Asteria Theatre Opens in Grand Junction
Asteria Theatre Elevates Grand Junction as an Elevated Arts & Culture Destination
Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction, CO opened the new Asteria Theatre in September with the Department of Theatre Arts’ production of Amadeus. Ground broke on the $54M theatre in March 2023 and involved more than 900 construction workers over the course of 18 months it took to complete.
The new space was named Asteria Theatre — Greek for “the stars” — to capture the sense of wonder and unity communities feel when looking to the night sky. The theatre’s design reflects this theme with a star-like exterior that glows at night — blending with the stars on the horizon. The name is a celebration of humanity’s timeless connection to the cosmos.
The 860-seat theatre establishes Grand Junction as a regional cultural destination, which allows CMU to host productions that otherwise would not have a suitable venue on the West Slope.
Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson will be one of the first to grace the new stage on November 10 and 11 as the inaugural speaker for the Asteria’s “Reaching for the Stars Series.” Dr. Tyson’s visit to the Asteria Theatre marks a profound moment for the Grand Valley, highlighting not just the importance of science, but the power of human curiosity, awe, wonder and the ability of the stars and their cosmic mystery to unite people who might otherwise find themselves divided.
Grand Junction, nestled between the Colorado and Gunnison rivers and surrounded by the beauty of Western Colorado, isn’t a place that typically appears on the itineraries of globally renowned speakers. And yet, it’s precisely this community — one characterized by the rugged, resilient soul of the West — that will engage directly with one of the most inspiring voices in the world. This is not just an event for CMU students or faculty; it’s a chance for all residents to look beyond the familiar horizons of our valley and consider the limitless but meaning-filled nature of the universe.
CMU Stages is the umbrella under which all performing arts at CMU, whether at the Asteria Theatre or the Moss Performing Arts Center, is presented. For a listing of the 2024-25 season, visit cmustages.com.
by Laura Bradley, Colorado Mesa University
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