Over 120 volunteers from the Theatre 29 2016 season were honored at the non-profit community theater’s annual volunteer appreciation dinner Saturday night in Joshua Tree. A delicious dinner, family, fun, recognition and stunning performances were all part of the event held at the Joshua Tree Retreat Center. Memories from the record-breaking successful seven productions produced by Theatre 29 in 2016 were featured in a multi-media presentation featuring live performances from the year’s musicals. Chalise Kunz brought out a standing ovation when she sang “Part of Your World” from the sell-out hit, “Disney’s Little Mermaid.” Kylie Robinson had the appreciative crowd clapping along to a number from “Don’t Hug Me, I’m Pregnant,” and the multi-talented Charles Harvey brought the crowd to their feet again with a poignant and powerful song from “The Secret Garden.” Board President Gary Daigneault presided over the presentation of certificates of appreciation and custom new Theatre 29 volunteer script and production work bags. The prestigious “Volunteer of the Year” recognition went to technical director, set builder, and special effects technician Brandon Hazel. The “Above and Beyond” awards went to Cruz Jimenez and Char Childs. The “Unseen Hero” honors went to Tera Bottorff and Brandy Thiers. The Theatre 29 2017 season begins this Friday, January 13, with the opening of “Sylvia.” 2017 Season tickets are now available at www.theatre29.org or by calling 760-361-4151.
