Trinity Rep Honors Founder Milton Stanzler and More for 50th Anniversary

On Monday, March 18, 2013, Trinity Rep honored its past and celebrated patrons who have invested in its future by participating in the theater's legacy giving program. Held the night before the 50th anniversary of the formal incorporation of Trinity Rep as a non-profit organization (March 19, 1963), the evening began with the unveiling of a plaque honoring one of Trinity Rep's founders, Milton Stanzler, who passed away in 2012. Mr. Stanzler's nephew, Arthur Richter shared his recollections of Milton Stanzler's passion for live theater, and the Stanzler family history in Rhode Island.

The theater announced the creation of three named funds within its endowment, which is managed by The Rhode Island Foundation. Established through bequests, these new funds honor the memories of subscriber Victoria Irene Ball (formerly of Providence and Pittsburgh, PA.) Trinity Rep resident composer Richard "DeeDee" Cumming, and former Acting Company member Margo Skinner, and support the programs and activities that were important to them during their lives. Ms. Skinner's nephew, NY actor John Calvin Kelly, shared stories about his aunt's mentorship.

In addition, former Trinity Rep trustee Harris N. "Hershey" Rosen gave an overview of his forthcoming book, So Your Partner Can Go On Living!, which will be published this spring. Trinity Rep announced that Mr. Rosen's book will be offered as a thank-you gift to anyone who documents a planned gift to the theater between now and December 31, 2013. Planned gifts can be made in several ways, including naming Trinity Rep in a will or as a beneficiary of an insurance policy. The current value of these planned gifts will count towards Trinity Rep's Theater for Every Generation Campaign, an $18 million fundraising effort to ensure the theater continues to serve the community for generations to come.

Also present were Susan Kaplan and Betsy Argo who were both involved in the original formation of the company and its incorporation, and longtime resident Acting Company members Barbara Meek and Anne Scurria.

"Events like these are the heart of Trinity Rep," said Kathryn A. Calnan, Director of Development. "As we approach our 50th Season, it's important to remember everyone who has ensured the theater never goes dark and that the dialogue never ends. By taking the time to say thank you, we hopefully inspire the next generation to also see how their small actions have long-lasting reverberations in our community."

Trinity Rep's 50th anniversary season has been announced and can be reviewed at www.trinityrep.com or by calling (401)351-4242.

Pictured: (top) Selma Stanzler smiles at the plaque, unveiled that evening for her late husband and Trinity Repertory Company founder, Milton Stanzler. (side) Betsy Argo, Selma Stanzler, Arthur Richter, Anne Scurria, Susan Kaplan and Hershey Rosen displaying the plaque for Milton Stanzler. Photo Credit: Anne Harrigan.

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