We asked Nanci Llewellyn, first recipient of the Ralph Cunningham Award, to give us a little insight into who Ralph was. Nanci writes,
"Ralph was a kind, giving and compassionate man....even though he sometimes liked to present as gruff, tough and he loved to tease!! Ralph would make you think, he would make you smile and he loved to hug all the theatre gals! He did some acting in his younger years but his real passion, skill and talent was working backstage.
He was a stage-manager, fly operator, set builder, worked as crew, knew about lighting and sound.......he was just so knowledgeable about absolutely everything backstage.....as a result, his expertise was appreciated and respected by all members of Globe (and other theatre groups too). Ralph was particularly passionate about back-stage theatre etiquette...to ensure the safety of the cast while ensuring the show ran smoothly.
Ralph and his wife were farmers, living just outside of Georgetown. For many years Ralph offered his cattle truck for Globe to move our sets to the theatre....despite the odor of the cattle, the gesture was always appreciated. He even loaned us his truck on a few occasions for Globe's entry into the Santa Claus Parade.
Ralph and I met many, many years ago....I didn't move fast enough off stage when he was moving a couch and he knocked me aside....we had a few words and then we became the best of friends for ever more. Ralph and his wife Vivian often entertained us at Globe parties with their incredible clogging dance routines...he loved to dance and he loved to laugh!!! Ralph was a great friend to Globe and Globe members....his memory will live on in our hearts.
It is my understanding that the "Ralph Cunningham Award" is for someone who gives of their time, skills and dedication to the technical aspect of Globe's shows...without the reward of audience applause. I was humbled to be the first recipient of the "Ralph Cunningham Award".....I will cherish the honour forever. Congratulations to Mike Rainey for winning this award.....he too shares Ralph's talents, skills and enthusiasm for the back-stage and wanting to make every Globe show "shine"!!!"
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