Facing a migrant crisis and $45M in cuts, Denver looking to spend $30M on stagehands

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(The Center Square) – On the heels of Denver Mayor Mike Johnston’s announcement earlier this month of $45 million in budget cuts, Denver is now set to approve spending $30 million over the next three years for stagehand services at city-owned theaters and arenas throughout the city.

Johnston announced the Newcomer Program Strategy Plan for $45 million in cuts to avoid layoffs or furlough of city employees to handle its migrant crisis. The city’s monthly expenses increased from $2 million per month in August 2023 to $15 million a month by December 2023 to support the influx of migrants, as previously reported by The Center Square.

The contract between the city and county of Denver and ASM Global will provide services to multiple locations, including Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Denver Coliseum, Denver Performing Arts Complex, and possibly the Loretto Heights Theater.

The city council is scheduled to vote on the contract at its April 22 meeting, according to documents.

The general services provided by the stagehands include load in, execution, and load out of the theatrical and musical performances, possibly including truck loaders, pushers, riggers, carpenters, and audio and lighting technicians.

This contract provides services such as stagehand management, staffing, supervision, consulting, and payroll administration.

The contract will end on Dec. 31, 2026, but the city can extend it with two one-year renewal options.

The mayor’s office did not respond to an email seeking comment.