Venice Theatre Celebrates Volunteers

“Superheros” was the theme of Venice Theatre’s annual volunteer appreciation party held Monday, May 13, 2019. Volunteer Coordinator Kim Kollar invited guests to dress in their favorite superhero costumes, and they did not disappoint. Sighted at the party were Spider Man, Super Man, Wonder Woman, and a few lesser-know heroes like Orange Crush and Rasta Mon, to name a few. 
 
350-some volunteers enjoyed the party which kicked off with an open bar in the lobby followed by entertainment and an awards ceremony in the theatre’s MainStage. Executive Producing Director Murray Chase and Artistic Director Allan Kollar presented more than a dozen awards (a list follows); six new members were inducted into the Hall of Fame for outstanding service and dedication over a period of at least 15 years; and four graduating high school seniors were recognized.

Chase and Kollar also highlighted the success of the new Youth Production Company’s sell-out production of the play Almost, Maine; the 99th birthday of long-time volunteer and tap dancer extraordinaire Shirley Gawne; the on-stage surprise marriage proposal to leading lady Ashley Figlow during the curtain call of 42nd Street; the fact that 42nd Street became the theater’s highest-grossing show ever; and the special event staff fondly referred to as the “orange crush” who helped guide patrons to the theatre during the road construction through most of the 2018-2019 season. Chase says, “Our theatre community experienced a tremendous level of success this season and we tried to acknowledge it all.”

A new scholarship was named for Yvonne T. Pinkerton, one of the theatre’s pioneers of its education and outreach programs. The Yvonne T. Pinkerton Rising Star Scholarship in recognition of a young adult beginning their second act of life, who has spent hours and years volunteering and growing at Venice Theatre was given to Charlie Kollar and Megan Hartnett. 

Entertainment was provided by tap dancers from The Silver Foxes as well as cast members from the productions of Honk! A Musical Tale of the Ugly Duckling and Always … Patsy Cline. 

Each year the theatre gives away a theatre trip to New York City as a grand prize. Volunteers who have served 500 hours or more are eligible to win. This year’s recipient was Bill Atz, a volunteer who accumulates his hours each season as a performer, most recently in 42nd Street and with The Silver Foxes.  

After the awards ceremony, superheros gathered outside for dinner from Daryl’s BBQ, dancing and fun.