Phoenix Theatre's STAR award given

Each year the Phoenix Theatre presents its STAR award to an individual who has committed time and energy to the organization and the Sheldon Theatre. Sometimes, the challenge of choosing just one person proves more difficult than one could ever imagine, troupe members said.

This year happened to be more challenging than ever and two deserving recipients were chosen. The 2012 Phoenix Theatre STAR award went to two members of the Phoenix family Min Martin Oakes and David Oakes. The husband and wife received the award Wednesday Nov. 7 at the Phoenix Theatre's annual Extravaganza Celebration.

“When considering how to best describe each of these individuals, it is nearly impossible to separate their contributions and value to Phoenix,” explained Heather Finholm, member and volunteer of the Phoenix and Sheldon. She was the recipient of last year’s STAR award.

Where one is found working for Phoenix, there, too, is the other, she said of Martin Oakes and Oakes. If one is on stage bringing a character to life, the other is working behind the scenes. If one is on the Phoenix board, the other is there holding an executive position. If one is involved in a production, the other is helping to market the show.

Both have contributed mightily with time, talent and toil to the benefit of Phoenix and the Sheldon, Finholm said. Both are always ready and eager to assist however they can. No task remains unfinished or overlooked with these two individuals involved.

The two have opened their hearts, their arms and their homes to other members –— both new and old — of the Phoenix family.

“In fact, when I first moved to Red Wing, I was quickly greeted with open arms and a warm welcome and was even more quickly put to work backstage by this theatrical team,” she said.

This year marks the 12 time the STAR award has been given out.

“All around, one could not find more ardent supporters of Phoenix Theatre, the Sheldon Theatre and our arts community,” Finholm said of the Oakes.

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