Theater Guild in Southern Ohio
Diocesan Press Service. March 11, 1963 [VIII-16]
Theaomai, the newly formed Episcopal Theater Guild in the Diocese of Southern Ohio, is making a dynamic contribution to Church communications through its four touring companies.
A production of the Sign of Jonah by Guenter Rutenborn at the 1962 convention of Episcopal Young Churchmen met with such an enthusiastic response that it was decided that the time was ripe in the diocese to try an experiment with a touring repertory theater. Under the directorship of the Rev. Thomas W. Underhill, the Guild was soon launched on a full-scale operation which utilizes the talents of both young people and adults.
The EYC players have toured the diocese with a chancel production of Charles Williams' The House By The Stable while the adult groups in Dayton, Columbus, and Cincinnati have started rehearsals for the productions soon to go on tour. One of the highlights of the season was the appearance of Cornelia Otis Skinner in a Theaomai benefit for the scholarship fund of Bethany School operated by the Community of the Transfiguration.
Although, to date, all money has been used for lighting equipment, costumes, etc., the financial future of Theaomai looks very bright. All of this is most encouraging to the Guild which readily acknowledges its indebtedness to Bishop Blanchard, whose enthusiasm and support have made the entire experiment possible.