As a theatre group, we put great effort into selecting and producing comedies and dramas that hopefully will move our audiences to laughter and tears. We joyfully perform night after night shows that will compel us to either forget life for a while, or to reflect upon it. Little are we prepared, however, for the tragedies that happen off stage without 6 weeks of rehearsal.

This week RCP mourns the sudden passing of a dear member and friend - Katie Alcorn Streetman. Her unexpected death still shocks us. We grieve with her family and as her family.

Katie was a vibrant 38 year old woman; talented, intelligent and fun. Perhaps you saw her grace our stage as the neat and neurotic Florence in "The Female Odd Couple," or as the sad soul singer in "Bus Stop," a flight attendant in "Boeing, Boeing," or the secretary in "Office Hours." Behind the scenes she was the meticulous stage manager who insisted on mimosas before a matinee. We'll miss the bounce of her poofy blonde curls as she darted back and forth wiping the tables in the auditorium. We'll miss the twinkle in her eye as she swore at you from atop a ladder while painting a set. We'll miss the endless smiles of our poker playing friend, the dare-devil who swam across the South channel, of how she looked in her black leather pants, and "good witch, bad witch" bracelet.

To others she was Chief Council of Homeland Security, whose honored farewell was a 21 gun salute, and flag folding ceremony. To Brentt, she was loving wife and soul mate. To their adored young children, Abigail and Brentt, she was Mommy incarnate.

To us, she was simply Katie. With great respect, we give to you sweet friend, a long and loving, standing ovation.