The historic Casino Star Theatre in Gunnison will commemorate a major milestone on Saturday, Oct. 12, with a special benefit concert marking the 20th anniversary of its revitalization under the Casino Star Theatre Foundation. The event will begin at 7 p.m., and feature the talents of the locally celebrated piano trio, Inouye Six Hands. This trio, composed of sisters Mika, Sarah, and Seidi Inouye, returns to Gunnison for their first performance at the theatre since their highly praised and sold-out concert in 2022. Known for their breathtaking six-hand piano performances, the Inouye sisters have performed across the Intermountain West, showcasing their rare skillset in venues such as Temple Square in Salt Lake City and the Durango Chamber Music Festival.

The Oct. 12 performance, which promises to be an unforgettable evening of artistry, also marks the kickoff of the Casino Star Theatre Foundation’s 20th live performance season. This season, which will include a variety of performances from different artistic genres, celebrates two decades of cultural contributions to Central Utah, an achievement that reflects the foundation’s commitment to arts, history, and community.

A 20-year journey of preservation and impact

The Casino Star Theatre Foundation was established on Oct. 18, 2004, with a vision to restore the century-old Star Theatre to its former glory while transforming it into a dynamic cultural hub for the Gunnison Valley. This mission came to life when the foundation acquired the historic building just weeks after its creation and renamed it the Casino Star Theatre to reflect the venue’s rich history. The theatre, which first opened its doors in 1913, was once a thriving center of entertainment. However, over time, the wear and tear of age led to its gradual decline. The community rallied around the theatre, recognizing its potential to serve as a cultural beacon once more.

From the beginning, the restoration process has been both extensive and meticulous, ensuring that the theatre’s historical integrity was preserved while modernizing it for contemporary use. Key upgrades have included a new marquee that restored the theatre’s iconic façade, the installation of state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, and a complete renovation of the auditorium, restrooms, and concession areas. Despite these upgrades, the theatre’s original charm remains intact, a testament to the careful work of the foundation and its commitment to honoring the building’s storied past.

Beyond the physical restoration of the Casino Star Theatre, the foundation has played an instrumental role in enriching Gunnison’s public art scene. Over the years, the foundation has supported a number of public art projects that have added a vibrant layer to the town’s cultural landscape. Among these are the Sanpitch Dragon, a stunning 218-foot mosaic that lines the riverwalk in Gunnison; two sea-themed murals at the Gunnison Valley Swimming Pool; and the Legacy Wall, a tribute to local history in the heart of downtown Gunnison. These installations have helped to transform the town into a place where art is both celebrated and integrated into daily life.

Inouye sisters return to their roots

For the Inouye sisters, the Oct. 12 concert is not only a chance to perform at a beloved hometown venue but also an opportunity to give back to the community that played a central role in their musical development. Mika, Sarah, and Seidi Inouye grew up in Sanpete County, where they studied piano, strings, and dance with local teachers. Each sister pursued advanced degrees in piano performance and pedagogy, and together they have gained a reputation for their unique six-hand piano arrangements. Their concerts frequently feature contemporary compositions, with a special emphasis on promoting the work of living composers. In 2020, they received a grant from the Music Teachers National Association to further their research into this genre and bring their performances to new audiences.

One of the highlights of the October concert will be the premiere of a new eight-hand piano arrangement of Electric Light Orchestra’s classic hit “Don’t Bring Me Down,” arranged by concert pianist and composer Juliet Gamero Preston. Preston, a frequent collaborator with orchestras and chamber groups across the U.S., will join the Inouye sisters on stage for this special piece, which was created specifically for this event. Known for her versatility as a performer, Preston has a deep passion for blending classical music with modern influences, making her the perfect partner for this unique performance.

A legacy of live performances

This concert marks the start of the 20th live performance season at the Casino Star Theatre, a testament to the foundation’s ongoing efforts to bring high-quality entertainment to Gunnison and surrounding communities. Throughout the past two decades, the theatre has played host to a wide variety of performances, from local musicians to internationally recognized acts. This season is no exception, with upcoming events featuring the popular western music group Bar D Wranglers on November 7, followed by the highly anticipated return of renowned composer Kurt Bestor on December 17. These performances continue the tradition of offering diverse cultural experiences that appeal to audiences of all ages and interests.

Tickets for the Oct. 12 concert are available on a donation basis, with a suggested contribution of $20 per person or $50 per family. All proceeds from the event will go toward supporting the Casino Star Theatre Foundation’s preservation efforts, ensuring that the theatre remains a vibrant cultural resource for years to come.

An enduring community treasure

Since it first opened over a century ago, the Casino Star Theatre has been a beloved fixture of Gunnison Valley life. Over the years, it has evolved from a small-town movie house to a thriving cultural hub, offering everything from blockbuster films to live musical performances. Its rich history and ongoing role in the community are a testament to the power of the arts to bring people together, foster creativity, and inspire generations.

As a nonprofit organization, the Casino Star Theatre Foundation relies on the support of community members, donors, and partners to continue its mission. Major local supporters like Roland and Julia Christensen, Robert and Jeanette Andersen, and others have contributed generously to the foundation’s work. Additionally, grants from organizations such as Creative West and the National Endowment for the Arts have provided vital funding for the theatre’s restoration and programming.

Looking ahead

As the Casino Star Theatre embarks on its next decade of service to the community, it does so with a renewed commitment to preserving the past while looking toward the future. The theatre’s renovation and programming efforts are far from complete, with plans for continued upgrades to the building and new initiatives to engage even more residents in the arts.

For now, the October 12 concert serves as a moment to pause and reflect on all that has been accomplished, while celebrating the vibrant cultural life that the Casino Star Theatre has helped to foster in Gunnison. With the return of the Inouye sisters, this anniversary event promises to be an unforgettable evening of music, memory, and community.

For more information on upcoming events or to learn how to support the Casino Star Theatre Foundation, visit https://casinostartheatre.com.