FAMILY MEMBERS … Family of Cecil that were in attendance for the unveiling of the new sign were Cindy Kryc, Shirley Goldsmith, Jake McAfee and Alona Goldsmith-Martin. (PHOTOS BY ANGI SCOTT)
By: Angi Scott
Williams County Playhouse…Williams County Community Theater..The Little Theater off the Square; these names are synonymous with each other, part of the same entity and legacy that was started 60 years ago.
The current Little Theater off the Square in Bryan was given a new name in a gala event on Saturday evening. “The Goldsmith” is the new name given to the quaint little theater in honor of Cecil Goldsmith and his family; a man whose family is still very active in the theatrical productions today.
Cecil and his first wife AJ, were very much a part of Williams County Playhouse, that was housed in an old Montpelier church, in its hay day, often selling out 10-run performances. Cecil or “Cece” as known to many, was often seen directing, building sets, repairing the old church and even writing 4 original stage acts.
One of his original scripts, 65 Roses, is currently in production now. The show will be March 6 & 7, and 12th, 13th, 14th, 15th. The play is directed by his daughter, Alona Goldsmith-Martin.
65 Roses is a drama based on his true-life events with his family and their battles and loss with the disease cystic fibrosis.
Before the unveiling of the new sign depicting the new name, Cecil’s theater life was recounted by several friends and especially by his widow Shirley Goldsmith. Stories, memories, laughs and applause echoed in the little theater. Even though she is no longer on stage, Shirley is still very much a part of the little theater family today.
Cecil Goldsmith is part of the community theater history. His legacy will live on in the marquee that will bear his name over the door of the theater. Cecil Goldsmith is what legends are made of.
Angi can be reached at publisher@thevillagereporter.com
SPEAKERS … Friends of family of Cecil that spoke on Saturday are Alice Miller, WCCT President, Shirley Goldsmith, Glyn Buntain, Alona Goldsmith-Martin, Mary Beth Snider and Dave Swanson.