When I was involved in corporate transformation projects, while also overseeing current operations, I often referred to this state as “redesigning the plane while still flying it.” This is my phrase and not the Shaw’s, but it resonates with me. The Shaw’s team is balancing the two important commitments related to their All.Together.Now. campaign while running its operations, including recently launching the final openings for Murder-on-the-Lake and Blues for an Alabama Sky. This is no small feat. If I may offer a suggestion, if you have a moment when you are interacting with Shaw staff, why not acknowledge their hard work. You may just put a smile on someone’s face!

This past month I have reflected a lot about putting things in perspective and the roles many of us assume. I have to say I missed my Guild responsibilities, and I was eager to reclaim my volunteerism. I know that your roles within the Guild vary from a singular function to many of you assuming multiple roles with a myriad of duties. The quantity of what you do is truly appreciated, but I believe the meaning of your volunteerism to you and where it fits in your life is important to reflect on now and again.

The Guild now has over 400 volunteers. Did you think you would ever be part of a “club” of this magnitude? Sometimes being part of an organization of this size you can feel unnoticed, but I think I am correct in saying that we feel noticed by the Shaw, within your Guild teams and the community.

The Guild will be “noticing” all of you and acknowledging your tremendous efforts on October 6, 2025, at our Annual Volunteer Appreciation event. Patricia Pehar, Volunteer Events Chair, and Heather MacNeil, Membership Chair, are working hard with their teams to organize this event so that we can show our gratitude and celebrate your volunteerism! I am looking forward to meeting with you.

If you would like to connect with me, please contact me at president@shawguild.ca

In the 2005, Colleen Blake asked for Guild volunteers interested in piloting a backstage tour for patrons attending the Festival Theatre. The Docent program was started and Carol was one of the initial cohort of volunteers who pioneered the backstage tour. Being a part of the Docent program was a passion for Carol and she has helped to mentor many new volunteers who have joined the program.

In 2007 Carol remembers Faye Goodwin, who was at that time the Guild president, inviting her to stand for election to the Guild executive. For the next 6 years Carol was a part of the Guild executive, first as vice president (2007-2008), then as president (2009-2010) and finally as past president (2011- 2012), putting to good use her professional skills as a senior manager. Carol recalls that someone suggested that a copy of Robert’s Rules of Order would help her navigate executive meetings and ensure fairness, efficiency, and democratic decision-making. 

She was also one of the first Volunteers asked by the Education Department to help out with the Continue the Conversation program. This program is now solely staffed by Guild volunteers and Carol thoroughly enjoys the challenge of facilitating chats after matinee performances.

Carol is enthusiastic about what the future holds for the both the Shaw Festival and the Shaw Guild, with the new Artists Village and the rebuild of the Royal George Theatre. It has been an exciting adventure so far for Carol as a volunteer and she is looking forward to new developments and new opportunities to support the Shaw.

GARDENING - LINDEN ALLEE PROJECT

By Debbie Steley, Shaw Gardens Chair

The Linden Allee is right across from the Speigeltent doors and has been a challenge to garden with no sun and little rain through the tree canopy.

This summer the Gardeners set a goal of turning this area into a tranquil natural area to invite theatre goers to come and enjoy the quiet and shady area. This project was possible with grant monies from two of the gardeners’ former employers. We are grateful to RBC and Honda for their recognition of their retirees’ volunteer hours.

First, two old unused garden urns tucked in the back of a shed for years were recycled with new paint and planted with ferns. These were placed immediately opposite the Speigeltent doors.

Then the area received yards of natural mulch. All existing plants remained however no new plantings were added as the area is a challenge to grow plants. Strategic planting may be something to add in the future.

The focal point is a water fountain. The fountain was chosen to blend into the natural environment while also being quiet enough to not disturb any shows. You can already see that the birds, animals and bugs are enjoying the access to water! 

The final piece were the added natural rocks. These were donated by a neighbour and luckily not too large so the Gardeners were still able to lift them into place.

The Gardeners have done a wonderful job in this area and it is the best spot when the really hot weather hits. Thanks to the Shaw maintenance team for assisting with hydro to the area.

 If you have not been in this area, come by and enjoy!

A presentation by Kimberley Rampersad – Sept 9. 

Tickets available here.