60 Years of Spokane Civic Theatre

It's ironic that as Civic Theatre prepared to celebrate 60 years of great community service to the Spokane area, the last of its primary founders passed away. One week, Betty Tomlinson died, the first artistic director and general manager. The following week, Dorothy Darby Smith passed on, the "Grand Dame of Spokane" and first president of the board. Both were remembered at the "Best of Civic" concert on Sunday evening.

That was a wonderful walk down memory lane. Many people have moved from the area, or just moved on with their lives and can't afford the time and effort to rehearse two months then spend another month of nights in performance. Kudos to Martha Lou (times have NOT changed all that much!), Janice Abramson, Susan Hardie, and others who rarely showcase their performing skills on stage these days. Jean Hardie capped the evening with one more showstopper as Mother Superior from the Nunsense shows.

Thanks to everyone who performed Sunday night, and to everyone who has given their talents to Civic over the past 60 years.