Simpich Showcase Theatre 

After over a year and a half of preparation and construction, The Simpich Showcase in Old Colorado City will open its doors to the public. The facility will offer three distinct facets that together will offer an exciting center for the arts. The Simpich Character Doll Museum now houses the world's largest and most comprehensive collection of figures by doll artists Jan and Bob Simpich, displayed in over 50 diorama settings. The history and artistry of the Simpich Doll business, which operated in this same building for nearly three decades, is carefully explored and many rare and one-of-a-kind pieces are highlighted. The 70-seat Simpich Showcase Theatre will also open its doors with the award-winning marionette production, The Hans Christian Andersen Storybook, a play that dramatically and humorously explores the themes of Andersen's most enduring tales. Puppeteer David Simpich portrays Denmark's famous storyteller and brings his literary creations to life with a full-cast of hand-carved marionettes. In addition, the new Simpich Fine Art Gallery will open with a special exhibition of Bob Simpich's oil paintings. On display will be many examples of his most recent works, and his originals and prints will be available on a regular basis. The gallery will also feature the work of other esteemed artists from the Colorado Springs area.