the great divide
Be a part of the beginning. Breckenridge Backstage Theater introduces The Great Divide, a new folk inspired original musical that brings the spirit of early Colorado to life. Set against the rugged rise of Breckenridge, this workshop production features local musicians and explores the trials of gold mining, long winters and a nation torn by Civil War. As tensions rise, one truth remains: a house divided against itself cannot stand. Breckenridge and Colorado stake their claim in the shaping of The United States of America. Commissioned by Breck Create as a part of the 2025 Breckenridge International Festival of Arts.
SEEKING ACTORS FOR A WORKSHOP PRODUCTION OF THIS NEW MUSICAL (STAGED READING).
Silas Stillman Soule: M - 20s - Silas is a charming union soldier and whistleblower. This real historical figure stood up for what what right in many historical events in the 1800s. An unsung folk hero.
Wyatt Bull Pickett: M - 20s/30s - Confederate soldier and antagonist in our story. He works hard and is not without charm, but his bigoted, backwards ways get the best of him.
Dr. Sage Hardin: F - 20s - Any ethnicity - Ingénue, doctor in the 1800s - tough, funny and lovely. Knows how to make good of bad situations and to fight for what is right.
Mary B: F - 30s-50s - Any ethnicity - Early pioneer entrepreneur. Spitfire mother hen to the racaous inhabitants of the wild west. She is a kind helper- if you're on her good side.
Ezra Freeman: (role pre-cast) M- 30s/40s African American. An entrepreneur, pioneer and former slave. Inspired by real-life Barney Ford.
Father Martin McCormack: M - 40s-60s Irish itinerant preacher. He is kind-hearted and a strong leader. Inspired by real-life pioneer and methodist preacher: "Father" John Dyer.
The Great Divide
Book by Branden Smith
Music and lyrics by Brendan O'Hara
Inspired by the life of Silas Stillman Soule and the pioneers of Colorado
Directed by: Branden Smith
Rehearsal Schedule
August 10 - August 20, 2025 (Exact schedule TBD)
Production Schedule
Opening Night: August 21, 2025
Performances: (4 total) August 21 - August 24, 2025
Stipend: $750
working with us
DEI: BBT is committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive environment and encourages actors of all types to audition for any role regardless of perceived genders or types that are listed in a cast breakdown. BBT follows the Community Standards for Theatre for Colorado.
Our performance and rehearsal space is at the Breckenridge Theater- 121 S. Ridge Street. The stage and facilities are wheelchair accessible. Please reach out to us with housing accommodations requests / additional accessibility questions at info@backstagetheatre.org.
If you do not have accommodations in Summit County, we will provide housing for performers. Please let us know if you DO have local accommodations.
STAGE MANAGERS, Designers and other contractors
Come work in the beautiful mountains of Breckenridge, CO!
We accept submissions on a rolling basis year-round. Please send your information our way! Make sure to note whether you have access to local housing in Summit County, in Denver, or would need to housing provided.
We are accepting resumes for the following:
Teaching Artists (experience with ages 3-18)
Guest Directors & Music Directors
Production Managers and Technical Directors
Stage Managers and Asst. Stage Managers
Designers (Scenic, Lighting, Costume, Sound, Props, Projection)
Sound and Lighting Board Operators
Master Electricians
Graphic Designers, Photographers, and Videographers
Email your resume, website, and/or any supporting materials you may have to info@backstagetheatre.org
Please use "Attn: Season Contractor 2024-25" in the subject heading. In your cover letter, indicate where you primarily reside and if you have access to local housing.