Category Archives: In Other News

The Passing of Robert Weidle

12/17 – Robert’s obituary with Visitation & Funeral Service information.

From the GoFundMe set up to help his family with funeral expenses…

Robert Weidle, Everyone’s Santa (1962-2024)

It is with broken hearts that we announce the sudden passing of one of our longtime family members, the wonderful Robert Weidle. Anyone who met him loved Robert. With his distinctive laugh and gentle demeanor, he had an inherent way of connecting with people instantly. Robert wore many hats at in local theatre: He was a gifted performer, director, producer, board member, and box office manager with Newport’s Footlighters Inc, and he shared his talents with countless other groups in the area, such as Cincinnati Music Theatre, Mariemont Players, The Drama Workshop, Brieabi Productions, and Beechmont Players—just to name a few. He was actively involved with ACT Cincinnati as an adjudicator and ACT representative, as well as OCTA as a board member, regional rep, and OCTAFest chairperson. He performed professionally at La Comedia in such iconic musicals as Cats and Sound of Music. And, of course, with his big infectious smile and jovial disposition, he was known to the entire Tri-State area as Cincinnati’s Santa Claus. In fact, he was THE Santa Claus for an entire generation of boys and girls, many of whom brought their own children to visit with him at the zoo. But his favorite roles were that of partner to David, father to Rob and Cassidy, and grandfather to Mia and Keito. His unexpected passing leaves a hole in our organization as big as his generous and kind heart. We will miss him terribly.

With Robert’s unexpected passing, there are many financial costs that his children will have to cover. We are using this Go Fund Me to help them defray the cost of his funeral and burial. Thank you for your support for a man who gave us so much joy over the years!

We will announce funeral service information as soon as it is available.

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The Passing of Rick Stein

– Via Tri-County Players Facebook page.

With heavy heart we have to announce the passing of past board member and actor, Rick Stein.

Rick started his journey with TCP in ALMOST, MAINE and was last seen on our stage in last year’s Christmas production.

A talented Stain Glass Artisan, Rick pursued his love of learning by participating in workshops on varies topics including poetry.

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The Passing of Robert Hinman

**In Loving Memory of Robert Lewis Hinman, Jr.**

Robert Lewis Hinman, Jr. departed this life unexpectedly on August 26, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and devotion that forever remain in the hearts of those he cherished. A devoted husband to Koben Hinman (née Kelly), Robert was a dedicated father to his daughters, Stephanie (Joe) Helfrich, Elizabeth Donato of Chicago, Illinois, and Melissa (Matt) Disher. He was a beloved grandfather to Samantha Helfrich, Abigail Helfrich, Alexander Donato, Zachary Donato, and Brodie Disher, who brought immense joy to his life. Preceded in death in 2019, by stepson Brian Brady.

Born into a family rich in love, Robert was the cherished brother of William Hinman of Callaway, Nebraska, and Holly (John) Schario of Nashville, Tennessee. His commitment to family was unwavering, and he treasured every moment spent with his children and grandchildren, particularly at their various events.

An ardent supporter of the Nebraska Cornhuskers, Robert found joy in sharing his enthusiasm for the team with friends and family. Professionally, he dedicated over 35 years to Hormel Foods in sales, where his work ethic and integrity stood as testament to his character.

Robert’s contributions extended far beyond his professional life. A passionate member of the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, he was instrumental in enriching the community through his involvement. As president of Summer Fair and lifelong volunteer, he brought people together, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and fun. Moreover, his voice echoed through the halls of Kings High School Sports, earning him a place in the Kings High School Hall of Fame for his dedication and support of young athletes, including the remarkable 2023 Girls State Volleyball Champion Team. He also served as a past board member of the Kings School District, demonstrating his commitment to education and youth.

A longtime volunteer with the Community Theater, Robert embraced the arts, helping to bring joy and creativity to his community. His kindness and leadership illuminated the lives of those around him, marking him as a pillar of strength and compassion.

Robert Lewis Hinman, Jr. will be profoundly missed, not only by his beautiful family but also by a multitude of friends and community members whose lives he touched. His spirit of generosity and unwavering support will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Luncheon to follow service overflow parking is located at Kenwood Town Center

Link to obituary |

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The Passing of Victoria Marie “Vickie” Greco

TDW_Vickie GrecoFrom Legacy.com

Victoria “Vickie” Marie Greco, 78, passed away on Saturday, June 15, 2024 at Highland Springs in Fort Thomas, Kentucky. She was born in December of 1945 to the late Victor and Dorothy Greco in Campbell County, Kentucky. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Dorothy Stokley and Gerry Greco. She is survived by her three nieces, Cathi Hildebrand, Marci Brooks, Vicki Wright, four great nieces, three great nephews, two great-great nieces and one great-great nephew and many friends.

Following graduation from Academy Notre Dame of Providence, Vickie obtained her Master’s Degree in Education. She worked for the Butler County Board of Education before her retirement. She was a member of a few theater groups, the Alexandria Community Center and the Anderson Senior Center. She volunteered countless hours with various organizations including Newport Independent Schools and Big Brothers/Big Sisters. She loved playing board games and continuing family traditions such as making homemade ravioli and baking cookies at Christmas. Most of all, she cherished her family, friends and beloved pets as evidenced by the many wonderful moments captured by her photography.

Services will be private at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be sent to Brighton Center, 741 Central Avenue, Newport, KY 41071 or The Drama Workshop, 3716 Glenmore Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45211.

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2023-2024 Orchid & OCTAfest Convention Awards

Scroll down for links to Orchid Awards by Group

NAMED AWARDS 

  • ART ROUSE AWARD – Mary Stone
  • MARIO PITOCCO AWARD – Julie Beelman
  • ROGER GROOMS AWARD – Linda Abbott
  • PRESIDENT’S AWARD – Betsy Obermeyer
  • RISING STAR AWARD – Caleb Redslob (ACTUP), Laura Eaton (BPI), Sean Walker-Mize (CSP), Alex Shaw (CMT), Beth Boland (FLI), Olivia Lovett (GTP), Davis Byrd (INNOVA), Michael Yarick (LSC), Natasha Boeckmann (MPI), Mike Pateras (MCP), Michelle Bellany (QCP), Logan Dunn (SSP), Clare Hingsbergen (TDW) & John Leo Meuthing (VP)
  • SPIRIT OF COMMUNITY THEATRE AWARD – Jennifer Richardson and Greg Schaper

OCTA_logoEXCERPTS INVITED TO REPRESENT THE SOUTHWEST REGION AT STATE

  • ONLY ROSE – CenterStage Players
  • THE TIN WOMAN – The Drama Workshop
  • THE BOOK OF WILL – Mariemont Players
  •  Agatha Christie’s MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS – Footlighters, Inc. (Alternate)

EXCERPT AWARDS 

Below is the list of OCTA awards for the shows that excerpted over the weekend.

DOUBLEWIDE, TEXAS
Village Players of Fort Thomas

  • Merit in Acting – Helen Merritt as Larken Barken
  • Merit in Acting – Jimmy Jackson as Norwayne “Baby” Crumpler
  • Merit in Acting – Susan Smith as Caprice Crumpler

ONLY ROSE
CenterStage Players

  • Outstanding in Acting – Nick Dunker as Tom
  • Outstanding in Acting – Mary Jo Bissmeyer as Rose
  • Outstanding in Duo Acting – Nick Dunker and Mary Jo Bissmeyer
  • Outstanding in Original Script – Dennis Murphy
  • Outstanding in Costumes – Dennis Murphy
  • Outstanding in Directing – Dennis Murphy
  • Excellence in Set Design -Dennis Murphy
  • Excellence in Ensemble – Cast of Only Rose         
  • Merit in Acting – Amy Eyers as Edwina

Agatha Christie’s MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS
Footlighters, Inc.

  • Outstanding in Direction – Becky Collins
  • Outstanding in Costumes- Sophie Grant
  • Outstanding in Acting – Fred Murrell as Hercule Poirot
  • Excellence in Acting – Jennifer Day as Helen Hubbard
  • Excellence in Acting – Hope Pauly as Greta Ohlsson
  • Excellence in Ensemble- Cast of Orient Express
  • Merit in Acting – Barb Timmons as Princess Dragomiroff
  • Merit in Sound Design – Jason Cox

THE TIN WOMAN
The Drama Workshop

  • Outstanding in Acting Dan Maloney as Jack
  • Outstanding in Acting – Christie Bishop as Hank
  • Outstanding in Acting – Jessie Faye as Sammy
  • Outstanding in Ensemble – Cast of The Tin Woman
  • Excellence in Direction – Jerry Wiesenhahn
  • Excellence in Acting – Rose Vanden Eynden as Alice
  • Merit in Acting – Kendra Dunahugh as Joy

ABOVE THE SAND
Mason Community Players

  • Outstanding in Costumes – Gail Rudolph and Linda Geering
  • Excellence in Orchestra – Orchestra of Above the Sand
  • Excellence in Original Script – Thomas Davis
  • Excellence in Musical Theatre Performance – Corey Meyer as Wilbur Wright
  • Merit in Musical Theatre Performance – Eva Bower as Katharine Wright
  • Merit in Vocal Ensemble – Cast of Above the Sand

THE RED VELVET CAKE WAR 
Loveland Stage Company

  • Excellence in Costuming- Carissa Sloan
  • Merit in Acting – Lauren Rinner as Peaches Verdeen Belrose
  • Merit in Acting – Nancy Rzonca as Jimmie Wyvette Verdeen
  • Merit in Acting – Justin Hanks as Newt Blaylock
  • Merit in Acting – Charlie Raider as Purvis Verdeen

THE OUTSIDER
Sunset Players

  • Excellence in Acting – Ray Smith as Ned Newley
  • Excellence in Acting – Brian Costa as A. C. Peterson
  • Excellence in Direction – David Roth
  • Merit in Acting – Rachel Brzezinski as Louise Peakes
  • Merit in Ensemble – Cast of The Outsider

THE 39 STEPS, EVEN MORE ABRIDGED
Tri-County Players

  • Outstanding in Acting – Evan Beckmeyer as Richard Hannay
  • Outstanding in Duo Acting – John Dorney and Kathleen McDaniel as Clown
  • Excellence in Direction – Sarah Hoback and Dane Rogers
  • Excellence in Costumes – Betty Coulter and Cast
  • Excellence in Props – Mindi Emmons, Sarah Hoback, Dane Rogers, and Gregory Smith

THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME 
INNOVAtheatre

  • Outstanding in Musical Theatre Performance – Jacob Nichols as Quasimodo
  • Excellence in Musical Theatre Performance – Jason S. Lakesas Dom Claude Frollo
  • Excellence in Costumes – Poleena Greely
  • Merit in Musical Theatre Performance – Grace Goodwin as Esmerelda
  • Merit in Vocal Ensemble- Cast of The Hunchback of Notre Dame
  • Merit in Canine Performance – Blaze the Dog as Dog
  • Merit in Choreography – Isadore Karick
  • Merit in Lighting Design- Richard Lee Waldeck

GLADYS NIGHTS
Beechmont Players

  • Outstanding in Acting – Maggie Ingram King as Gladys
  • Excellence in Acting – Scott Unesas Ray
  • Merit in Acting- Pamela Blessing as Pepper
  • Merit in Acting – Mark Waldfogle as Man
  • Merit in Acting- Lisa Marie White as Techie 1
  • Merit in Acting – Lisa Kuhn as Techie 2
  • Merit in Direction – Steve Phelan
  • Merit in Sound Design – Jason Cox

THE BOOK OF WILL
Mariemont Players

  • Outstanding in Direction- jef Brown
  • Outstanding in Costumes- Linda Roll and Faye Crawford
  • Outstanding in Acting -Keith Cassidy as Henry Condell
  • Outstanding in Acting- John Conrard as John Heminges
  • Excellence in Ensemble -Cast of The Book of Will
  • Excellence in Acting – Mary Stoneas Emilia Bassano Lanier
  • Excellence in Dialect Coaching – Ann Nixon
  • Excellence in Lighting Design – Alan Jeffries
  • Merit in Acting – Wayne Kirsch as Ralph Crane

ORCHID AWARDS

The Orchid Awards are presented at the end of each season determined by an adjudication system of providing three judges per production for each of the ACT of Greater Cincinnati member groups. Orchid awards for the 2023-2024 Season:

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