UFT Players Board members and guests gathered at the Silver Spurs Restaurant in the Village to honor Ed and Ruth Harris, who are going on a well-earned leave of absence after serving on the Board for over ten years and acting and singing in many UFT Players productions.
The Harrises received a collage of photos depicting many of their performances and a Certificate celebrating this "... beautiful COUPLE of Players and People." Board member Ilene Bauer read a poem which she wrote for the occasion and the group sang a rousing version of "Some Enchanted Evening" (or rather, "Some Enchanting Couple" with lyrics by Milt Polsky). Other restaurant patrons heartily appreciated both! To top off the festivities, Ed and Ruth sang a duet, "Do You Love Me?" from Fiddler on the Roof." Yes, we do, Ed and Ruth!
For Ed and Ruth
The nicest two people you ever could meet,
Ed and Ruth each make the other complete.
They met long ago at a local dance
And that was the start of a sweet romance.
Manhattan was calling and they replied;
The Village was the place where they’d reside.
The both worked hard, as was the fashion.
Acting became a mutual passion.
“Death of a Salesman,” plays by Neil Simon;
As Helen and Harvey, they even tried rhymin’.
The UFT Players fit like a glove;
They joined the Board and practiced what they did love.
Starring in plays by Suzanne and Milt,
Their resume they slowly built.
In the chorus and improv class,
Their enthusiasm you could not surpass.
We’re here to salute them and to tell the truth,
There’s no one quite like Ed and Ruth.
We’ll miss them and though we must part,
They will remain in every heart.
Ilene Bauer June 24, 2010
Being with Ed and Ruth and some of the Players this afternoon was so rewarding. The combination of love, fun, creativity and thoughtfulness as expressed through music and poetry was moving. It even made an impression on other patrons in the restaurant - so touched that some applauded and one couple came to our table to talk with us.
ReplyDeleteI was glad I was there!