City: Boulder, CO

Category: Nightlife

Telephone: (303) 786-7030 (Boulder Theate

Address: 2032 14th Street

Description: An art deco gem (along with the county courthouse across the street, one of only two in Boulder), the former movie theater has evolved into a lively venue for everything from classical performances by the Colorado Music Festival to world music from Kitaro to concerts by former John Coltrane jazz pianist McCoy Tyner. Lately, the theater has returned to its roots with classic and art movies.The theater is best known, though, as the home of the nationally broadcast radio program etown. “Live from the historic Boulder Theater in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, it’s etown,” begins the radio show, which focuses on entertainment and environmental issues—a sometimes difficult twosome. Etown celebrated its 15th year in 2006. The show is taped live to be run by National Public Radio and commercial stations. The audience is part of the show, clapping and cheering on cue, sometimes for several takes. It’s interesting to see how a radio show works. The show recognizes individuals from around the country, nominated for their grassroots work for better communities and environment, with the E-chievement Awards.Etown records several shows a year. It features musicians, environmentalists, politicians, authors, and others, including Rickie Lee Jones, Taj Mahal, Sweet Honey in the Rock, Paul Winter, Joan Baez, cowboy poet Baxter Black, Earth Day founder Denis Hayes, Bruce Cockburn, Arlo Guthrie, and Leftover Salmon. Run on a shoestring budget and volunteer efforts, etown is the brainchild of Boulder husband-and-wife co-producers Nick and Helen Forster. Nick was formerly principal bassist, guitarist, and vocalist for the bluegrass group Hot Rize (which still plays reunion concerts), and Helen, an actress and singer, has provided harmony for performers from Michelle Shocked and John Gorka to Rosanne Cash.Drinks and snacks are available, so the audience can sip their favorite beverage while they watch the show. Part of the theater has cafe tables and chairs. Tickets are available at the Boulder Theater Box Office, or from the theater Web site at www.bouldertheater.com. Visit the Web site at www.etown.org for more information. Come early for dinner on the Downtown Mall and grab a handy parking space before the crowd arrives.