To the editor:

We want to wholeheartedly thank all our neighbors, friends and businesses, for supporting the inaugural Pendragon Founders Day on April 2 with memories, stories and financial support.

In an otherwise quiet time, the Pendragon Founders Day Platform was a flurry of activity, including reflections from founders Susan Neal and Bob Pettee, Peter Dean, who helped produce “Take Me Out”: Tony Award Winner for Best Revival, and Fran Yardley, who immortalized the history in “Pendragon Theatre: More Than Entertainment — A Vital Part of Life.” The day included many years of stage moments captured beautifully in photos by Burdette Parks, multiple generations sharing their family experiences, and many more touching stories. It was wonderful to reminisce and learn from their contributions.

Ever wonder where the name Pendragon came from, what the first production was, or which famous actress performed at Pendragon in 1999? No need to wonder anymore.

In the light of these stories interwoven through time, our community came together to raise nearly $60,000 for the Pendragon Theatre: Next Stage for Downtown Campaign in one day, far exceeding our hopes.

Founders Day is about celebrating the past and laying the foundation for what’s to come. We talk about the new facility as a new home to house the heartbeat of Pendragon. It will also be a home to the whole community for other events, rehearsals, meetings, and more while providing a significant economic boost to our community.

The philanthropic investment that we saw on April 2, from die-hard theatre fans to those who simply feel the economic benefit to the region is unquestionable, was tremendously encouraging.

We are so grateful.

If you missed it, but still want to share in the fun or lend your support, check it out here: https://secure.qgiv.com/event/pendragontheatrefoundersday.

Who doesn’t love a good encore!

Melinda Little, Mike Aguirre and Chrissie Wais

Pendragon board president, managing director and development director

Saranac Lake