Longtime Theater Operations Manager Cathy Oliver officially retired earlier this week, marking over 27 years of service to the Woodland Opera House.
Oliver joined the Opera House on April 1, 1996, when she was hired on as the box office manager. Throughout her career, Oliver has had the opportunity to share the Opera House with not only her children, but now her grandchildren.
"My kids were of similar age to my grandchildren now, when I started," Oliver said in her retirement announcement. "My son, Cameron was seven and son Jeff was 11 then. Both participated in the summer 'The Wizard of Oz' production that year. And now I have a grandson, Koven, who is nine, and granddaughter, Remy who is eight. Remy just took the stage in the Show Biz Kidz production. She and I appeared in the same playbill — my last and her first."
The Opera House celebrated Oliver with a small celebration at her final staff meeting on July 27 and honored her with a special message on their Main Street marquee, an email blast and social media posts on Instagram and Facebook which garnered dozens of well wishes and congratulations from the community.
Co-workers of Oliver spoke to her strong familiarity with the community and sparkling sense of humor.
"After more than 27 years with the Opera House, Cathy had become the face of the theater as she welcomed in long-time patrons and those who were new," said Mary Nauer, director of operations at the Woodland Opera House. "Her positive demeanor, quick wit and friendly nature were a beacon of light to anyone who came in contact with her.
"We will sorely miss Cathy. Her departure is truly the end of an era, and we wish her well in retirement."
The Woodland Opera House also recently celebrated the retirement of former Executive Director Angela Baltezore at the end of June. Baltezore became the executive director in February 2014, serving for nine years. Before that, she served as the education director at the theater.
The Woodland Opera House Board of Trustees announced that Tom Burmester would be taking over as executive director following an extensive nationwide search process.
"I feel very comfortable retiring now because the WOH is in great hands," Oliver said. "Thank you all for making my time at our theater so enjoyable and special. I appreciate each and every one of you, from the backstage tech crew, to the board, actors, my co-workers, and to the ticket holders. I look forward to seeing you when I come to the shows!"
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