Stiff in a Barrel serves up laughs, mystery at Gunnison Arts Center

For more than 40 years, Six Points Evaluation and Training has been doing something that comes naturally in a small community: helping neighbors help neighbors.

On Oct. 12, the Gunnison Arts Center held a performance of Stiff in a Barrel, Calvin Curry's 12th annual murder mystery play in the Black Box Theater. Curry, who has been a part of the Six Points community for over 25 years, said, "We had a blast," and was proud of, "People being able to come see something that I created."

Based in Gunnison, Six Points works with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and people with traumatic brain injuries, helping them build job skills, gain independence and take part in everyday community life.

The play, under the direction of Lisa Dennis and Mike Callahan, included the actors Steve Barnett, Jennifer Zeikus, Duane Vandenbusche, John Waters, Calvin Curry, Karen Bathje, Dusto McGuinness and Nieset LeFevre, in order of appearance.

"Thirteen years ago, I happened to see a draft of a story that Calvin had written. I called him right away and proposed turning that excellent story into a "readers theater," stage production. He agreed, and the next year we presented a show based on that story on the Gunnison Arts Center stage. The response was terrific, so over the next dozen years we collaborated on ten more shows. Calvin is already at work on next year's show. I can't wait to read it and then get it on stage. The magic in all of this is that there are always more folks who want to be in one of Calvin's shows than there are roles," said Callahan.

The organization got its start in the 1970s, when local parents and others saw a need for more opportunities for people with disabilities. What began as a grassroots effort has grown into a range of programs serving people throughout the Gunnison Valley and beyond.

Work is a big part of that effort. Six Points helps people learn job skills, look for employment, and, when needed, provides support once they are on the job. The goal isn't simply to find someone a job, but to find work that fits the individual and gives them a chance to contribute.

Six Points also works with local businesses to connect clients with employment opportunities. That means the organization’s work can be seen all around town — not only at the thrift store it operates, but wherever someone who has received support from Six Points is working, volunteering or simply taking part in community life.

It is a familiar Gunnison Valley formula: give people a hand, give them a chance and let them find their own way. Stay tuned for news regarding Curry's next play.