Keeping Theater Alive

Artistic expression can bring people together. For the residents of Westcliffe, Colorado, the preservation of the Jones Theater is an enduring symbol of community pride and creativity.

The Jones Theater is at the center of downtown Westcliffe. In the early '90s, the theater was in danger of being converted into a laundromat until Anne Kimbell Relph stepped in. Her passion for the arts began when she was an actress in Hollywood. Today, her daughter Christiane Relph continues her legacy as the Executive Director of the Westcliffe Center for the Performing Arts.

The Jones Theater is now a thriving hub of the community thanks to the support of the local hardware store Valley Ace Hardware. Owners Sarah Handy and Paul Wenke help raise funds for the theater and they also donate needed tools, paint and supplies to help maintain the theater and sponsor performances.

"This last production, they gave us lumber so we could construct a set, which was a fabulous donation," said McKenzie Hoffman, an actress at the theater.

"The biggest thing we do to support the theater is the Valley Ace Hardware golf tournament," said Sarah. "The first year we raised 12 thousand dollars. The following year, another 12 thousand dollars."

In total, Valley Ace Hardware helped raise over 60 thousand dollars for the theater through fundraising efforts. The tournament brings the community together, and it has brought awareness to the theater.

"What the theater does in this community is beyond what you can imagine," said McKenzie. "They touch so many lives. From the kids in creativity camp, to the people passing through, it's something that we can all just let go of our differences and be creative."

"Our desire, our need, is to develop this community," said Sarah. "We're all in this together, and I feel that every day."