Audrey Meadows

* I am saddened by the death of Audrey Meadows (Feb. 5) and would like to share a memory of her with your readers. A fifth-grade friend and I saved our allowances for a month to purchase the cheapest Saturday matinee tickets to the Civic Light Opera production of “High Button Shoes” at the Philharmonic Auditorium. When the day arrived, heavy rain, the long streetcar ride downtown and third-balcony seats did not dampen our spirits. We were as excited as 11-year-olds could be and this first experience with live theater did not disappoint.

We were particularly enthralled with Audrey Meadows, who played Momma and sang the show’s hit song, “Poppa Won’t You Dance With Me.” After the performance we went to the stage door in hopes of getting our programs signed. The rain had discouraged other autograph seekers. When the door opened it was the stage manager. He had been sent by Miss Meadows to see if anyone was waiting. He invited us in and took us to her dressing room. What ensued was a half-hour of pure enchantment. Miss Meadows showed us around her dressing room and the backstage area. She told us wonderful stories about rehearsals and things that had happened to the company on their national tour. As the interview concluded she signed our programs and thanked us for liking the show and her performance.

Audrey Meadows was a sparkling, gracious lady then and remained so throughout her life.

BARBARA BARCLAY

Pacific Palisades

* In recent years, Audrey Meadows gave of herself freely in visits to Los Angeles senior centers. She talked about “The Honeymooners” and answered questions.

WILLIAM R. OSTECK

Los Angeles