10/01/2017
As many of you know, the theatre has been dark for about two years, and we have been unable to secure a permanent home and a venue to continue producing shows. It is with sadness and a heavy heart that we announce that the PlayGround Theatre for the Arts has formally closed its doors.
Since our opening production of W***y Wonka in 2011, the PlayGround Theatre provided the opportunity for children of all ages to take the stage. It was our sincere desire that everyone who came through our doors would become involved in, and hopefully develop a passion for, the arts. We had the great privilege of watching so many actors grow into smart, productive, and confident young men and women. By accomplishing that, our little community theatre succeeded beyond our wildest dreams.
There are obviously far too many people who were involved at the PlayGround to name each one, but we would be remiss if we failed to acknowledge those whose efforts built, sustained, and brought a vision to our theatre. The PlayGround Theatre was the brainchild of Doug Salyers, whose passion and love for the theatre was evident in every production in which he was involved, and which set the tone for the theatre’s future. Without the contributions and efforts of David and Brenda Walters, the theatre would never have opened its doors. To all those who also served on the board of directors over the years – Gary Hudson, Shawn Sizemore, Janie Lauber, Chris and Susan Campbell, and Kim Kidd – we are grateful for the time, talent, and resources that you each brought to the theatre. Randall Campbell was instrumental in stepping up when we needed him as our technical director, and for keeping the technical side of the theatre running smoothly. Last, but by no means least, Greg and Alisha Bruce, as managing and artistic directors, became the heart and soul of the theatre, fueled the success of the PlayGround, and helped establish the theatre’s personality. Their devotion to the craft, but more importantly, their love for the actors and their desire to bring out the best in every cast was an invaluable asset to us. We are forever grateful for all of their efforts.
Hundreds of cast members took our stage or worked behind the scenes to ensure that every production was professionally done, and countless more supported us as patrons or donors over the years. Obviously, we can’t mention everyone, but for all involved, you will never know how much we appreciate you. We could never have existed without your help and participation, and your continued support for the theatre helped sustain us. To all of those who supported the theatre through the years, please know you have our deepest and most heartfelt thanks.
As the final curtain falls, we are left with the memories that were created over the years. Through the laughter and the tears, comedy and tragedy, joy and sadness, we will always recall with fondness the adventures we shared, and the life-altering friendships that took root as a result of this endeavor. For everyone who came along for the ride – and it was a good one – you will always be part of the PlayGround family.
To quote Peter Pan, “Never say goodbye, because goodbye means going away, and going away means forgetting.” We will never forget, so instead of goodbye, we will simply remind you to Dream. Big. Always.
Harold & Heather Dyche
