The Asolo Theatre Company NEWS
April 4, 2005
Asolo Volunteers Honored
Sarasota, Florida (April 4, 2005) – The Asolo Theatre went all out to recognize its cherished volunteers at the annual Asolo Theatre Festival Volunteer Appreciation Night on Monday, March 28, 2005. In attendance were approximately 400 out of the nearly 600 dedicated volunteers who annually donate many thousands of hours to help the Asolo Theatre Festival provide high quality artistic and educational programs to the community. During the program the Asolo announced and honored its Volunteers of the Year for 2004-1005, Betty McMillen and Wilmer Pearson.
Asolo Marketing Director Susan Melum presented the award and flowers to Betty McMillen, who is known for her willingness to help out in any way she may be needed, from mailings to ushering Betty can always be counted on to pitch in. Betty has specifically been a great help in the Marketing Department with organizing news clippings, photographs and media kits. Betty has a reputation for being one of those friendly people who always makes you feel good.
Natalie Gundrum presented the award to Wilmer Pearson who has been of invaluable help as an usher, in the gift shop and especially to Natalie with setting up every opening night reception. Wilmer’s ever-willing attitude and endless support has made him a true asset and a welcomed member the Asolo family. Wilmer manages to donate generously of his time while still working as a volunteer for a number of other community organizations including the Ringling Museum.
The audience enjoyed entertainment by our very own House Services Manager and Volunteer Coordinator, Ed Folts. Randy Spaulding accompanied on the piano while wonderful audition performance pieces were presented by FSU/Asolo Conservatory students Melissa Teitel, Ross Kidder, Kris Danford, Sam Osheroff, Darlene Horne, and Deanna Gibson.
Lillette Jenkins-Wisner provided an outstanding performance, which ended with all the performers and honorees on stage leading an audience sing-along to a special rendition of ‘He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands.’
A reception was held in the lobby following the entertainment program where guests enjoyed food, wine and other refreshments. The reception also gave guests and staff the opportunity to mingle with and to congratulate the honorees. A wonderful time was had by all.
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The Asolo is funded in part by the Division of Cultural Affairs, Florida Department of State, The Florida Arts Council, the City and County of Sarasota and the Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax through the Board of County Commissioners, the Tourist Development Council (TDC), and the Sarasota Arts Council. The Asolo Theatre Company’s Shakespeare productions are sponsored in part by Shakespeare in American Communities, a national theater initiative sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts and The Sallie Mae Fund in cooperation with Arts Midwest. Additional funding is also received through the efforts of support groups including the Asolo Angel Association, the Asolo Theatre Guild, The Directors Emeritus and the generosity of individuals, corporations and foundations.