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Poetry at the Tavern

Box Office @ 6pm // Reading @ 7pm // $5 Cover per person // Students (18 & under) FREE

poetry at the tavern andrea gibson

Now in it’s third season, Poetry at the Tavern offers readings by established regional poets as well as opportunities for local poets to share their work in a supportive setting.

Presented by the Ouray County Performing Arts Guild, the monthly event will run on the first Thursday of each month, January through April, in The Tavern at the Wright, an intimate space with a fireplace and small tables. Readings by the invited Colorado region poets promise to both inspire and entertain. Some are new faces to the community and others, who have read in Ouray County, will be back by popular demand. Featured poets will dialogue with the audience and may have books for sale and signing. following each reading and a short intermission, audience members can read their own short works during an open mic.

Poetry at the Tavern evenings will begin at 7pm with box office opening at 6:30pm. Beverages will be available for purchase. Admission is $5 per person.

April 4

Featured Poet Andrea Gibson*
*Note: due to Andrea's health, April's reading will be virtual. We will still gather in the Wright Opera House Tavern, and will hear from Andrea via the television screen. An open mic will follow as always.

Andrea Gibson is the Poet Laureate of Colorado and one of the most celebrated and influential spoken word poets of our time. Best known for their live performances, Gibson has changed the landscape of what it means to attend a “poetry show.” Gibson’s poems center around LGBTQ issues, spirituality, feminism, mental health and social justice. The winner of the first Women’s World Poetry Slam, Gibson is the author of seven award winning books, most recently "You Better Be Lightning". Their live shows have become loving and supportive ecosystems for audiences to feel seen, heard, and held through Gibson’s art.

Thanks to our Sponsor


The Wright Opera House is a 501c3 nonprofit, operating a historic venue and premier performing arts organization located in the City of Ouray. It is supported by event fees and by generous donations. Click here to make a tax deductible donation to the Wright.