Willow Manor Players

It all started back in 1962 when Ruth Kletzing was asked to help raise money for the Upper Dublin Women’s Club.  Ruth, along with her daughters Ruth Ellen & Katharine, wrote, produced, directed and appeared in the musical "The Indomitable Snowman".  It was so successful that a decision was made to do an annual production for the dual purposes of showcasing local talents as well as raising money for charity. Thus began Willow Manor Players.

 

Over the years, we've contributed money to various charities. Then, in 1974 the Willow Manor Players Executive Board decided to honor Ruth Kletzing by establishing an annual theater scholarship in her name.  The Ruth Kletzing Scholarship Fund would help local students pursue an education in the Performing Arts.

 

Sadly, in 1980, Ruth Kletzing passed away. Her older daughter Katharine became the Matriarch, a role for which she was particularly well suited.  For the next 21 years, Katherine would remain a major part of the heart and soul of WMP, until her passing in March of 2000.

 

It was just a few years ago that we lost Ruth Ellen, the sole surviving founding member of WMP.  She was a Member Emeritus of our Executive Board; Co-Producer of recent shows and still loved to perform in the musicals whenever she could.

 

Although the family has played an integral role in the history and success of WMP, over the past decade, many "extended family" members have joined our family.  We are now proud to have an ever-growing family, and continue to welcome new members who join us.