Join Our Volunteer Family
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For over 90 years, Central City Opera has honored Colorado’s pioneering spirit by bringing world-class opera to the mountains. At the heart of our mission is a community of dedicated volunteers whose passion and energy make our Summer Festival possible each year.
Our volunteers are essential partners in creating the magic that happens on our historic stage. From welcoming nearly 200 artists who travel from across the country to preparing our 28 Victorian-era properties for their arrival, volunteers help us continue our tradition of enriching lives through the power of shared performance.
Whether you have a few hours in May or can commit to multiple opportunities throughout the summer, there’s a meaningful way for you to contribute to this remarkable Colorado cultural institution. Join us in sustaining a beloved tradition while connecting with opera artists, fellow volunteers, and a community that shares your love of the arts.
All are welcome!
You do not need to be a member of the Central City Opera Guild to volunteer.
Historic Properties Preparation
Join our team in preparing our historic properties for the artists, designers, and crew who will call them home during the Festival.
You’ll walk through charming and historic Central City neighborhood, ensuring each residence is welcoming and fully equipped for its temporary residents.
It’s a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the care that goes into our historic preservation work and a unique chance to see our Victorian-era cottages.
In 2026, our historic property preparation days are May 22 and 23.
Light Walking
Step into the spotlight—literally!
As a light walking volunteer, you’ll stand in for performers onstage during technical rehearsals, helping our lighting designer, board operator, and director perfect every cue, level, and visual moment. While you won’t be singing, you’ll play a crucial role in creating the stunning visual atmosphere that audiences experience during our productions. No performance experience necessary—just a willingness to be part of the technical magic.
Volunteers needed throughout June as we prepare for opening night.
Greet-a-Singer Program
Be the first friendly face our artists see when they arrive in Colorado!
Each summer, nearly 200 talented performers, designers, and crew members travel to Denver from across the country. As a Greet-a-Singer volunteer, you’ll pick up artists from the airport and drive them to their residence in Central City—offering a wonderful opportunity to hear their stories, learn about their careers, and connect with the stars (both established and emerging) who bring our productions to life. Artists arrive throughout May and June, and you’re welcome to transport your assigned artist(s) back to the airport when the Festival concludes in early August.
It’s an unforgettable way to make personal connections with the talent behind the curtain.
Ambassador Program
Become the welcoming face of Central City Opera on performance days!
Our Ambassadors are stationed along Eureka Street and throughout the opera house area during Summer Festival performances, serving as friendly guides for our guests. You’ll answer questions about restroom locations, entrance doors, performance length, and other visitor needs—helping ensure every patron has a smooth and enjoyable experience. This is a perfect opportunity for those who love meeting new people and take pride in representing our organization. Your warm hospitality helps set the tone for an unforgettable evening at the opera.
Volunteers needed for performances throughout the Summer Festival season.
Audition Support
Go behind the scenes and witness the talent selection process firsthand!
Whether it’s orchestra auditions in the spring or artist auditions in the fall, volunteers play a crucial role in making our audition days run seamlessly. You’ll help check in nervous and excited performers, guide them to warm-up spaces, and ensure our adjudication panel has everything they need to focus entirely on evaluating talent. It’s a unique opportunity to see the other side of the audition process and support artists at a pivotal moment in their careers.
Your volunteer support helps us discover the next generation of opera stars and orchestra musicians!
L’Esprit de Noël Holiday Home Tour
If you love architecture, holiday décor, and Denver history, this is the volunteer opportunity for you! L’Esprit de Noël is Central City Opera’s annual fundraising event featuring a self-guided tour of beautifully decorated historic Denver homes during the holiday season. We rely on dedicated volunteers to staff these gorgeous homes both during the tour and in the days leading up to it, helping with preparations that make each house shine. Each tour shift is four hours, and as a volunteer, you’ll have the opportunity to view all the homes on the tour before or after your shift—a wonderful perk! Join us in celebrating the season while supporting Central City Opera. We can’t wait for you to be part of this festive tradition! Learn more at lespritdenoel.org.