My Time in Creede

A couple of weeks ago I traveled to Creede, CO for the National Winter Playwrights Retreat. Part of their 5th anniversary, my group was the only cohort of new playwrights.

My journey started off eventfully. And, that word is quite appropriate. A 2.5 hour flight to Denver, followed by a 3 hour layover, then a 1 hour flight (on an 8 passenger plane) to Alamosa, CO, ending with a 1.5 hour car ride to Creede. Needless to say, it was a long first day. But the journey was so worth it!

Creede is a small mining town. During the winter months there are about 200 residents. Everyone knows everyone! And everyone knows when you are new! But we were welcomed. As a fellow playwright said, it was the first time that I felt like a celebrity! Ann and Manuel Zarate are the founders of this amazing residency and followed the philosophy of no agendas. Our time in Creede was a bout us getting whatever it was we needed, how we needed it. I appreciated that. With no planned schedules, fresh air (although quite thin), picturesque views, and spotty Internet and cellphone reception, I was able to breathe. Breathe differently than I do when in Atlanta. And that breathed new life into my script. A script that I had not touched in 5 months. After two days in Creede, new life birthed out of me and into Remembering Montague. I am grateful.

I got to take a pause in my busy life and wake up to stillness. I mean, how can you not love waking up to this every day?!

On the third day in Creede, my reading was held. Didn't help that 9News was there doing a story on the residency and filmed my reading. Talk about nerves! But, the outpouring was amazing. I got great feedback and encouragement. It really let me know that I am on the right track with this piece. Check out the segment they did below:

During my time there I met some amazing individuals. I created a network and circle of fellow artists that understand this journey. And now we will walk it together. My challenge is to find out how to keep this piece of Creede with me here in Atlanta.