Finding the positive

Jamie Ulmer • February 18, 2025

How do you stay positive and find inspiration during difficult times? That’s definitely something on a lot of minds right now. While it might seem cliché I know I’ve seen the positive impact of the arts radiating from activities at TL.

 

“Native Gardens” used humor to spark timely conversations about belonging and perceptions of our neighbors. “Sunday in the Park with George” brought tears to many patron’s eyes as we reflected on the sacrifices we make for our passions and our lasting legacies. We saw joy and excitement on the faces of kids in the audience at our free Suitcase Stories performance and from the stage during the middle school musical “Tut Tut”.

 

That impact is continuing, as our upcoming “Chicken and Biscuits” hilariously explores family and our common bonds. Nothing highlights inspiration like the Penguin Project which has started work for this summer’s show. We’re connecting with the broader community as we are a beneficiary of this year’s St. Patrick’s Day parade festivities (support of those upcoming events helps our education programs).

 

Make no mistake, the challenges are many, and continue to compound. One thing that has always provided inspiration, creative shelter, and community connection is the arts. Let’s work together to keep making sure that stays true.

Theatre Lawrence News & Announcements

Performer kneeling on stage, wearing blonde wig, denim outfit, and holding a microphone.
October 27, 2025
The Theatre Lawrence family is deeply saddened by the loss of our friend Louise ImMasche , who was killed in a car accident on Friday, October 24, following a performance of The Rocky Horror Show . Louise was an immensely talented performer who lit up every room and filled the stage with remarkable energy and charisma. They were kind, generous, and caring - making anyone they shared the stage with feel welcomed and accepted for who they are. Louise appeared in many Theatre Lawrence productions, including Seymour in Little Shop of Horrors , Adam/Felicia in Priscilla, Queen of the Desert , Max in Lend Me a Tenor , and Prince Eric in The Little Mermaid . In addition to performing on stage, they appeared in several fundraisers and volunteered at the theatre, including ushering. Louise was particularly proud to have played Hedwig in last year’s production of Hedwig and the Angry Inch , and was currently appearing for the fifth time as Dr. Frank N. Furter in The Rocky Horror Show . We have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support from individuals and organizations across the country. It is often said that theatre is a family, and we have truly felt the embrace of our extended theatre family during this difficult time. Thank you. A celebration of Louise’s life will be held at the theatre on Friday, Oct. 31 at 11 a.m. "All in attendance are invited to wear something colorful and sparkly." Complete obituary here . On behalf of the Board of Directors, staff, and volunteers of Theatre Lawrence, we extend our deepest condolences to Louise’s husband, Zak, their family, friends, and all who knew and loved them. For those who are unable to attend Louise's Celebration of Life in person, we have created a Zoom link that anyone interested can register for and you will be sent a private link to livestream the event. Here's the registration link: https://us06web.zoom.us/.../reg.../WN_og0oMAz5QGyL-l04cXt6Hg
October 22, 2025
What a night! Theatre Lawrence was rocking a nearly sold out house on October 10 as the Beatles tribute band Yesterday & Today brought down the house at our 2025 Benefit Concert. From the great music, to a surprise wedding proposal, the energy in the room was electric! Thanks to the incredible generosity of our audience, sponsors, and donors, the evening raised approximately $61,000 in net proceeds, with more than $31,000 contributed through the Raise the Paddle for The Penguin Project —our program empowering young artists with special needs to shine on stage. Guests enjoyed great music, delicious food and drinks, and a joyful celebration of community and the arts. We’re grateful to everyone who made it possible—our volunteers, sponsors, and the amazing crowd who filled the theatre with joy and Beatles love!  Check out the full photo gallery.
Man in blue sweater smiles in front of a colorful graphic that says
By Jamie Ulmer October 21, 2025
A snapshot of a typical Tuesday at Theatre Lawrence—where auditions, classes, outreach, and performances bring our community to life all at once.
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