Trickle-Down Magic: A Vision for MOTH Live Entertainment in Steamboat
by AwA
This article originally appeared in the Summer 2025 issue of Art with Altitude.
A dynamic force in Steamboat Springs’ creative community, Deena Selko has spent over 16 years building MOTH Live Entertainment—a company that blends Broadway spectacle, circus artistry and live music into unforgettable performance experiences. Her vision has not only elevated the local arts scene, but it’s also inspired the next generation—especially her daughters Ruby Frank and Sylvie Selko. Ruby, already a standout performer in major local productions, is carving a bright path in the theatrical world, while Sylvie, the youngest, is following closely with her own artistic light.
We caught up with Deena to talk about the creative heartbeat behind MOTH and how her vision is reshaping the cultural landscape in our small mountain town.
AwA: Why is it important to bring world-class performance to Steamboat Springs?
DS: Extraordinary artistry shouldn’t be limited to big cities. Bringing world-class performances to Steamboat enriches the cultural landscape and expands what’s possible for both audiences and aspiring artists. The energy and excitement of high-caliber productions inspire people in ways that are transformative.
AwA: Your shows feel big—Broadway, concert, circus energy. How do you make that work in a place like Steamboat?
DS: It starts with storytelling. No matter how large or intricate a production may be, the heart of it is always the emotional connection between the performance and the audience. I craft shows that resonate with people here by incorporating themes of adventure, resilience and wonder—elements that align with the spirit of Steamboat. I also love blending professional artists with emerging local talent, allowing the community to see their own neighbors stepping into something extraordinary. That sense of inclusivity makes even the most spectacular performances feel personal and deeply connected to this place.
AwA: How has working with young artists shaped your own creative journey?
DS: Young artists bring raw passion, curiosity and a fearless willingness to explore that reignites my own creativity. Seeing their breakthroughs—whether in movement, voice or self-expression—deepens my commitment to creating spaces where they can thrive. Their energy also pushes me to innovate.
AwA: What does “Movement of the Heart” mean to you after 16 years?
DS: MOTH has always been about creating art that moves people—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. It represents the power of performance to shift perspectives, open minds, and connect people in ways that words alone cannot. After 16 years, MOTH is more than just a company—it’s a living, breathing testament to the transformative power of art.
AwA: What advice would you give to artists building something new in a rural town?
DS: The journey has been both exhilarating and challenging. Carving out a space for high-level performance in a town known for its outdoor culture meant shifting perspectives and proving that the arts belong here just as much as skiing or biking. The key has been persistence, community engagement and delivering work that is undeniably powerful.
My advice to other artists is: stay true to your vision but remain adaptable. Build relationships, invite people in and show them why your work matters. In smaller communities, personal connections drive everything—when people feel invested, they will support and sustain your vision.
AwA: What’s next for MOTH?
DS: There’s so much on the horizon! I’m thrilled to keep building MOTH’s presence in Steamboat while expanding our collaborations with national and international artists. We’re also launching an exciting NFT project that connects MOTH to a global network of artists and collectors. It’s a new frontier for us—bridging live performance with digital innovation and expanding the reach of our creative community.
At the same time, I’m deeply committed to growing MOTH’s impact in arts education. This next chapter is about bridging worlds—making art more accessible, more transformative, and continuing to elevate what’s possible right here in Steamboat and beyond.
Elevate the Arts: Visit mothliveentertainment.com for upcoming events. AwA
