The Sampson Community Theater family has teary eyes and grieving hearts as we lost one of our dedicated members last week when Gary Wilson, 64, was unexpectedly taken from us by his passing. The below was placed on our Facebook page by Angela Martin as she speaks what we all feel but have trouble expressing. Gary was eagerly looking forward to auditions of “Big River” as he wanted badly to play the part of Mark Twain in the show and he would have been great at it.
“It is with saddened hearts that we must tell you of the untimely passing of one of our beloved SCT Board members and actors – Mr. Gary S. Wilson passed away, leaving behind a legacy at our theater that knows no bounds. He was a man of extraordinary talents, who painted wonderful backdrops for us and he starred and acted in numerous productions including Beauty and the Beast (Beast), Lost on the 4th of July (Ben Franklin) and It’s a Wonderful Life 3 times (Clarence), just to name a few. He is survived by his sister, brother and numerous fellow actors and audiences who would come to see their favorite local actor in a play. We will keep you posted on any funeral plans or activities pertaining to Gary as they become available. “Every time a bell rings an angel gets his wings.” (Bell rings) “Atta boy Clarence, atta boy.” Well Clarence you finally have your wings – RIP our sweet and kind friend and fellow Thespian.”
Second auditions for Big River were held on Thursday. This production is being directed by Dan Holland and features roles for all ages. This musical is filled with fun songs and a great message. It is based on the Mark Twain classic, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
Our website is available at: www.sampsoncommunitytheatre.org and we are on Facebook but if you visit us there, we ask that you “like” us while there.
Upcoming events
Disney’s High School Musical — Directed by Angela Martin. Sponsored by David Hobson, Attorney at Law. Rehearsals ongoing. Performances Aug. 21-23 and Aug. 28-30 (8 Shows with 8 p.m. shows on Aug. 21, 22, 28, 29 and 3 p.m. matinees on Aug 22, 23, 29, 30)
Big River — Directed by Dan Holland. Auditions Aug. 6, 2015 at 7 p.m. Performances Sept. 25, 26,27, Oct. 2, 3, 4.(6 Shows)
Best Little Christmas Pageant Ever — Directed by Angela Martin. Auditions Oct 3. Performances Nov. 13-15 and Nov. 20-22. (6 shows)
Taylor Michaels Music and Magic Christmas Show — Performances Dec. 18-19 at 8 p.m. and Sunday Dec. 20 at 3 p.m. This is a fundraiser for the theater and not a patron sponsor event.
Thoughts until next week:
Life isn’t about getting and having, it’s about giving and being.
There is only one way to avoid criticism: do nothing, say nothing and be nothing.
The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.