Do you like to be on the cutting edge? First in line? At the epicenter of the next “new thing”?

Then you need to be at the inaugural Denver Immersive Invitational. Described as an incubator for new art and immersive experiences, the Denver Immersive Invitational gives artists a chance to create without constraints and audiences a glimpse into the raw and unpredictable process of immersive creation.

This three-day competition challenges eight of Denver’s most creative artistic teams not only to create but also perform completely original short-form works surrounded by a live audience.

“I am excited for DCPA Off-Center to support Denver’s first Immersive Invitational,” said Charlie Miller, Executive Director & Curator of DCPA Off-Center. “It’s a format that’s been successful in LA and I’m thrilled Immersive Denver is bringing it to our community.”

The teams will face off beginning on November 8 when they gather to develop, build and rehearse their original shows…in less than 48 hours. On November 10, their all-new works will be showcased at three public performances (12, 4, and 7pm) at the historic El Jebel temple at 1770 Sherman Street in Denver. Following the final performance, an awards ceremony will be held to dole out top honors and celebrate each team’s artistic achievement.

“The Invitational is exciting for audiences and artists alike,” Miller continued. “It provides a platform for emerging and established immersive creators to take new, creative risks while audiences get a chance to experience fresh ideas in a stunning venue.”

Local companies and individuals will compete for top honors, including:

The Catamounts

The Catamounts started in 2011 as a Boulder-based immersive theatre company offering original works for the adventurous palate. The company makes boundary-pushing work the redefines the relationship between artist and audience. Its 2024/25 season includes The Last Night of Red Barker (now-Nov 2), Ghost Quartet (Jan 18-Feb 8) and FEED: Wood (June 13-15).

Denver Immersive Repertory Theater

D.I.R.T. will be Denver’s first resident, year-round immersive experience production studio and venue, offering guests unique, seamless nightlife experiences combining sophisticated, cutting-edge live performance and world-class hospitality in the same space. Opening October 2025.

The Exposure Project

The Exposure Project is a production and experience design firm focused on exploring the core tenets of interactive performance. Its goal is to remove the spectacle and examine the foundational elements of immersive performance that make magical experiences by exploring, experimenting and performing in four key elements: magic, storytelling, technology, and sensorial experiences.

Liz Kirchmeier

Liz Kirchmeier (she/her) is an actor, deviser, and writer who recently portrayed Emily Brontë in Band of Toughs’ roving, site-specific production of Gin & Gothic: A Brontë Rocktale. She’ll be joined on her team by a variety of collaborators, devisers, directors, and technical wizards from her past decade of acting and devising in Denver and the Front Range.

LuneAseas

For over a decade, LuneAseas has combined an eclectic blend of dance, theater, fashion, and visual art that mixes movement, music, and history. Its diverse team and workshops bring people together to connect, create, and spark just the right amount of creative mayhem.

Merhia & Co

Owner Merhia Wiese is a working conceptual artist, contracted Meow Wolf artist, immersive event producer and self-described community advocate/disrupter. She’s joined by artist/performer Andrew Novick; Desiree Albee, owner of Albee Damned Production innovative experiences and props; actor Jordan Leigh, and immersive storyteller and producer Joseph Newsome.

Thompson Powers

Thompson Powers is a clown, puppeteer, mascot, and Jack-of-all-trades who has played, directed, and originated characters for local attractions such as Meow Wolf, Casa Bonita, and Denver Zoo. Thompson can be seen on comedy stages around Denver with Makeshift Shakespeare, Hit & Run: Musical Improv, The PreTend Friends, and others.

Two Cent Lion & Opia House

Aurora-based Two Cent Lion, is an artistic company that produces works written and devised by LGBTQ+ playwrights. Recent productions include The Rocky Horror Show, Clink Clink, and In Loving Memory.

Opia House is dedicated to creating immersive theater experiences that transport audiences to another world. Started in Denver by Leah Cardenas and Beau Fisher, the company works to curate shows that engage audiences through story, play, and empathy.

Tickets start at $34 and availability is limited. Visit immersivedenver.com.

The event is hosted by Immersive Denver in partnership with After Hours Theater Company and The Immersive Experience Institute, and with support from DCPA Off-Center and The Experientialists.