannah co-created at NYU. Favorite regional credits include She Loves Me, A Chorus Line, Les Miserables, and EDGES: A Song Cycle. Endless thanks to her mentor Alex and her loving supportive family! XOXO hannahheil.com
Audrey Lang (she/her) is a playwright and stage manager born and raised in New York City. As a playwright, she is a current finalist for the Jewish Plays Project's 2023 contest with her play Birdie and Cait and the Book of Life and her play alex getting better recently had its U.K. Premiere at the Bread & Roses Theatre in London. Other work includes Lily Ineffable (2022 Jewish Plays Project finalist), You Have To Promise (Pride Plays 2020), two short plays at London's Theatre503, and two 24 Hour Plays Viral Monologues. As a stage manager, recent credits include: National Tour: CoComelon Live! JJ's Journey (Production Stage Manager), Jersey Boys (Asst. Stage Manager); Off-Broadway: Wolf Play at Soho Rep (Production Asst.); Regional: 2 seasons at the Mac-Haydn Theatre. Audrey has taught playwriting for the Bronx High School of Science's summer program. Proud alumna of MCC Theater Youth Company and SPACE on Ryder Farm. B.A. Theatre Studies, Ithaca College. Thank you to Sara for bringing me to Colorado! www.audreyglang.com
(she/her) is a teaching artist and performer from Orlando, Florida. Juliana is an accomplished vocalist, singing programs with Opera Orlando, The Bach Festival Society of Winter Park, Musiktheater Bavaria, and the Game of Thrones Live Concert Experience tour. Juliana has more than five years experience in arts education, teaching students of all ages in private lessons and summer camps for more than five years at nonprofit organizations on the east coast. She is excited to make the move to Colorado and join the SilCo team to fulfill her passion for theatre education! She is committed to fostering the wellbeing of every unique student in body, voice, and imagination through theatre.
Cait McCluskie (she/her) is a Summit County local and has been involved with Theatre SilCo/LDTC since she was 4 years old. Previously at Theatre Silco, she has acted in Sister Act (Ensemble), taught children's programs, and worked as the Patron Services Manager. When she's not trying to stump her improv-mates on stage, she can be found binging movies in Breckenridge as the Film Festival Coordinator for Breck Film. Cait holds a BA from St Olaf College and a MA from the University of St Andrews.
Caroline Valitutto is a vocalist, musician and music therapist originally from North Carolina but has called Colorado home for the past 7 years. She began her musical endeavors first on the violin at the age of 5 and has studied voice since age 13. Throughout her life she has performed in countless choirs, orchestras, folk ensembles, duets and choral ensembles. Caroline’s musical theater stage credits include Legally Blonde and Chicago, and her European debut as Zerlina in Don Giovanni in Salzburg, Austria. She also performed multiple roles with the Appalachian Opera Theatre. She danced professionally in Boone, North Caroline in the historical production of Horn in the West. At Appalachian State University, she arranged and directed the all-female a cappella group, The Mountain Ayres for 4 years. As a music therapist in Denver, Caroline worked with children of all ages and abilities using music to accomplish speech, physical and emotional goals.
In addition to her artistic pursuits, Caroline works for a non-profit supporting women in tech and product management careers and runs her own content and marketing consulting business. Caroline is also a certified yoga instructor and has taught yoga for the past 7 years and currently teaches at Summit Sol Wellness.
As an outdoor enthusiast and adventure seeker, Caroline is an avid hiker, skier and traveler. She enjoys exploring with her fiancé, Derek, and their dog, Theo.
You can make a donation online here or contact our Director of Development Kate Groninger at kate@thesilco.org or (970) 513-1151 xt. 107
Yes, we would be delighted to host your private event! Contact Chris Alleman at chris@thesilco.org or (970) 513-1151 xt. 101 for more information.
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460 Blue River Parkway
Silverthorne, CO, 80498
PO Box 1759
Silverthorne, CO 80498
Box Office: 970.513.9386
Admin: 970.513.1151