Denver Post Opera

The Denver Post Opera produced operas initially and musicals in later years. Starting in 1934, these large scale productions were presented in the beautiful marble pavilion of Cheesman Park near downtown Denver in the summertime. There were no shows in 1944 or 1945 due to World War II. Known for their extravagant and spectacular production values, the shows were well attended with audiences of up to 20,000. They were popular social events where people gathered with friends, shared a picnic dinner and enjoyed a live production with a full orchestra.

Helen Bonfils, the owner of the Denver Post, actress, producer and philanthropist, fully funded the shows from the sets and costumes, the union stage hands, to the professional performers, and musicians. She offered these shows free of charge to Denver residents. Max Di Julio, director of Loretto Heights College Music Department, was the conductor. Miss Helen Bonfils died in 1972, so in tribute, her favorite musical, “The Sound of Music” was presented and dedicated to her that year.