Pueblo Theater Takes Bold Stand with Matthew Shepard Story, Sparking Important Colorado Dialogue

As Pride Month unfolds across Colorado, Pueblo's Steel City Theatre Company is courageously bringing a powerful piece of regional history to the stage that resonates deeply with Rocky Mountain communities. The company's production of "The Laramie Project" chronicles the tragic 1998 murder of Matthew Shepard just across Colorado's northern border in Wyoming, challenging local audiences to confront ongoing issues of acceptance and equality.

The documentary-style production, which opens June 12 in downtown Pueblo, carries particular significance for Colorado communities, given the state's proximity to where the historic tragedy occurred. The play features over 60 authentic interviews with Laramie residents, offering a raw, unfiltered look at how a hate crime impacts a western community similar to many in Colorado.

Local Impact Sparks Important Dialogue

"I think that these conversations are really important, especially as we're looking at some hate crimes against trans people," explains Andrea Garrett, managing director of Steel City Theatre Company.

The production has already generated significant discussion in southern Colorado, with theater officials noting that while some social media pushback has emerged, most negative responses have come from outside the Pueblo community. This dynamic highlights the ongoing challenges facing LGBTQ+ Coloradans, particularly in smaller communities.

Cast Members Emphasize Contemporary Relevance

Local performers stress the production's significance for modern Colorado audiences:

• Zachary Price, cast member: "I think the message here is not only presenting Matthew Shepard's story, but also everyone else's story around it."
• Macie Gross, cast member: "I just feel it's very, very important to do this now to show people like, 'Hey, this is what's going on. This is still an issue.'"

The production runs June 12 through 21 at Steel City Theatre Company on North Main Street in downtown Pueblo, offering Colorado families an opportunity to engage with this pivotal piece of regional history that continues to shape conversations about inclusion and acceptance in Rocky Mountain communities.

For Colorado residents interested in supporting local theater while engaging with important social issues, tickets are available at the Steel City Theatre Company's downtown Pueblo location.

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