The Madams of Central Colorado

The popular “Madams of Central Colorado” will return to the Buena Vista Heritage Museum in 2010. Performances are scheduled for June 11, July 3, Aug. 14 and Sept. 11 at 7 p.m.

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.

Many local women have donated their time for the performances. The ladies have also created a 2010 calendar featuring historic dates.

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.