Linda Miller-Logan is one of the most interesting and talented people I have had the pleasure of meeting, and Cushing Community Theatre is very fortunate to have yet another hard working, talented, passionate and dedicated member in the group. I knew that 1/2 hour would not be enough time to cover all the interesting historical facts and exciting news about the upcoming shows. Before the interview, I had asked Linda if we could talk about her interesting life and experiences, however she expressed her desire to focus completely on the Theater. You can bet, we will get to her, at another time.
The theater was started by Carol Cubbage and Barbara Lehr, in 1991. Linda explained, that in celebration of Cushing Centennial anniversary, an outdoor production was performed, full of rich oilfield history, talented musicians and acts that left a lasting impression on the cast and community.. So much so that the following year The Cushing Community Theatre was incorporated. The productions were being held outdoors and in various locations, but in 1993, the old Otasco Building, also known as the Perry building, in downtown Cushing, was purchased and renovations began. The marquee and especially the purchase of the building next door are two additions that have been very significant and beneficial to the theater. To date, the Cushing Theatre has produced approximately 34 plays, including 3 musicals, 8 children’s productions and 15 dinner theater plays. One interesting fact is that Cushing now is the only remaining Dinner theater is the State of Oklahoma. Dinners are catered by the famous Josephs Steak House and Fine Foods.
My, goodness, do we have it going on in Cushing or what? I must give credit to the Board members of the Cushing Theater, past, present, Mr.Walter Webb and his adorable wife Mrs. Debbie Webb, Denice Kennedy, Trace Rowe, Harry Escott, Merideth Kaminshine, and Gary Money.. We have at this time 2 vacancies available on the existing board. Anyone interested in serving on the Theatre board can call (918) 225-4141 for more information.
One of the most recent projects of the Cushing Community Theatre is to raise money – $5000 to be exact – for a mechanical curtain. I cannot think of a better way to show your pride in Cushing than to assist monetarily in the preservation and prosperity of one of our greatest treasures. The curtain would make such a big difference in the presentation of the shows and would certainly prove the high standards in Cushing, Oklahoma. Our Theater brings so much joy and community spirit as well as such rewarding attributes.
Now, just tell me, where can you go for fantastic steak dinner, AND a live show for $25.00 AND share the experience with your children, family, friends and great people in the area, who share your passion for cultural fun?
The theater is serving the community in so many ways,. It has become a multi-purpose facility, providing meeting space for small groups,and numerous civic organizations.
Linda and I talked about the upcoming production, directed by retiree, Carol Cubbage, and Debbie Webb as stage manager. “Suitehearts,” is about two couples that get booked into the same hotel room by mistake. One young couple is on their honeymoon, very conservative, have “saved themselves for marriage”, and are “prim and proper” – and the other couple?…well…they are more ” “mature.” In fact, the wife of the second couple has aspirations of being a swinger!! Sounds like an interesting dilemma! I gave Linda my $50 for my two reservations the second the Business Spotlight ended.
The Lions Club will be in full costume during the serving of dinner. Friday and Saturday night. I can hardly wait! A special thanks to the Lions and Rotary clubs who volunteer to serve dinners and they do an excellent job. They do a tremendous service for the community.
Linda has agreed to help the Community Theater by writing, performing in and directing their summer musicals every other year, starting in 2010. Linda wrote, arranged music, played piano, sang and directed a cast of 29 in the Fabulous Forties in 2001, it being the theaters biggest money maker to date. She is currently working on Cavalcade of Stars;” The Music Memory Makers. Linda will bring popular singers, celebrities and comediennes to the stage, showcasing local talent of all ages. This fun and nostalgic musical is full of Cushing area history and has many surprises in store for our lucky audiences.
The theater is having an actors workshop on Feb. 22, 2010 at 6:30 provided free by Sandra Williams. Sandra has a PhD in Theater Arts and has directed many successful shows. Sandra has been an artist in residence with the Oklahoma Arts Counsel since 1985. You really need to go and check out their website for more history, subscribe to their newsletter, get on their mailing list, and read about all the exciting upcoming productions www.cushingcommunitytheatre.com. The theater is always looking for volunteers. Stage hands, directors, actors, helpers of any kind. Get your tickets today by calling (918) 225-4141.
I want to thank everyone who has ever been involved in the community theater, with your help we will be celebrating 20 years soon. It’s one more reason to be proud of Cushing. My slogan “Try Local First”??? Why wouldn’t you?? Cushing is the BEST!!!
A special thank you to Linda Miller-Logan for taking the time to share with us, and for all her work in the community, AND for seeing the beauty in our little town…
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