The grand old Oriental Theater has been around for a lot longer than two years — it was originally built in 1927 and placed on the National Register of Historic Places 11 years ago — but tonight owner Scott LaBarbera will celebrate two years under his ownership with music from some of the Mile High City’s finest tunesmiths.

The iconic venue at 44th and Tennyson in the Highlands neighborhood features a wide stage, great sightlines and frescos reminiscent of the theater’s late ’20s Exotic Revival genesis (the venue underwent a $250,000 renovation in 2005). Significant sound issues were ironed out a few months ago, and now it’s a fitting place to host comedy, jam bands, indie rock and even variety shows…

Tonight’s anniversary show will feature cellist Ian Cooke and songwriter John Common, both of whom showed up on my Best Local CDs of 2007 list. They’ll be supported by Laura Goldhamer, Handsome Bobby, Elephant Revival Concept, Finn Riggins, Jefferson Hamer, Ieunglis and Jason Cain. Phew. The show starts at 7 p.m. and costs $7 in advance and $10 at the door. For more info visit the Oriental Theater’s website or call 303-455-2124. See you there…