–SpeakUp ReachOut, whose mission is to prevent suicide in Eagle County, is proud to present the 3rd edition of This is My Brave – The Show. This live performance at the Vilar Performing Arts Center in Beaver Creek will feature local community members sharing stories about their lived experience with mental illness, suicidal intensity, substance misuse, suicide loss, eating disorders and more, and bring HOPE to those who may be dealing with similar challenges.
Storytelling is a powerful way to reduce stigma and let those who are struggling know they are not alone.
One in five American adults face mental health issues (National Institute of Mental Health),
yet the topic continues to carry shame. “Since This Is My Brave’s inaugural year in 2022 when
eight storytellers took the stage, much has changed,” said Laura Alvarez, SpeakUp ReachOut’s
Program and Events Director. “Storytelling is now interwoven into our work in suicide prevention,
spreading the awareness that others have walked down similar pathways and shared journeys of
recovery. We listen deeply to unique stories because we believe sharing experiences promotes
healing.”
Local cast members, selected after a series of auditions in May, include returning cast member
Daniela Rios, and new cast members Alex Kandalaft, Brenda Saucedo, Devón Sullivan, Joby-
Béatrice Linet, Justin Allison, Katie Kessenich, Mauri Cummins, and Tsvetelina Fuentes. These
Brave storytellers have been rehearsing since August and supporting each other as they prepare
to share their journeys from despair to recovery through dramatic monologue, poetry, and song.
Their lived experiences include suicidal intensity, bipolar disorder, substance misuse, suicide loss,
depression, and eating disorders. By sharing their unique stories, these Brave advocates are
breaking barriers to end stigma and offering hope that recovery is not only possible – it is probable.
This Is My Brave – The Show will also feature special guests Ian Grask, as Master of Ceremonies, and local musician Dave Anderson singing the Brave theme song. The production team includes
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returning co-directors, Travis Wilson and Courtney Russell, mental health professional, Cathy
Schneider, peer support cast member, Julie Kiddoo, and SpeakUp ReachOut team members Erin
Ivie, Laura Alvarez, Leslie Robertson, Kirby Lemon, Emily Kramer, and Kelly Jimenez.
The goal of This Is My Brave-The Show is not only the production itself, but also to create a
support team and safe space for the cast members sharing their stories. “Being part of This Is My Brave was one of the top five best experiences of my life,” shared Julie Kiddoo, 2023 cast member.
“It gave me the courage to share my story, offer hope to others, and find healing and freedom
through the power of expression.”
Showtime is 7:00pm on Friday, September 26 at the Vilar Performing Arts Center. Audience
members will have the opportunity to meet the cast, sponsors, and production team after the show.
