Know a NPAC volunteer? Thank them!

Certain situations remind me of the value of a Niswonger volunteer. This past weekend, Million Dollar Quartet was in town for a Sunday evening performance. Tickets ranged from $30 to $55.

The show arrived in Van Wert Sunday morning at 9. There to meet them was an army of volunteers, along with a few union workers needed to fill the labor requirement dictated in the contract. A total of 16 volunteers worked beside 12 Fort Wayne union laborers to move the show in from the two 53-foot semi-trailers. There were also riggers, weight loaders, carpenters, flymen, electricians, sound, props, wardrobe, runners, and loaders who were needed to make this show appear on our stage.

Although we sometimes need to hire laborers, there are a number of local people who find it in their heart to volunteer out of civic duty. I think (hope!) they enjoy being a part of a team that makes a touring Broadway show happen in our hometown. They get very little other than a pat on the back and an occasional “attaboy!”  And I’m not sure that they even really think much about the value to others they create by their volunteerism. I would venture to wage that they save every ticket buyer $10-$15 on the price of their ticket because of their volunteerism. If we had to hire everyone to accomplish the required work of these touring shows, it would definitely affect the cost of the show.

I only hope these people realize the value of their efforts!  I know there are many who have become fraternal brothers and sisters in the backstage crew of the Niswonger. There is something about working a show that gives a person a good feeling of accomplishment.  When the audience applauds at the end of a show, much of that applause should be humbly received by these volunteers.

We cannot say “God bless you” enough, volunteers. All of you: backstage crew, front of house, box office workers, concession workers, and on and on: you are truly the engine that makes the Niswonger tick. Many performing arts centers, theatres, etc., are not as blessed as we are.  It’s just another good reason to live in a community that cares like Van Wert. Thank you! I would love to start naming names, but I’m sure I would leave some off the list. There are so many of you.  So, for now, just know that I, with many others, say a hearty “thank you!” and receive our token “attaboy” and a pat on the back.

This Saturday is the annual OMEA High School Solo & Ensemble Contest. That means our Van Wert County Foundation sponsored Young Artist Recital will be two weeks later. The date this year for our recital is April 21. As in the past, it will be held at First United Methodist Church and begin at 3 p.m.  It is a showcase of the best performances from young talented students of Crestview, Lincolnview, and Van Wert high schools. I wish all of them success and hope they are working diligently on their pieces because I hope to see them on our recital.  I also hope to see you there as we encourage the youth of our county through music.

FINÉ.