The Madams of Central Colorado

The popular “Madams of Central Colorado” will return to the Buena Vista Heritage Museum in 2011 for one performance only - Saturday July 2 at 7 p.m.  Last year's show at this time was sold out. 

From Cockeyed Liz, whose former Palace of Joy is less than a block from the museum, to archrival Belle Brown, Salida’s Laura Evens, and Lillian Powers of Florence, the madams and their girls discuss how they got into “the business” and other aspects of life as a fallen woman at the turn of the last century.

Although the subject matter is touchy, the performers keep the discussion as tasteful as possible, focusing on educational and historical aspects. However, no children under 13 will be allowed.

Seating is limited. Tickets are $15 and are available at the Buena Vista Chamber and the museum; BV Heritage members receive a discount. Doors open 30 minutes early for seating and ragtime piano music performed by Buena Vista's own Bev Werner. 

Many local women have donated their time for the performances and enjoying sharing their knowledge.  The reason for the one show at the Museum is that the Smithsonian Exhibit "Between Fences" will be set up in their parlor.  The Madams are looking into taking the "cat wagon" to Leadville and visiting guests at the Delaware Hotel on Harrison Ave.  They may also visit Laura Evens old bordello on Sacket St if the current owners (the Monark Shrine Club) will have them.  Check back to see where they will be traveling!

Proceeds benefit Buena Vista Heritage, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to preserve and share the history of Buena Vista and Chaffee County. The organization owns the old courthouse museum on Main Street, the Buena Vista depot and caboose in McPhelemy Park, Turner Farm, and the St. Elmo Schoolhouse and Town Hall/Jail Site.

For more information, call 719-395-8458 or 719-395-6612.