Stones to Be Added to Barter Theatre Walk of Fame
By: A.A. Cristi May. 25, 2017
The dedication of the star stones will take place at 8:00 p.m. in front of the theatre and is expected to last around ten minutes, immediately followed by the opening night performance of "Footloose: The Musical." Both McElroy and Jennings will be present for photos during the ceremony, but will be attending the show immediately after.
McElroy served as President of the Board of Trustees from 1996-2000 and has remained a vital part of Barter Theatre since, including his work assisting in developing new bylaws for the board and writing governing documents still used by the organization.
"During my 24 plus years at Barter Theatre, Howard has been one of the true constants of Barter. He could always be relied upon, was always willing to help both within and outside of his comfort zone, and who has, in my opinion, singularly more influence on what Barter is today than any other member of the Barter family," said Producing Artistic Director Richard Rose. "Howard has done this service with grace, humility, and an intelligence and foresight that I don't even know how to properly appreciate. He has been a true rock for me, and his advice has been of the utmost benefit to Barter's success."
Jennings is being honored for his years of support of both Barter Theatre and the arts in the region. He has served as President of William King Museum of Art, President of Virginia Highlands Festival, Co-Chair of A! Magazine for the Arts, Board Member of Arts Alliance Mountain Empire, and as the Committee Chair for Washington County Library's Friends of The Library meet the authors' series Sunday with Friends. He was also the visionary responsible for the Arts Array series in the region sponsored by Virginia Highlands Community College and in partnership with Emory & Henry College.
"Ben is truly the epitome of a community leader, who has shaped the culture of what it means to live in Abingdon and be part of the broad cultural experience of our region," said Rose. "If you want to meet or make contact with an author - any author - Ben Jennings is your man!"
Barter Theatre asks anyone who would like staged photos to make an arrangement with the Marketing Department so McElroy and Jennings will know they should arrive before the ceremony.
Be sure to get your tickets to upcoming Barter Theatre productions, with tickets for every show starting at $20. Call the Barter Theatre Box Office at 276-628-3991 for more information.
About Barter Theatre
Barter Theatre, the nation's longest running professional theatre, is located in Abingdon, Virginia. The theatre opened in 1933 during the Great Depression. Founder Robert Porterfield offered patrons admission to the theatre by bartering food and livestock. Barter Theatre was designated as the state theatre of Virginia in 1946. It exists today as one of the last year-round professional resident repertory theaters remaining in the United States. Barter Theatre is funded in part by The Virginia Commission for the Arts and The National Endowment for the Arts.
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