With great sadness we mourn the death of Kathy Ludt, Calliope's co-founder and co-artistic director, who passed away on August 7, 2003, while on a vacation trip with her husband, Dave.

Regular Calliope theatre-goers and those who have performed with her and who have been directed by her, both in Calliope shows and in shows throughout the area over the past 30 years, feel a special loss at Kathy's sudden passing.

Kathy's influence on Calliope Productions, from its inception in 1982, through its years of growth in Northborough, and in the establishment of its own permanent home in Boylston, cannot be overstated.

Kathy was a vibrant and talented performer and a compelling and driving creative force challenging all of us to keep pace with her and to raise ourselves to her level of excellence. Although she will be greatly missed by everyone whose life she touched, the spirit which she instilled in all of us will live on as her enduring legacy.

Students from Calliope's 2003 Summer workshop programs met at the theatre on August 12, and planted a perennial garden in Kathy's memory on the front lawn by the Calliope sign. This garden is for all to enjoy. Please feel free to to add a plant, pull a weed or simply sit on one of the stone benches and reflect.

Calliope's Managing Board of Directors has set up a Memorial Fund for donations in Kathy Ludt's memory to help fulfill the dream that Kathy had when she and Dave founded Calliope in 1982.

Donations in Kathy's memory may be sent to Calliope Productions, P.O. Box 581, Boylston, MA 01505. As always, donations to Calliope Productions are tax-deductible and may qualify for employers' Matching Gift Programs.