08/14/2026
It is with heavy hearts that ACTAA shares the passing of a true icon of theatre education, Fred Boosey.
For 37 years, Fred inspired generations of students through his teaching at Parkview Arts and Science Magnet High School in Little Rock. His influence, however, extended far beyond the classroom. Through his mentorship, friendship, and advocacy, Fred touched the lives of hundreds of teachers, theatre educators, communication professionals, and artists across Arkansas.
Fred served as President of ACTAA during the 1980 school year and was a compassionate, thoughtful, and meaningful leader within our organization and our broader community. His commitment to students, educators, and the performing arts leaves a lasting legacy that will continue through the many people he encouraged and mentored.
Our hearts are with the countless Parkview alumni whose lives were shaped by Fred's instruction; our ACTAA Lifetime Members who were blessed by his mentorship and friendship; and the Arkansas theatre community that benefited from his unwavering advocacy for the art he loved.
Thank you, Fred, for the lives you touched, the educators you inspired, and the legacy you leave behind. You will be deeply missed.
Parkview lost more than an educator. We lost a Parkview Family Legend. Mr. Fred Boosey dedicated 37 years of his life to Parkview, pouring his heart, passion, creativity, and wisdom into generations of Patriots. He was instrumental in helping make the dream of a Parkview auditorium a reality and introduced countless students to the transformative world of theater. His impact on Parkview cannot be measured. He started Mimes at Parkview, Tales of the Crypt, and the Medieval Feast, and he played a tremendous role in helping establish one of the best debate teams in the state. But beyond the programs, performances, and accomplishments was the way Mr. Boosey made people feel. He saw students. He believed in them. He challenged them. He encouraged them. And he poured into them.
To know Mr. Boosey was to love Mr. Boosey. That may sound cliché, but in his case, it was simply the truth. He loved Parkview, and Parkview loved him right back. Mr. Boosey was a true living representation of Excellence and Patriot Pride. His fingerprints are on this school, its traditions, and the lives of countless Patriots who will carry his influence with them forever.
We mourn his passing, but we also celebrate an extraordinary life of service, love, creativity, and impact.
Rest Well, Mr. Boosey
From Parkview Family to Forever Family!
🎭❤️🤍💙🕊️
