Festival of Arts life members named

Suzie Harrison

Recently at the Festival of Arts/Pageant of the Master’s agenda

annual meeting, Festival of Arts life memberships were given in

recognition of dedicated Pageant volunteers who have donated at least

15 years of their time.

“The giving of a life membership is an opportunity to thank and

honor individuals for the countless contributions of their time and

efforts,” said Sharbie Higuchi, public relations director for the

Festival of Arts.

President Scott Moore announced Dianne Reardon as a recipient.

“The person that I have the honor of presenting the Festival of

Arts Lifetime Membership Award has been an artist exhibitor for seven

years, displaying her black-and-white photographs from her trips to

Europe,” Moore said.

“Her work is a reflection of her soul revealing the same

dedication she brings to her countless hours of volunteer time for

the Festival,” Moore said.

Reardon serves on the board and wears many hats. She is the

secretary and chairs memberships, exhibits and marketing.

Pageant Director Diane Challis Davy awarded five other recipients

for all their hard work and gave a light commentary on their

achievements.

Valerie Hill began as a cast member in 1988 and has posed in a

variety of elegant work. Her first year, she was a living sculpture

of a lithe Olympic gymnast.

“Several years ago, while backstage, she was introduced to Pageant

technical director Richard,” Challis Davy said. “Later, sharing more

than just an appreciation for fine art, they were married in 1998.”

Frank Daniel has volunteered for the Festival for 17 years. He is

affectionately known as J.C. because he plays the role of Jesus

Christ in “The Last Supper” -- the Pageant’s trademark finale since

1936, with the exception of 1973 and 1999.

“I think it was fantastic, nice to receive it,” Daniel said. “It’s

something I enjoy and it makes it nice to make a contribution to the

community. It’s a nice reward for something you enjoy doing.”

Dottie Dougherty is noteworthy for the work she does behind the

scenes, helping organize the cast backstage.

Volunteer floral designer, costumer, seamstress and actress Diana

Lyerla has donated her time as a dresser.

When asked what she likes most about working on the Pageant,

Lyerla said it’s the people, and that she really enjoys the fun she

has dressing the men.

Norma Hardgrove has played a variety of roles over the years.

“But she now has the distinction of being ‘The Last Supper’s’

cross dresser -- portraying the boyishly handsome apostle John the

Beloved,” Challis Davy mused.

“These dedicated volunteers are the unsung heroes who make the

Festival and Pageant a success,” Higuchi said.