Weeks of August 18 & 25, 2025
The Arts of the Pamlico (AOP) at the Historic Turnage Theatre (theatre) isfueled by volunteers. The community’s arts council. AOP and the theatre has always been run by the people who live, work, volunteer and retire to the region. So many hands, heads, hearts and help of thousands has been pumped into the arts to ensure arts are alive for all. Volunteers bring talent, knowledge, and a dearth of experience into AOP that has tremendous value. The next AOP Volunteer Tour & Orientation at the theatre will be held on Wednesday, September 10 at 12:30 – 1:30 PM and Thursday, September 11 at 6 - 7PM. Email volunteer@artsofthepamlico.org to save your space.
AOP is led by volunteer Board members who serve 3-year terms. Board Chair, Tonya Ayers leads the Board this year with Colleen Knight, Jayne Meisell & Laura Darre, and members Buck Quidley, Williams Figeuroa, David Edwards, Shannon Russell and Sarah Fite. The Board will expand by four this year – Isaac Hayes, Gigi Jackson, Leesa Jones & Amanda (Mandy) Monath and ex officios Past Chair, Joan Gayle Watson and John Tate, Legal Counsel. Many thanks to Gail Kenefick and Jack Dugan who completed their terms.
One of AOP’s volunteers, Mary Revilla, serves as the volunteer coordinator of AOP’s fuel -- volunteers. “I love the theatre, and I always have. Not just attending events held at the theater, but acting, stage craft, and even running the box office. I have been acting since high school, participated in a summer internship with the Fort Bragg Playhouse while in college, and while living in Williamston, was a member of the Martin Community Players. Although never paid, theatre has blessed my life in so many ways. Upon my retirement, was looking for a way to volunteer in my community. I could think of no better way to use my talents than to offer my service to AOP, beginning as a greeter. I love helping people and educating them about the historical significance of the Turnage and the what the AOP offers to the community. I am thankful I chose to volunteer my time and talents with AOP ensuring the arts continue to flourish for all members of our community.”
AOP greeters sell tickets, answer phones, give tours, share art exhibits, help with concessions, program distribution, and ushering. Others utilize their organizational, outreach, writing, and/or tech skills like Brittany Lane who created a refreshed website for AOP. Hands on theatre workdays to paint, decorate, clean, and support festivals and theatre projects may be up your alley – join us! “One of my favorite volunteer opportunities is the Holiday Homes Tour on the first Saturday in December”, shared Mary. Docents are needed to assist the homeowner with guests visiting their homes – maybe that is you!
Bring your fuel to AOP and join us at the September volunteer orientation. AOP is open Wed-Fri 11 AM – 5 PM, Saturday 11 AM – 3 PM and for events. Visit AOP online at artsofthepamlico.org.
