Architecture of MCA Denver: The Holiday Theater

About the tour: Get an inside look at the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver’s new Northside hub, the 400-seat Holiday Theater. Hear how the venue, formerly known as the Egyptian Theater, aims to realize one-of-a-kind, creative experiences in its historic and inspiring space. Explore its original Egyptian-inspired decor, preserved despite numerous renovations over the decades. Learn more about the history of the theater and how it has continually played an important role in the Northside community.

About the building: The storefront building housing the Holiday Theater was constructed in 1914, and the theater space was added in 1926. First known as the Egyptian Theater, the interior details capitalized on public interest in all things Egyptian following the discovery of King Tut’s tomb. It was renamed the Holiday Theater in 1953 and was the first theater in Colorado to present Spanish-language films. The Holiday Theater was purchased in 2021 by the Denver Cultural Property Trust, established by Continuum Partners and MCA Denver Emeritus Board Member Mark Falcone, ensuring the building will be a long-term, affordable arts hub for MCA Denver.

About the tour guides: Ian Morrison, the Tour Coordinator at the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, works to maintain, grow, and enhance the visitor experience at the MCA Denver through guided and self guided tours. They also manage the front desk and gallery attendants at the MCA most days of the week, welcoming and informing guests about the current exhibitions on display as the face of the museum. Originally from Evansville, Indiana, they graduated from the University of Southern Indiana with two B.A. degrees in history and world languages and cultures. Ian has been working at MCA Denver for nearly three years and currently attends the University of Colorado Denver for an M.A. in cultural history.

Accessibility: Not all areas of the Holiday Theater tour are wheelchair accessible. Opportunities for seated rest on the 90-minute tour may be limited.

Refund policy: The Denver Architecture Foundation is a nonprofit educational organization. Ticket sales support the Foundation in continuing to provide quality events to the public. We are unable to provide refunds or credits for any reason less than 48 days prior to the event.

Please note that DAF tours take place rain, snow or shine. If your tour includes an outdoor portion, please dress for the weather. DAF staff will contact all attendees directly should a tour be cancelled for any reason.