A newsletter from your friends at Pull-Tight Theatre
If you would like to receive this monthly newsletter via email, sign up today.
In This Issue
- A Letter from the President
- Thank You – Savannah Aiello
- Volunteer Spotlight – Glenn Whelan
A Letter from the President
The Agenda for the November 16th Board of Directors Meeting was full of several important topics, many of which are featured in the following sections.
The heart of the November Board Meeting was the selection of the 2026/27 season. This is no easy task, nor should it be. For each Board of Directors at Pull-Tight, the selection of the new season is its most important responsibility.
Making the assignment a bit of a daunting one is that between recommendations submitted by the Play Reading Committee and Director Submittals, we had more than 30 different titles to consider. And only six slots available. The math is further complicated by the need to craft a season that includes comedy, drama, musicals, and a holiday favorite.
Curiously, absent from this debate is a very important constituent – our Patrons. That is why, in anticipation of our meeting, the Board took a moment to put ourselves in our Patrons’ shoes.
This is a person who loves live theatre and prizes those moments when they can share that experience with others. We anticipated their looking through our season ticket brochure. We could envision the thoughts that come to mind ranging from “that’s one of my favorites” to “I’ve never heard of that, but I can’t wait to see it.”
They know that the season ahead at Pull-Tight will make them laugh, make them cry, and make them reflect on matters they may not have pondered in some time, or perhaps ever. In short, they trust Pull-Tight, and as a result, the 2026/27 season is a journey our Patrons will look forward to taking with us with joy. We are finalizing the details associated with the new season, including obtaining of rights from all publishers, and we look forward to announcing it very soon.
We also took some time to reflect on the Past Presidents Reunion, which the Board and I hosted on November 9th. What an extraordinary night that was. Past Presidents from six different decades were present. That is a priceless legacy of leadership, representing an uncommon commitment to and love for Pull-Tight. It was a delight for my fellow Board members and me to hear the history of Pull-Tight told in such a heartwarming and oftentimes lighthearted fashion. Many of the positive changes over the years were noted, especially the new and different shows we are putting on the stage, noting that production values have come a long way, and tech and set change transitions are much smoother. And, for certain, we discussed issues that have prompted spirited debate among the Pull-Tight family in recent months.
Time does not permit my reciting each comment, so I will close with a single thought shared that night by Walt Micksch, Pull-Tight President 1979–1980: “When I came to Pull-Tight, I found a community that was interested in me and in making other people successful.”
Words to live by.
Sincerely,
Cabot
Thank You!
A huge thank-you to Savannah Aiello for overseeing the purchase and installation of our brand-new sound system, and for bringing the entire project in under budget! Thanks to her leadership and the help of the Tech Committee (with special thanks to Michael Hall and Joey Echeverria!), we now have upgraded speakers with ceiling mounts for improved audience experience, new amps, a state-of-the-art sound mixing board, and an iPad for remote mixing. The system also includes 10 wireless mics with lavaliers, 2 handheld microphones, mic stands, a new monitor so the cast can hear the music onstage, and full professional installation. Savannah’s hard work has ensured our productions will sound better than ever!
Did You Know?
Did you know Pull-Tight has over 30 committees?! Thank you to all the artist members who give so graciously of their time and talents! Take a moment to check out the committee page on our website and see who is keeping Pull-Tight running behind the scenes!
Volunteer Spotlight – Glenn Whelan
What first inspired you to get involved with Pull-Tight, and how long have you been with us?
My career took me away from theater performance but I did remain a supporter at Pull-Tight, seeing occasional shows when ticket sales allowed! Three years ago, ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO’S NEST had an emergency need, so I returned to the stage and, having had such a great experience, remained involved ever since.
Can you share a favorite memory or moment from your time here?
When entering the theater for CUCKOO’S NEST, the welcome was so inviting that I found a new home.
What roles or tasks do you enjoy most when volunteering, and why?
Volunteering is the lifeblood of Pull-Tight. Performing is the most enjoyable, but certainly isn’t the only rewarding position. I have done most of the jobs and have joined the Pull-Tight board this year.
What has volunteering at Pull-Tight Theatre taught you or brought into your life?
When I took my first volunteer commitment, I assumed it would be six weeks out of my life. The experience brought a new reality into my life including amazing friends and colleagues.
If you could play any role on stage or in a production crew, what would it be—and why?
While loving every opportunity to be on stage, I find the opportunity to direct as my favorite at this point in my journey. It allows me to continue to explore and learn through other performers and artists.
