Programs

Colorado Mountain College and Sopris Theatre Company will present The White Chip, a powerful and darkly funny play by Sean Daniels, directed by Julia Whalen. The production will be staged at the New Space Theatre in Spring Valley and features a mix of evening and matinee performances in February. The White Chip tells the story of Steven McAlister, a man who appears to have mastered the art of success. Between hangovers, he graduates from college, builds a thriving theatre company, marries, and secures his dream job at a major regional theatre. But when personal and professional pressures collide—including a failing marriage, a parent’s declining health, and an unraveling career—Steven’s carefully maintained balance begins to collapse. Told with biting humor and emotional honesty, the play explores addiction, ambition, and recovery without sentimentality. Daniels’ script offers a deeply human portrayal of what it means to confront personal failure and rebuild a life with the help of an unexpected community. The result is a story that is both entertaining and unflinchingly real. The CMC production is directed by Julia Whalen, with design by Brad Moore and stage management by Dakota Lavigne. The cast includes Scott Elmore as Steven, with Rebecca Horn and Calvin Parrish appearing in multiple supporting roles. In addition to live performances, select shows will include livestream and post-show conversations, creating opportunities for audiences to engage more deeply with the themes of the play. Performances take place at the New Space Theatre in Spring Valley on February 6, 7, 13, and 14 at 7 pm, with matinee performances on February 8 and 15 at 2 pm. Livestream and post-show conversations are scheduled for February 7, 8, and 13. Tickets are priced at $20 for adults and $15 for seniors, students, and CMC faculty and staff.

Colorado Mountain College culinary faculty will take center stage at an upcoming TEDxBreckenridge Salon event titled “Elevated Cuisine: The Science and Art of Cooking at Altitude,” scheduled for January 15, 2026, in Frisco. The event highlights the expertise of Chef Kevin Clarke, CCE, JD, Director of Culinary Education at CMC’s Summit Campus, and Chef Bernhard Schrag, Executive Chef of the Recreational Culinary Institute at the Summit Campus. Together, Clarke and Schrag will explore how high elevation influences the science of cooking and baking — from water boiling at lower temperatures to changes in moisture retention, fermentation, and leavening. Drawing on years of professional and instructional experience, they will explain why recipes often need to be re-engineered in mountain environments and how chefs adapt techniques to maintain consistency, flavor, and texture at altitude. Both faculty members bring deep academic and industry backgrounds to the conversation. Clarke has led CMC’s culinary programs for more than two decades, mentoring students who regularly compete at the national level. Schrag contributes an international perspective shaped by his work as an executive chef and educator, with a focus on precision, creativity, and culinary fundamentals. The Salon format encourages discussion and audience engagement, offering participants an opportunity to connect culinary science with everyday cooking experiences. Designed as an intimate, conversation-driven event, the TEDxBreckenridge Salon Series brings together local experts and community members to explore ideas rooted in mountain life. By featuring CMC faculty, the event underscores the college’s role in advancing applied education and sharing expertise beyond the classroom — connecting academic knowledge with the broader community. Learn more about the event:https://www.tedxbreckenridge.com/events/2026-01-15-salon-elevated-cuisine/