Almost every day, I get to work with the same cast of characters, all of whom enrich this experience in one way or another. Each one of us has our own part to play to make sure the show does go on. The leads can take the spotlight most often, but it is the ensemble that deserves the recognition also. Within this ensemble is a special group of men and women who gladly volunteer their time to this theatre as ushers. Not one show goes by without a team of ushers manning the doors, taking tickets and assisting the patrons and staff. They allow for our events to run smoothly.

The service provided by each usher warrants recognition. They have their own jobs, their own lives, their own stories—where this theatre is only one chapter. With all of this, they appreciate this place that much to take time out of their busy lives to help with our mission. For that we hold an Usher Appreciation Party every year to turn the spotlight to this commendable group.

This night brings everyone together. It is a night for the ushers, but it is also a communion of the hard working staff. We all get to kick up our feet and become the served.

Held at the lovely University Club, the view of a downtown Jacksonville sunset, flooded with golden pinks and fleeting blues, was a beautiful compliment to the rising atmosphere in the banquet hall. Mingling at tables, flashes from cameras, fine dining, a few cocktails and lots of happy faces filled the space. At one point, all attention was on Sam Williams, assistant house manager and usher coordinator, who presented each and every usher with a prize from the annual raffle of gift certificates, wine packages, jewelry and other donated items. But to his surprise, the ushers pulled a switcheroo on Mr. Williams, who just so happened to be celebrating his birthday, by presented him with a gift certificate of his own as recognition for not only his birthday but for all the hard work he does as leader of the usher pack. What a team, if I may say so myself.

It gives you a warm, cozy feeling in your chest when you realize you are apart of an organization that is capable of pulling together like this—maybe that was the vodka, but looking around that room, I saw a group of people who share a common appreciation for one of the most exquisite buildings in Jacksonville and that made me smile. With our titles checked with the coats, we danced the night away…well until they made us leave, but nonetheless a wonderful time was had by all. Now we have entered another season of shows, another season for the ushers to show us yet again how important they are to this theatre. And so came to a close the annual Usher Appreciation Party. We work together, yes, but those that work and play together, stay together. That sounds like something I should embroider on some towels for the usher lounge….