Photo Flash: Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Hosts Usher Appreciation Party

Over 500 volunteer ushers were honored at the annual Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Usher Appreciation Party on May 10. The ushers were applauded for their dedication and generosity in volunteering their time; without them the City-owned theater would not be able to operate. All the City Commissioners were in attendance and the then-outgoing Commissioners Atwell and Chapman were acknowledged for their strong support of the Hall over the years.

Many volunteer ushers were recognized for their longstanding dedication including: Suzanne Christner for 35 years, Del Wilson 20 years, Joan Hennelly, Ken Nigro, Majorie Piechowiak, Susan Talkovie, Janet Trudeau, Paul Trudeau with 15 years of service. There were also 12 volunteers recognized for 10 years of service and 35 recognized for 5 years. This season 500 ushers have volunteered over 38,000 hours.

Team Captains were also honored for all the great support that they provide: Phyllis and Roger Past, Eileen Smith, Richard Benson, Manuel Goldberg, Rouskweres, Steve Teachout, Frank Kenney, Tom Cunningham, Pat Burrows, Ron Ownes, Shelby Colston, Marie Beck, Kathy Sitterlee, Larry De Rosa, Jim Griesi.

Mattison's Bayside catered the dinner and Beneva Flowers created beautiful arrangements that adorned each table in the Grand Foyer, adding to the perfect setting on Sarasota Bay.

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is always looking to recruit more volunteer ushers with a passion for theater and customer service. For more information on how to become an usher, contact House Manager Dave Colston at 941-955-7676 ext 2280.

Tom Barwin, Suzanne Christner and Dave Colston
Susan Chapman, Mary Bensel and Suzanne Atwell
Mary Bensel