I am writing this letter to recognize the epitome of selfless giving by some very remarkable people in our community.
I am on the board of the nexStage Theatre in Ketchum. I have witnessed time and again the devotion and determination that the staff of the nexStage and the many actors have shown. But over the last year I have been privileged to witness Keith Moore, Patsy Wygle, Kathy Wygle and Steve and Collett Pruitt face their own devastating personal crises and continue on with dignity, compassion and enthusiasm for others. Despite these obstacles, they would never consider letting "our theater" go dark.
As we enter into this holiday season, their performance in our best production of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" embodies the true spirit of Christmas and theater. Keith Moore and Steve Pruitt, despite their fights with cancer and exhaustion, are demonstrating for the rest of us a true dedication to their art and audience. If you did not know the background of these two amazing men and their amazing spouses, you would just be enjoying a wonderful performance of "A Christmas Carol." But when you have that knowledge, the performance takes you to many levels.
We are reminded of the classic Dickens struggles being played out today. Astronomical Wall Street bonuses are in contrast to those who have lost their homes and livelihood and to the defiance of one to live a full life despite daunting health issues. Throughout all this, the audience is reminded by the gleaming faces on stage that humanity is found in the willingness to give. I for one am grateful to have received their gift.
Deborra Bohrer
Ketchum
