SAN LUIS VALLEY— “The Milagro Beanfield War,” the novel, was written by John Nichols and published in 1974. As the story goes, most of the west side of Milagro was deserted except for the land of Amarante Cordova and the land Jose Mondragon inherited from his father. A wealthy developer, Ladd Devine now owned the other farmers' land.
The beanfields were barren because over 35 years ago there were complicated legal and political maneuverings known as the 1935 Interstate Water Compact, and much of Milagro's Indian Creek water had been reallocated to big-time farmers in the southeast portion of the state or in Texas.
This caused a deep, long-smoldering, and relatively universal resentment by the folks in Milagro.
Still, nobody had ever figured out how to bring water back to that deserted westside land. But Ladd Devine and his assortment of vultures planned to make the westside green again. The project they were pushing was called the Indian Creek Dam.
Tired like most of his neighbors, Jose suddenly decided to irrigate his dad's little beanfield on the west side and grow himself some beans. This was certain to cause a war.
Director Millie Duran, with Casa Milagro Youth Solutions (CMYS), and John Nichols began talking over three years ago. CMYS was focused on Theater of the Oppressed. Nichols clearly understood the correlation between his fictional novel and the oppressive prominence of land grants and water rights that the San Luis Valley had been fighting for over 300 years and that continues today.
Duran asked Nichols if he was willing to allow permission for Casa Milagro Youth Solutions to write a play from his novel, “The Milagro Beanfield War.” After about a month of talking at great lengths and sending him our brochure and information about CMYS's work, Nichols agreed.
Unfortunately, Nichols passed away on Nov. 27, 2023, and did not get to read the script in progress or see a performance.
However, we pay tribute to and honor John Nichols for his dedicated work in social justice. “The Milagro Beanfield War” is loved by many worldwide and holds deep, engrained connections to the generations who endured these struggles. Many of our youth actors are heirs to the land grants in the Valley, and they are here to share this story with Nichols's humor in every direction. Gracias, John Nichols.
For our youth, this was a challenge they never imagined they would take on. Each actor, despite having no prior experience, plays several characters between four and eleven and has worked tirelessly for hundreds of hours, demonstrating unwavering commitment and integrity to this valuable production. Their dedication is truly inspiring.
The parents, too, have been invaluable, adjusting their schedules to accommodate the constant changes. We acknowledge them with tremendous gratitude.
Our communities have been instrumental in this undertaking, assisting us in numerous tasks. Whenever we needed help, they were always there, ready and willing to pitch in. Their support has been invaluable, and we are proud to be part of such a supportive community. We are indebted to every one of them.
The play has been performed in the Valley in San Luis, Alamosa, and Saguache and will have a final show in Conejos on Thursday.
“The Milagro Beanfield War” will be performed at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish Hall in Conejos on Thursday, Sept. 12. Doors open at 5:15 p.m., and admission is free.
