Reserved seats for the March 14 benefit performance of “Tuesdays with Morrie” at the Lemon Bay Playhouse sold out. Thanks to the efforts of the Friends Fundraising Committee, assisted by Board members, locals, and visitors who support the library, ninety- five reserved seats costing $25 each, a 50/50 raffle, and refreshment donations brought in over $2,500, money that will help the Friends sponsor free programs for children, teens, and adults throughout the year.
Prior to the sold out performance, Friends committee members welcomed ticket holders in the Playhouse lobby. At the last minute, they learned that actor, Murray Hudson, due to a bad fall, was unable to perform his role as the terminally ill professor, Morrie Schwartz. That’s when the show’s Director, Ric Goodwin, took over by reading the script, and his outstanding performance moved many in the audience to tears. Jim Griesmeyer, who portrayed Mitch Albom, a former student seeking lessons on how to live a better life, spoke directly to the audience in a number of equally moving scenes. When the actors spoke directly to each other Director Goodwin allowed the audience to focus on the two characters and the inspiring and poignant dialogue they were sharing with them.
The success of the Friends fundraising project would not have been possible without the generosity of The Lemon Bay Playhouse, staff, actors, director, and stage manager, who donated their facility and talents. Lemon Bay Playhouse Executive Director, Bob LaSalle, explained that the Playhouse mission is to give back to the community by offering a yearly benefit performance to a non-profit organization that provides services to the Englewood community. Thankfully, they chose The Friends of the Elsie Quirk Library this year.
