Insider Tour: The Mayan Theatre

Doors Open Denver Early Bird ticket sales begin on July 21st at 4pm for DAF Members and end on August 4 at 4pm, when DAF Member pricing will increase. DAF Membership will be verified upon ticket purchase. Click here to become a DAF member. Tickets will be available for non-DAF members beginning August 18.

About the Tour: Saved from destruction in 1984, the Mayan Theatre has been a South Broadway landmark for decades. Hear from Chris Citron, the “godmother of the Mayan Theatre,” about the fascinating history and architecture of this Art Deco movie palace, from its intriguing role in the 1930s movie industry to its melodramatic escape from the wrecking ball. She will recount her personal role in the political and legal struggle to save the Theatre. Citron will point out design features of this historic landmark building and explain the cultural context surrounding the Theatre’s development. She will tell about some of the colorful characters and events from the 95 years of the building’s history.

About the Building: Designed by noted Denver architect Montana Fallis, the 1930 Art Deco Mayan Revival-style theatre is one of a few surviving movie houses adorned in pre-Columbian motifs. The interior and exterior of this movie palace features jaguars, masks and various flora inspired by Aztec and Mayan designs. Its facade is accented by ornamental, polychrome details, including an unmissable terracotta “chief” on the marquee. The Mayan resumed operation in 1986 after renovation, the most elaborate of Denver’s old theaters to remain in operation. This November 2025, the Theatre will celebrate the 95th anniversary of its opening.

About the Tour Guide: Chris Citron, President of Friends of the Mayan, is an attorney with a background in historic preservation law. Citron is an attorney with extensive background in historic preservation law, community organizing, and cultural affairs. She has been sharing her knowledge of the Mayan Theatre for years. Chris is a former board member of the Denver Architecture Foundation.

Accessibility: The first floor of the theatre is wheelchair accessible, and opportunities for seated rest will be available. The second level of the theatre will be covered on a portion of the tour and is not accessible. The theatre will be generously providing free coffee and free freshly made popcorn to all attendees. The tour includes a lecture, seated in the auditorium, after walking around outside and inside the building. ‘Show and tell’ materials will be passed around. 

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 14 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.