A Denver tradition continues this November when The Last Waltz Revisited, an annual showcase of more than 40 Colorado musicians, takes the stage on Wednesday, November 21 (aka the night before Thanksgiving).

It all started in 2005 when Denver-based jam band Polytoxic decided to bring great, local musicians they’d been playing with together in one place. They based the event around The Last Waltz, Martin Scorsese’s 1978 concert documentary about The Band‘s last performance, which featured appearances by plenty of well-known artists (think: Eric Clapton, Neil Young, and Joni Mitchell). The initial The Last Waltz Revisited was meant to be a small show—but it sold out in minutes and Polytoxic decided to make it an annual event.

The 2012 version will include a full horn section and performances of 30-plus songs originally done by The Band. Some of the musicians you’ll see on stage include CR Gruver, Bridget Law (of Elephant Revival), and Chris Sheldon (of Great American Taxi). In the spirit of giving, show-goers are asked to bring seven canned food items to donate to the Denver Rescue Mission (a portion of the night’s proceeds also go toward the organization). In return, they’ll receive a limited-edition poster commemorating the concert.

Tip: The show has sold out every year, so get your tickets ($22.75 in advance, $25 at the door) at Ogdentheater.net soon.

—Image courtesy of Tobin Voggesser

Daliah Singer
Daliah Singer
Daliah Singer is an award-winning writer and editor based in Denver. You can find more of her work at daliahsinger.com.