The Palm Theatre is committed to bringing to Telluride only the finest national touring companies - tours that are generally only staged in major metropolitan areas due to costly artist’s fees.  The Palm is committed to ensuring that the arts are accessible to as many people in the community as possible, through ticket prices that average approximately $35, and complimentary tickets available through our scholarship program.  

The Palm Theatre is at a critical point in its development.  Existing funding related to the naming of the theatre ends June 30, 2009.  In order to keep the theatre open as a performing arts center for the community, the Palm must demonstrate community support for the theatre.  Donations are extremely critical this year as we plan for the future.

The Palm Presents Series

The Palm Presents Series brings national touring productions of artistically and culturally diverse programming to the region, generally suitable for all ages.  

The Palm Scholarship Program

To make the arts more inclusive, the Palm developed two scholarship programs providing Palm Presents Series tickets to underserved students and families.  The first program is administered through the school, and the second is in partnership with the One to One Mentoring Program.  

Student Uses

By balancing theatre access for the students and teachers, with community group users, and the Palm Presents Series, it cleverly maximizes use of this community treasure.  Often theatres sit empty, particularly during the weekday hours, until a weekend event occurs.  Not so at the Palm!

Educational uses of the theater include: band and choral concerts, renowned speakers, films, science fairs, poetry readings, and student presentations, to name a few.   The R-1 School District also provides drama programs, at no fees to participate, so all students have access to perform on the Johnson Stage at the Palm! 

The Palm Subsidy Fund

To further the Palm’s mission to expand and enrich educational and performing arts opportunities for the Telluride region, the Palm implemented a non-profit rate structure and a subsidy fund, which covers up to half of the production expenses for non-profit community groups.  This has proven to be instrumental for community groups presenting their work. 

ABOUT MICHAEL D. PALM

Michael D. Palm was a gifted scholar and accomplished musician; a successful businessperson and dear friend to all who knew him.  An openly gay man in the top ranks of the corporate world, Michael was a leader in the fight for equal rights for gay Americans.  A leading philanthropist, his legacy is keenly felt in other areas as well including his passion for music and the performing arts and the battle against AIDS. 

Michael died of complications from AIDS at this home in Telluride on Sunshine Mesa in August, 1998.  It is our hope that all who attend performances at The Michael D. Palm Theatre for the Performing Arts will reflect on Michael’s values and his belief that through service, each of us is able to make a difference in our individual communities and the world beyond.