An Evening with Pattie Gonia: FAQ
Keynote, Drag + Dance Party Presented by Breck Create + High Country Conservation Center
Our collaborative event featuring Pattie Gonia (she/they) has sparked community dialogue. We’ve put together this FAQ to address common questions about our upcoming event in a thoughtful and transparent way.
This is a ticketed event, and attendance is optional. Community members are encouraged to choose programming that aligns with their interests.
Pattie Gonia’s work sits at the intersection of art, environmental stewardship and community engagement, making this collaboration a natural fit for Breckenridge. Through humor, creativity, and storytelling, Pattie engages audiences—especially in mountain communities—around protecting public lands, advancing sustainability, and expanding who feels welcome in outdoor spaces. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to:
- Climate action
- Inclusion and community connection
- Creative engagement in social and environmental issues
What is drag? Drag is a form of performance art that uses exaggeration, costume, and storytelling to explore identity, including gender expression. It has evolved—particularly within LGBTQ+ communities—as a creative practice centered on visibility, resilience, and self-expression.
We understand interpretations differ. We support artistic expression in many forms that encourage thoughtful dialogue.
Breck Create is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit funded through a mix of:
- Individual donors
- Grants and foundations
- Sponsorships
- Ticket sales
- Operational support from the Town of Breckenridge
Town funding primarily supports the management of cultural facilities, maintenance of public assets and programs on the historic Ridge Street Arts Square. Programs like this are funded through earned revenue, private support, and partnerships.
Partnerships are central to Breck Create’s model. Collaborations with organizations like High Country Conservation Center allow us to align resources and expand impact around shared goals, including climate engagement and community connection.
Topics like climate, environmental stewardship, and identity can intersect with personal beliefs. Our goal is to:
- Support creative expression
- Foster community dialogue
- Inspire care for the environment
Art has long helped communities explore complex ideas. This program is part of that tradition.
We respect that individuals and families make personal choices about what they attend. This is a ticketed, optional event. Breck Create offers a wide range of programming, and not every event is intended for every audience. At the same time, we aim to reflect a broad spectrum of voices and experiences.
Breck Create and High Country Conservation Center welcome constructive dialogue and support artists whose work fosters public discourse. As organizations rooted in mountain culture, we believe:
- Creativity is a powerful tool for climate engagement
- Diverse perspectives strengthen community
- Programming should invite curiosity, reflection, and conversation
We recognize not every program resonates with everyone. Our goal is to present a range of experiences that reflect the diversity of those who live in and care about this place.
