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<\/a>\u201cDiversionary is part of the identity of San Diego\u2019s theater community,\u201d he said. \u201cPeople are ferociously passionate about the company and its health and well being.\u201d<\/p>\n
A tribute video created specifically for the gala will focus on how audiences have been impacted by visiting the theatrical space.<\/p>\n
\u201cDiversionary was quite important in helping a good amount of people understand their place in the world. It has been a compass for LGBT members.\u201d<\/p>\n
Morrow said the video also references significant cultural and local events that occurred over the past several decades.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe [tribute] will touch on certain shows, chapters of history and community members,\u201d he said, noting that almost 50 people were interviewed for the video.<\/p>\n
Former board member and longtime supporter James Ziegler said the Diversionary\u2019s impact over the years is shown by how many local performers are taking pride in their work at the theater.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ve noticed that in programs throughout the city, more actors are mentioning Diversionary Theatre experience,\u201d he said. \u201cWhether the star is LGBT is irrelevant, but they mention prior work at the stage. I think that\u2019s wonderful.\u201d<\/p>\n
One of Ziegler\u2019s biggest contributions to Diversionary was hosting season announcement parties at his home.<\/p>\n
\u201cThat was a way of giving back to Diversionary and getting people in the arts world to talk about the intimate entertainment center,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
To this day, Zeigler still supports every production.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think I\u2019ve gone to every show for many seasons,\u201d he said. \u201cI\u2019ve always supported the work they do and I have learned to really respect the craft of acting. I admire their passion.\u201d<\/p>\n
Morrow and Ziegler give a lot of credit to a member of the honorary board of trustees, Susan Atkins-Weathers. \u201cShe was so personally involved with the success of Diversionary,\u201d Ziegler said.<\/p>\n
\u201cAtkins-Weathers really helped us connect with the leadership of the Central Library to procure this space,\u201d Morrow added.<\/p>\n
Ziegler is extremely excited about reuniting with people he has gotten to know through the years with his association with Diversionary and as a former board member.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m looking forward to reacquainting myself and seeing people who I haven\u2019t seen in many years,\u201d he said. \u201cIn ways, the evening should be like a mini reunion.\u201d<\/p>\n While \u201cDaring Decadence\u201d is sure to have bittersweet and emotional moments, organizers said the overall atmosphere will be very upbeat.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s going to be super fun,\u201d Morrow said. \u201cBeyond honoring our past and legacy, the evening is going to be looking forward to the future of what the company is capable of.<\/p>\n<\/a>