Colorado Artists Struggle to Make Ends Meet

Despite the economic value they bring, many local performers and creatives face financial instability and lack of support

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The article explores the challenges faced by working artists in Colorado, highlighting the precarious nature of their livelihoods. It delves into the low pay, inconsistent work, and lack of funding that artists often contend with, even as their contributions to the state's economy and cultural fabric are significant. The story profiles the experience of actor and director Jenna Moll Reyes, who juggles multiple jobs to make ends meet, and underscores the resilience and dedication of artists who choose to pursue their passions despite the difficulties.

Why it matters

The article sheds light on the underappreciated role of artists in Colorado's economy and society. It argues that despite the vital services they provide in terms of entertainment, community-building, and cultural enrichment, artists often struggle to achieve financial stability and are forced to cobble together multiple income streams just to get by. This raises questions about the value we place on the arts and the need for greater support and investment in the creative workforce.

The details

The article highlights the various challenges facing working artists in Colorado, including the high cost of living, inconsistent income opportunities, and lack of adequate public and private funding for the arts. It notes that while the state's arts and culture sector employs over 14,000 people, the majority of these jobs are in administrative, fundraising, and marketing roles rather than direct artistic positions. Even successful actors and directors like Jenna Moll Reyes must juggle multiple gigs, from theater performances to photography and bartending, to make a living. The article argues that the precarious nature of the artist's life is a testament to their dedication and resilience, as they continue to create and perform despite the financial obstacles.

  • Jenna Moll Reyes has appeared in nearly 700 performances of 'Romeo and Juliet' since 2018 as part of DCPA Education's 'Shakespeare in the Parking Lot' program.
  • Moll Reyes was gainfully employed for six months of 2022 performing in David Byrne's 'Theater of the Mind' at the Denver Center.
  • Moll Reyes also struck 'lightning a second time' in 2023 by being part of the Denver Center's 'Sweet and Lucky: Echo' production, which unfortunately closed three months early.

The players

Jenna Moll Reyes

A 35-year-old actor, director, teaching artist, and indie musician who has found success in Colorado's theater scene, despite the financial challenges of the profession.

Colorado Business Committee for the Arts (CBCA)

An organization that publishes a biannual Economic Activity Study, which most recently announced there were 14,466 jobs at arts, culture, and scientific organizations in the metro area in 2024.

Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA)

A major arts organization in Colorado that supports dozens of full-time jobs in administration, fundraising, education, and marketing, as well as seasonal contracts for technical and craft artists.

Buntport Theater

A self-sufficient collective of five artists who have managed to pay themselves a modest annual salary for 25 years, a rare feat in the local theater community.

Actors' Equity Association

A union of live entertainers that offers health insurance as a benefit for some of its approximately 800 Colorado members.

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What they’re saying

“Is anyone able to actually make a decent living off theater alone? I'm not talking about acting and waiting tables. I'm talking: Does anyone in Colorado make enough money from working onstage to take a family on a ski trip once a year?”

— Justin Pappas, Local actor (Facebook)

“I think I'm much happier working all these arts- and theater-related jobs than I would be working at a (regular) job. I tried making money being a full-time bartender – and it was just kind of sucking my life out. But when I am doing five different jobs at once that are all theater-related, that's when I am the most fulfilled. Even though it's a lot, it's still transferring all that creative energy into something positive.”

— Jenna Moll Reyes, Actor, director, and teaching artist (Denver Gazette)

“I think theater cultivates fellowship and community in a similar way that church does. We're just facilitating a different conversation in a different way. And I think that's super important because right now our society needs catharsis and escape and understanding, and theater artists allow for that space to be created. We bring people in, just like churches do. And it does create this strong community, both for the artists and for those people who just step in for a brief moment to get away from their 9 to 5 for a few hours.”

— Jenna Moll Reyes, Actor, director, and teaching artist (Denver Gazette)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This article highlights the vital role that artists play in Colorado's cultural and economic landscape, despite the significant financial challenges they face. It underscores the need for greater support and investment in the creative workforce to ensure the sustainability of the arts in the state and the well-being of the artists who bring so much value to their communities.