Wheeler Opera House brings back ‘Roaring Fork Rising’ to spotlight local artists

The second annual “Roaring Fork Rising” will return to take the stage from May 15-30 at the Wheeler Opera House. 

The series features a curated lineup of local singer-songwriters, storytellers and comedians showcasing local talent in the Roaring Fork Valley. All performances will start at 7 p.m.

“We are thrilled to announce the second season of Roaring Fork Rising. The selection committee was pleased with the resulting lineup that is a mix of new artists alongside returning artists from the inaugural season in 2025,” Mike Harrington, executive director of the Wheeler Opera House, said in a press release. “This series is an affordable and accessible way to discover and support local talent; we hope to see a lot of people spending time with us at the Wheeler this May.” 

The 2026 Roaring Fork Rising schedule

Friday, May 15: Aggie Flores & the Wildflowers

Singer-songwriter Aggie Flores kicks off the series with original works mixing South American rhythms with indie and folk elements. She is influenced by her multicultural background in Buenos Aires, Aspen and Charleston, according to the release.

Saturday, May 16: Rai Omri with Abigail Benning

Rai Omri headlines with folk-rooted songs shaped by field recordings and open tunings, exploring natural and spiritual themes. Third-generation valley singer and special guest Abigail Benning opens with Americana-inspired thoughts about river seasons and small-town memories.

Friday, May 22: Emery Major with Hannah Koivu

Emery Major brings a professional folk-pop sound, refined at venues such as Carnegie Hall and Nashville’s Bluebird Café. Hannah Koivu joins him, offering modern, genre-blended indie-pop storytelling.

Saturday, May 23: Alya Howe, WRIT LARGE presents Women’s Voices

Under the direction of Alya Howe — a performer with roots in the José Limón Dance Company — this installment of WRIT LARGE focuses on community narrative. The evening highlights collective meaning and lived experience through the lens of local women’s voices.

Thursday, May 28: Local Comedy Showcase

Six comics take the stage for a night of stand-up. The lineup features David Uhlfelder, Julie Gillespie and local producer Sarah Sanders. Joining them are Brian Tauber, Second City-educated Beth Brandon and Founder of Consensual Improv Miller Ford.

Friday, May 29: The Sopris Sisters with Mark Nussmeier

Harper Powell and Emma Kieran — The Sopris Sisters — will deliver their signature Rocky Mountain harmonies, joined by Aspen multi-instrumentalist Mark Nussmeier with his genre-spanning, loop-based performances.

Saturday, May 30: Wild Flight with Hugh Phillips

Wild Flight, a roots-rock trio featuring Emily Jurick, Eric Gross and Bill Ritchen, closes the series. Country songwriter Hugh Phillips will join. He has a devoted fan base throughout the Mountain West thanks to his story-driven Americana.

Tickets for all shows are $18 and insiders tickets are $8. For more information and tickets, visit wheeleroperahouse.com, call 970-920-5770 or show up in-person at the box office, 320 E. Hyman Ave. Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m.