A six-person panel led by John DiAntonio, far left, presented the first of three small business panel discussions Saturday following a performance of the world premiere of “General Store” on the Creede Theatre main stage. Based on the themes of General Store, CRT secured the services of Jeff Owsley, director of the San Luis Valley Small Business Development Center, to organize the series.

The first panel discussion involved arts organizations that will be followed by “mercantile” on Aug. 31 at Big River Music and “restaurant” at Arp’s on Sept. 6, both at 9:30 p.m. following the performance of General Store. Participants will discuss what resonated from the show, the realities of running a small business, celebrate the courage of entrepreneurs, and shine a light on new ways to support each other.

Members of the first panel included, from left, DiAntonio, CRT creative director Jessica Jackson, local gallery owners and artists Janet Thompson, Chere Waters and Jody Stroh, and Owsley.

Everyone is welcome to attend the future sessions, which are free.