Wildhorse Cinema & Arts: A New Stage for Creativity, Culture and Community
by AwA
This article originally appeared in the Summer 2025 issue of Art with Altitude.
In February 2025, Undiscovered Earth took over the lease at the six-plex movie theater in Wildhorse Plaza, renaming the space Wildhorse Cinema & Arts, and reimagining what it means to be a cultural gathering place in the Yampa Valley. With a focus on community-first programming, Wildhorse Cinema & Arts now features new-release movies alongside live performances, curated film series, and a local artist spotlight. It is also becoming a welcoming home for nonprofits—hosting meetings, screening issue-driven films, offering classes, providing space for doodling and discussion, and so much more.
The organization’s mission is to provide affordable space for nonprofit organizations. Since reopening, the theater has welcomed Keep Routt Wild, the Skating Club, Steamboat Springs Actor’s Studio, The Super Fun Show, Steamboat Dance Theatre, Parkinson Association of the Rockies, Boys & Girls Club, Off the Beaten Path Bookstore, Colorado Mountain College, Harmonie House, Historic Routt County, Tread of Pioneers, Heads All Empty and hosted its own Prescription for the Arts classes.
Two rooms have been converted: one into a multi-use space that can host live music and talkbacks alongside films, and another into a dedicated arts space and speakeasy called Take 5. The first taste of this new direction came with an unforgettable evening of live music—a sold-out jazz concert featuring Camille DiTrani and her trio. With DiTrani’s warm vocals and magnetic stage presence, the room was transformed—not just a theater anymore, but a cozy, vibrant listening space filled with connection, rhythm and joy.
That’s the kind of energy the team behind Wildhorse Cinema & Arts is building on. Plans are underway for a rotating calendar of events, including:
• Local and regional music acts
• Surprise movie nights
• Community storytelling evenings
• Youth arts performances
• Comedy showcases
• Themed film series tied to nonprofit causes
The theater’s six-plex structure makes it uniquely suited for diverse programming—with intimate screening rooms perfect for discussion-based gatherings and larger spaces ideal for performances and workshops. A particular point of pride is the integration of community voices—many events are co-created with local artists, educators, and nonprofit organizations to ensure the programming remains relevant, inclusive, and inspiring.
“This isn’t just a movie theater anymore—it’s a creative laboratory,” says Executive Director Dagny McKinley. “We want people to feel like this space belongs to them. Whether you’re a film buff, a musician, a teenager with a story to tell or just someone who loves a good night out—we’re building something for you.”
As Wildhorse Cinema & Arts continues to grow, so does its commitment to affordability, accessibility and innovation. Ticket prices remain community-friendly, and partnerships with local schools and organizations are already taking shape to ensure everyone can enjoy meaningful cultural experiences.
Elevate the Arts: Stay in the loop on upcoming events and ways to get involved by signing up for the monthly newsletter at WildhorseSteamboat.org. From jazz nights to indie films, this is just the beginning—and the community is center stage. AwA
