Before the Covid-19 pandemic arrived, the Players of Allegany County had decided to retire the cast and crew. The final decision was put on the back burner due to the uncertainties and restrictions of the pandemic. As Allegany County emerges from the shadow of Covid, members of the “The Players” have decided to formally announce the end of the troupe with a dedication to a key member.
Dr. David Graham was a longtime Wellsville physician and pillar of the Players group. Graham passed away in 2018 and left one more generous donation behind for this beloved theatre group. Kathie D’Ariano, another longtime member and supporter of “The Players”, made a surprise call to the volunteers who operate the Fassett Greenspace with news of the generous gift. Kathie explains why the group decided to contribute to the community space:
“Although the Players of Allegany County are sad to announce the end of our group, we are so happy to make a donation to the community with our remaining funds. Much of that ending balance is being donated in memory of Dr. David Graham and he would have loved this greenspace and gardens. So we decided it was perfect to make a donation to Art for Rural America, the non-profit which operates the Fassett Greenspace. His contributions to the group includes performances in at least ten plays, many Murder Mystery Dinner Theaters, and “3 One Act Plays,” that he wrote and directed.”
Members of the Players and the family of Dr. Graham will meet on Saturday June 26th at 4pm to present Art For Rural America board members with a check for $2000. The crowd will be enjoying the gardens which boast dozens of varieties of flowers and a full range of vegetables in a the labyrinth designed by artist and President of AFRA, Cassandra Bull. The event is open to the public and will feature remarks made by D’Ariano and others.
