Book the Best Sound Stage in Denver: Production Tips & Tricks

Unveiling Excellence in a Denver Sound Stage

Denver, Colorado, fondly known as the Mile-High City, has a rich history in the entertainment industry. The city's vibrant music scene dates back to the ‘20s when it hosted jazz legends at the renowned El Chapultepec. Notable figures like Chet Baker have graced its stage, adding depth to Denver's musical past.

The city notably hosted Led Zeppelin's first North American concert and was the birthplace of the “Denver Sound.” The acoustic music scene thrived with the Denver Folklore Center, the hub since 1962.

Denver has also provided a setting for diverse productions, from the thrilling sequences of "The Hateful Eight" to the gripping drama of TV series like "Dynasty." The city's advanced sound stages have been instrumental in this success, providing top-of-the-line facilities and technology for production crews.

Denver's unique blend of modern infrastructure and natural beauty, coupled with a deep-rooted love for arts and culture, makes it a hub for budding and established artists in music and film.

Why Rent a Sound Stage in Denver?

• Vibrant Film Community: Denver has a thriving film and television community, offering a wealth of local talent and production resources. From skilled crew members to experienced actors, Denver's film industry ecosystem can support all aspects of your project.
• Variety of Sound Stages: Denver has diverse sound stages, from large professional studios to smaller, more intimate settings. It means renters can find a space that perfectly fits their project's needs, whether for a film production or a small indie music recording.
• Tax Incentives: Colorado offers attractive tax incentives for filmmakers, including a 20% cash rebate on local expenditures. It makes Denver a cost-effective location for renting a sound stage.
• Stunning Natural Backdrops: If your production requires outdoor shots, Denver offers some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the country. You can incorporate the nearby Rocky Mountains backdrops into your production.
• Ease of Access: Denver's well-connected transportation network, including the Denver International Airport, makes it easy for cast and crew to travel in and out of the city, making logistics smoother for your production.

What to Look For in a Sound Stage

• Size and Layout: Ensure the sound stage is spacious for your set, crew, and equipment. Check if it has multiple stages or rooms for simultaneous shooting.
• Soundproofing: Top-notch sound stages offer excellent soundproofing to avoid external noise interference.
• Lighting Setup: Check if the stage provides a comprehensive lighting grid and control systems to meet your specific lighting needs.
• Climate Control: The stage should have a reliable HVAC system for temperature and humidity control to ensure comfort and protect equipment.
• Support Facilities: Look for stages with attached facilities like makeup rooms, dressing rooms, and prop storage.
• Equipment Availability: A sound stage often comes with rental equipment such as cameras, microphones, and lighting gear.
• Location and Accessibility: The stage should be conveniently located and accessible, with ample parking for cast and crew.

Benefits of Renting a Sound Stage in Denver

• Controlled Environment: Renting a soundstage in Denver offers a controlled environment for filming. You're not at the mercy of weather, noise pollution, or other unpredictable elements. It allows for consistency in lighting, sound, and aesthetics across scenes, enhancing the quality of your production.
• Versatility: Sound stages are versatile spaces that suit any scene or set design. Whether shooting a bustling cityscape or an intimate interior scene, a sound stage can adapt to meet your needs.
• Access to Equipment and Facilities: Many Denver sound stages have the necessary production facilities like dressing rooms, makeup areas, and storage for props and equipment. Some also provide access to high-grade filming equipment, reducing the need for external rentals.
• Local Talent and Resources: Denver boasts a vibrant film and creative industry. Renting a sound stage provides easy access to local talent, both in front of and behind the camera, and local resources such as prop houses and equipment rental companies.
• Tax Incentives: The Colorado Film Incentive program offers a 20% cash rebate for production costs incurred in the state. It can result in significant savings, making Denver an economically attractive location for your shoot.

Tips for Maximizing Time in a Denver Sound Stage

• Pre-Production Planning: Before setting foot in the Denver soundstage, have your pre-production planning down to a T. This includes storyboarding, script breakdowns, and scheduling. Using software like Celtx or Final Draft can streamline this process.
• Know Your Location: Familiarize yourself with the layout of your chosen Denver soundstage. 
• Efficient Set Design: Use reconfigurable modular set pieces. It reduces downtime between shots and promotes the efficient use of soundstages.
• Crew Communication: Invest in a communication system for your crew. Walkie-talkies or headsets speed up decision-making and coordination on set.
• Use Local Resources: Tap into Denver’s local film industry resources. The Colorado Office of Film, Television & Media provides a production guide with local crew, equipment rental places, and more. Utilize these resources to save time and money.

Movies Filmed in Denver

Blades of Glory

This uproarious comedy starring Will Ferrell and Jon Heder is about two rival Olympic ice skaters banned from the sport and then team up in a bid to exploit a loophole and compete again. The Pepsi Center, one of Denver's premier sports and entertainment venues, was used as a filming location, giving audiences a glimpse into the city's bustling event scene.

Things to Do in Denver When You're Dead

This crime drama starring Andy Garcia and Treat Williams follows the story of a gangster trying to go straight but gets pulled back into the criminal underworld. The movie captures the essence of Denver's urban landscape, featuring many recognizable city landmarks and neighborhoods, making it a must-watch for those interested in a cinematic tour of Denver.

The Shining

Based on Stephen King's novel, this horror film captures the story of a family serving as off-season caretakers for an isolated hotel with a sinister history. While Timberline Lodge in Oregon provided the setting for exterior shots, sound stages in Denver provided the setting for interior scenes. It offers a chilling contrast to the city's usually sunny disposition.

Denver's sound stages accommodate all creative projects. Content creators can produce visually stunning and acoustic works thanks to the variety of quality production backdrops, which range from expansive sets that mimic towns to intimate settings for small-scale projects.