At face value, it was a modest effort. A friend was leaving her position after twenty-three years, and we wanted to express what she meant to us. It would have been easy for me to assume that she already knew, because her impact was as loud as a theater full of applause, and as glittering as a stage full of dancers. 

 

Four score people came. This is a fraction of the crowds who walked through the entrance all those years on opening night, never mind the students who slipped in the Cast door for rehearsals. 

 

We expressed our gratitude on cards, and tried to name the many shows that came to life under the spotlights she pointed. A tradition among teenagers was to write goofy or sappy awards on paper plates, since that was all they could afford. Hence, the pile of accolades from people both absent and present, for particulars about the woman who made it possible for them to shine on stage. 

 

Women brought warm apple pie, red roses, and cheese platters. Strapping young men hoisted chairs up the stairs, and after it was over, back down again. A father and his daughter sang about friendship, and being there for one another. John and I sang as well. 

 

 

 

 

What surprised me, was, that she was surprised. Not about the event, but rather that we are deeply grateful. I think she was absorbed by drilling plywood, and operating the lightboard, and never noticed that she made such a difference. Maybe we forgot to tell her, until now.