Unsung Heroes #381

For many years, Paul Newman was an ardent Westport Country Playhouse supporter — publicly, and behind the scenes.

That was just one of his many philanthropic passions. The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp — founded by the actor/race car driver/salad and lemonade king to provide opportunities for children with cancer and other serious illnesses to experience the joys of summer camp — has since evolved into a year-round, transformational program for thousands of children and their families.

For the last 2 winters, the Playhouse has collected audience donations during “A Sherlock Carol” to support camperships. For many years, they have also donated to the camp through their internal Sunshine Fund.

But several staff members wanted to become more actively involved. Bruce Miller, Playhouse archivist and long-time Hole in the Wall Gang camp volunteer, learned of “Helping Hands Work Days,” when groups help prepare for the summer.

Last week, Playhouse staff lent their hands.

Twelve people — led by artistic director Mark Shanahan — headed to the camp in Ashford, near Storrs.  They cleared trails, cleaned yurts, spread gravel and prepped equipment.

Paul Newman died in 2008. But his spirit — at the Playhouse, and the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp — lives on.

And the Westport Country Playhouse is making sure it will continue, for many years to come.

From left: Maggie Meath, Andrea Quiles, Matthew Melchiore, Kelly Richards Mikolasy, Brad Baldwin, Lisa Ficco, Bruce miller, Beth Miller, Markk Shanahan, Beth Huisking, Rick Davis, Molly Sackett.

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