It’s hard to take in: More than a year since normal life around the world came to a screeching halt. Last March, Broadway went dark along with every other performing arts organization. As you know, the Woodinville Repertory Theatre suddenly found itself shuttered right after opening our production of Neil Simon’s Chapter Two. 

Throughout history, the performing arts have helped humankind understand, endure, and rise out of dark times with hope and resolve. But voices of hope, reliance and inspiration were suddenly limited to what could be communicated remotely. Unable to work, actors, directors, scene designers, costumers, producers, directors, prop masters, lighting designers, stagehands, box office and management staff have experienced severe economic hardships. And just as some of our favorite eateries may never return, some of our wonderfully eclectic performance houses will fail to survive.

Every one of us has been affected and challenged by COVID-19. I suspect it will be years before we can truly begin to understand its profound effect on us. While we are still coming to grips with the devastating loss of life, income, and community, many have also become creative warriors – reinventing businesses, working to create vaccines, stepping up to provide essential services and finding new ways to preserve our sense of community. Amidst our despair, the innovation, dedication, and determination have been something to see.

The Woodinville Rep ventured bravely into the new virtual world to keep as connected with our community as possible, presenting an online multi-media production of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and a virtual holiday show, ‘Tis the Season, A Christmas Sampler. Both are still available on our website. Our latest offering is an online game called The Masked Actor. Will you be able to unmask the actors correctly? Check it out! 

You, our patrons, have been wonderfully generous, making donations whenever you could. Everyone associated with the Woodinville Rep wants you to know that our spirits are unbowed, and our resolve is firm. Our plans are progressing, and we’re so very, very excited to announce our abbreviated 2021 Season in the coming weeks! With ever-open minds and hearts, we look forward to seeing you again in person. So, stay tuned. 

And … scene.

Melanie Workoven

Local actress Melanie Workoven has been a part of the Woodinville Rep since its founding. She is a board member and former artistic director.