One Final Bow

The play of life is one actor short this weekend. There are people we come into contact with that literally change our lives. One of mine died this past Thursday.

Dr. George Brian was one of the greatest actors I've ever had the pleasure to see in action. He was the most giving and talented director I've ever worked with. He was also an amazing man, one that I am very sad to say goodbye to.

I was twelve years old the first time I wandered into a theatre for an audition. I went there because a couple of girls I liked were going. I stayed there (for the better part of the next 15 years) because of Dr. Brian. He had a love for Theatre, literature, music, and life that few could hope to equal. The truly amazing thing is I've been gifted at least three times with similar friends and mentors. But Dr. B was the first, and that gives him a special place in my heart.

Dr. Brian was born in 1919, served his country in WWII, almost single-handedly built the Theatre program at ULM, served as Executive Director of the Rose Theatre in Bastrop (that's where I met him), and led hundreds (if not thousands) of people just like me to a better understanding and love for Drama. It would be a full life for two or three men, but for one it's amazing.

Dr. Brian (or Dr. B, as we all called him) has left a hell of a legacy. One that his family and friends can and should be proud of. He will always be missed, and never be forgotten. The hundreds or thousands of people he taught to love Theatre will pass that love on to hundreds of thousands. I don't doubt that each one will put a smile on his face as he watches from above. The world of Theatre is a little poorer today, but Heaven has a great new storyteller. We miss you, Dr. B, and we love you.