Colorado Springs, CO (June 10, 2025) – This July, Theatreworks Colorado Springs wraps up its 2024-2025 season with Flyin’ West, a moving and empowering story of sisterhood, land ownership, and resistance in post-Reconstruction America. Written by acclaimed playwright Pearl Cleage and directed by Colorado Springs-based artist Marisa Hébert, Flyin’ West opens July 10, 2025, at the Ent Center for the Arts. 

Set in 1898 in Nicodemus, Kansas—the only remaining western town established by African Americans during the Reconstruction era—Flyin’ West tells the story of the fiercely independent Dove sisters, who have built a life for themselves on the western frontier. When challenges arise that threaten their autonomy, the women must unite to protect their home and each other. 

The play is both a celebration and a reckoning—honoring Black resilience, love, and the pursuit of freedom in a time and place rarely depicted onstage. 

The themes of Flyin’ West resonate deeply with Colorado's own history, where women established successful ranches under the Homestead Act, exemplifying the same spirit of determination and resilience portrayed in the play. Similarly, the story of Nicodemus reflects the broader narrative of African American homesteaders seeking freedom and self-sufficiency in the American West. 

Director Marisa Hébert, whose past Theatreworks credits include Every Brilliant Thing, Steel Magnolias and King Hedley II, brings her signature warmth, theatrical innovation, and deep community roots to the production. A celebrated local director and performer, Hébert is known for storytelling that centers truth, humanity, and joy. She joins a powerhouse team of designers and actors, many of whom are making their Theatreworks debuts in this production. 

“Flyin’ West is not just a historical piece; it's an emotional, funny, and courageous story about the enduring strength of women and the importance of community,” says Hébert. “It's an honor to bring this narrative to life in a region with such a rich history of pioneering women.” 

Playwright Pearl Cleage, known for her bestselling novel What Looks Like Crazy on an Ordinary Day and her longtime work as a political speechwriter and playwright, is one of the most essential voices in modern American theatre. Flyin’ West remains one of her most produced plays and has been praised for both its historical resonance and contemporary relevance. 

Performances run July 10–27, with special events throughout the run, including a Designer Hang on Thursday, July 10 and an Actor Interchange on Sunday, July 20. All events are held at the Dusty Loo Bon Vivant Theater at the Ent Center for the Arts. 

Tickets start at $20. To purchase tickets or learn more, visit entarts.org or call (719) 255-8181.

To learn more, visit entarts.org/flyinwest

Media Contact:

Elyce Gronseth
Assistant Director of Marketing & Communications
Ent Center for the Arts at UCCS
egronset@uccs.edu

About Theatreworks Colorado Springs 
Theatreworks Colorado Springs, based at the Ent Center for the Arts at UCCS, is a professional theatre company committed to producing works that engage, challenge, and inspire audiences. With a robust season of diverse performances, Theatreworks connects the Colorado Springs community through the transformative power of live theatre. Visit entarts.org/theatre

About the Ent Center for the Arts 
Located on the UCCS campus, the Ent Center for the Arts is a first-class facility fostering creativity and collaboration. It serves as a central space for the arts, bringing together diverse ideas and people. Visit entarts.org