Every year, the Sheridan Opera House gives back to the Telluride community through the Wild West Fest, which starts June 8 and runs through June 14. “We work with different Boys & Girls Clubs throughout the United States, and within their own club, they choose the kids who have stood out, and select a solid group of kids to come represent their club and take part in this opportunity,” explains Sheridan Opera House business manager Julia Wentworth. The kids spend a week in the mountain town, filling their time with cultural activities, Western-themed programs, cookouts, horseback rides and much more.

“It’s in our mission statement to serve the community and to serve youth and spread the arts and humanities to youth in the area,” Wentworth says. “We see the positive outcome; kids in low-income areas are lacking opportunities to be outdoors and go on trips and do leadership-building.”

Although the Wild West Fest is primarily geared toward these kids, there are plenty of ways in which the general public can join the fun. The June 9 Kick-Off Celebration and BBQ in Town Park is open to the public (the grub costs $5). So is the artist meet-and-greet reception with 2009 Wild West Fest featured artist Wayne McKenzie on Wednesday, as well as the big shoot-’em-up on Saturday, June 13, when Heritage Days hits Main Street. For more information, call 970-728-6363 or visit www.sheridanoperahouse.com.
June 8-14, 2009