Written by Jen Dilks (she/her)
This year’s Membership Celebration featured a very special award ceremony. The Struthers Library Theatre’s Peacock Awards are given rarely, and only to people who have made very significant contributions to the Theatre. In fact, throughout its history, only nine people have been honored with this award. Ellen Paquette, recipient of the Peacock Award at the May 13 Celebration, represents all the best qualities the Peacock Award was intended to honor.
Thanks to the active role of her parents (Chase and Mary Putnam) in Struthers Library Theatre, Ellen grew up emersed in the performing arts. Her love of the Theatre, the Theatre community and the wonderful historic building blossomed early in life. Ellen, while still a teenager, worked with her parents during the 1985 rehabilitation of Struthers. She also began performing on stage while quite young. As a long-time member of the Warren Players, Ellen directed seven productions, performed in many plays and musicals, and painted numerous sets. For many years Ellen served as a Struthers Trustee and a member of the Friends of the Library Theatre. She has always been willing to do anything to help the Theatre, including testing the safety of the fire escape from the fourth-floor window.
Ellen was named the Historian of the Library Theatre by Marcy O’Brien, and remains in that role today. Ellen inherited the role of historian from her father, Chase Putnam, and still turns to him for counsel. Recently Ellen gave an updated history of the Theatre in a presentation to the Warren Chapter of the American Association of University Women. The traditions and integrity of this theatre are extremely near and dear to her heart. She is passionate about Struthers Library Theatre and is eager to share its history with everyone.
Much of the signature artwork throughout the theatre was done by Ellen. She has created stencils to ensure that historically significant artwork can be accurately recreated should any walls need to be restored. She painted all the directional signs in the lobby and was a vital resource in making sure that the recent restoration of the Sisson Rehearsal hall was historically appropriate.
During Ellen’s tenure on the Board of Trustees she laid a very firm and long-lasting policy foundation. Her work in this arena has recently been rediscovered and is being updated and revitalized by the current Board of Trustees. Ellen served as chairperson of the Facilities Committee for many years, even beyond her tenure on the Board. She is the original creator of the facilities needs list that we currently use to prioritize building improvements.
Always generous with her time and her many talents, Ellen Putnam Paquette has used her innate abilities for the betterment of Struthers Library Theatre, and the entire Warren Community. The Board of Trustees and staff of Struthers Library Theatre was thrilled to honor her with a Peacock Award.