Lamppostings

Also known as Parker Arts, the Town of Parker’s Cultural Department presents about 150 performances, serves close to 5,000 students at school matinees, hosts up to 6,000 rental events in its facilities, and offers 514 classes to nearly 3,500 students each year as part of its mission to enhance the cultural and economic vitality of the greater Parker region.

Main office and contact information:
Address: PACE Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave.
Phone: 303.805.6800
Email: PACEtickets@parkeronline.org

Department website/social media accounts:
Website: www.ParkerArts.org
Facebook: ParkerArts
Twitter: ParkerArtsCO
YouTube: PACEcenterColorado

Number of Employees:
17 full-time and approximately 40 part-time staff

Longest serving employee and years on staff:
Suzanne Velasquez – 17 years with the Town of Parker

Department overview:
We oversee the programming for the following venues and facilities:

The Parker Arts, Culture and Events (PACE) Center: A state-of-the-art facility built in 2011, offering the best of touring acts as well as local performances, exhibits and educational programs. The PACE Center is home to a 536-seat Mainstage theater, 3,000-square-foot event room, art gallery, dance studio, teaching culinary kitchen, four multi-use classrooms, and unique interactive musical outdoor playground called Harmony Park. The perfect rental venue, PACE also hosts weddings, fundraisers, meetings and other events. 

The Schoolhouse: Originally opened in 1915 as the Parker School House, The Schoolhouse now serves as an important hub for community-based cultural performances, classes and exhibits. With a 200-seat theater, a dance studio, event space, and classrooms, The Schoolhouse hosts plays, concerts, children’s performances, recitals and art classes. Space is also available for public rental. 

Ruth Memorial Chapel: Located next door to The Schoolhouse, this chapel was built in 1912 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. This charming and intimate venue has seating for 70 and is the perfect place for small weddings or casual meetings. 

Discovery Park: During the summer months, this multi-purpose location is home to the Discovery Park Summer Concert Series, consisting of free concerts featuring well-known local bands. These family-friendly events are the perfect way to relax and unwind after a long day.

Department divisions:
The Cultural Department is led by Cultural Director, Elaine Mariner. She oversees the following divisions:

Communications: This division is led by Carrie Glassburn, and includes marketing (advertising, branding); community outreach (community events, volunteer program); development (membership, sponsorship, donations, grants); and public art.

Operations: This division is led by Denise Zoglmann, and includes facilities coordination (events planning, facilities upkeep); food and beverage; art gallery management; and general operations of our venues.

Programming: This division is led by Shaun Albrechtson, and includes box office; education (classes, camps, school programs); production (technical crew); and show programming.

How does this department impact daily life for Parker residents?
It is our mission to enhance the cultural and economic vitality of the greater Parker region by providing access to arts, culture, history, and science programs, as well as educational opportunities for its citizens and visitors. We also strive to offer community, business and civic gathering spaces.

What is the most common question received by this department and what is the answer?
“What’s coming up that I’d like?” Our answer is always, “We have a little something for everyone.” With a variety of dance, popular music, theater, jazz, comedy, and kids programming, that really is true!

What would residents be surprised to learn about this department?
In any given year, Parker Arts presents about 150 performances, serves close to 5,000 students at school matinees, hosts up to 6,000 rental events in our facilities, and offers 514 classes to nearly 3,500 students.

How can residents get involved with Parker Arts?
There are many opportunities to get involved and support local arts and culture through making a contribution to Parker Arts and its initiatives, becoming a Family Circle Member or business partner, volunteering or supporting the Parker Creative District. To learn more about getting involved with Parker Arts, visit www.ParkerArts.org.

Additionally, the Cultural and Scientific Commission serves as an advisory and support group for the Town of Parker Cultural Department. The Commission's mission is to foster, implement and participate in providing opportunities for the cultural and scientific experiences for the community of Parker. Members also advise on cultural planning for the Town and make recommendations regarding cultural and scientific issues, including the Scientific & Cultural Facilities District (SCFD) grant. Members are appointed by the Town Council and serve for a period of one or two years. For more information or to contact Commission members, please email PCSC@parkeronline.org.

What else should residents know about this department?
We offer a wide variety of free and low-cost programming for senior citizens. We have volunteer opportunities, free adult lectures, reduced-priced daytime matinees, and senior dancing, art, and theater classes as well.